Other Asia Pacific

Laos Closes All Non-State Currency Exchange Channels

By Editors | 29/01/2023

Currency exchange transactions in Laos can now only be done through state-run banks. The move has resulted in nationwide business disruptions.

ESG / Sustainability

Bangladesh to Form New Market for Shariah Compliant Securities

By Editors | 23/01/2023

The BSEC has formed a-nine member advisory council to help develop the new Islamic capital market.

Securities / Derivatives

Bangladesh: Chittagong Bourse Seeks to Launch FX Derivatives

By Editors | 21/01/2023

Currently, there are no regulations in Bangladesh allowing for the introduction of currency or other financial derivatives.

Crypto / Digital Assets

Nepal ISPs Ordered to Block Crypto Websites, Apps

By Editors | 17/01/2023

Nepal declared crypto illegal in September 2021. The order for ISPs and email providers to block crypto websites and apps is new.

ESG / Sustainability

WWF-Singapore Publishes Sustainable Banking Assessment 2022

By Editors | 16/01/2023

The report calls on financial sector regulators to implement and align E&S risk management requirements for banks to ensure financial stability.

AML / KYC

GCFFC Establishes APAC Regional Chapter

By Editors | 13/01/2023

The APAC Chapter is led by DBS Bank’s Debra Au and Westpac’s Jodie Arthur serving as co-chairs, and Napier’s Robin Lee serving as vice chair.

Securities / Derivatives

Dhaka Stock Exchange Launches Alternative Trading Board

By Editors | 09/01/2023

On opening day, green bonds from food and beverage brand Pran Agro Limited and shares in LankaBangla Securities were listed for trading.

Securities / Derivatives

First Bangladesh ETFs Secure Regulatory Approval – Report

By Editors | 07/01/2023

The ETFs will be actively managed, one by LankaBangla Asset Management and the other by Frontier Asset Management.

AML / KYC

Bangladesh Banks Under Scrutiny for Alleged Loan Scams

By Editors | 22/12/2022

Bangladesh Bank directed five banks to submit daily reports on loan disbursements. Two of the banks have observers appointed to monitor operations.