OTHER ASIA PACIFIC

Fintech / Regtech

Cambodia, Laos Launch Cross-border QR Payment Link

By Editors | 21/08/2023

A second phase of the cross-border payments link between Cambodia and Laos is expected to launch in Q4 2023.

Fintech / Regtech

Bangladesh Bank Receives 52 Digital Bank Licence Applications

By Editors | 20/08/2023

The number of applications substantially exceeds projections by Bangladesh Bank, which initially intends to only grant two or three licences

AML / KYC

Bangladesh’s Sonali Bank Freezes Accounts of Myanmar State Banks

By Editors | 18/08/2023

The move was made in response to direct requests from US authorities, who sanctioned two of Myanmar’s state-owned banks in June.

Market Infrastructure

Bangladesh Defends Against Nationwide Cyber Attacks

By Mark Johnston | 17/08/2023

Several warnings were issued in the lead-up to Tuesday’s attacks. 25 public and private institutions are reported to have been breached.

Securities / Derivatives

Cambodia, Laos to Collaborate on Securities Market Development

By Mark Johnston | 15/08/2023

Cambodia, Laos securities market regulators agree to collaborate to develop the securities markets in their respective countries.

ESG / Sustainability

Vietnam to Develop Domestic Carbon Market

By Ranamita Chakraborty | 15/08/2023

Vietnam’s Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment is in charge of establishing a national registration system for all businesses and organisations generating carbon credits.

Sanctions

Myanmar Allows Thai Baht to be in International Payments

By Editors | 14/08/2023

Myanmar’s Military Council has designated the Thai Baht as a currency for both international payments and account clearing.

AML / KYC

Bangladesh Banks Directed to Simplify Account Opening for NRBs

By Editors | 12/08/2023

Banks are directed to launch digital systems to enable non-resident Bangladeshis to open accounts and invest in the country from overseas.

Capital / Liquidity

Sri Lanka Frees Up $620m in Liquidity Through SRR Cut

By Editors | 11/08/2023

The CBSL cut the SRR from four percent to two percent to free up liquidity and support an expansion of credit flows to the economy.