Hong Kong

HKMA Offers Guidance on Streamlining Investment Sales Process

By Editors | 28/02/2023

The HKMA said “misunderstandings” on the regulatory standards that may have may have lengthened investment product selling processes.

Securities / Derivatives

HKEX to Adjust Rules to Support CSRC’s New Overseas Listing Regime

By Editors | 27/02/2023

Listing applicants from the Mainland will have to submit to HKEX a notification issued by the CSRC confirming their completion of Mainland’s filing procedures.

Market Infrastructure

Stock Connect Trading Calendars Adjustments to Take Effect in April

By Editors | 27/02/2023

The trading calendar enhancements will add more than ten trading days to northbound and southbound Connect each year.

Crypto / Digital Assets

Hong Kong Budget to Advance Green, Crypto Hub Ambitions

By Manesh Samtani | 23/02/2023

Financial Secretary Paul Chan announced in the government’s 2023-2024 budget that he will establish and lead a task force on virtual asset development.

Market Infrastructure

PBOC Issues Draft Rules for Northbound Swap Connect Trading

By Editors | 20/02/2023

To participate in Swap Connect and trade interest rate derivatives with Mainland investors, foreign investors will need approval to access the interbank bond market.

Securities / Derivatives

CSRC Issues New Rules for Overseas IPOs by Mainland Firms

By Editors | 20/02/2023

The rules allow companies to choose an overseas listing destination for their IPOs, but require them to first register the intention with the CSRC, which will vet the applications.

Crypto / Digital Assets

SFC Consults on New Licensing Regime for Crypto Trading Platforms

By Manesh Samtani | 20/02/2023

The consultation sets out requirements under the new licensing regime, including safeguards for retail investors, travel rule requirements, and maximum penalties for misconduct.

AML / KYC

Hong Kong Re-rated on Two FATF Recommendations

By Manesh Samtani | 20/02/2023

Hong Kong was upgraded for extending AML/CFT supervision to most DNFBP sectors, but downgraded for virtual asset-related deficiencies.

Big Picture

Some APAC Regulators Not Fully Operationally Independent: IOSCO

By Editors | 17/02/2023

Government officials in Singapore, Japan, Hong Kong, Australia and India have some ability to direct or influence securities regulators’ day-to-day operations.