Australia

    RBA Makes Plea for Banks to Ease Approach to SME Lending

    By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 21/03/2021

    The RBA’s Christopher Kent says banks have tightened lending standards for SMEs, charging them more and imposing more restrictive terms on their loans.

    Enforcement

    ASIC Bans Director, Account Managers at FX Broker

    By Editors | 21/03/2021

    Clients were pressured to deposit funds into their trading accounts, engage in high-risk trading, and delay or cancel withdrawal requests.

    APRA Updates Cyber Insurance Reporting Requirements

    By Ranamita Chakraborty | 18/03/2021

    APRA has adopted a recommendation to extend the timeframe for full implementation, saying it will facilitate a more effective process without materially impacting its objectives.

    Crypto / Digital Assets

    Australia to Expand Scope, Length of Fintech Select Committee

    By Editors | 18/03/2021

    The FinTech Select Committee’s mandate has been extended from an April deadline to October 2021. A report on its work programme is expected in April.

    Market Infrastructure

    RBA Keeping ‘Close Eye’ on LIBOR Transition Progress

    By Manesh Samtani | 18/03/2021

    Firms should not wait for a term RFR or credit-spread adjustments to reference in non-derivatives products, says RBA assistant governor Christopher Kent.

    Capital / Liquidity

    APRA to Update Licensing Approach for New Banking Entrants

    By Editors | 18/03/2021

    The proposed approach will support newly licensed banks so they are better equipped to succeed, according to APRA Deputy Chair John Lonsdale.

    Enforcement

    Australia Considers Legislation to Make Boards Liable for Cyber Risk

    By Editors | 17/03/2021

    Legislation currently before Parliament includes security obligations for entities responsible for critical infrastructure, a list that will be significantly expanded.

    AML / KYC

    Fintel Alliance Secures Win Against ‘Cuckoo Smurfing’ Syndicate

    By Ranamita Chakraborty | 16/03/2021

    ANZ’s link analysis capability allowed the rapid interrogation of combined banking datasets, which led to the arrests of five individuals involved in an international cuckoo smurfing syndicate.

    Market Infrastructure

    Australia to Amend OBU Regime to Address OECD Concerns

    By Ranamita Chakraborty | 15/03/2021

    The government will consult with industry on alternative measures to ensure activity remains in Australia when the OBU regime ends.

    New Zealand Launches New Financial Advice Regime

    By Editors | 15/03/2021

    Anyone who gives regulated financial advice to retail clients must either hold or operate under a Financial Advice Provider licence granted by the FMA.

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