HONG KONG

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 Asia 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.

ESG / Sustainability

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.

HKMA to Cut 2026 Budget, Freeze Hiring, Reports Say

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 29/07/2025

The HKMA will reportedly reduce its operating budget by 5 percent and halt new hiring, aligning with broader government austerity measures.

Market Infrastructure

HKEX Revises Timeline for Upgrades to Core Derivatives Platforms

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 29/07/2025

HKEX has set a new timeline for the HKATS and DCASS operating system upgrade, opening a testing environment for API users from early August.

AML / KYC

Hong Kong Bank Complaints Surge as Anti-Fraud Measures Increase Customer Friction

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 29/07/2025

The HKMA has urged banks to improve customer communication as enhanced account monitoring drives a sharp rise in complaints.