Financial Action Task Force

Anti-Money Laundering

New Zealand Proposes Banks Bear 85pc of New AML Levies

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 16/03/2026

The government has launched a consultation on funding its AML/CFT regime, with high-risk sectors set to cover most costs via a new levy system.

Payments & Settlements

FSB and Industry Launch New Push on Cross-border Payments

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 13/03/2026

Andrew Bailey says progress on the G20 roadmap is stalling, outlining new action plans for regulators and calling for industry leadership.

Anti-Money Laundering

Thailand Freezes 10,000 Crypto Accounts in AML Crackdown

By Editors | 12/03/2026

The action follows the rollout of a new ‘Speed Bump’ protocol and stricter KYC checks designed to disrupt illicit fund flows.

Stablecoins

Japan FSA Prioritises Real-World Use Cases to Guide Digital Asset Rule-Making

By Manesh Samtani | 12/03/2026

A senior official outlined Japan's focus on fostering real-world applications for stablecoins and tokenised assets while seeking global consensus on DeFi.

Anti-Money Laundering

New FATF Report Calls for Crackdown on Offshore Crypto Providers

By Manesh Samtani | 12/03/2026

New report outlines risks from offshore crypto firms and calls for coordinated global action from regulators and financial institutions.

Anti-Money Laundering

US Treasury Reports Flag Evolving Threats Emanating from APAC

By Manesh Samtani | 11/03/2026

New assessments detail sophisticated North Korean schemes, the dominance of Chinese money laundering networks, and industrial-scale fraud syndicates in Southeast Asia.

KYC & CDD

Pakistan Launches Digital Registry to Identify Company UBOs

By Nithya Subramanian | 11/03/2026

The new platform strengthens corporate transparency, AML oversight and regulatory monitoring of company ownership structures, aligning with international standards.

Cryptocurrency

Pakistan Establishes Permanent Legal Basis for Crypto Regulator

By Mark Johnston | 10/03/2026

The new law formalises PVARA's powers, sets strict licensing mandates, and introduces severe penalties for non-compliance, fulfilling a key IMF condition.

Anti-Money Laundering

AUSTRAC Chief Details New AML Rules for Legal Profession

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 04/03/2026

Brendan Thomas outlines mandatory enrolment, CDD, and reporting obligations as AUSTRAC moves to close a 'significant hole' in the country's AML defences.