South Korea\'s financial sector has entered the first-quarter earnings season, with non-interest income and non-bank units driving diverging results among major financial holding companies. KB Financial Group, Shinhan Financial Group and Hana Financial Group posted record results, while Woori Financial Group recorded a decline. Strong stock markets lifted securities firms\' earnings, and new savings and investment products were launched. The industry is also accelerating a shift toward AI and digital finance, alongside calls for stronger controls and risk management.

The U.S. Congress’ cryptocurrency bill known as the CLARITY Act faces at least five hurdles beyond the question of interest on stablecoins, an analysis said. TD Cowen pointed to vacancies at the CFTC, efforts to fold prediction markets into the bill, controversy over a Trump family-linked crypto project, pressure to tighten AML and Bank Secrecy Act provisions, and the possible attachment of a credit card competition bill. Stablecoin interest remains unresolved.