AUSTRALIA

Fintech / Regtech

Australia and Vietnam Sign MoU on Fintech Collaboration

By Nithya Subramanian | 09/06/2025

The agreement focuses on developing a robust fintech ecosystem and facilitating bilateral trade and investment in the financial services and technology sectors.

Market Infrastructure

Australia Consults on Cost Recovery Fees for New Merger System

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 06/06/2025

Assistant Minister Andrew Leigh said the cost recovery fees are calibrated to reflect the resources the ACCC needs to carry out merger assessments.

AML / KYC

Stakes High in AUSTRAC’s A$400m Case Against Star Casino

By Nathan Lynch | 06/06/2025

AUSTRAC’s A$400m Star casino case will test the boundaries of Australia’s AML/CTF regime and potentially reshape the financial crime compliance landscape.

Market Infrastructure

Australia FSC Issues Best Practice Framework for Super Funds

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 05/06/2025

The FSC has released a 12-principles superannuation best practice framework to improve retirement outcomes for fund members.

AML / KYC

Crypto ATMs in the Crosshairs, as Australia Targets Laundering, Scams and Terrorism

By Nathan Lynch | 04/06/2025

Nathan Lynch explores how Australian authorities are responding to the criminal threats associated with crypto ATMs, which proliferated during the pandemic.

Market Infrastructure

ASIC Charts Course for Enhancing Australia’s Capital Markets

By Thisanka Siripala | 04/06/2025

ASIC outlines plans to reform public and private capital markets, seeking to address concerns around retail investor access and the cost of listing.

Market Infrastructure

ASIC Prepares Capital Market Reform Roadmap

By Thisanka Siripala | 04/06/2025

The regulator distilled six capital market themes to guide its next steps, including streamlining IPO processes and the role of pension funds in shaping capital flows.

Crypto / Digital Assets

AUSTRAC Cracks Down on Crypto ATM Operators

By Thisanka Siripala | 04/06/2025

AUSTRAC has imposed an A$5,000 transaction limit on cash deposits and withdrawals and other measures.

Enforcement

ASIC Sues Westpac Unit for Systemic Misconduct 

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 04/06/2025

ASIC commenced civil penalty proceedings against a subsidiary of Westpac for “systemic” misconduct in arranging home loans.