Anti-Money Laundering

Anti-Money Laundering

Thailand Political Elites Shield Scam Gangs, Says Anti-Corruption Chief

By Nithya Subramanian | 25/11/2025

Influential elites and officials are taking bribes to protect cyber-scam networks, undermining the government’s efforts to dismantle criminal operations, says the head of the ACT.

Cryptocurrency

Pakistan Orders Removal of Hurdles for New Crypto Regulator

By Mark Johnston | 24/11/2025

Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb demands removal of bottlenecks for the new virtual asset authority, while Chairman Bilal Bin Saqib joins WEF digital asset committee.

Anti-Money Laundering

Japan FSA to Step Up AML Dialogue with FIs Ahead of 2028 FATF On-Site Review

By Manesh Samtani | 24/11/2025

The regulator is shifting focus from technical compliance to proven outcomes, requiring firms to establish robust verification and improvement cycles.

Fraud, Scams & Cybercrime

Hong Kong Jails Agents in Insurance Commission Fraud Scheme

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 24/11/2025

Jail sentences were earlier handed to another 11 individuals who were all part of the same 'dummy agent' commission fraud scheme, according to the ICAC.

PEPs & Sanctions

HKMA Issues Guidance to Curb 'Overly Cautious' AML Checks on PEPs

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 24/11/2025

The HKMA’s new 'Smart Tips' guidance clarifies rules for domestic and former PEPs, urging banks to adopt a more proportionate, risk-based approach.

Anti-Money Laundering

AML/CFT Officials Discuss FATF Work to Promote Financial Inclusion

By Manesh Samtani | 24/11/2025

The FATF is encouraging simplified measures for low-risk customers and clarifying that over-compliance is counterproductive.

Anti-Money Laundering

HKMA Reports on AI Adoption Status in Transaction Monitoring

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 23/11/2025

The HKMA revealed high uptake following its September 2024 directive and announced new workshops on the use of AI and crypto-related risks.

Cryptocurrency

Vanuatu Establishes Regulatory Regime for Virtual Assets

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 22/11/2025

The VFSC has launched a new licensing regime for VASPs, mandating compliance with global AML/CFT standards.

CBDCs

BIS Report Spotlights APAC’s Influence on Global Fintech Policy

By Manesh Samtani | 20/11/2025

A six-year review led by the BIS Hong Kong Hub shows how presidencies in India and Indonesia shaped regulatory priorities.