Digital Assets

Custody & Infrastructure

Standard Chartered Solidifies Digital Asset Custody Push in Hong Kong

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 30/05/2026

The bank has launched a service with SOLOWIN, is acquiring Zodia's custody arm, and has won a mandate from TP ICAP.

DeFi & Web3

Korea Prosecutes First DEX ‘Rug Pull’ in Landmark Case

By Mark Johnston | 29/05/2026

Prosecutors have applied the new Virtual Asset User Protection Act for the first time to a decentralised exchange, charging five in a memecoin scheme.

Anti-Money Laundering

Korean Police Forms Task Force to Target ‘Tether Laundromat’ Schemes

By Nithya Subramanian | 29/05/2026

A new multi-agency police unit will target unregistered crypto exchanges used to launder criminal proceeds, with a specific focus on the stablecoin Tether.

Stablecoins

South Korea to Fast-Track Digital Asset Act in H2 2026

By Manesh Samtani | 29/05/2026

Lawmakers are set to accelerate the second phase of the Digital Asset Basic Act, focusing on rules for stablecoin issuance and circulation.

Stablecoins

New Zealand FMA to Create ‘On-Ramp’ Licence After Sandbox Review

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 29/05/2026

The FMA has published findings from its fintech sandbox, acknowledging industry frustrations and outlining a new strategy that includes a proportionate licensing pathway.

Custody & Infrastructure

HKMA Sets New Rules for Virtual Asset Financing and Custody

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 29/05/2026

The regulator has issued new guidance permitting virtual asset financing and updating custody standards for banks and institutions.

Cryptocurrency

Thailand to Launch Crypto Futures and ETFs in Third Quarter

By Editors | 29/05/2026

The move is part of a broader regulatory effort to modernise the country's capital markets and attract long-term investment flows.

Anti-Money Laundering

FDIC Proposes New AML, Sanctions Rules for Stablecoin Issuers

By Manesh Samtani | 28/05/2026

The proposal would require the US banking regulator to consult with the Treasury's financial crime unit before taking enforcement actions.

Tokenisation

Project Agora Finds No Legal Barriers to Tokenised Cross-Border Payments

By Manesh Samtani | 28/05/2026

BIS-led project involving seven central banks has concluded its prototype for tokenised payments is compatible with existing legal frameworks.