Financial Crime

Fraud, Scams & Cybercrime

Global Fraud Summit Launches Taskforce Targeting Southeast Asian Scam Hubs

By Manesh Samtani | 18/03/2026

New INTERPOL taskforce and public-private partnerships aim to disrupt transnational fraud networks, with a focus on the APAC region.

Cybersecurity

China's NIFA Issues Security Alert on 'Openclaw' AI Agent

By Mark Johnston | 18/03/2026

China's internet finance body has warned firms and consumers about financial loss, data compliance, and fraud risks from the popular open-source AI tool.

Anti-Money Laundering

AUSTRAC CEO Details 'Systemic' AML Failings in Gambling Sector

By Manesh Samtani | 18/03/2026

Brendan Thomas called out recurring AML/CTF weaknesses and outlined AUSTRAC's expectations ahead of major legislative reforms.

Liquidity Risk

Cambodia Moves to Calm Fears Amid Banking Service Disruption

By Editors | 18/03/2026

Regulators and industry bodies have affirmed the sector’s resilience following a service disruption at a local bank that sparked online rumours.

Conduct, Culture & Accountability

China Mandates 'All-In' Cost Disclosure to Combat Predatory Personal Loans

By Mark Johnston | 17/03/2026

New rules from the NFRA and PBOC will force lenders to reveal the total annualised cost of loans, ending hidden fees.

Credit Risk

Bangladesh Bank Revamps Credit Card Rules, Doubles Loan Limits

By Editors | 17/03/2026

New guidelines introduce higher credit limits and stricter rules on risk management, consumer protection, and security to support a cashless economy.

Anti-Money Laundering

Thailand Consults on 'Travel Rule' Implementation for Digital Assets

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 17/03/2026

Digital asset business operators would have to collect, verify, and transmit information for all digital asset transfers; additional information for transactions valued at THB 30,000 or more.

Cryptocurrency

Japan to Raise Max Jail Penalty for Unlicensed Crypto Sales - Report

By Editors | 17/03/2026

Regulator plans to move crypto oversight to the securities law framework and significantly increase fines and prison sentences.

Market Abuse

South Korea to Expand Special Police Powers to Speed Up Stock Probes

By Nithya Subramanian | 17/03/2026

The FSC and FSS propose broader fast-track investigations and oversight reforms to speed enforcement against unfair trading.