Financial Crime

Fraud, Scams & Cybercrime

MAS Trials Pooled Bank Data for AI-Powered Scam Detection

By Nithya Subramanian | 05/05/2026

The proof-of-value initiative will test data-sharing approach to improve scam detection and enable earlier intervention across institutions.

Anti-Money Laundering

South Korean Court Halts Bithumb's Six-Month Business Suspension

By Mark Johnston | 05/05/2026

A Seoul court has granted an injunction against a partial business ban, escalating a legal battle between regulators and major cryptocurrency exchanges over AML rules.

Anti-Money Laundering

India’s ED Pivots to Crypto and Cybercrime Amid Enforcement Surge

By Editors | 05/05/2026

The Enforcement Directorate is shifting its focus to crypto and cybercrime, following a sharp increase in enforcement actions in the 2025-26 financial year.

PEPs & Sanctions

US Expands International Reach of Cuba Sanctions Programme

By Manesh Samtani | 04/05/2026

New executive order authorises secondary sanctions against foreign financial institutions and companies doing business with designated Cuban entities.

Structural Regulation

China's Legislature Progresses New Overarching Financial Laws

By Manesh Samtani | 04/05/2026

China’s top legislature has confirmed plans to formulate both a Financial Law and a Financial Stability Law this year, creating a new overarching legal framework for the financial sector.

PEPs & Sanctions

US Sanctions China, Hong Kong Firms in Iran Oil Trade Crackdown

By Manesh Samtani | 04/05/2026

The US targeted a Chinese oil terminal and numerous Hong Kong-based front companies, while issuing new warnings on sanctions evasion, digital assets, and maritime risks.

Fraud, Scams & Cybercrime

India’s FinMin Directs Banks to Adopt 'MuleHunter' AI Tool

By Nithya Subramanian | 04/05/2026

The direction was issued following a major cyber-fraud probe that exposed widespread misuse of mule accounts, including alleged involvement of bank staff, as authorities step up coordination to curb digital financial crime.

Fraud, Scams & Cybercrime

Sri Lanka Treasury Heist Probe Widens Amid Second Fraud, Official’s Death

By Manesh Samtani | 04/05/2026

The USD 2.5 million cyber heist revealed deep-seated vulnerabilities and a second, similar fraud at another state entity.

Anti-Bribery & Corruption

Bangladesh FIU Mandates Anti-Corruption Pledges for Bank Leadership

By Nithya Subramanian | 04/05/2026

The FIU requires bank directors and executives to sign and display written undertakings to combat corruption and bolster governance.