The New Zealand Financial Markets Authority (FMA) has published its annual report for the year ended June 30, 2026, alongside its Ease of Doing Business Survey. Stakeholder feedback highlighted the need to improve its focus on outcomes for consumers and markets and ensure its regulatory approach is beneficial and proportionate. The board also decided to publish members’ relevant governance interests and conflict management plans. The report records delivery against almost all priorities set out in the Financial Conduct Report, in the first year of public reporting against those priorities. During 2025/26, the FMA completed the transfer of credit regulation from the Commerce Commission and the transfer of its anti-money laundering and countering the financing of terrorism responsibilities to the Department of Internal Affairs. An updated strategy is being developed to guide the FMA’s future direction. Under the board’s conflict management arrangements, members must disclose their financial and other interests, and the board agrees a conflict management plan for each member. Members do not participate in, or receive information about, matters where they may have a conflict of interest.
New Zealand Financial Markets Authority publishes annual report and expands board conflict disclosures
The New Zealand Financial Markets Authority has released its annual report and stakeholder survey, highlighting a need for greater focus on consumer and market outcomes and a beneficial, proportionate regulatory approach. The board also decided to disclose members’ relevant governance interests and conflict management plans. Those plans prevent members from participating in, or receiving information about, matters where they may have a conflict.