Philippines

Structural Regulation

BSP Grants Digital Bank Licence to Gokongwei-Tyme Joint Venture

By Editors | 20/08/2021

The application window for the submission of applications from new digital banks, including converting banks, will close on 31 August​ 2021.

Anti-Money Laundering

Philippine President to Prioritise Bill to Ease Bank Secrecy Rules

By Manesh Samtani | 20/08/2021

The BSP welcomed the move, saying the bill will provide the central bank tools to investigate illegal activity and improve the safety of the banking system.

Data Privacy

BSP to Finalise Members of Open Finance Body This Year

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 10/08/2021

The open finance oversight committee which will formulate standards for consent-based data sharing will include representation from across the financial industry.

Anti-Money Laundering

China, UAE Agree to Exchange Intelligence on AML Investigations

By Editors | 09/08/2021

The FIUs in China and the UAE will exchange information on investigations concerning money laundering, terrorist financing, and the persons or entities involved.

Sustainable Finance

FIs Team Up to Accelerate Coal Plant Closures in APAC

By Editors | 05/08/2021

Prudential, Citi, HSBC, and BlackRock are reportedly working on a plan to buy out coal-fired plants and wind them down early.

PEPs & Sanctions

Philippine AMLC Issues Guidance on TFS Delisting, Unfreezing Orders

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 02/08/2021

Designated persons shall apply to the AMLC for authorisation if they wish to deal with or access funds or assets that are frozen due to targeted financial sanctions.

Structural Regulation

SEC Philippines Launches New Fintech Innovation Office

By Editors | 01/08/2021

The PhiliFintech Innovation Office will serve as the first point of contact for existing fintech companies and help the SEC regulate fintech activities.

Cryptocurrency

Ripple Opens Japan-Philippines Remittance Corridor

By Manesh Samtani | 31/07/2021

Japan’s SBI Remit will connect with Coins.ph and crypto exchange SBI VC Trade to open the remittance corridor, leveraging Ripple’s on-demand liquidity service.

Structural Regulation

BSP Grants Fourth Digital Bank Licence to UnionBank

By Editors | 31/07/2021

UnionBank is the latest to receive the licence after Landbank’s Overseas Filipino Bank, Tonik Bank, and UNOBank.