HONG KONG MONETARY AUTHORITY

AML / KYC

DBS Hong Kong Launches Anti-Scam Team to Contain Fraud Threat

By Manesh Samtani | 01/08/2025

The bank has established a 24/7 team to combat authorised payment scams in Hong Kong, mirroring the model used by its Singapore parent to safeguard the interests of the bank’s customers.

Capital / Liquidity

APAC Regulators Urge Timely FRTB Implementation in Europe, US

By Blake Evans-Pritchard | 31/07/2025

Regulators in Japan, Singapore and Hong Kong worry about the harm divergent implementation timetables cause to their banks.

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.

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.

Fintech / Regtech

Hong Kong Pushes Data-sharing Infrastructure to Boost SME Trade Finance

By Manesh Samtani | 29/07/2025

The HKMA is advancing its Commercial Data Interchange (CDI) with new pilots in credit scoring and logistics data, aiming to streamline lending and cut costs for businesses.

Fintech / Regtech

Hong Kong Developing New Rules to Support Elderly Banking Consumers

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 25/07/2025

Regulators will issue elderly-friendly banking guidelines to improve the banking experience for seniors, and require banks to offer a "default no-online banking" option to customers.

Market Infrastructure

Hong Kong to Expand Mandatory Reference Checks for Bankers

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 25/07/2025

From September 2025, the MRC Scheme will be expanded to cover 50,000 frontline staff involved in securities, insurance, or mandatory provident fund regulated activities.

Crypto / Digital Assets

HKMA Warns of 'Frothiness' in Stablecoin Market, Signals Strict AML Rules

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 24/07/2025

The HKMA will grant only a handful of stablecoin issuer licences initially and impose stringent AML rules amid concerns over market speculation.