Hong Kong

Conduct, Culture & Accountability

Hong Kong Set to Launch Cross-Sector Misconduct Reference Checks

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 14/05/2026

A new mandatory reference checking scheme between the banking and insurance sectors will launch in July to prevent individuals with misconduct histories from moving between firms.

Structural Regulation

HKMA Launches Digital Platform for Senior Management Approvals

By Editors | 13/05/2026

The new platform will streamline the appointment process for senior bank roles, with paper-based submissions to be discontinued from 1 October 2026.

PEPs & Sanctions

Report Calls on US to Designate Hong Kong a ‘Money Laundering Concern’

By Manesh Samtani | 12/05/2026

Report alleges Hong Kong is a key hub for Iranian sanctions evasion and calls for action against the city’s banking and crypto sectors.

FinCEN Alert Flags Use of HK, SG Firms in Iran Sanctions Evasion

By Manesh Samtani | 12/05/2026

New FinCEN alert details how Iran’s IRGC uses front companies, illicit oil sales, and digital assets to launder funds, highlighting specific red flags for FIs.

PEPs & Sanctions

US Sanctions More Hong Kong Firms Over Iran-China Oil Trade

By Manesh Samtani | 12/05/2026

OFAC has designated four Hong Kong-based companies and several others in the UAE and Oman for helping to finance Iran’s IRGC through oil sales to China.

Credit Risk

Hong Kong Banks Abandon Patient Approach to Tackle Bad Debt - Report

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 12/05/2026

Lenders are reportedly expanding specialist teams and forcing liquidations to manage a HKD 200 billion pile of soured commercial property loans.

Trading & Investment

HKEX Alerts Stock Connect Participants to China Trading Rule Changes

By Editors | 11/05/2026

HKEX has advised Stock Connect participants to prepare for trading rule amendments set to take effect on 6 July 2026.

Sustainable Finance

IFC Prices First-Ever Public Green Wonton Bond in Hong Kong

By Editors | 11/05/2026

The IFC has priced a HKD 6 billion deal, the first public green bond in Hong Kong’s market for foreign-issued, HKD-denominated debt.

Trading & Investment

Hong Kong Pushes Gold Hub Ambitions with Futures Relaunch

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 11/05/2026

Hong Kong is set for a fresh attempt at launching gold futures, backed by a government-led push to build a complete trading and physical settlement ecosystem.