Jacob Parker-Bowles Fintech in Asia

Introduction Anti-money laundering (AML) and financial crime (FinCrime) frameworks represent critical components of global financial integrity, designed to mitigate the risks posed by illicit activities such as money laundering, terrorist financing, and fraud. In Southeast Asia, a region characterized by rapid economic growth, digital transformation, and diverse regulatory environments, these issues have gained heightened prominence. As of 2026, Southeast Asian economies, including Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, the Philippines, and Vietnam, continue to grapple with evolving threats exacerbated by geopolitical tensions, technological advancements, and cross-border financial flows. This article examines the current landscape of AML and FinCrime in the region, projects key trends for 2026, and includes a dedicated section on the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) in combating these challenges. Drawing on empirical data and expert analyses, it underscores the need for ad...

  Advancements in Artificial Intelligence: Innovations in the Financial Sector During Q3 2025 Introduction The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into the financial sector has accelerated dramatically in recent years, transforming traditional processes such as risk assessment, fraud detection, and investment analysis into more efficient, data-driven operations. In the third quarter of 2025 (Q3 2025), spanning July to September, this evolution reached new heights, particularly with the rise of agentic AI—autonomous systems capable of independent decision-making and multi-agent collaboration. This period witnessed a surge in industry partnerships, academic research, and venture funding, underscoring AI's pivotal role in fostering innovation amid growing regulatory scrutiny. Drawing on recent reports and analyses, this post examines key developments in AI applications within finance during Q3 2025, highlighting trends, challenges, and implications for the sector's futur...