Markets & Infrastructure

Structural Regulation

Thailand, Laos Sign MOU on Stock Market Integration

By Mark Johnston | 06/04/2026

The agreement aims to strengthen cross-border connectivity, explore dual listings, and enhance regulatory cooperation between the two Southeast Asian markets.

Structural Regulation

South Korea Preparing to Introduce KOFR-Based Mortgages

By Editors | 06/04/2026

The new loans aim to lower borrowing costs for households and expand consumer choice by using a risk-free benchmark rate.

Structural Regulation

Tokyo Bourse Mandates Listing Objective Disclosures for PRO Market

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 06/04/2026

The new requirement aims to enhance the functionality of the market for professional investors and clarify company growth strategies.

Structural Regulation

New SFC Rules Prompt CITIC Securities to Withdraw as IPO Sponsor

By Editors | 06/04/2026

CITIC Securities has withdrawn as an IPO sponsor for Top Toy International Group to comply with a new cap imposed by Hong Kong's SFC.

CBDCs

Korea to Pilot Deposit Token Payments at Major Convenience Store Chains

By Mark Johnston | 06/04/2026

BOK is partnering with commercial banks and retailers to test deposit token payments in real-world consumer settings.

Trading & Investment

SEBI Proposes Reinstating Open Market Share Buybacks

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 06/04/2026

The proposal follows key tax reforms and aims to provide companies with a flexible tool to support share prices amid market volatility.

Tokenisation

Swift Advances Blockchain-Based Ledger to Build Phase

By Manesh Samtani | 06/04/2026

The new shared ledger will use tokenised deposits to enable 24/7 cross-border payments, with a live MVP planned for 2026.

KYC & CDD

Korea Simplifies Foreign Investor Onboarding With New LEI System

By Mark Johnston | 06/04/2026

The Korea Securities Depository has launched a real-time certificate service, replacing cumbersome translation and notarisation requirements for account opening.

Structural Regulation

SGX RegCo Warns Issuers Against Delaying AGMs and Annual Reports

By Editors | 06/04/2026

SGX RegCo has noted an adverse trend in listed companies seeking extensions and has warned of enforcement action, including placing directors on a watchlist.