Other Asia Pacific

PEPs & Sanctions

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.

Cybersecurity

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.

Structural Regulation

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.

Sustainable Finance

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.

Payments & Settlements

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.

KYC & CDD

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.

Liquidity Risk

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.

PEPs & Sanctions

UOB to Tighten Restrictions on Myanmar Business from 1 September

By Mark Johnston | 10/08/2023

UOB will restrict payments to and from Myanmar accounts, card transactions for Myanmar individuals and banks, and close Myanmar banks’ nostro accounts.

Structural Regulation

Cambodia to Leverage Indonesia Experience to Strengthen Non-Bank Financial Sectors 

By Editors | 10/08/2023

The MoU will help Cambodia enhance its non-bank financial services sectors, focusing on knowledge exchange and collaborative development.