ASIC Takes Legal Action Against ASX Over CHESS System Delay
ASIC Takes Legal Action Against ASX Over CHESS System Delay
The information on this website is general in nature and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Consider seeking personal advice from a licensed adviser before acting on any information.
The corporate regulator has taken legal measures against ASX due to alleged misleading statements regarding the progress of its failed attempt to replace the Clearing House Electronic Subregister System (CHESS).
On February 10, 2022, ASX had publicized that the CHESS replacement was “on track for go-live” by April 2023. However, subsequent developments painted a different picture, prompting sharp criticism and legal actions from the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC).
ASIC's complaints arise from reassurances given by the ASX suggesting that the project was "progressing well." Yet, by late March 2022, ASX consulted Accenture, whose findings led to the project's shelving and $250 million in write-offs.
In his statement unveiling the court action, ASIC chair Joe Longo remarked, “There was a collective failure by the ASX board and senior executives.” He underscored that ASX’s promises are vital for trust within the financial markets.
“Companies and investors rely heavily on ASX’s communications regarding their operations to make investment decisions. A breach of confidence at this level induces extensive repercussions across the market,” Longo added.
The legal actions come on the heels of a pre-existing penalty amounting to $1,050,000 paid by ASX after an ASIC investigation scrutinized its adherence to market integrity rules.
Moreover, criminal charges were recently directed at four individuals allegedly involved in a "pump and dump" operation via Telegram, spotlighting ASIC's dedication to regulatory compliance.
The CHESS system, originating in 1994, initially replaced a laborious paper-based clearing approach. The award-winning transaction clearing system proved instrumental for brokers who floated the exchange in 1998, now known as ASX Ltd. The shift from manual to digital processes was seen as a massive leap in operational efficiency at the time.
ASX had planned to replace the decade-old CHESS system beginning in 2016, targeting an April 2021 completion date. However, the project timeline was redefined to April 2023 after re-planning in March 2020.
Subsequently, Digital Assets, ASX’s advisory consultants, flagged the project with a “red RAG” status from June to November 2021, indicating severe risks to timely delivery without appropriate mitigations.
This red status, an IT project management term for serious concerns, was documented and presented to ASX’s audit committee in early February 2022. Nonetheless, ASX published its half-yearly report a week later, asserting that the project was "tracking to plan and progressing well," a statement that ASIC now disputes.
Longo emphasized, “We will argue that the project was not ‘progressing well’ as of February 10, 2022. The postponement and subsequent pause in November 2022 have significantly impacted ASX and the market participants dependent on these assurances.”
Highlighting the necessity for transparent and efficient management of such pivotal projects, Longo remarked, “Ineffective handling erodes confidence in Australia's market's ability to attract investment.”
The original article was published by Neale Prior for The West Australian
Please Note: We do not endorse any specific products or companies. Some content is sourced from third parties, including press releases, and may not be independently verified for accuracy or completeness.
New research highlighted by Money magazine has reopened an important debate for Australian borrowers: which generation has faced the toughest loan burden, and what does that mean for people applying for finance today? - read more
Australian borrowers have entered July 2026 with a little more breathing space, after the Reserve Bank of Australia left the cash rate unchanged at 4.35 per cent at its 16 June meeting. Money.com.au’s latest July lending update indicates variable home loan rates have remained broadly steady, with some lenders still advertising rates below 6 per cent for eligible mortgage borrowers. - read more
ASIC’s latest review of the motor vehicle finance sector is a timely reminder that the true cost of borrowing can sit well beyond the advertised interest rate. While the review focused on car loans, the lessons apply to many Australians considering small personal loans, short term finance or any borrowing arranged through a third party. - read more
The latest Reserve Bank of Australia financial aggregates show that borrowing demand has remained resilient, with business credit again leading the way. Released on 30 June 2026, the May figures show total credit rising by 0.7% over the month and 8.2% over the year. Within that, lending to non-financial businesses rose 1.0% in May and 9.9% across the year, outpacing both housing and personal credit. - read more
The 2026 Perth Boat Show is shaping as a useful barometer for Western Australia’s recreational boating appetite, with organisers positioning the event as one of the state’s strongest marine showcases in recent years. Scheduled for Friday 4 September to Sunday 6 September 2026 at the Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre, the show is expected to fill all six pavilions and bring together more than 90 exhibitors. - read more
Securing finance for any significant purchase can be a challenge, especially when it comes to acquiring a truck for business purposes. Coupled with a less-than-perfect credit score, this task can seem daunting for many Australians. The ripple effects of financial constraints can impede business operations, affecting the lifeline of commercial ventures that rely on transportation. - read more
Commercial vehicle loans in Australia are a vital component in the Continuum of the transportation and logistics industry. They provide businesses and individuals with the necessary funds to acquire trucks and other heavy vehicles critical for their operations. Understanding the nuances of these loans is imperative for anyone in the market for a commercial vehicle. - read more
When purchasing a truck, whether for personal use or business, navigating the financial landscape can be daunting. This is where pre-approval comes into play. But what exactly does pre-approval mean in the context of buying a truck? - read more
Finding the right financing for a commercial vehicle in Australia can be a critical step for businesses and individuals alike. Whether it's for a single van or an entire fleet of trucks, understanding the intricacies of commercial vehicle loans is key to securing a deal that aligns with your financial goals. One factor that stands out in determining your loan terms is the credit score—a numerical representation of your creditworthiness. - read more
Welcome to the road less traveled, where the rubber meets financial prudence. Truck driving in Australia is not just about long miles but also about ensuring financial stability amidst life's crossroads. As a truck driver, taking the wheel of your financial future is crucial, and that's what we'll navigate in this article. - read more
Start Here
Get a free truck loan eligibility assessment and compare truck finance and leasing options
without accessing your credit file!!
Knowledgebase
Yield: The income return on an investment, such as the interest or dividends received from holding a particular security.
No comments yet. Be the first to share your thoughts.