Cryptocurrency

VSFG & Value Partners Apply to Launch Spot Bitcoin ETF

29/03/2024

VSFG is said to be “actively engaged” in discussions with the SFC on plans to potentially launch the new spot bitcoin ETF in May.

PEPs & Sanctions

US, UK Announce New Sanctions Targeting Hamas Financing

29/03/2024

Two individuals and three entities were sanctioned by the US and UK for engaging in fundraising efforts to support Hamas.

Supervision & Enforcement

Wolfsberg Group Addresses Role of Internal Audit Function

29/03/2024

The Group offers a set of principles as guidance for the IA function to promote effective financial crime risk management within FIs.

PEPs & Sanctions

US and South Korea Jointly Announce New DPRK Sanctions

29/03/2024

The US and South Korea also launched a new task force that will work to disrupt North Korean refined oil procurement networks.

PEPs & Sanctions

Businesses Have Lost Over $100bn From Russia Exits – Report

28/03/2024

Russia has steadily tightened its exit requirements as sanctions pressure has ramped up. It now demands discounts of at least 50% on foreign asset sales.

PEPs & Sanctions

Russia Buys its Own Diamonds to Support State-owned Alrosa

28/03/2024

The Russian government is for the first time in 15 years procuring diamonds from Alrosa, which has been targeted by sanctions.

PEPs & Sanctions

US, UK Probing $20b in Tether Transfers to Russia’s Garantex – Report

28/03/2024

There is no immediate suggestion of wrongdoing by Tether Holdings, the BVI-incorporated issuer of USDT.

Clearing & Post-Trade

HKMA, SFC Call on Firms to Ensure Readiness for US Move to T+1

28/03/2024

Firms should consider deploying additional staff and or making adjustments to work shifts or working hours to cope.

Tokenisation

HSBC Launches Tokenised Gold Product in Hong Kong

28/03/2024

The product allows investors to acquire fractional ownership of physical gold represented by tokens recorded on a distributed ledger.