Hong Kong

Enforcement

SFC Fines Sincere Securities for Internal Control Failings

By Editors | 16/08/2019

The SFC and an independent reviewer identified deficiencies across 14 areas of Sincere Securities’ business operations and internal controls, resulting in a fine of HK$5mn.

Enforcement

CSRC Imposes Six-Month Business Restriction on GF Securities

By Editors | 09/08/2019

The CSRC cited risk management and control deficiencies as reasons for the restrictions, after a hedge fund set up by the broker reported losses of $139mn for 2018.

Market Infrastructure

Cayman ‘Economic Substance’ Rule Hits Hong Kong Hedge Funds

By Editors | 06/08/2019

The new rule requires investment managers to demonstrate ‘economic substance’ in Cayman to continue operating by setting up offices, moving teams over or outsourcing activities to local firms.

Enforcement

SFC Imposes Lifetime Ban on Former UBS Adviser

By Editors | 06/08/2019

More than 10 years ago, the adviser accepted HK$1.4m in bribes from a client, paid at a rate of 20% of portfolio gains.

Securities / Derivatives

SSE, SZSE Set to Allow Trading in HK-Listed Dual Class Shares

By Editors | 05/08/2019

The Shanghai and Shenzhen stock exchanges are consulting on rule changes that will allow Chinese investors to trade Hong Kong-listed dual-class shares via Stock Connect.

Big Picture

Singapore: Two-Thirds of Consumers Willing to Try Digital Banks

By Editors | 03/08/2019

A JD Power survey has found that 65% of Singapore customers are interested in opening digital bank accounts. The survey ranked HSBC first, OCBC second and DBS third in customer satisfaction.

Market Infrastructure

HKIFA Announces New Roadmap Pushing ESG Agenda

By Manesh Samtani | 02/08/2019

The HKIFA is advocating for fund documents to only be delivered to investors digitally by default, increased use of cloud for record keeping, and greater alignment with international standards.

Market Infrastructure

HKMA Reports on Open API Implementation Progress

By Editors | 01/08/2019

Phase I Open APIs provide information on banking products and services. Phase II will allow banks to process applications for such products and services by end-October.

Securities / Derivatives

SFC Raises Standards for Data Submissions by Brokers

By Manesh Samtani | 01/08/2019

In-scope brokers are expected to implement system changes and make other arrangements needed for compliance with the new Data Standards by end-October 2020.