Financial Action Task Force

CBDCs

Vietnam Taps State Telcos for CBDC Research Amid Broader Crypto Push

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 06/10/2025

The SBV has assigned Viettel and MobiFone to conduct foundational research on a CBDC, as the country simultaneously pilots new rules for tokenised assets.

Anti-Money Laundering

AUSTRAC Launches Campaign for Implementation of AML Reforms

By Editors | 03/10/2025

The campaign will prepare existing and new industries for a shift to a risk-based approach and new digital reporting tools.

Payments & Settlements

ISO 20022 Migration Enters Final Phase with Focus on Data Quality

By Manesh Samtani | 30/09/2025

With less than two months until the end of the coexistence period for legacy MT messages, over 60% of payment messages are now in the MX format.

Anti-Money Laundering

New AML Law to Require Crypto Firms to Register in Sri Lanka

By Editors | 30/09/2025

The CBSL will bring virtual asset service providers under its Financial Intelligence Unit to combat money laundering and prepare for a global review.

PEPs & Sanctions

Former Myanmar Advisor Calls for Broader, 'Go Big' Sanctions

By Manesh Samtani | 29/09/2025

Sean Turnell, a former advisor to Aung San Suu Kyi, describes a 'tottering' banking system and urges a broader sanctions regime to choke off military funding.

Supervision & Enforcement

INTERPOL Operation Recovers $439 Million, Highlights Need for Regulatory Unity

By Mark Johnston | 26/09/2025

An INTERPOL operation has recovered USD 439 million in illicit funds, highlighting the need for enhanced cross-border regulatory cooperation in APAC.

Anti-Money Laundering

Philippine SEC Backs Easing of Bank Secrecy Law

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 25/09/2025

The SEC says reforms are a necessary measure to strengthen its enforcement powers against financial crimes and fraud.

Anti-Money Laundering

Vietnam Sets New AML Reporting Rules for Large Fund Transfers

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 23/09/2025

The SBV has mandated reporting for domestic transfers over VND 500 million and international transfers over USD 1,000 from November.

PEPs & Sanctions

US Experts Urge Congress to Sanction Hong Kong Banks

By Manesh Samtani | 23/09/2025

Congressional roundtable hears calls to target Hong Kong's alleged role as a hub for sanctions evasion for China, Russia and Iran.