Market Infrastructure

Crypto / Digital Assets

Stablecoin Potential in Capital Markets Hindered by Regulatory Fragmentation, says ICMA

By Mark Johnston | 21/01/2026

new paper highlights convergence on reserve rules but warns that inconsistent global adoption and practical constraints create significant hurdles.

AML / KYC

Vietnam Reviews Draft Operating Rules for New International Financial Centre

By Nithya Subramanian | 21/01/2026

Authorities are reviewing feedback on the third draft of IFC regulations, including provisions for multiple trading floors, dispute resolution and a regulatory sandbox.

Securities / Derivatives

Hong Kong Set to Sign Gold Market Deal with Shanghai

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 21/01/2026

The agreement aims to establish a central clearing system, bolstering the city's ambition to become an international gold hub.

Crypto / Digital Assets

RBI Proposes Linking BRICS Digital Currencies for Cross-border Payments

By Nithya Subramanian | 20/01/2026

India is pushing for greater interoperability among BRICS nations by proposing a linkage of their CBDCs, aiming to streamline cross-border payments.

Fintech / Regtech

Japan Banks Face 'Operational Resilience' Test as Disaster Risks Mount - BOJ

By Mark Johnston | 20/01/2026

Japanese financial institutions are shifting to an “all-hazards” approach to business continuity, though gaps remain in executive drill participation and third-party risk management.

Securities / Derivatives

HKEX Finalises Rules for Dual Counter Designated Specialists

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 20/01/2026

HKEX has detailed new rules allowing dual counter market makers to register corporate clients as specialists for liquidity provision, effective 26 January.

Fintech / Regtech

Hong Kong Outlines Roadmap to Modernise Trade Finance with 20-Point Plan

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 20/01/2026

The HKMA has published a 20-point plan to digitise trade finance, aiming to boost SME lending and connectivity.

Fintech / Regtech

Korea to Ease Network Separation Rules to Permit Cloud SaaS in Finance

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 20/01/2026

The move allows firms to use approved SaaS on internal networks, but introduces strict security controls and excludes generative AI tools.

Securities / Derivatives

China Proposes Strict Derivatives Rules to Curb Speculation and Ring-Fence Risks

By Mark Johnston | 20/01/2026

The CSRC draft mandates professional trader standards, bans listed firms from trading their own stock derivatives, and enforces mandatory trade reporting.