South Korea\'s financial authorities expanded the scope of eased network separation rules for AI use to secondary financial institutions and electronic financial business operators. The number of firms to be selected rises to as many as 15, and eligibility thresholds are lowered. Selected institutions can use external AI and security SaaS after putting alternative controls in place. Industry expectations are mixed, with some firms cautious. Global fintech investment rose to $103.1 billion in the first half, with focus expected to shift to AI and financial infrastructure.

Shinhan Bank said on Tuesday that sign-ups for its Olive Young SOL account, which combines financial and lifestyle benefits for Olive Young customers, have surpassed 100,000 accounts. Key benefits include a 10,000 won mobile gift voucher for new sign-ups, a 5,000 won mobile gift voucher each month when using Olive Young, and an additional 10,000 won coupon after three months of accumulated use. Eligible customers can receive up to 4.5 percent annual interest.