Compliance & Ethics

Singapore and Vietnam have come together to strengthen the backbone of their capital markets and address the emerging complexities of digital asset regulation. The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) and the State Securities Commission of Vietnam (SSC) have signed a Letter of Intent (LOI) that sets the stage for a collaborative effort aimed at ensuring the stability, growth, and security of both countries’ financial systems.

In a move that’s caught the attention of both the tech world and regulatory watchers, the U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is pushing forward with its antitrust investigation into Microsoft, as reported by Bloomberg. Originally launched during the final months of the Biden administration, the probe has gained new traction under the leadership of FTC Chair Andrew Ferguson, appointed by President Donald Trump. The investigation, which focuses on Microsoft’s software licensing, cloud computing practices, and its evolving role in artificial intelligence, offers an unexpected glimpse into how antitrust policy might evolve under the current administration—and hints at some surprising continuity with previous approaches.

In a world where regulations are constantly evolving, businesses must stay agile and informed to maintain compliance and drive innovation. The European Union (EU) and the United States (US) are two of the largest regulatory powerhouses globally, and understanding how their frameworks shape corporate strategy is crucial for any business with global ambitions. While both regions share common goals of promoting economic growth and corporate responsibility, their approaches to achieving these goals couldn’t be more different.

PwC Singapore found itself on the wrong side of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (PCAOB) this week, as the regulator slapped the firm with a 1.5 million fine for violations related to its independence compliance process.

The Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (PCAOB) has taken action against nine firms from KPMG's network for failing to meet essential regulatory requirements. The sanctions come as a direct response to violations of key reporting rules and quality control standards, and send a clear message about the PCAOB’s commitment to safeguarding the integrity of the financial system.

The financial landscape is shifting fast. While digital banking services and cryptocurrencies bring innovation, they also open the door to new risks that criminals are quick to exploit. As we enter 2025, the Swedish financial watchdog is focusing its efforts on addressing these emerging threats. From money laundering to terrorist financing and sanctions evasion, financial firms face growing pressure to safeguard the system from exploitation.

At the TechUK Tech Policy Conference today, Sarah Cardell, Chief Executive of the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA), shared a vision for a more dynamic, responsive, and competitive regulatory landscape in the digital markets. She emphasized the CMA’s role in shaping the future of the UK’s tech ecosystem, signaling a new phase of regulation that will hold Big Tech accountable while encouraging growth and investment.