Digital Assets

PEPs & Sanctions

UK Sanctions Crypto Marketplace and Cambodia Scam Centre Network

By Nithya Subramanian | 27/03/2026

The action targets Chinese-language marketplace Xinbi, which processed nearly USD 20 billion, and operators of a Cambodian scam compound under the UK’s Global Human Rights regime.

Payments & Settlements

APAC Payments Body, Monash University Partner on Fintech Policy Research

By Nithya Subramanian | 27/03/2026

The partnership will focus on translating academic research into policy for quantum cryptography, stablecoins, fraud, and cross-border payments.

Stablecoins

Tether Engages Big Four Firm for First Full Financial Audit

By Manesh Samtani | 27/03/2026

The move follows years of scrutiny and signals a major shift from periodic attestations as global regulatory pressure on stablecoins mounts.

Operational Risk

Korea FSS Signals 'Zero-Tolerance' Shift to 'Pre-emptive' Supervision

By Manesh Samtani | 27/03/2026

The FSS is moving from post-incident sanctions to a preventive framework with a focus on consumer protection and systemic risk.

Anti-Money Laundering

Korea's Bithumb Sues Regulator to Overturn Business Suspension and Fine

By Mark Johnston | 27/03/2026

The virtual asset exchange is challenging a six-month suspension and a KRW 36.8 billion fine for alleged AML and customer due diligence failings.

Cryptocurrency

Korean Regulator Sanctions Upbit for Misleading Fee Advertising

By Mark Johnston | 26/03/2026

The KFTC has issued a corrective order against the crypto exchange for advertising a fee discount that never existed.

CBDCs

Hong Kong Explores e-CNY Upgrades as Pilot Reaches 80,000 Wallets

By Manesh Samtani | 26/03/2026

Authorities are considering raising transaction limits and expanding use cases for the digital yuan as the cross-border pilot shows steady growth.

Structural Regulation

Vietnam Seeks Global Finance Input for New International Hub

By Manesh Samtani | 26/03/2026

During a high-level US visit, Vietnamese officials received detailed policy recommendations from major financial firms for the Vietnam International Financial Centre

Tokenisation

RBA Outlines Policy Path for Wholesale Market Tokenisation

By Manesh Samtani | 26/03/2026

Building on Project Acacia, the RBA has outlined a multi-pronged strategy to address systemic barriers and foster innovation.