LATEST NEWS

Sanctions

US, UK, Canada Announce Coordinated Human Rights Sanctions

By Editors | 11/12/2023

The US targeted individuals across nine countries; the UK sanctions included targets involved in forced ‘scam farm’ labour in Cambodia, Laos and Myanmar.

Securities / Derivatives

Thai SEC to Update Rules for Bond Issuance by Foreign Firms

By Editors | 10/12/2023

Foreign businesses will only be permitted to issue baht-denominated debt in Thailand if they are rated at least investment grade by an international credit rating agency.

Enforcement

OFAC Announces Settlement with Nasdaq for Sanctions Violations

By Editors | 10/12/2023

Nasdaq’s Armenian subsidiary committed 151 apparent violations of sanctions on Iran before the violations were self-reported in 2014.

ESG / Sustainability

Philippine SEC Launches Framework for Blue Bond Issuance

By Editors | 10/12/2023

SEC chairperson Emilio Aquino described the launch of the blue bond framework as a “giant leap” toward fostering a sustainable blue economy.

Securities / Derivatives

CSRC Proposes New Rules, Lower Fees for Public Funds Sales

By Editors | 10/12/2023

The rule changes seek to reduce the commission rates charged on public funds and improve the processes managers use to select distributors.

Fintech / Regtech

Australia Proposes Licensing Framework for Payment Services

By Manesh Samtani | 09/12/2023

Payment service providers would need to be licensed by ASIC, and in some cases, APRA. The ePayments Code will also be updated and made mandatory.

Securities / Derivatives

MAS Updates CMSL Guidance on CEO and Director Appointments

By Manesh Samtani | 09/12/2023

Capital markets firms must ensure proposed CEOs and directors are fit and proper and have 10 years of experience that is “relevant” to the role.

ESG / Sustainability

Thailand Launches 22 ESG Funds to Support Sustainability Goals

By Mark Johnston | 08/12/2023

Investors can gain tax benefits by investing in the funds, which invest in Thai bonds or stocks that adhere to ESG criteria.

Big Picture

Adapting to Regulatory Changes is a Challenge for Insurers

By Nithya Subramanian | 08/12/2023

Insurers must track regulatory changes and make operational adjustments to meet new requirements, said the Clearwater Analytics survey.