Anti-Money Laundering

Cryptocurrency

Vietnam Begins Licensing of Crypto Exchanges Under Pilot Scheme

By Nithya Subramanian | 22/01/2026

The MOF has announced procedures for crypto exchanges, introducing strict capital, ownership and compliance requirements to bring the sector under formal regulation.

Anti-Money Laundering

Japan Regulator Files Criminal Complaint Against Iwaki Credit Union

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 22/01/2026

The complaint, a first for a credit union, alleges executives lied about destroying a PC with evidence and concealed ties to organised crime.

Anti-Money Laundering

Australia Confirms Deferral of Major AML/CTF Reforms

By Nathan Lynch | 22/01/2026

Home Affairs is consulting on transitional rules to delay IVTS reporting, stagger independent evaluations, and ease compliance burdens for Tranche 1 and 2 entities.

Stablecoins

Hong Kong to Issue First Stablecoin Licences in Q1 2026

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 21/01/2026

The new regime will impose strict rules on reserves and risk management as the city builds out its digital asset ecosystem.

Fraud, Scams & Cybercrime

Indian Authorities Bust Investment Scam Linked to Cambodia

By Nithya Subramanian | 21/01/2026

Fraudsters used fake trading platforms and international contacts to cheat investors, then funneling the money through Indian bank accounts to handlers in Cambodia.

Anti-Money Laundering

Hong Kong Named as High-Risk Crypto Hub in Russian Sabotage Report

By Manesh Samtani | 20/01/2026

RUSI urges policymakers to monitor over-the-counter crypto services in Hong Kong and other cities to disrupt sabotage financing.

Anti-Money Laundering

Korea Refers Chinese Nationals to Prosecutors in $102m Crypto Laundering Case

By Mark Johnston | 20/01/2026

Customs officials allege the group disguised illicit funds as medical fees, highlighting Seoul’s enforcement-led approach to cross-border digital assets.

PEPs & Sanctions

China Mandates Immediate Asset Freezes in New AML Regulations

By Manesh Samtani | 20/01/2026

New measures require FIs to freeze assets of designated entities without notice and enhance internal controls for list-based screening.

Anti-Money Laundering

Japan's FSA Proposes Stricter Rules on AML Tech and Vendor Oversight

By Manesh Samtani | 20/01/2026

Draft guidelines elevate previous expectations to firm requirements for financial firms, targeting technology adoption, trade finance, and outsourcing.