China’s banking and insurance watchdog is stepping up scrutiny of the nation’s insurance technology platforms, widening a regulatory dragnet that has roiled global investors. The regulator has ordered companies and local agencies to curb improper marketing and pricing practices, and step up user privacy protection, according to a notice. It encouraged companies to address these issues voluntarily and said those that failed to comply would face “severe punishment.” Photo: Reuters The sweeping order goes beyond the targeted action that has hit a few listed online platforms including Waterdrop Inc (???) and operations backed by Ping An Insurance Group Co (????)…