Japan

An information sharing network between 64 regional banks aimed at AML/CFT efforts is part of a larger legal and regulatory push in the country against money laundering in preparation for an FATF inspection.

On-site inspections revealed a lack of internal controls, inadequate governance and poor business models at exchanges.

SEC alleged that Mizuho failed to prevent traders sharing stock buyback information pertaining to its issuer clients with each other and with hedge fund clients.

Committee to discuss developing recommendations on JPY interest rate benchmarks, the challenges arising from each and proposals for other solutions.

Newly created Strategy Development and Management Bureau responsible for financial policy, fintech, cryptocurrencies, money laundering, as well as administraitive duties and inspections at financial institutions.

Following limited launch by SBI Holdings in June, cryptocurrency exchange VCTRADE has now begun accepting retail investors; no applications allowed from corporate or institutional investors.

Dealer found to be manipulating prices in JGB futures trading, resulting in one-month suspension of the firm's primary dealer status for one month.

The bank falsified customers' financial records to boost loans, illicitly charged fees on loans in addition to interest, and used inappropriate financing methods involving over-lending to customers.

Report was revised following consultation on proposed move to 'dynamic supervision' model; FSA says existing supervisory approaches deter focus from priority issues and may not prevent next crisis.

Cryptocurrency exchange will be launched outside Japan, with application with Japan FSA still pending; Line Corp looking to capitalise on user base for payments, transfers and asset management services.