Regxplora • Regulatory and Central Bank Updates • Page 137

2026-05-19SloveniaSlovenia Insurance Supervision Agency

Slovenia Insurance Supervision Agency highlights low earthquake insurance coverage for Slovenian building stock

The Slovenia Insurance Supervision Agency published an analysis of the 1998 Posočje earthquake highlighting the high vulnerability of Slovenia’s building stock and the limited uptake of earthquake insurance. It finds that most properties remain uninsured, so a major future earthquake would still leave a large share of rebuilding costs with households and the state, and notes that insurance coverage is more common among respondents who consider their buildings fully earthquake-safe than among those who view them as partly safe.

ResearchOther

2026-05-19SloveniaSlovenia Insurance Supervision Agency

Slovenia Insurance Supervision Agency highlights earthquake insurance gap and outlines mandatory cover proposal for apartment blocks

The Slovenia Insurance Supervision Agency published an explainer on earthquake insurance highlighting a large protection gap for multi-apartment buildings and warning that insuring individual flats may leave owners exposed if the building is not collectively insured. It outlines a policy option for mandatory earthquake insurance for multi-apartment buildings arranged via building managers with subsidies for owners unable to afford premiums, and notes that a joint working group is developing a manager-based model that could raise insurance penetration from about 20 percent to about 50 percent.

Policy & regulationGuidance & interpretationOther

2026-05-19IndiaIndia International Financial Services Centres Authority

India International Financial Services Centres Authority enables GIFT IFSC regulated entities to access NPCI e-KYC Setu for Aadhaar verification

The India International Financial Services Centres Authority announced that all regulated entities in the International Financial Services Centre at GIFT City can now access the National Payments Corporation of India’s e-KYC Setu platform for Aadhaar-based digital identity verification via a single-window onboarding interface. The platform enables firms to validate clients’ Aadhaar information and conduct digital onboarding without physically storing or processing Aadhaar card numbers.

Policy & regulationImplementation, projects & pilotsKYC

2026-05-19SloveniaSlovenia Insurance Supervision Agency

Slovenia Insurance Supervision Agency publishes analysis showing 50.7 percent of uninsured homeowners do not expect an earthquake in their area

The Slovenia Insurance Supervision Agency published an article on the 1895 Ljubljana earthquake linking historical risk analysis with survey evidence that low risk perception is the main reason homeowners remain uninsured for basic-peril and earthquake cover. The agency estimates that a repeat event could cause just under EUR 10 billion in direct damage, at least EUR 5 billion in indirect damage and leave more than 100,000 people without housing, while also highlighting barriers such as affordability and product-market mismatches.

ResearchOther

2026-05-19EuropeEuropean Central Bank - Banking Supervision

European Central Bank Banking Supervision says bank sovereign nexus is no current prudential concern but urges banking union completion

The European Central Bank’s Supervisory Board Chair Claudia Buch said the euro area bank‑sovereign nexus has weakened and is not currently a prudential concern, but urged using the European Commission’s review of the EU banking sector to lock in these gains. She called for maintaining strong supervisory and regulatory standards, completing the banking union with a European deposit insurance scheme, and strengthening resilience in non‑bank finance, noting that banks still hold significant government bond exposures and that shocks and tighter fiscal space could re‑intensify bank‑sovereign linkages.

Policy & regulationReform agendas & prioritiesPrudential risksFinancial stability and systemic risk

2026-05-19BrazilBrazil Securities Commission (CVM)

Brazil Securities Commission suspends registration of four public companies in judicial reorganisation for disclosure failures exceeding one year

The Brazil Securities Commission's Superintendence of Corporate Relations has suspended the registrations of 2W Ecobank S.A., Cia Tecidos Santanense, Rossi Residencial S.A. and Teka Tecelagem Kuehnrich S.A. under Article 21 of Law 6,385 for failing for more than one year to provide information required by CVM Resolution 80. While suspended, their securities cannot be traded on stock exchanges or over-the-counter markets, and the measure does not relieve the companies, their controllers or administrators of liability for prior violations.

SupervisionAuthorisations & approvalsDisclosures

2026-05-19PortugalPortuguese Insurance Regulator (ASF)

Bank of Portugal Portuguese Securities Market Commission Portuguese Insurance and Pension Funds Supervisory Authority and Directorate General for Consumers sign cooperation protocol on unauthorised financial activity

The Portuguese Insurance and Pension Funds Supervisory Authority announced that the Bank of Portugal, the Portuguese Securities Market Commission, the Portuguese Insurance and Pension Funds Supervisory Authority and the Directorate General for Consumers have signed a cooperation protocol to implement the regime for preventing and combating unauthorised financial activity and protecting consumers under Law No. 78/2021. The protocol establishes mechanisms for information exchange, coordination in administrative offence proceedings and cooperation in investigations to strengthen the response to unauthorised financial activity and related illegal advertising.

Policy & regulationCooperationCross-border cooperation

2026-05-19MoldovaNational Bank of Moldova

National Bank of Moldova governor highlights 94 percent cut in SEPA transfer fees and nearly EUR 7 million in savings

The National Bank of Moldova published remarks by Governor Anca Dragu on the impact of Moldova’s entry into the Single Euro Payments Area for its EU path. She reported that from 5 October 2025 average fees on transfers to SEPA countries fell by 94% to EUR 1.26 and processing times shortened to same-day or next-day, generating nearly EUR 7 million in savings in the first six months and about EUR 1 million per month thereafter. Dragu noted that SEPA admission followed European Commission scrutiny of Moldova’s payments legislation, banking supervision, and AML/CFT rules.

Policy & regulationImplementation, projects & pilotsOther

2026-05-19Hong KongHong Kong Securities & Futures Commission

Hong Kong Securities and Futures Commission warns of scams misusing the Investor Compensation Fund to extract fees from loss-hit investors

The Hong Kong Securities and Futures Commission warned of scams where fraudsters misuse the Investor Compensation Fund name and impersonate SFC executives or legal professionals to extract extra “deposits” or “handling fees” from already‑defrauded investors. The SFC stressed that Fund claims are free, cover only monetary losses from defaults of licensed intermediaries or authorised financial institutions in Hong Kong on specified securities and futures, and exclude market losses or scams involving unlicensed entities. It added that it never uses social media or instant messaging to seek payments and urged investors to verify approaches through official channels.

SupervisionAlertsFraud and scams

2026-05-19TajikistanNational Bank of the Republic of Tajikistan

National Bank of the Republic of Tajikistan discusses new five year Country Partnership Framework with IFC

The National Bank of the Republic of Tajikistan met an International Finance Corporation delegation to discuss a new five-year Country Partnership Framework, focusing on digital financial services, mortgage lending and green finance. They also discussed enhanced technical cooperation, financial infrastructure development and use of international practices to support banking sector reforms, with the IFC positively assessing sector trends and noting removal of financial credit institutions from sanctions lists.

Policy & regulationCooperationOther

2026-05-19TajikistanNational Bank of the Republic of Tajikistan

National Bank of the Republic of Tajikistan reports foreign exchange purchase auction results at weighted average rate of 9.3244 TJS per USD

The National Bank of the Republic of Tajikistan published results of its foreign exchange purchase intervention auction, which attracted seven participants. Satisfied bids ranged from USD 1.5 million to USD 8 million at a weighted average exchange rate of 9.3244 TJS per USD.

Monetary policyMonetary policy instruments & operationsLicensing and supervisory fees

2026-05-19KyrgyzstanNational Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic

National Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic suspends three currency exchange bureau licences and fines three Bishkek bureaus KGS 55000 each

The National Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic suspended the licences of three currency exchange bureaus for breaches of Kyrgyz legislation and its regulations, applying suspensions to Expo Grand Plus and Bereke Lux in Bishkek from 16 to 30 May 2026 and to NKA Tri Semerki in Kant, Chuy Region, from 16 to 20 May 2026. It also imposed fines of KGS 55,000 each on three exchange bureaus in Bishkek.

EnforcementInvestigations & enforcement actionsUnlicensed or unauthorized activity

2026-05-19KyrgyzstanNational Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic

National Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic fines individual KGS 17500 for unlicensed cash foreign exchange operations in Bishkek

The National Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic fined a Kyrgyz citizen KGS 17,500 for conducting cash foreign currency exchange operations in Bishkek without a National Bank license. The action underscores enforcement of licensing requirements for foreign currency exchange activities.

EnforcementInvestigations & enforcement actionsUnlicensed or unauthorized activity

2026-05-19ChinaChina Banking and Insurance Regulatory Commission

China's National Financial Regulatory Administration sets 2026 priorities for small and micro enterprise finance with expanded bank credit and insurance support

The China National Financial Regulatory Administration set 2026 policy goals for small and micro enterprise finance, targeting stable lending, better financing structures, stronger credit quality and sustainable development. Banks must expand and improve credit to small, micro and private firms, emphasizing first-time, credit and medium- to long-term loans, stronger coordination and risk monitoring, while insurers should broaden services and increase supply. The notice also calls for better credit information sharing and cross-department coordination.

Policy & regulationReform agendas & prioritiesSME financing

2026-05-19KazakhstanAgency for Regulation and Development of the Financial Market of the Republic of Kazakhstan

Agency for Regulation and Development of the Financial Market of the Republic of Kazakhstan approves Nurlan Zhetpisuly Kusayinov as independent director of Alatau City Bank

The Agency for Regulation and Development of the Financial Market of the Republic of Kazakhstan has approved Nurlan Zhetpisuly Kusayinov as a member of the Board of Directors and independent director of Alatau City Bank JSC.

SupervisionAuthorisations & approvalsLicence approval

2026-05-19IsraelBank of Israel

Bank of Israel publishes updated inflation expectations with current one year measures at 1.7 to 1.9 percent

The Bank of Israel published updated inflation expectations from capital market measures, forecasters, banks’ internal interest rates and inflation contracts, showing one-year expectations between 1.7 percent and 1.9 percent and capital-market forward expectations of 1.8–2.1 percent across horizons up to ten years. The release also updates annual data for 2021–2025 and monthly data for 2025 and early 2026, indicating lower expectations in early 2026 than at the start of 2025, and reiterates that capital-market measures reflect breakeven inflation and embedded risk premia.

Data & statistics

2026-05-19JapanMinistry of Finance (Japan)

Japan Ministry of Finance publishes G7 communiqué pledging more pressure on Russia and new work on critical minerals and private credit

Japan’s Ministry of Finance published the G7 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors communiqué, reaffirming continued financial, economic and sanctions support for Ukraine, including immobilizing Russian sovereign assets, implementing the Extraordinary Revenue Acceleration loan mechanism and exploring further financing. The communiqué sets a wider agenda on economic security, tax and financial regulation, covering cooperation on critical minerals, cross-border e-commerce controls, implementation of the OECD/G20 Global Minimum Tax, and support for FATF and FSB work on financial crime, virtual assets, non-bank financial intermediaries and private credit, as well as development finance partnerships, sovereign debt processes and resilience initiatives on insurance gaps, cyber risk, quantum technologies, cross-border payments and AI.

Policy & regulationCooperationOther

2026-05-19ChinaCentral Bank of the Republic of China

People's Bank of China and National Archives Administration of China issue archive management rules for the central bank system

The People’s Bank of China and the National Archives Administration of China have issued archive management rules for the People’s Bank of China system, establishing a framework for archive governance, supervision and resource management across the central bank’s institutions. The rules define archive management mechanisms, responsibilities and resource ownership, require centralized and unified archive management, and call for improved infrastructure, security, digitization and use of key financial policy archives.

Institutional developmentGovernanceOperational excellence

2026-05-19United Arab EmiratesDubai International Financial Centre

Dubai International Financial Centre welcomes Lianlian after Dubai Financial Services Authority grants payment services licence

Dubai International Financial Centre announced that Lianlian DigiTech Co., Ltd. has obtained a payment services licence from the Dubai Financial Services Authority and established its regional headquarters in DIFC. Lianlian will use the hub to expand its regulated cross-border payment and settlement operations, work with local banks on localized payment solutions, and support fund flows across regional and international markets, which DIFC said reinforces its role as a platform for Chinese firms.

SupervisionAuthorisations & approvalsLicence approval

2026-05-19NepalCentral Bank of Nepal

Central Bank of Nepal reviews FATF grey list progress and upcoming action plan with APG

The Central Bank of Nepal reported that Governor Paudel met the Asia/Pacific Group on Money Laundering to review Nepal’s progress under Financial Action Task Force monitoring and to discuss an action plan for removal from the grey list. Discussions covered money laundering risk assessment in the banking sector, risk-based supervision, legal and policy strengthening, coordination with domestic and international stakeholders, and potential technical assistance from international financial institutions.

Policy & regulationCooperationAML and CFTSupervision process and methodologies

2026-05-19IndiaReserve Bank of India

Reserve Bank of India launches consultation on Pillar 3 disclosure amendments for commercial banks and small finance banks

The Reserve Bank of India has issued draft amendment directions on Pillar 3 disclosure requirements for commercial banks and small finance banks to align more closely with Basel Pillar 3 standards. The draft aims to improve consistency in regulatory disclosures across these institutions.

Policy & regulationRules & requirementsCapital adequacyDisclosures

2026-05-19SyriaCentral Bank of Syria

Central Bank of Syria completes governor handover to Mohammad Safwat Raslan

The Central Bank of Syria announced that Mohammad Safwat Raslan has formally assumed the duties of Governor from Dr Abdul Qader al-Husriya at an official handover ceremony. The bank presented the change as a formal transfer of responsibilities to support continuity of operations and stability in monetary and banking policies, with Raslan stating he will build on existing policies to pursue gradual and sustained monetary and financial stability.

Institutional developmentLeadership change & appointmentsLeadership change and appointments

2026-05-19GeorgiaNational Bank of Georgia

National Bank of Georgia completes RTGS and clearing systems upgrade with ISO 20022 and support for non-bank participation

The National Bank of Georgia has upgraded its real-time gross settlement and clearing systems to a fully ISO 20022-based payment infrastructure, aiming to deliver faster, safer and more reliable services and align with international standards. Implemented with World Bank support and involving all commercial banks, microbanks and the State Treasury, it is the largest financial-sector project since 2009 and enables broader access for non-bank payment service providers subject to requirements. The new infrastructure also provides a foundation for future services, including an instant payments system and additional digital services.

Policy & regulationImplementation, projects & pilotsMarket infrastructure

2026-05-19ItalyBank of Italy

Bank of Italy reorganizes payment system statistics into thematic reports covering customer payment methods public administration flows and market infrastructures

The Bank of Italy has reorganized its payment system statistics into thematic reports, replacing the previous single presentation with separate publications on customer payment methods, public administration collections and payments, and financial market infrastructures. Customer payment statistics are now split into national and regional reports, while data on interbank settlement systems and central securities management are incorporated into the financial market infrastructures report.

Data & statisticsRegulatory reporting

2026-05-19UkraineNational Bank of Ukraine

National Bank of Ukraine targets broad alignment with EU financial rules by end-2027 and prepares third-party risk framework

The National Bank of Ukraine First Deputy Governor Sergiy Nikolaychuk said the central bank is pursuing wartime integration into the EU financial framework, targeting broad alignment with the EU acquis by end-2027 and preparing to adopt a third-party risk management framework based on international standards and Basel recommendations. He reported that Ukrainian banks’ regulatory equivalence with EU standards rose from 50% to 78% between 2022 and 2025 and outlined further convergence with CRR/CRD, Pillars II and III, capital buffers, ESG risk, securitization, bank recovery and resolution, Solvency II, DORA, SEPA, payment services, market infrastructure, investor protection and capital markets.

Policy & regulationReform agendas & prioritiesCross-border cooperation

2026-05-19AustraliaReserve Bank of Australia

Reserve Bank of Australia warns prolonged oil shock could unanchor inflation expectations and require sharp slowdown

Reserve Bank of Australia Assistant Governor Sarah Hunter said the risk of inflation expectations drifting higher has increased due to the oil price shock, with short‑term expectations rising but medium and long‑term expectations still contained. She noted underlying inflation eased through mid‑2025 before strengthening as capacity constraints and domestic demand picked up, while productivity growth of about 0.7 per cent year on year limits sustainable GDP growth. The baseline forecast still sees inflation at 2.5 per cent at the end of the horizon without recession, with the Bank updating oil assumptions and assessing budgets ahead of its August projections.

Monetary policyMonetary policy assessments & outlooksMonetary policy decisions and developments

2026-05-19PhilippinesCentral Bank of the Philippines

Central Bank of the Philippines reports end-April reserves at USD104.3 billion as January to April balance of payments deficit reaches USD7.4 billion

The Central Bank of the Philippines reported gross international reserves of USD104.3 billion at end-April 2026, with the overall balance of payments posting a USD2.1 billion deficit in April and a cumulative USD7.4 billion deficit for January to April 2026. The reserves provided external liquidity cover equivalent to 6.9 months of imports and payments of services and primary income and 3.8 times short-term external debt based on residual maturity.

Data & statisticsBalance of payments and other external statistics

2026-05-19ThailandThailand Securities & Exchange Commission

Thailand Securities and Exchange Commission details changes to let foreign TFEX investors use domestic agricultural delivery and widen case-by-case service exemptions

The Thailand Securities and Exchange Commission has proposed Cabinet-approved revisions to List III of the Foreign Business Act to relax selected foreign business restrictions under its supervision while keeping exempted firms fully subject to existing rules. The changes would allow foreign investors trading agricultural futures on the Thailand Futures Exchange to deliver and receive domestically sourced agricultural products under specified conditions and expand case-by-case exemptions for certain regulated securities and derivatives services.

Policy & regulationRules & requirementsMarket development

2026-05-19IndonesiaMinistry of Finance (Indonesia)

Indonesia Ministry of Finance says fiscal position remains under control with budget deficit projected at 2.94%

Indonesia’s Deputy Finance Minister Juda Agung said the fiscal position remains safe and controlled, with the 2026 state budget deficit expected at 2.94%, below the 3% legal ceiling, while subsidised fuel prices are unchanged. He highlighted higher global oil prices as the main external risk and said the government is cutting non-urgent spending, prioritising productive programmes, and relying on an excess budget balance of IDR 420 trillion as a fiscal buffer, noting that the banking sector is stronger than in 1998.

Policy & regulationReform agendas & prioritiesEconomic data and developmentsFinancial stability and systemic risk

2026-05-19ArgentinaArgentina Securities Commission (CNV)

Argentina Securities Commission highlights Big Bang consultation to replace prior approvals with automatic approvals

The Argentina Securities Commission (CNV) president used the Forbes Money & CFO Summit to outline its capital markets reform agenda, highlighting the “Big Bang” regulatory package under consultation that would replace CNV approvals with automatic approvals under General Resolutions 1132 to 1137 as part of market modernisation. He also noted work on the Fiscal Innocence Regime, new instruments such as local exchange-traded funds, and future regulation of Labour Assistance Funds.

Policy & regulationReform agendas & prioritiesMarket development

2026-05-19ArgentinaArgentina Securities Commission (CNV)

Argentina Securities Commission president Roberto E Silva re-elected as IOSCO Inter-American Regional Committee representative for 2026 to 2028

The Argentina Securities Commission announced that its president, Roberto E. Silva, has been re-elected as representative of the Inter-American Regional Committee at the International Organization of Securities Commissions for 2026 to 2028. At IOSCO’s 51st Annual Meeting, Silva participated in plenary sessions on regional capital-market development, market developments and risks, operational resilience, artificial intelligence in capital markets, market liquidity, secondary-market disclosure and supervisory tools.

Institutional developmentLeadership change & appointmentsLeadership change and appointments

2026-05-19UzbekistanMinistry of Finance (Republic of Uzbekistan)

Uzbekistan Ministry of Finance signs updated ACCA memorandum to expand IFRS training certification and audit quality support

Uzbekistan’s Ministry of Finance signed an updated memorandum of understanding with the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants to introduce a modern system for training and certification in International Financial Reporting Standards and expand cooperation on international reporting and auditing standards within the national education system. The memorandum also covers strengthening audit quality control, building sustainability-related skills, supporting international sustainability reporting standards, and organising training and professional development for public sector staff.

Policy & regulationCooperationAccounting and financial reporting

2026-05-19SingaporeMonetary Authority of Singapore

Monetary Authority of Singapore launches Young Talent Programme for AI in Finance and expands pathways into financial sector jobs

The Monetary Authority of Singapore launched a Young Talent Programme for AI in Finance and broader measures to strengthen education-to-work pathways in the financial sector, focusing on structured industry exposure and AI skills development. The pilot, developed with Singapore Management University and Nanyang Technological University and involving around 20 financial institutions, will offer applied AI projects, mentoring and credit-bearing curricula, while MAS and the Institute of Banking and Finance work with industry to expand work-study pathways and over 1,000 graduate internship and traineeship positions.

Policy & regulationImplementation, projects & pilotsOther

2026-05-19ThailandThailand Office of Insurance Commission

Thailand Office of Insurance Commission publishes 2025 life insurance data showing direct premiums up 3.62% and net profit up 65.57%

The Thailand Office of Insurance Commission published 2025 life insurance statistics, reporting a 3.62% year-on-year increase in direct premiums to THB 676.4 billion and a 65.57% rise in net profit to THB 74.9 billion, despite weaker policy volumes. New policies fell 16.31% to 2.64 million and in-force policies declined 5.58% from the third quarter, driven by sharp reductions in group business, while investment assets decreased 1.99% to THB 4,494 billion, with government bonds and debentures at 61% and 19% of the portfolio.

Data & statisticsFinancial and market indicatorsSupervisory data

2026-05-19AustraliaAustralian Prudential Regulation Authority

Australian Prudential Regulation Authority launches consultation on National Claims and Policies Database publication changes and new cyber and management liability classes

The Australian Prudential Regulation Authority has launched a consultation on replacing the existing non-confidentiality determination that underpins publication of aggregated National Claims and Policies Database statistics and on refreshing the publication format. APRA also proposes to publish cyber insurance and management liability data as separate product classes.

Policy & regulationRules & requirementsRegulatory reporting

2026-05-19South KoreaMinistry of Economy & Finance (South Korea)

South Korea's Ministry of Economy & Finance tells London investors it is accelerating foreign exchange and capital market reforms after World Government Bond Index entry brought USD 10.9 billion

The Ministry of Economy & Finance (South Korea) used a London investment briefing to promote Korea’s AI-focused industrial strategy and accelerated foreign exchange and capital market reforms, citing strong equity performance and inflows after South Korean government bonds joined the World Government Bond Index. Officials detailed measures to improve foreign investor access, strengthen corporate governance, adjust dividend tax treatment, and bolster supply chain resilience and power supply for the AI transition, while noting a war-related supplementary budget was funded from excess tax revenue without new bond issuance.

Policy & regulationRules & requirementsMarket development

2026-05-19South KoreaMinistry of Economy & Finance (South Korea)

South Korea's Ministry of Economy & Finance signs letter of intent with EBRD to establish an AI K-Hub in Korea

South Korea’s Ministry of Economy & Finance signed a letter of intent with the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development to establish an EBRD AI K-Hub in Korea to apply artificial intelligence to EBRD development projects and support AI capacity building in developing countries. The ministry aims to position Korea as a base for international AI cooperation, citing work with the World Bank, Inter-American Development Bank and Asian Development Bank, and noted discussions on EBRD energy policy, Korean personnel opportunities, and Korea’s AI and Green Transformation strategies.

Policy & regulationCooperationArtificial intelligence

2026-05-19South KoreaMinistry of Economy & Finance (South Korea)

South Korea Ministry of Economy and Finance meets HSBC and Schroders CEOs in London to promote market reforms and deeper investment ties

South Korea’s Ministry of Economy and Finance said Deputy Prime Minister Koo Yun-cheol met HSBC and Schroders executives in London to promote foreign exchange and capital market reforms and seek stronger long-term investment. Koo highlighted 24-hour FX trading, an offshore KRW settlement system, and opportunities in artificial intelligence, advanced industries and energy transition. HSBC and Schroders backed deeper cooperation, citing structural reforms, corporate governance improvements and efforts to narrow the Korea discount as drivers of sustained institutional inflows.

Policy & regulationCooperationCross-border cooperation

2026-05-19South KoreaMinistry of Economy & Finance (South Korea)

South Korea's Ministry of Economy and Finance activates supply chain financing for battery and nuclear suppliers with up to 2.4 percentage points rate support

The Ministry of Economy and Finance launched a shared-growth financing program under the Supply Chain Stabilization Fund, initially targeting South Korea’s secondary battery and nuclear power sectors. Under agreements with major companies and the Export-Import Bank of Korea, large firms will recommend small and mid-sized suppliers for funding linked to raw material supply and purchasing, with preferential lending rates, higher loan limits and additional support for firms outside the capital region.

Policy & regulationImplementation, projects & pilotsMarket development

2026-05-19South KoreaBank of Korea

Bank of Korea reports household credit rose KRW 14.0 trillion in Q1 2026 to KRW 1,993.1 trillion

The Bank of Korea reported that total household credit rose by KRW 14.0 trillion in Q1 2026 to KRW 1,993.1 trillion, a 0.7% quarter-on-quarter increase, driven mainly by household loans and merchandise credits. Household loans grew by KRW 12.9 trillion to KRW 1,865.8 trillion, with gains at non-bank depository corporations and other financial corporations offsetting a decline at commercial and specialized banks, while merchandise credits increased by KRW 1.1 trillion to KRW 127.3 trillion.

Data & statisticsMonetary data

2026-05-19United StatesFederal Reserve Bank of Kansas City

Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City research finds higher oil prices from Iran conflict may not meaningfully boost Oklahoma economy

The Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City’s Oklahoma City Branch reports that higher oil prices linked to the Iran conflict are unlikely to significantly boost Oklahoma’s broader economy, given uncertain conflict duration and insufficient price levels for many firms to expand drilling. Producers have not increased drilling on net, the sector can raise output with fewer workers and greater capital discipline, and Oklahoma’s heavier exposure to natural gas with depressed prices limits employment, investment and severance tax gains compared with past shocks.

ResearchEconomic data and developments

2026-05-19IndonesiaOJK

Indonesia Financial Services Authority promotes youth capital market participation in Lampung and highlights 17.78 percent literacy rate

The Indonesia Financial Services Authority used its Integrated Capital Market Outreach and Education 2026 programme in Bandar Lampung to promote capital market literacy and inclusion, particularly among young investors, as part of efforts to broaden the domestic investor base. OJK highlighted that 54 percent of investors are under 30 and that low literacy (17.78 percent) heightens exposure to fraudulent and illegal investments, urging the public to verify licences, product registrations and return claims. The Lampung programme also covered regional bond and sukuk issuance, carbon trading, investor protection, OJK Regulations No. 2 and No. 3 of 2026, and current capital market issues.

Financial literacy & educationFinancial literacy and education

2026-05-19AustraliaReserve Bank of Australia

Reserve Bank of Australia links Middle East conflict to 4.8 per cent inflation peak and recent cash rate rise to 4.35 per cent

Reserve Bank of Australia Assistant Governor (Economic) Sarah Hunter said the Middle East conflict is expected to lift Australian inflation via higher oil and gas prices, contributing to the Board’s decision to raise the cash rate to 4.35 per cent. The Bank now forecasts headline inflation to peak at 4.8 per cent in the June quarter, with the oil shock adding about 0.4 percentage points to underlying inflation in the March quarter 2027, before inflation returns to the middle of the 2–3 per cent target band by early 2028. She said the Board will remain attentive to incoming data and changes in the outlook.

Monetary policyMonetary policy assessments & outlooksMonetary policy decisions and developments

2026-05-19United StatesThe White House

The White House signs three laws on SBIC leverage limits Nevada pipeline rights of way and Alaska Native land settlement

The White House announced that the President signed a law amending Small Business Investment Company funding rules by increasing maximum outstanding leverage and excluding from the leverage cap certain investments in low income or rural small businesses, small manufacturers, and critical technology-focused small businesses. The President also signed laws expanding the Sloan Canyon National Conservation Area in Nevada while directing federal rights of way for a water pipeline, and revising land settlement arrangements for the Cape Fox Village Corporation in Alaska.

Policy & regulationRules & requirementsOther

2026-05-19United StatesThe White House

The White House orders federal financial regulators to review fintech barriers and requests Federal Reserve study on payment account access

The White House issued an executive order directing the CFPB, SEC, NCUA, CFTC, FDIC, and OCC to review rules, guidance, supervisory practices, and application processes that may hinder fintech activity and partnerships with federally regulated institutions, and to identify changes that support innovation and competition while preserving safety, soundness, and market integrity. The order also requests that the Federal Reserve Board review the legal, regulatory, and policy framework for granting uninsured depository institutions and non-bank financial companies, including digital asset firms, direct access to Reserve Bank payment accounts and services, and, if permitted, establish transparent application procedures and timelines.

Policy & regulationImplementation, projects & pilotsFintech and insurtech

2026-05-19United StatesThe White House

The White House directs Treasury, CFPB and federal financial regulators to tighten Bank Secrecy Act due diligence and credit risk controls for non-work authorized populations

The White House issued an executive order directing Treasury, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, and federal banking and credit union regulators to tighten Bank Secrecy Act controls and consumer credit risk management for financial activity involving individuals without US work authorization and their employers. Treasury must issue an advisory on suspicious activity red flags and propose changes to risk-based customer due diligence and customer identification program rules. The CFPB and federal functional financial regulators must consider clarifying ability-to-repay standards for non-work authorized borrowers and issue related credit risk management guidance.

Policy & regulationRules & requirementsKYCAML and CFT

2026-05-19AustraliaAustralian Securities & Investments Commission

Australian Securities & Investments Commission reports regulatory simplification progress with 380% more forms available for electronic lodgement

The Australian Securities & Investments Commission published a regulatory simplification progress report outlining clearer guidance, simplified legislative instruments, improved website access to regulatory information, and expanded digital services, including a 380% increase in forms available for electronic lodgement. The report highlights joint work with the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority to reduce regulatory data collection burdens and inconsistencies, and sets out next steps such as sector-based roadmaps, enhancements to ASIC registers through the RegistryConnect program, and streamlined, consolidated data requests with other regulators.

Policy & regulationImplementation, projects & pilotsRegulatory burden

2026-05-19ItalyMinistry of Finance (Italy)

Italy's Ministry of Economy and Finance says talks continue on extending EU fiscal flexibility to energy spending after G7 meetings

Italy’s Ministry of Economy and Finance said Finance Minister Giancarlo Giorgetti attended the G7 finance ministers and central bank governors meeting in Paris on the global economic outlook, conflicts and related risks. Italy also pursued extending the National Escape Clause under the EU fiscal framework from defence to energy spending, citing high debt, possible higher interest rates and recent energy shocks. Giorgetti met European Commission Executive Vice-President Valdis Dombrovskis and counterparts from France, Germany and Japan to discuss European economic prospects, fiscal-rule flexibility and the economic and security implications of artificial intelligence.

Policy & regulationCooperationGeopolitical risk

2026-05-19AustraliaAustralian Prudential Regulation Authority

Australian Prudential Regulation Authority disqualifies former Xinja Bank chair Lindley Edwards for six years over capital reporting failures

The Australian Prudential Regulation Authority has disqualified former Xinja Bank chair Lindley Edwards for six years from being an accountable person of any authorised deposit‑taking institution under the Financial Accountability Regime, including authorised non‑operating holding companies. APRA found she breached Banking Executive Accountability Regime obligations over undisclosed 2020 side agreements with some Xinja investors that altered capital reported as Common Equity Tier 1, including failures in due diligence, capital classification, disclosure to APRA and prudential procedures. APRA made no findings of dishonesty or lack of integrity.

EnforcementSanctions & designationsCorporate governance

2026-05-18Cape VerdeBank of Cape Verde

Bank of Cape Verde publishes semiannual Financial Stability Bulletin covering banking insurance securities and non-financial sector risks

The Bank of Cape Verde has published its semiannual Financial Stability Bulletin, prepared by the Financial Stability Office in its macroprudential supervision role. The bulletin identifies and analyses key risks to the financial system using indicators covering companies and households, the banking sector, the insurance sector, and the securities market.

SupervisionRisk monitoring & watch pointsFinancial stability and systemic riskMacroprudential policy and toolsRisk analysis and outlook

2026-05-18JapanJapan Financial Services Agency

Japan Financial Services Agency consults on amendments clarifying that early business revitalization companies can be subsidiaries of banks and other financial institutions

The Japan Financial Services Agency has proposed amendments to Enforcement Regulations of the Banking Act and related rules to clarify that a business rehabilitation company using the new Early Business Revitalization Procedure may be treated as a subsidiary of banks and other covered financial institutions. The package includes corresponding changes for shinkin banks, cooperative and labor banks, agricultural and fishery cooperative credit institutions, the Agriculture and Forestry Central Bank, and insurers.

Policy & regulationRules & requirementsOther

2026-05-18JapanJapan Financial Services Agency

Japan Financial Services Agency publishes council minutes appointing Morishita as chair and reviewing financial ADR case trends

The Japan Financial Services Agency published minutes of the 69th Financial Trouble Liaison and Coordination Council, which appointed Sophia University’s Morishita as chair and reviewed eight designated dispute resolution organizations. Complaint-handling cases rose 6% year on year to 4,066 in the first half of fiscal 2025, while dispute resolution cases fell 4% to 647, with no major change in outcomes or processing times. The council discussed efforts to improve user satisfaction, rising consultations driven by account takeovers and fraudulent investment solicitations, and future work on the impact of artificial intelligence and social media on user expectations.

Policy & regulationImplementation, projects & pilotsLeadership change and appointments

2026-05-18JapanJapan Financial Services Agency

Japan Financial Services Agency finalizes basic approach to business feasibility financing and supervisory guideline changes ahead of May 25 introduction of corporate value security interests

The Japan Financial Services Agency has published consultation results and issued the final Basic Approach to Business Feasibility Financing Based on the Relationship of Trust between Business Operators and Financial Institutions. The approach sets out the agency’s view on trust-based engagement and the use of corporate value security interests under the Act on the Promotion of Business Financing to support lending based on future business potential, and includes related revisions to supervisory guidelines for major, small and medium-sized, and regional financial institutions.

Policy & regulationGuidance & interpretationSME financing

2026-05-18JapanBank of Japan

Bank of Japan publishes March 2026 deposit by depositor figures and revises September 2025 Shinkin Banks series

The Bank of Japan has published March 2026 data on amounts outstanding of deposits by depositor on its BOJ Time-Series Data Search. It has also revised the September 2025 end-of-period FH data series for Shinkin Banks.

Data & statisticsMonetary data

2026-05-18United StatesU.S. Department of the Treasury

U.S. Department of the Treasury reports USD 150.7 billion net TIC inflow for March 2026

The U.S. Department of the Treasury reported a net Treasury International Capital inflow of USD 150.7 billion in March 2026, driven by USD 162.1 billion in private foreign inflows partly offset by USD 11.4 billion in official outflows. Foreign residents were net buyers of long-term U.S. securities by USD 96.5 billion, while banks’ own net dollar-denominated liabilities to foreign residents increased by USD 68.1 billion and foreign holdings of U.S. Treasury bills declined by USD 16.8 billion.

Data & statisticsBalance of payments and other external statistics

2026-05-18United StatesU.S. Department of Justice

U.S. Department of Justice charges former Venezuelan minister Alex Saab over alleged laundering of hundreds of millions from CLAP contracts and PDVSA oil sales

The U.S. Department of Justice unsealed an indictment and announced the initial court appearance of Alex Nain Saab Moran, Venezuela’s former Minister of Industry and National Production, on conspiracy to launder monetary instruments. Prosecutors allege he and others bribed officials to secure contracts under the Comité Local de Abastecimiento y Producción food program and diverted hundreds of millions of dollars in Petróleos de Venezuela, S.A. oil proceeds through shell companies, falsified trade documentation and U.S. bank accounts. Saab faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison if convicted and remains presumed innocent.

EnforcementInvestigations & enforcement actionsBribery and corruptionAML and CFT

2026-05-18United StatesU.S. Department of Justice

U.S. Department of Justice secures 37 month sentence for New York man who laundered nearly USD 1.5 million in health care fraud proceeds for transnational criminal organization

The U.S. Department of Justice reported that Elnar Zarbailov was sentenced to 37 months in prison and ordered to forfeit USD 1,457,898 for conspiring to launder nearly USD 1.5 million in illicit health care fraud proceeds for a transnational criminal organization. Court documents state that Zarbailov acted as a fixer and money launderer for a Russia-based network that used fraudulent durable medical equipment companies and shell entities to move Medicare and private insurer reimbursements through banks.

EnforcementInvestigations & enforcement actions

2026-05-18CubaCentral Bank of Cuba

Central Bank of Cuba sets 19 May start for Social Security retiree and pensioner payments

The Central Bank of Cuba announced that commercial banks will begin paying Social Security retirees and pensioners of the National Institute of Social Security from 19 May, with bank branches and CADECA exchange houses giving them priority service during the first three hours. Beneficiaries using magnetic cards can verify balances and conduct savings, deposits, withdrawals, transfers, and digital payments via Transfermóvil, Enzona, ATMs, or other channels offered by commercial banks.

Policy & regulationImplementation, projects & pilotsOther

2026-05-18PolandCentral Bank of Poland

Central Bank of Poland publishes April core inflation data with CPI at 3.2% and inflation excluding food and energy at 3.0%

The Central Bank of Poland published its core inflation indices for April 2026, reporting inflation excluding food and energy at 3.0% year on year versus headline Consumer Price Index inflation of 3.2%. Inflation excluding administered prices stood at 2.9% year on year, up from 2.7% in March.

Data & statisticsEconomic data and developments

2026-05-18Trinidad & TobagoTrinidad & Tobago Securities & Exchange Commission

Trinidad and Tobago Securities and Exchange Commission holds fifth community investor education roadshow in Princes Town

The Trinidad and Tobago Securities and Exchange Commission held its fifth Investor Education Community Outreach Roadshow in Princes Town as part of Investor Education Month and its 29th anniversary, focusing on budgeting, saving, investing, financial planning and fraud protection. Deputy Chief Executive Officer Lystra Lucillio framed the series as part of the broader Investor Education Programme and urged consumers to verify investment opportunities and be cautious of online scams and offers that appear too good to be true. The Commission will continue investor education and public outreach nationwide.

Financial literacy & educationFinancial literacy and education

2026-05-18MexicoCONDUSEF

Mexico's National Commission for the Protection and Defense of Users of Financial Services reports 1,554 Hidalgo complaints and MXN 7 million recovered in the first four months of 2026

Mexico's National Commission for the Protection and Defense of Users of Financial Services reported 1,554 complaints in Hidalgo in the first four months of 2026, representing 1.6% of the national total and down 2.9% year-on-year, with MXN 7.0 million recovered and 43.9% of concluded cases resolved in users’ favor. Multiple Banking generated 66.7% of complaints, mainly related to unrecognized purchases, charges, and electronic transfers, with credit and debit cards and savings accounts accounting for most cases and 33.7% of complaints linked to possible fraud.

Data & statisticsComplaints and dispute resolution

2026-05-18ArubaCentral Bank of Aruba

Central Bank of Aruba reports fourth quarter 2025 Business Perception Index rose 2.5 points to 108.0

The Central Bank of Aruba published its fourth quarter 2025 Business Perception Survey, reporting stronger business sentiment as the Business Perception Index rose 2.5 points to 108.0, with both current and expected conditions remaining above 100. While 45.0% of respondents expected flat economic growth over the next 12 months and 37.5% anticipated inflation between 2% and 3%, firms reported more stable employment expectations but slightly lower profitability and improved investment activity.

Data & statisticsEconomic data and developments

2026-05-18UgandaBank of Uganda

Bank of Uganda says National Bank of Commerce liquidation is nearing conclusion and calls stakeholder meeting

The Bank of Uganda said the liquidation of National Bank of Commerce Limited, which began on 12 September 2012, is nearing conclusion. It has invited all shareholders and creditors to a stakeholders’ meeting on the status of the liquidation, with venue and timing to be announced later.

EnforcementInvestigations & enforcement actionsRecovery and resolution

2026-05-18SerbiaNational Bank of Serbia

National Bank of Serbia reports record daily volume in instant payments system with 609155 transactions

The National Bank of Serbia reported that its IPS NBS instant payment system processed a record 609,155 payments on 15 May 2026, totaling RSD 8.44bn. IPS NBS, in operation since October 2018, provides 24/7 instant payments for citizens and businesses with funds available to payees within seconds.

Data & statisticsActivity and performance reporting

2026-05-18BrazilBrazilian Pension Funds Authority (PREVIC)

Brazilian Pension Funds Authority advances AI based pension plan solvency monitoring system with September launch target

The Brazilian Pension Funds Authority (PREVIC) is testing a new AI-based monitoring system developed with the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro to analyse the solvency and balance of supplementary pension plans, with operations scheduled to start in September. The platform uses PREVIC data to calculate plan-level risks, summarise complex technical documents, review liability valuation assumptions and project three-year results, while a separate AI system for analysing atypical investments is being developed with startup Finor.

SupervisionInnovation & testingSupervision process and methodologiesArtificial intelligence

2026-05-18BrazilBrazil Securities Commission (CVM)

Brazil Securities Commission issues guidance to organized market operators on initial issuer registration for smaller companies

The Brazil Securities Commission has issued Circular Letter CVM/SEP 2/2026 setting out procedures for organized market administrators to obtain initial securities issuer registration for smaller companies, in line with CVM Resolution 232/25 and the Regime FÁCIL. Administrators must review listing applications under existing technical cooperation agreements with B3 and BEE4 outside the Empresas.Net system in this initial phase, notify the CVM after approval, and verify payment of the supervisory fee.

Policy & regulationGuidance & interpretationSecurities offerings and listings

2026-05-18UkraineMinistry of Finance (Ukraine)

Ministry of Finance of Ukraine outlines USD 95 billion external financing need for 2026 to 2027 at G7 meeting

Ukraine’s Finance Ministry told a G7 meeting that the country’s external financing needs for 2026 to 2027 total USD 95 billion, with USD 52 billion for 2026 already secured. Finance Minister Sergii Marchenko also pointed to weaker first quarter growth, faster April inflation, and urgent energy infrastructure recovery needs. He welcomed the European Union’s Ukraine Support Loan mechanism and said an International Monetary Fund mission is expected soon for the next Extended Fund Facility review.

Policy & regulationCooperation

2026-05-18United KingdomFinancial Conduct Authority

United Kingdom's Financial Conduct Authority and Bank of England launch wholesale tokenisation call for input with DSS exit plans and RTGS synchronisation by 2028

The Financial Conduct Authority and the Bank of England, including the Prudential Regulation Authority, have issued a joint call for input on supporting the safe adoption of tokenisation in UK wholesale financial markets, setting out a shared regulatory vision and initial roadmap for tokenised securities across issuance, trading, settlement and safekeeping. They signal coexistence with non-tokenised infrastructures and broadly aligned regulatory treatment where legal rights and risks are equivalent. The authorities outline near-term steps for the Digital Securities Sandbox, including a defined route to permanent authorisation, potential changes to the Central Securities Depositories Regulation framework, expanded use of certain stablecoins for settlement, and a Bank of England synchronisation service by 2028 to enable settlement of digital asset ledgers in sterling central bank money via real-time gross settlement. They also clarify that Prudential Regulation Authority regulated firms will generally apply the same prudential treatment to tokenised traditional assets as to non-tokenised equivalents.

Policy & regulationImplementation, projects & pilotsTokenization

2026-05-18KazakhstanAgency for Regulation and Development of the Financial Market of the Republic of Kazakhstan

Agency for Regulation and Development of the Financial Market of the Republic of Kazakhstan approves Almat Saule as Freedom Bank Kazakhstan managing director

The Agency for Regulation and Development of the Financial Market of the Republic of Kazakhstan has approved Almat Saule as Managing Director of Freedom Bank Kazakhstan Joint Stock Company. The decision is set out in a protocol dated 14 May 2026.

SupervisionAuthorisations & approvalsLicence approval

2026-05-18GreeceBank of Greece

Bank of Greece reports January to April 2026 central government cash surplus of EUR 1.013 billion, down from EUR 1.874 billion

The Bank of Greece said the central government cash balance posted a surplus of EUR 1.013 billion in January to April 2026, down from EUR 1.874 billion a year earlier. Ordinary budget revenue edged up to EUR 22.451 billion, while expenditure rose to EUR 21.600 billion.

Data & statisticsFinancial and market indicators

2026-05-18KazakhstanAgency for Regulation and Development of the Financial Market of the Republic of Kazakhstan

Agency for Regulation and Development of the Financial Market of the Republic of Kazakhstan reissues Islamic banking licences for ADCB and Zaman-Bank after renaming of permitted operations

The Agency for Regulation and Development of the Financial Market of the Republic of Kazakhstan has reissued licences to ADCB Islamic Bank JSC and Islamic Bank Zaman-Bank JSC to conduct banking and other operations performed by Islamic banks. The reissuances, made by separate deputy chair orders dated 15 May 2026, reflect changes to the names of the relevant operations rather than an expansion of activities.

SupervisionAuthorisations & approvalsLicence approval

2026-05-18MontenegroInsurance Supervision Agency of Montenegro

Insurance Supervision Agency of Montenegro advances insurance market early warning system through Romanian ASF expert mission

The Insurance Supervision Agency of Montenegro, under the Twinning project Support to Financial Services Regulation in Montenegro, completed an expert mission with the Romanian Financial Supervisory Authority to strengthen its supervisory capacity. The work focuses on establishing an Early Warning System for Montenegro’s insurance market in line with European Union regulatory standards and the Solvency II framework to support market stability and earlier identification of potential risks.

SupervisionCooperationSupervision process and methodologies

2026-05-18United StatesU.S. Senate Committee on Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs

U.S. Senate Committee on Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs ranking member seeks correction of Treasury testimony on falling grocery prices

Senator Elizabeth Warren, ranking member of the U.S. Senate Committee on Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs, sent a letter urging Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent to correct testimony that grocery prices had fallen, citing federal data showing a 0.7 percent rise in April and a 2.3 percent increase in 2025. She links part of the increase to President Trump’s tariff policies and frames the request within her broader affordability probe into inflation, “Trump Fees,” and household cost pressures.

OtherEconomic data and developments

2026-05-18MexicoMinistry of Finance & Public Credit (Mexico)

Mexico's Ministry of Finance and Public Credit adds politically exposed persons to blocked persons list after US-linked bank alerts

Mexico’s Financial Intelligence Unit has made preventive additions to the Blocked Persons List and imposed blocking measures based on reports from Mexican financial institutions tied to U.S. public allegations and alerts on politically exposed persons. It emphasized these are administrative, not final liability determinations, and that listed persons retain legal safeguards and avenues for administrative and judicial review. The unit continues reviewing information on politically exposed persons using its standard technical and analytical criteria.

EnforcementSanctions & designationsSanctions list update

2026-05-18LibyaCentral Bank of Libya

Central Bank of Libya agrees joint task force with Interior Ministry to target unlicensed operators and the parallel foreign exchange market

The Central Bank of Libya and the Ministry of Interior agreed to create a joint task force to combat unlicensed financial operators and fictitious market speculation. The plan also targets the parallel foreign exchange market, smuggling and imports conducted outside the banking system. Unlicensed firms and shops will be given a period to regularize their status before legal action is taken.

Policy & regulationCooperationFinancial stability and systemic riskAML and CFT

2026-05-18EuropeEuropean Central Bank - Banking Supervision

European Central Bank Banking Supervision says fragmentation not capital requirements is the main drag on EU bank competitiveness

The European Central Bank – Banking Supervision’s Patrick Montagner said Europe should preserve the post-crisis banking framework, stressing that analysis does not show systematically higher capital requirements for EU banks than for US peers and that robust supervision remains necessary given Europe’s bank-based financing model. He identified banking union fragmentation, including constraints on intra-group capital and liquidity flows, barriers to cross-border mergers and the absence of a European deposit insurance scheme, as the main obstacle to competitiveness. Montagner urged easing intra-group flows, harmonising prudential rules by converting directives into regulations, advancing European deposit insurance and continuing supervisory simplification.

Policy & regulationReform agendas & prioritiesSupervision process and methodologies