Australia

Big Picture

ICMA Publishes Guide to Australian Repo Markets

By Editors | 31/10/2024

The Australian repo market has growth 75% from 2021 to mid-2024, driven by increased market participants, wider collateral use, and more active dealer trading.

Sanctions

New Zealand Launches Review of Russia Sanctions Act

By Editors | 31/10/2024

The review aims to assess the Act’s operation and effectiveness, focusing on its practicality, compliance costs, and achievement of its purpose.

Fintech / Regtech

ASIC Says Governance Arrangements are Lagging AI Adoption

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 30/10/2024

ASIC Chair Joe Longo said must consider their existing obligations and duties and avoid simply waiting for AI laws and regulations to be introduced.

Crypto / Digital Assets

BIS and APAC Central Banks Release Results of Project Mandala

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 29/10/2024

Project Mandala demonstrated that jurisdiction-specific regulatory requirements can be embedded in cross-border transaction protocols.

ESG / Sustainability

Australia: Santos Faces Shareholder Lawsuit Over Net-Zero Claims

By Thisanka Siripala | 29/10/2024

The Australasian Centre for Corporate Responsibility says Santos’ emission reduction roadmap lacks credible foundation.

Enforcement

ASIC Annual Report Details Increasing Focus on Accountability, Enforcement

By Thisanka Siripala | 29/10/2024

In the 12 months ending June 2024, ASIC conducted 690 surveillance operations and 168 formal investigations, and filed 32 cases against 69 defendants.

Securities / Derivatives

Regulatory Review Finds Gaps in New Zealand’s DIMS Sector

By Thisanka Siripala | 28/10/2024

The review identified issues with disclosure practices, conflict of interest policies, and liquidity management at some discretionary investment management providers.

AML / KYC

Australia to Create Streamlined Process for Scam Victims to Seek Redress

By Mark Johnston | 25/10/2024

AFCA will operate an external dispute resolution scheme for scam victims to seek compensation from banks, telcos and digital platforms.

Capital / Liquidity

APRA Amends Operational Risk Financial Requirement for Super Funds

By Thisanka Siripala | 25/10/2024

The amendments to the operational risk financial requirement (ORFR) under SPS 114 will take effect from 1 July 2025, to align with CPS 230.