Markets & Infrastructure

Structural Regulation

Investors Fear Japan May Weaken Corporate Governance Reforms

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 19/05/2026

Proposed revisions to Japan’s Corporate Governance Code and Companies Act are drawing criticism for favouring corporate interests over investor protection and shareholder rights.

Structural Regulation

Philippines Proposes Tiered Public Float Rules to Boost IPOs

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 18/05/2026

The PSE has unveiled draft rules, aligning with an SEC directive to introduce a tiered public ownership framework for new listings.

Trading & Investment

India’s NCDEX Eyes Equity Derivatives Launch Within 12 Months

By Nithya Subramanian | 18/05/2026

NCDEX plans a phased entry into equities, targeting a cash segment launch by year-end and derivatives within 12 months, subject to regulatory approvals.

Structural Regulation

Bangladesh Unveils Plan to Restore Investor Confidence

By Nithya Subramanian | 18/05/2026

The BSEC has announced a multi-pronged strategy focusing on AI surveillance, market reforms, and faster digital IPOs to restore faith in the country's capital markets.

Structural Regulation

Taiwan FSC Proposes to Widen Talent Pool for Insurer Management

By Editors | 18/05/2026

The FSC plans to expand the list of professional backgrounds eligible for senior management roles to boost industry competitiveness.

Clearing & Post-Trade

Euroclear Plans to Accept Onshore Chinese Bonds as Collateral

By Mark Johnston | 18/05/2026

The proposal would allow bonds traded via Hong Kong’s Bond Connect to be used in settlements, boosting Beijing’s renminbi internationalisation drive.

Payments & Settlements

Nepal and Sri Lanka Launch Cross-Border QR Payment System

By Editors | 18/05/2026

The linkage connects the two countries' national payment infrastructures, allowing Nepali travellers to pay at LankaQR merchants using domestic apps.

Structural Regulation

MAS Eases Complex Product Rules, Scraps Investor’s Knowledge Test

By Nithya Subramanian | 18/05/2026

The regulator will not proceed with a new product knowledge test and will remove mandatory advice for most investors, introducing new disclosure and alert requirements instead.

Alternative Markets

Bangladesh Banks Jointly Launch BDT 4.25bn Fund for Startups

By Editors | 18/05/2026

A consortium of 39 banks has launched a venture capital firm under a central bank directive to boost local startups.