Markets & Infrastructure

Conduct, Culture & Accountability

Philippines SEC Mandates Strict 9-Year Term for Independent Directors

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 29/01/2026

The SEC removes extensions and sets a firm nine-year cumulative term for independent directors of listed firms to bolster board independence.

Credit Risk

Bangladesh to Tighten Corporate Lending Rules to Develop Bond Market

By Editors | 29/01/2026

The central bank will enforce strict single borrower limits to tackle NPLs, reduce reliance on bank financing, and encourage more bond issuance.

Structural Regulation

Philippines to Name Successful Digital Bank Applicants Within Q1

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 29/01/2026

The BSP is reviewing applicants for four new licences, aiming to lower costs, streamline services, and enhance financial inclusion with fresh competition.

Tokenisation

Thailand SEC Proposes Rules for Tokenised Mutual Funds

By Nithya Subramanian | 28/01/2026

The SEC has issued draft principles to govern the sale and redemption of tokenised MF units, aiming to enable instantaneous transactions, enhance efficiency, and support the digital economy.

Payments & Settlements

India’s UPI Set for Debut in Japan to Facilitate Payments

By Nithya Subramanian | 28/01/2026

UPI will be trialled in Japan in 2026, allowing Indian tourists to make seamless digital payments at local merchants via familiar apps.

Trading & Investment

China Tightens Rules on Fund Performance Benchmarks

By Mark Johnston | 28/01/2026

New rules will transform benchmarks from a loose reference into a binding constraint on investment, disclosure, and even fund manager compensation.

Trading & Investment

SHFE Imposes Trading Curbs on 16 Firms Trading Metals Markets

By Mark Johnston | 28/01/2026

The Shanghai exchange has imposed trading curbs on 16 clients and tightened position limits, sending tin prices tumbling.

Payments & Settlements

Bank Indonesia Reports Strong BI-FAST Transaction Growth

By Nithya Subramanian | 28/01/2026

BI-FAST processed 1.36 billion transactions worth around USD 218 billion in Q4 2025, amid a tightening of system security and the introduction of new payment features.

Clearing & Post-Trade

RBI, ESMA Sign Pact to End Dispute Over CCP Supervision

By Manesh Samtani | 28/01/2026

The agreement allows Indian central counterparties to re-apply for EU recognition, resolving a long-standing impasse over regulatory oversight.