HONG KONG

Crypto / Digital Assets

Hong Kong Stablecoin Licensing Regime Officially Takes Effect

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 01/08/2025

Hong Kong's new regulatory framework for stablecoins has taken effect, imposing stringent capital, reserves management, and AML requirements on issuers.

AML / KYC

DBS Hong Kong Launches Anti-Scam Team to Contain Fraud Threat

By Manesh Samtani | 01/08/2025

The bank has established a 24/7 team to combat authorised payment scams in Hong Kong, mirroring the model used by its Singapore parent to safeguard the interests of the bank’s customers.

Crypto / Digital Assets

Hong Kong Confirms Plans to Expand Family Office Tax Breaks

By Manesh Samtani | 01/08/2025

The expanded tax breaks will cover transactions in digital assets, emission derivatives/allowances, insurance-linked securities, loans, and private credit investments.

Hong Kong AFRC Flags Audit Fee Pressure and Hasty Appointments

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 31/07/2025

The AFRC reports some improvement in audit quality but warns that intense competition and fee undercutting are creating significant risks for the profession.

Capital / Liquidity

APAC Regulators Urge Timely FRTB Implementation in Europe, US

By Blake Evans-Pritchard | 31/07/2025

Regulators in Japan, Singapore and Hong Kong worry about the harm divergent implementation timetables cause to their banks.

Enforcement

Ex-chair of Listed Firm Surrenders to Hong Kong's ICAC After 14 years

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 31/07/2025

Li Songxiao, former head of Neo-China, faces charges of conspiracy to defraud over HKD 330 million in property deals that allegedly inflated the company's assets.

Securities / Derivatives

BOCHK Joins Clearstream, Euroclear Network to Boost APAC Eurobond Access

By Editors | 30/07/2025

The appointment expands the international securities depository network, aiming to facilitate primary market activity from the start of the Asian business day.

Market Infrastructure

Hong Kong SFC Calls for Rethink of 'Perfunctory' Director Training

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 30/07/2025

The SFC's Chairman says tailored, group-based training is vital for board performance and to maintain the city's status as a global financial hub.

Crypto / Digital Assets

Hong Kong Sets Out Details for New Stablecoin Licensing Regime

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 30/07/2025

The HKMA has finalised its new rules for stablecoin issuers, which will take effect from 1 August 2025, with the first licences expected in early 2026.