International

Fintech / Regtech

India in Talks to Link UPI With Alipay+ for Cross-Border Payments

By Nithya Subramanian | 04/02/2026

The proposed linkage would expand UPI’s global reach but faces security and regulatory reviews due to Alipay+’s Chinese origins.

Market Infrastructure

US Pressures China on 'Undervalued' Yuan, Adds Thailand to FX Watchlist

By Manesh Samtani | 03/02/2026

Semiannual report stops short of 'manipulator' label but toughens language on China and expands criteria for currency practice scrutiny.

Enforcement

India Dismantles Cybercrime Rings Laundering Millions via Crypto, Real Estate

By Editors | 03/02/2026

Indian agencies, with FBI and Interpol support, have raided networks using call centres and crypto to defraud international victims.

Securities / Derivatives

ISDA Spotlights Constraints on Using Derivatives in Pension Funds

By Manesh Samtani | 03/02/2026

New paper details restrictive rules in China and India, while noting widespread use of swaps and forwards in Australia and South Korea.

Securities / Derivatives

Some NBFIs Need Bank-like Rules to Curb Systemic Risk: FSB Chief

By Manesh Samtani | 02/02/2026

John Schindler outlines need for tailored, risk-based approach, citing recent crises and pushing back on industry misconceptions about regulation.

Fintech / Regtech

US, China Lead New Benchmark on Artificial Intelligence in Finance

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 02/02/2026

A new global index finds leaders excel in deployment readiness and market connectivity, with Hong Kong ranked as a top hub.

Crypto / Digital Assets

StanChart Warns Stablecoins Could Siphon $500b from Lenders

By Mark Johnston | 02/02/2026

Report predicts massive deposit flight by 2028 as pending US legislation paves the way for yield-bearing digital assets to compete with traditional banking models.

ESG / Sustainability

IESBA Eyes Global Culture Framework, Citing APAC's 'Leading Role'

By Manesh Samtani | 30/01/2026

The global ethics standard-setter is developing a new framework for accounting firm culture, seeing Asia as a critical region for feedback.

Market Infrastructure

BIS Project Maps Path to Quantum-Ready, Scalable Payment Systems

By Manesh Samtani | 30/01/2026

A new proof-of-concept explores a modular architecture to handle high volumes and future-proof financial market infrastructures against quantum threats.