Hong Kong

Sanctions

US Panel Urges Sanctions Scrutiny for Hong Kong

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 24/11/2025

A congressional advisory body has recommended secondary sanctions on Hong Kong financial institutions, alleging the city is a hub for sanctions evasion.

Enforcement

Hong Kong Jails Agents in Insurance Commission Fraud Scheme

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 24/11/2025

Jail sentences were earlier handed to another 11 individuals who were all part of the same 'dummy agent' commission fraud scheme, according to the ICAC.

Capital / Liquidity

HKMA Directs Banks to Adopt Enhanced Consumer Debt Relief Plan

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 24/11/2025

The HKMA urges wider adoption of the interbank debt relief plan, digitalisation, and best practices to help struggling personal borrowers.

Securities / Derivatives

World Bank, ICMA Detail Work on New AI Tool to Streamline Bond Issuance

By Manesh Samtani | 24/11/2025

Project SHASTRA uses generative AI and ICMA's Bond Data Taxonomy to tackle post-trade inefficiencies and create a 'single source of truth'.

Fintech / Regtech

HKMA Official Discusses Approach to AI Regulation, Anti-fraud Strategy

By Manesh Samtani | 24/11/2025

In a speech, Executive Director Alan Au outlined the HKMA's regulatory approach to Generative AI and measures to combat financial fraud.

AML / KYC

HKMA Issues Guidance to Curb 'Overly Cautious' AML Checks on PEPs

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 24/11/2025

The HKMA’s new 'Smart Tips' guidance clarifies rules for domestic and former PEPs, urging banks to adopt a more proportionate, risk-based approach.

Capital / Liquidity

HKMA Tightens Rules on Insurance Premium Financing After Review

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 24/11/2025

The HKMA says new standards from 1 January 2026 will ban bundling, require clearer risk disclosures, and address concerns over short-term loans.

AML / KYC

HKMA Reports on AI Adoption Status in Transaction Monitoring

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 23/11/2025

The HKMA revealed high uptake following its September 2024 directive and announced new workshops on the use of AI and crypto-related risks.

HKMA Revises Insurance Business Rules for Banks

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 21/11/2025

The updated policy manual reiterates expectations on corporate governance and clarifies the authority and seniority required for responsible officers supervising insurance activities.