Securities and Futures Commission

AML / KYC

SFC Fines Lion Futures for AML Non-Compliance

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 23/11/2023

Lion Futures is the 7th firm to be fined over the use of software that allows Mainland investors to trade without opening a local securities account in Hong Kong.

Fintech / Regtech

HKEX Launches New IPO Settlement Platform

By Manesh Samtani | 23/11/2023

The platform, known as FINI, shortens the IPO settlement cycle from five days to two days, lowering risks for issuers and investors.

Crypto / Digital Assets

OKX Becomes First Crypto Major to Lodge SFC Licence Application

By Manesh Samtani | 22/11/2023

OKX, the world’s third-largest crypto exchange by 24-hour trading volume, is the seventh firm to apply for a Hong Kong VATP licence.

Market Infrastructure

HKMA Considers How Banks Will Support Stock Trading During Typhoons

By Sanday Chongo Kabange | 21/11/2023

Banks would need to upgrade their systems to cope with a “potential new clearing arrangement for cheque payments”.

Securities / Derivatives

HKEX to Implement Position Limit Changes on 22 December

By Editors | 21/11/2023

The enhancements will boost the vibrancy and attractiveness of Hong Kong’s markets, said HKEX’s said Wilfred Yiu.

Market Infrastructure

HKMA Updates Margin Financing Guidance Ahead of FINI Launch

By Editors | 19/11/2023

The revised SPM module provides further guidance on a “holistic approach to risk management” of share margin financing.

Enforcement

SFC Obtains Orders Against Ex-Chairman for Fraudulent Share Scheme

By Mark Johnston | 16/11/2023

Former chairman disqualified for 10 years from holding any directorial or managerial position in Hong Kong and fined for fraudulent share scheme.

AML / KYC

SFC Issues Updated AML/CFT Self-Assessment Checklist

By Editors | 15/11/2023

The updated checklist incorporates the May revisions to the SFC’s existing AML/CFT guideline, including to apply additional questions on virtual asset activities.

Capital / Liquidity

SFC Issues Guidance on IPO Services Ahead of FINI Launch

By Editors | 09/11/2023

The SFC outlines risk management considerations for licensed corporations offering IPO services ahead of HKEX’s launch of a new IPO settlement platform.