Central Asia fintech news
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Central Bank of Uzbekistan requires banks and non-bank lenders to warn of risks in ads and contracts
Kazakhstan forms unified Financial Ombudsman Service: new institution to launch January 1, 2027
Uzbekistan plans to create a currency and interest rate risk management company
Halyk Bank plans to obtain Islamic banking license
ARDFM to hold full-scale cyber drills for Kazakhstan's banks in 2027
NAPP allows Uzbekistan crypto exchanges to delegate KYC to third-party services
Uzbekistan's Central Bank to update financial sandbox rules
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Islamic banking in Central Asia: Why the niche is becoming a new competitive battleground
Mastercard study: Sharia-compliant financial products in the region could reach $2.5 billion by 2028.
Kazakhstan updates AML rules: New biometrics and non-resident risk profile requirements
ARDFM published amendments to AML/CFT rules.
Central Bank of Uzbekistan to hand over part of its reserves to external management
The regulator plans to diversify its $72 billion portfolio and bring in international experts..
Kazakhstan approves reporting rules for digital asset issuers
Starting September 26, 2026, companies issuing backed digital assets will begin reporting quarterly to the National Bank..
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Uzbekistan to launch compliance rating for securities issuers on December 18
NAPP will divide companies into four categories based on transparency and shareholder rights compliance.
Separate Bank Accounts to Become Mandatory for Marketplaces and Sellers in Uzbekistan
Starting in December 2026, sellers, couriers, and taxi drivers must receive income in special accounts or card-linked e-wallets.
Asia Alliance Bank Registers Uzbekistan's First Foreign Currency Bond Issue
The $20 million issuance will take place within the NAPP regulatory sandbox.
Kazakhstan proposes automatic deduction of self-employed social payments via banking apps
The Ministry of National Economy has drafted Tax Code amendments granting banks and marketplaces new fiscal functions.
Central Asian regulators choose technical integration of payment systems over unified legislation
Regional countries abandon the idea of a supranational regulator in favor of QR code interoperability and open banking
Uzbekistan's installment market to face regulation in 2027. What changes for business and buyers
The Central Bank will create a registry of installment operators, cap contract terms, and require retailers to share data with credit bureaus.
Kazakhstan plans to exempt QR payments and mobile transfers from VAT
The government is discussing expanding tax exemptions to all types of digital payments under the new Tax Code
Halyk Bank plans to obtain an Islamic finance license
Kazakhstan’s largest bank is preparing to open an “Islamic window” following changes to industry legislation.
Innovation hub, venture fund, and digital som: How the Central Bank of Uzbekistan will develop fintech
The regulator is moving to practically implement its 2030 strategy, from building startup infrastructure to testing a CBDC.
Kazakhstan introduces 14-day cooling-off period for loans and insurance
Starting October 2026, borrowers can cancel unsecured loans and bundled services without penalties. Banks are banned from using pre-checked boxes in apps.
Uzbekistan overhauls installment purchase rules: new requirements for consumers and operators
A government decree introduces an updated regulatory framework for installment services, including purchase limits and mandatory Central Bank registration.
Islamic securities debut on KASE as a new asset class for investors
Kazakhstan Stock Exchange adds Islamic instruments to its trading registry