Hong Kong

Fintech / Regtech

MPFA to Complete eMPF Platform Bidding Process by Year-End

By Editors | 09/10/2019

Hong Kong’s MPF System relies on cheque settlement, manual handling and paper transactions. The MPFA aims to launch a new ‘eMPF Platform’ in 2022.

Market Infrastructure

HKEX Abandons Pursuit of London Stock Exchange Merger

By Editors | 08/10/2019

HKEX says the merger is still strategically compelling but it has not been able to engage with LSEG’s management in realising its vision.

Crypto / Digital Assets

SFC Details Rules for Virtual Asset Fund Managers

By Manesh Samtani | 07/10/2019

The SFC has published new requirements for virtual asset fund managers, relating to capital, best execution, liquidity and custody, among other areas.

Enforcement

SFC Fines SEAVI Advent Ocean Private Equity HK$1mn

By Editors | 07/10/2019

The SFC has reprimanded and fined SEAVI Advent Ocean Private Equity for allowing unlicensed individuals to perform regulated functions, in breach of the Code of Conduct.

New HKMA Chief Signals Priorities for Term Ahead

By Manesh Samtani | 04/10/2019

Incoming HKMA chief Eddie Yue vowed to defend Hong Kong’s currency peg, promote market development opportunities, and foster a better ecosystem for fintech, regtech and suptech.

Fintech / Regtech

SWIFT, HSBC to Define Common API Standard for Hong Kong

By Editors | 04/10/2019

The new standard will re-use ISO 20022 components to ensure interoperability with Hong Kong’s clearing and settlement systems, facilitating the next phases of open banking in the city.

Big Picture

Hong Kong Making Slow Progress on Open Banking: S&P

By Editors | 03/10/2019

S&P Global Ratings says Hong Kong’s approach to open banking makes it hard for third-party service providers to participate, limiting the potential of the new digital ecosystem.

Capital / Liquidity

SFC Offers Additional Guidance on New Margin Financing Rules

By Editors | 02/10/2019

New FAQs make clear that deviations from the new rules after 4 October will not automatically be seen as noncompliance or result in disciplinary action.

Securities / Derivatives

Hong Kong to Regulate Fund Trustees, Custodians

By Editors | 30/09/2019

Fund trustees and custodians in Hong Kong are not subject to any licensing regime or ongoing supervision. The SFC proposes to regulate them under a new type of regulated activity, RA 13.