Hong Kong

Fintech / Regtech

Hong Kong Launches New ‘One-Stop’ Platform for SMEs

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 23/04/2024

The new ‘one-stop SME platform’ enables SMEs to “shop around” for lending services offered by the major banks.

Enforcement

HK Police Offers Update on JPEX Fraud Investigation

By Mark Johnston | 23/04/2024

A total 72 individuals have been arrested and HKD 228 million worth of assets have been seized in connection with JPEX.

ESG / Sustainability

HKEX Adopts Phased Approach to New Climate Disclosure Rules

By Manesh Samtani | 23/04/2024

All listed issuers will have to mandatorily disclose scope 1 and scope 2 emissions from 1 Jan 2025. Requirements drawn from the ISSB standards will be mandatory for large caps from 1 Jan 2026.

AML / KYC

HKMA Proposes Revisions to E-banking Risk Management Requirements

By Manesh Samtani | 22/04/2024

HKMA’s revised SPM Module incorporates additional requirements on electronic banking security and expands the obligations to payment card transactions.

Enforcement

HKMA Fines Hua Nan Commercial Bank Over AML/CFT Controls

By Editors | 22/04/2024

HKMA identified deficiencies in the bank’s ability to continuously monitor some customer relationships over a six-year period.

Enforcement

Hong Kong AFRC Probing Whistleblower Allegations Against PwC

By Editors | 22/04/2024

The probe was prompted by an anonymous “whistle-blower report” circulating in the media which PwC says contains “inaccurate statements and false allegations”.

Market Infrastructure

CSRC Announces New Measures to Enhance Stock Connect

By Manesh Samtani | 21/04/2024

The measures include relaxed ETF eligibility criteria, inclusion of REITs and RMB-denominated HK stocks, and more support for Mainland listings in HK.

Market Infrastructure

SFC, HKMA Find Deficient Practices in Investment Product Sales

By Manesh Samtani | 19/04/2024

A thematic review highlighted issues with product due diligence methodologies and a lack of understanding of certain structured products.

Market Infrastructure

HKAB Sets Launch Date for New Credit Reference Platform

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 19/04/2024

The new credit reference platform, known as ‘Credit Data Smart’, will start service on 26 April. Three CRAs are contributing data.