The Central Bank of Seychelles held its Monetary Policy Rate at 1.75% for the second quarter of 2026, with deposit and credit facility rates at 0.25% and 3.25% and the Minimum Reserve Requirement at 10%. It cited inflation risks from higher oil, freight and shipping costs and uncertainty for tourism from the Middle East conflict, and stands ready to use foreign currency reserves to support orderly markets and essential imports.
The Central Bank of Lesotho held its policy rate at 6.50%, citing contained inflation and strong reserve buffers, with net international reserves of USD 1.125 billion covering 4.3 months of imports. The Monetary Policy Committee warned that the global oil shock could intensify inflationary pressures and said future decisions will remain data-dependent.
The Brazilian Superintendence of Private Insurance (SUSEP) convened its Working Group "Insurance: Inducer of National Development" to discuss strategic deliverables and sectoral agendas under its 2024–2027 plan. Chaired by Superintendent Alessandro Octaviani, the meeting included industry representatives and focused on regulatory consolidation and legal frameworks like Law No. 15.040 and Complementary Law No. 213. The group aims to enhance legal protections and strengthen insurance's role in economic development.
The Argentina Superintendency of Insurance (SSN) outlined its modernization agenda at Insurance Week 2026, emphasizing real-time data and technology for enhanced oversight and a proactive supervisory approach. Superintendent Guillermo Plate highlighted a comprehensive review of the regulatory framework to align with international standards and discussed the link between economic growth and increased insurance coverage. As president of ASSAL, Plate moderated a session on regulatory evolution in Latin America, focusing on proactive risk identification and improved market information.
The Central Bank of the Philippines' latest Business Expectations Survey indicates improved business sentiment, with the year-ahead confidence index rising to 51.1% in February 2026. Respondents cited steady consumer demand, increased public works spending, and governance reforms as growth drivers, while inflation expectations remained within the central bank's target range. The survey, conducted before the recent Middle East conflict, covered 502 firms with a 48.6% response rate.
The Swiss Financial Market Supervisory Authority (FINMA) has added Empire Market Insight Group to its public warning list. FINMA notes the entity operates via the address Rue du 31 Décembrie 47, 1207 Geneva and the website https://emi-groups.com, and that it has no entry in the Swiss commercial register.
The Ontario Securities Commission announced fraud and illegal distribution allegations against SponsorsOne Brands Inc., Gary and Myles Bartholomew, WestCan Energy Ltd. and its principal John Cameron Cunningham. The OSC alleges that approximately 1.2 billion SPO treasury shares were issued in 2020–2021 under the consultant exemption to five purported marketing consultants who performed little to no marketing, sold the shares on the open market, and directed about CAD 24 million to or for the benefit of SPO and the Bartholomews.
The Dutch Authority for the Financial Markets reported that the Accountants Chamber upheld most of its disciplinary complaint against an EY accountant for inadequate audit work on Airbus’s 2019 financial statements, particularly regarding fraud risks related to bribery and corruption. The accountant was temporarily removed from the registers for three months. Both parties may appeal the decision.
The Dutch Authority for the Financial Markets announced that the Accountants Chamber upheld its disciplinary complaint against an auditor of a scrap and gold trading business, resulting in a six-month removal from professional registers. The auditor was found to have inadequately assessed fraud-related risks and failed to obtain sufficient audit evidence, breaching professional competence and due care principles. Both parties may appeal the decision.
The Federal Reserve Board's FEDS Note finds no evidence that higher AI adoption levels correlate with reduced job postings, using data from September 2023 to November 2025. The analysis, combining Lightcast job postings and US Census Bureau data, shows industry-level effects are generally positive but not statistically significant, with firm-level results indicating precisely estimated null effects. The findings are framed as backward-looking and not causal, suggesting ongoing monitoring as AI adoption continues.
The Central Bank of Colombia's Q4 2025 National Financial Accounts bulletin reports a current account deficit of 2.7% of GDP, up from 1.7% in Q4 2024, and a net debtor position of -45.9% of annual GDP. The saving-investment deficit was primarily due to the General Government, with non-financial corporations, households, and financial corporations showing surpluses. Net external financing flows were mainly through securities issuance, loan borrowing, and higher accounts payable, with non-financial corporations and the General Government as net external debtors, while households and financial corporations were creditors.
The Bank for International Settlements published a working paper analyzing the impact of USD-pegged stablecoin activity on traditional foreign exchange markets. The study finds that stablecoin demand shocks affect spot exchange rates and FX swap-based dollar funding conditions, with emerging market currencies particularly vulnerable. It highlights that reducing cross-market frictions could significantly mitigate these spillover effects.
The State Bank of Vietnam announced the launch of MobiFone Digital Payment Joint Stock Company, licensed to provide payment intermediary services. Deputy Governor Nguyễn Ngọc Cảnh emphasized compliance with Party and State policies, technical safety, and payment security. MDP signed agreements with the Ministry of Public Security and Visa to integrate financial services into the national e-identification app VNeID.
The State Bank of Vietnam and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) discussed macro-financial conditions, policy priorities, and external risks, including geopolitical factors and energy price volatility. The IMF commended Vietnam's growth, inflation control, and monetary policy, while both parties agreed on enhancing forecasting capacity and refining monetary policy plans. The IMF will continue to support Vietnam in developing its policy framework and strengthening operational capacity.
Portugal's Insurance and Pension Funds Supervisory Authority (ASF) released a draft regulatory standard detailing indices for updating insured values in home-related insurance policies starting or renewing in Q3 2026. The Buildings Index is set at 585.27, the Household Contents Index at 377.11, and the combined index at 502.01. ASF emphasizes policyholders' responsibility to ensure appropriate sums insured, considering regional variations and changes to insured assets.
An International Monetary Fund (IMF) mission to Namibia reported subdued GDP growth and rising inflation due to weak diamond demand and higher fuel prices. The fiscal deficit widened in FY25/26, prompting recommendations for fiscal consolidation and expenditure restraint. The IMF also noted progress on financial regulations and anti-money laundering frameworks, aiming for Namibia's exit from the Financial Action Task Force grey list.
The International Monetary Fund's staff discussions with Fiji project growth to slow to 2.5% in 2026, with inflation rising to 2.25% due to softened tourism and higher global oil prices. The IMF recommends deficit reduction through revenue mobilization and expenditure rationalization, alongside targeted social assistance. It also highlights the need for stronger monetary policy transmission, close monitoring of credit growth, and continued strengthening of the AML/CFT framework.
The Egmont Group, led by Executive Secretary Jerome Beaumont, participated in the 2026 OECD Global Anti-Corruption and Integrity Forum to emphasize the role of Financial Intelligence Units (FIUs) in anti-corruption efforts. Beaumont highlighted the group's publications on corruption-related money laundering and asset recovery, and discussed enhancing FIU resources and independence in meetings with OECD and FATF leaders.
The Bermuda Monetary Authority has issued an indefinite prohibition order against Mr. Joakim Samuelsson under the Insurance Act 1978, following the conclusion of an enforcement process. He is barred from acting as a controller, director, officer, chief executive, senior executive or associate of any entity or person registered under the Insurance Act, having previously served in such roles at Custodian Life Limited, a Bermuda-registered Class C long-term insurer.
Senator Elizabeth Warren has requested data from 14 major corporate landlords on their rental housing portfolios and practices. This inquiry follows the Senate's passage of the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act, which restricts large institutional investors' ownership of single-family homes. The letters highlight concerns about institutional investors' impact on housing affordability and tenant protections, citing significant ownership stakes and rising rents in various housing sectors.
The European Central Bank Banking Supervision fined BofA Securities Europe SA EUR 6.2 million for intentionally misreporting market risk-weighted assets over six reporting periods from 2022 to 2024. The bank incorrectly included sovereign bond option positions, understating risk-weighted assets and inflating the Common Equity Tier 1 ratio. The breach was classified as severe, and BofA Securities Europe SA may challenge the decision at the Court of Justice of the European Union.
The U.S. House Financial Services Committee’s Subcommittee on Housing and Insurance examined how targeted flood mitigation investments could reduce losses and taxpayer costs, focusing on the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). Discussions highlighted the NFIP's challenges, including its affordability versus fiscal solvency goals and insufficient premium revenue. Mitigation strategies considered included limiting coverage for severe repetitive loss properties and expanding buyouts, with Congress authorizing FEMA to borrow up to USD 30.425 billion.
The Bermuda Monetary Authority has issued a prohibition order against Mr. Joakim Samuelsson under section 32H of the Insurance Act 1978, barring him indefinitely from roles such as controller, director, or officer of any entity registered under the Act. This follows an enforcement process related to his previous positions at Custodian Life Limited, a Bermuda-registered insurer. The order is publicized as required by the Insurance Act.
The Guernsey Financial Services Commission has issued a sanctions notice designating Sami Jasim Muhammad Jaata Al-Jaburi and Abd El Hamid Salim Ibrahim Brukan Al-Khatouni under the UK ISIL (Da’esh) and Al-Qaida (UN Sanctions) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019. This enforces an asset freeze, travel ban, and arms embargo in the Bailiwick. Firms must freeze assets linked to these individuals and report findings to the States of Guernsey Policy & Resources Committee, notify the Commission, and submit a report under Handbook Rule 12.37.
The National Bank of Georgia released its March editions of the Current Macroeconomic Review and Financial Sector Review, maintaining its commitment to providing analytical data for public economic analysis.
The Bulgarian National Bank reported that the withdrawal of Bulgarian lev (BGN) banknotes and coins has reached 90%, ahead of the expected timeline. As of the reporting date, BGN 2.9 billion remained outside the bank's cash desks, while euro banknotes and coins in circulation totalled over EUR 7.8 billion. The euro has been the sole legal tender in Bulgaria since 1 February 2026.
The Bank of England released a staff working paper introducing a simulation framework for sterling-denominated money market funds to assess redemption capacity and failure probability under various scenarios. The study highlights that MMF resilience is influenced by investor outflow timing and the liquidity of weekly liquid assets, with significant risks around the 30% WLA threshold. Findings suggest maintaining WLA above 30% enhances resilience, particularly under extreme shocks, while front-loaded redemptions and reduced market depth undermine stability.
The Pensions Superintendency (SIPEN) presented its Data Warehouse SIPEN project at the Regional Social Security Forum for the Americas in São Paulo, outlining planned enhancements to the collection, processing and analysis of pension data to support more effective governance. The project aims to strengthen supervision, transparency and decision-making in the Dominican pension system through a single consolidated platform with automated reporting, improved information disclosure and stronger actuarial analysis based on historical data.
The Financial Conduct Authority has consolidated access to Connect and the Online Invoicing System through My FCA, providing a single sign-in for firms. Existing links will automatically redirect to My FCA, requiring no action from firms. This change aims to simplify the regulatory experience, as noted by chief data, intelligence, and information officer Jessica Rusu.
The Financial Conduct Authority fined Dinosaur Merchant Bank Limited GBP 338,000 for inadequate systems to detect and report suspicious trading in its contracts for difference business. The firm failed to capture and review trades worth USD 3.05 billion between June and October 2024, breaching UK Market Abuse Regulation and other rules. The penalty includes a 30% cooperation discount, reducing the fine from GBP 482,900.
The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has announced a review of the UK Listing Rules for investment entities, focusing on governance and shareholder voting rights. The review will assess the applicability of related party and board independence rules to investment managers and directors, aiming to enhance protections for minority shareholders. Additionally, the FCA is considering adjustments to listing rules to accommodate undiversified investment entities.
The Swedish Financial Supervisory Authority (Finansinspektionen, FI) participated in Stockholm Fintech Week, hosting a dialogue on stablecoins and providing regulatory guidance to fintech firms. Discussions focused on stablecoins as e-money tokens under the Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation (MiCA), addressing risks like consumer protection, criminal use, and environmental impacts. FI also highlighted the dominance of dollar-based stablecoins and the potential need for a SEK- or euro-based alternative.
The Ukraine National Commission on Securities and Stock Market hosted its inaugural OKR festival to review first-quarter 2026 results and set objectives for the next quarter, emphasizing measurable outcomes and team coordination. Chair Oleksii Semeniuk outlined a strategic focus on enhancing investment culture and capital markets to support economic development, with long-term goals of becoming an "Emerging Market" level regulator by 2030. Priorities include improving capital access, attracting long-term investment, and strengthening institutional capacity for European integration.
The Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City's March Services Survey reported a moderate increase in services activity in the Tenth District, reaching its highest level since September 2022. Over half of firms expect higher product demand in 2026, though many anticipate margin compression. The survey also introduced new seasonal adjustment factors, slightly revising historical indexes.
Central Bank of Ireland Governor Gabriel Makhlouf stressed at Eurofi that Europe's savings mobilization needs a more productive real economy and a genuine Single Market, beyond financial market reforms. He noted euro area households hold nearly EUR 10 trillion in deposits, with significant savings invested outside the EU. Makhlouf called for stronger growth prospects, deeper Single Market integration, and a European safe asset to anchor institutional capital.
The Central Bank of Ireland Commission has appointed Elizabeth Mahon as Secretary of the Central Bank and Head of Governance, effective 30 March. Neil Whoriskey, the current Secretary, will become Head of Internal Audit. Mahon brings over 20 years of experience in financial services, while Whoriskey has served 15 years as Secretary.
The Central Bank of Trinidad and Tobago’s Monetary Policy Committee on 27 March 2026 left the repo rate at 3.50 percent, citing global uncertainty from the United States–Israel–Iran conflict, weak non-energy growth, slower private-sector credit and subdued inflation despite higher energy prices. It flagged ample system liquidity, a widening 73 bp TT–US three-month Treasury yield gap and steady USD5.4 bn reserves, pledging vigilance and readiness to adjust policy as external risks evolve.
Central Bank of Eswatini held the discount rate at 6.75 % and told banks to keep the prime lending rate at 10.25 %, extending the unchanged stance since May 2025 amid easing yet still uncertain inflation. February CPI slowed to 1.9 % y/y and the Bank cut its 2026 inflation forecast to 3.33 %, pledging continued vigilance to protect price and financial stability.
The Dominican Republic Superintendency of the Securities Market (SIMV) has launched the third edition of its Dominican Capital Market Contest, focusing on the Dominican diaspora as a financial engine. The contest invites proposals on channeling remittances and overseas savings into the local capital market, targeting sectors like infrastructure and tourism. Open to Dominican nationals and legal residents aged 18 to 40, the contest offers cash prizes and aims to foster innovative solutions.
The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) released a list of administrative enforcement actions from February 2026, including one consent order, one order of prohibition, and six orders terminating 100 waiver orders. Additionally, one Notice was issued, and no administrative hearings are scheduled for April 2026. All related documents and details are accessible online.
The China Securities Regulatory Commission (CSRC) reported on its 2025 capital market activities, highlighting increased legislative and enforcement actions, including 701 securities and futures cases with over CNY 15.47bn in fines. For 2026, the CSRC aims to enhance the rule-of-law framework, accelerate key legislative revisions, and strengthen enforcement and small-investor protection. The commission also plans to promote credit-based supervision and develop an integrity-building plan.
The Central Bank of Brazil ordered the extrajudicial liquidation of Entrepay Instituição de Pagamento S.A. and extended this to Acqio Adquirência Instituição de Pagamento S.A. and Octa Sociedade de Crédito Direto S.A. due to financial deterioration and regulatory breaches. These entities, part of a small prudential conglomerate, lack Credit Guarantee Fund coverage. The Central Bank may pursue further actions, potentially leading to administrative sanctions and asset freezes for controllers and former managers.
The Central Bank of Brazil released updated External Sector Statistics, reflecting data up to February 2026.
Li Yunze, Director of China's National Financial Regulatory Administration, met with Sean Stein, President of the US-China Business Council, to discuss macroeconomic and financial conditions, China-US financial cooperation, and the development of US-funded institutions in China.
Li Yunze, Director of China's National Financial Regulatory Administration, met with Maldives Monetary Authority Governor Ahmed Munawar to discuss international economic and financial issues. The two authorities signed a memorandum of understanding to enhance bilateral financial regulatory cooperation.
The Central Bank of Armenia announced Governor Martin Galstyan's participation in the signing of a loan agreement for the Firebird AI megaproject, involving six financial institutions. Galstyan highlighted the capacity of Armenia’s financial system to manage large-scale projects and emphasized the central bank's commitment to macroeconomic stability and a transparent regulatory environment. The event was attended by Armenia’s Minister of High-Tech Industry and the U.S. Embassy Chargé d’Affaires.
The People's Bank of China held its 2026 Financial Stability Work Conference, reviewing 2025's financial stability and setting priorities for 2026. Key focuses include enhancing systemic risk prevention, advancing risk disposal, and strengthening technology in financial stability efforts. The agenda also emphasizes tighter risk monitoring, reforms of key financial institutions, and expanding capital replenishment to maintain financial stability.
People's Bank of China Deputy Governor Xuan Changneng met with International Monetary Fund Chief Economist Pierre-Olivier Gourinchas to discuss global and Chinese economic and financial conditions and China's cooperation with the IMF. Gourinchas delivered a keynote on China's economic growth impact on the global economy, followed by discussions with staff from the People's Bank of China and the State Administration of Foreign Exchange.
People's Bank of China Vice Governor Xuan Changneng and Maldives Monetary Authority Governor Ahmed Munawar discussed economic and financial conditions, financial cooperation, and mutual interests.
The Eastern Caribbean Central Bank will present its 2026-2031 Strategic Plan for the Eastern Caribbean Currency Union under the theme “The Big Push: Collective Action for Shared Prosperity in the ECCU”. The plan serves as a roadmap for the period and centres on a call to double the ECCU’s gross domestic product and citizens’ wealth in ten years through collective and transformative action and a focus on wealth creation.
The European Central Bank (ECB) outlined the design of the digital euro, emphasizing its role in digital retail payments with banks as core intermediaries. The ECB aims to reduce reliance on non-European payment schemes and ensure financial stability through features like non-remuneration and holding limits. Estimated bank investment costs range from EUR 4 billion to EUR 5.8 billion, with European standards expected by summer 2026 and a pilot exercise planned for 2027.
The European Central Bank's working paper shows that valuation losses on banks' securities portfolios can amplify monetary tightening by reducing pledgeable collateral value, affecting liquidity. A one-standard-deviation increase in securities losses results in a 3.76% decline in interbank credit and a 2.5% decline in corporate lending, with higher interest rates and shorter loan maturities. The impact is concentrated in secured funding, with internal capital markets partially mitigating effects for domestic subsidiaries, while foreign subsidiaries face similar lending cuts as stand-alone banks.
The European Central Bank published the Eurosystem’s weekly consolidated financial statement, reporting total assets and liabilities of EUR 6,162,122 million, an increase of EUR 6,816 million week-on-week driven mainly by higher monetary policy lending. Main refinancing operations rose by EUR 6,255 million to EUR 17,058 million, while securities held for monetary policy purposes declined by EUR 3,714 million and banknotes in circulation and the deposit facility increased.
The European Central Bank's Working Paper No 3210 examines synthetic risk transfers (SRTs) in euro area banks, highlighting rapid market growth and potential financial stability risks. It reveals that banks often transfer capital-expensive loans, exploiting regulatory thresholds, affecting their risk profiles and leverage ratios. SRTs are frequently sold to investors with existing credit ties, with significant funding sourced from bank credit, and discusses implications of thicker junior tranches for leveraged investors.
The Securities and Exchange Board of India has further extended the suspension of trading in derivative contracts for specified commodities on stock exchanges with a commodity derivatives segment through March 31, 2027. The ban covers paddy (non-basmati), wheat, chana, mustard seeds and its derivatives, soya bean and its derivatives, crude palm oil, and moong, and follows multiple prior extensions since the original December 20, 2022 end date.
The Reserve Bank of India has directed authorised dealers to cap their net open position involving the rupee (NOP-INR) in the onshore deliverable market at USD 100 million at the end of each business day. The limit is prescribed under the Master Direction on Risk Management and Inter-Bank Dealings for exchange rate management and is issued under sections 10(4), 11(1) and 11(2) of the Foreign Exchange Management Act, 1999.
The Dutch Authority for the Financial Markets reported that the Accountants Chamber fully upheld its disciplinary complaint against the auditor of a scrap and gold trader, citing serious deficiencies in fraud risk assessment and a lack of professional scepticism. The Chamber found the auditor issued a disclaimer of opinion on the 2020 financial statements too quickly, failed to perform sufficient procedures on revenue from gold sales, and ordered the auditor’s removal from the registers with the option to seek re-registration after six months.
The Central Bank of Bosnia and Herzegovina released its GDP nowcast, maintaining annual real GDP growth at 2.1% for Q4 2025 and projecting 1.9% for 2025, with Q1 2026 growth also at 2.1%. Services are driving Q1 2026 growth, while manufacturing faces challenges from weak external demand and higher costs. Headline inflation is estimated at 3.5% for Q1 2026, revised down from 3.8%, but expected to rise to 3.9% in Q2 2026 due to higher energy prices and geopolitical risks.
The Isle of Man Financial Services Authority has published its consolidated Financial Services Authority (Fees) Order 2026, implementing revised authority fees for 2026/27. The order, which is to be laid before the April 2026 sitting of Tynwald, reflects public consultation feedback and aims to achieve an appropriate balance of fees across regulated sectors.
The Ministry of Finance (Guernsey) reported on a visit by Lord Marland, Chairman of the Commonwealth Enterprise and Investment Council, for high-level discussions with the Committee for Economic Development on strengthening international trade relationships to support the Finance Sector Growth Strategy and a more ambitious trade policy. The release highlights Guernsey’s focus on partners such as Canada, Australia, Singapore and Malaysia, alongside emerging markets including South Africa, Nigeria, Botswana and Kenya, and notes Guernsey’s participation in the UK–Canada Comprehensive Free Trade Agreement and the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Transpacific Partnership.
The Guernsey Financial Services Commission released its Motor Trade Thematic Review 2025, evaluating compliance with motor finance requirements under the Lending, Credit and Finance regime. While findings were generally positive, the review highlighted areas needing improvement, such as commission disclosure, advertising compliance, and customer information accessibility. The Commission plans to address these issues through continued supervision.
The Guernsey Financial Services Commission announced that the Court of Appeal upheld the Commission's appeal on five of six grounds regarding its authority to issue a public statement. This decision overturns the Royal Court's judgment and reinstates the Senior Decision Maker's original decision.
The National Bank of Georgia reported Governor Natia Turnava’s remarks at the 51st International Banking Conference, highlighting Georgia’s emergence as a regional financial centre. She cited strong macroeconomic performance with nearly double-digit real GDP growth in 2023–2024 and 7.5% average growth in 2025, plus robust banking indicators as of February 2026: return on equity of 22.4%, a non-performing loan ratio of 2.47%, and 14.3% annual credit portfolio growth driven mainly by national-currency lending and higher larization. Turnava also noted S&P Global Ratings’ view that Georgia’s banking regulation and asset quality are among the best in the region.
The National Bank of Georgia reported over 915,000 Open Banking transactions and more than 9.3 million total service usages from February 2025 to February 2026, highlighting the ecosystem's growth. Since its operational launch in 2021, Open Banking has expanded beyond banks, with non-bank entities participating since July 2024. Both supervised and previously unsupervised entities can join if they meet specific requirements, including offering Account Information Services and Payment Initiation Services.
At the 51st International Banking Conference, National Bank of Georgia Vice-Governor Nino Jeladze outlined new regulatory frameworks for registering digital banks and Virtual Asset Service Providers, and a new regime for stablecoin issuance. She said these measures aim to facilitate fintech market entry while enhancing consumer protection, risk management and alignment with international standards, noting that 33 VASPs currently operate in Georgia and that stablecoin issuance had previously been unregulated.
Staff from the Osh regional office of the National Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic delivered an off-site lecture to employees of the Osh City Internal Affairs Directorate on the central bank’s role, the history and security features of the national currency, and basic topics on loans, deposits and savings. The session focused on preventing youth involvement in financial fraud and money mule activity and included a demonstration of activating and removing a self-ban on obtaining credit via the Tunduk app.
The Central Bank of Russia's latest Russian Journal of Money and Finance explores drivers of Russian firms' price changes, inflation expectations, and housing market price differences. Research highlights include asymmetric price responses to economic factors, the impact of narratives on inflation expectations, and a zero price gap between new and existing housing in most regions.
The Danish Financial Supervisory Authority's 2026 survey of Danish financial firms highlights cyber threats and geopolitical conditions as the most significant risks to financial stability, with both rated equally for the first time. Firms noted increased vulnerability due to reliance on foreign IT suppliers and linked rising cyber risk to geopolitical tensions. Despite these concerns, firms expressed high confidence in the stability of the Danish financial system over the next three years.
Deputy Governor Doan Thai Son of the State Bank of Vietnam participated in a meeting to appraise the Government's updated socio-economic development plans for 2021-2025 and 2026-2030. The Ministry of Finance reported that all 2025 targets were met, with GDP growth at 8.02% and inflation at 3.31%. For 2026-2030, the Government aims for over 10% annual GDP growth, a digital economy comprising 30% of GDP, and Vietnam's business environment ranking in the global top 30 by 2028.
Deputy Governor Pham Quang Dung of the State Bank of Vietnam met with an IMF delegation to discuss Vietnam’s economic outlook and policy priorities. Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh emphasized the importance of IMF assessments in shaping Vietnam’s monetary and fiscal policies and expressed readiness to deepen cooperation. The IMF mission head noted global economic spillovers from the Middle East conflict and provided recommendations on inflation control, financial and energy security, and policy reforms.
The Austria Financial Market Authority reported that assets managed by 2,109 Austrian investment funds reached a record EUR 246.4bn at the end of Q4 2025, driven by strong net inflows into equity and bond funds. Total assets increased by 6.8% from year-end 2024 and 2.5% from the previous quarter. Sustainability funds under SFDR Articles 8 and 9 comprised around half of the total assets, amounting to EUR 123.6bn.
Norges Bank submitted a report to Norway’s Ministry of Finance, affirming the effectiveness of flexible inflation targeting and recommending no changes to the current monetary policy mandate. The report emphasizes maintaining low and stable inflation through a Consumer Price Index target while considering output, employment, and financial imbalances. It advises a forward-looking approach to temporary supply shocks, noting alignment with international practices.
John C Williams, President and CEO of the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, has been reappointed as Chair of the Bank for International Settlements (BIS) Markets Committee for a second three-year term. The reappointment was announced by central bank Governors of the Global Economy Meeting in Basel. The Markets Committee, established in 1962, includes senior officials from 27 central banks and discusses market conditions and central bank operations.
The Central Bank of the Philippines (BSP) issued a warning about a fraudulent online article misusing the name and likeness of BSP Governor Eli M. Remolona, Jr. The article falsely claims an interview with television host Boy Abunda and uses AI-generated images. The BSP advises the public to verify messages using official BSP channels.
The Federal Court ordered Oztures Trading Pty Ltd, trading as Binance Australia Derivatives, to pay an AUD 10 million penalty for misclassifying over 85% of its Australian clients as wholesale investors. This exposed 524 retail investors to high-risk crypto derivatives without necessary protections, resulting in significant trading losses and fees. Binance admitted to compliance failures, including inadequate client onboarding and training, and has paid approximately AUD 13.1 million in compensation under ASIC oversight.
The Bank of Korea’s March 2026 Business Survey and Economic Sentiment Index show a slight weakening in sentiment, with the Composite Business Sentiment Index for all industries down 0.1 points to 94.1 and the outlook falling 4.5 points to 93.1. The Economic Sentiment Index declined 4.8 points to 94.0, although its cyclical component rose 0.4 points to 96.6, with manufacturing sentiment flat and non-manufacturing sentiment edging lower.
The Bank of Korea published preliminary February 2026 monetary and financial statistics showing small month-on-month increases in weighted average interest rates on newly agreed deposits and loans at commercial and specialized banks. The average rate on new deposits rose 5 basis points to 2.83%, while new loan rates increased 2 basis points to 4.26%, with corporate loan rates up to 4.20% and household loan rates down to 4.45%.
The Hong Kong Monetary Authority issued a scam alert about fraudulent websites, fake internet banking login screens, and phishing emails involving several banks, including The Bank of East Asia, Shanghai Commercial Bank, Chong Hing Bank, and OCBC Bank (Hong Kong). The HKMA emphasized that banks will not send SMS or emails with links for transactions or request sensitive information via phone, email, or SMS. Affected individuals are advised to contact their bank and report to the Hong Kong Police Force.
The Hong Kong Monetary Authority and the Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation announced the winners of the Interbank Account Data Sharing Developer Hackathon, showcasing solutions for secure, customer-consented account data sharing. The event concluded a six-month programme aimed at fostering collaboration between banks and fintech firms. The HKMA plans to continue working with industry stakeholders to promote wider adoption of IADS.
Single Resolution Board Chair Dominique Laboureix calls for deeper Banking Union integration by removing internal capital and liquidity barriers in cross-border banking groups and reconsidering intragroup pre-positioning. The article notes progress in reducing fragmentation through the single rulebook but highlights gaps in harmonisation, particularly in insolvency laws and deposit guarantee schemes. Laboureix emphasizes the need for targeted legislative changes and a strengthened crisis management toolkit to address home-host frictions and enhance liquidity in resolution.
The European Central Bank released February 2026 Consumer Expectations Survey results, noting most responses were collected before the Middle East conflict began. Inflation expectations for the short and medium term decreased slightly, while spending growth expectations rose and economic growth and unemployment outlooks improved. Housing price expectations softened, and mortgage rate expectations remained unchanged.
South Korea’s Ministry of Economy and Finance reported outward direct investment in 2025 rose 8.7% year-on-year to USD 71.9bn after two years of decline. Growth was driven by financial and insurance (USD 37.9bn, +32.7%) and manufacturing (USD 17.1bn, +4.1%), with North America (USD 27.8bn) and Asia (USD 16.1bn) the main destinations and the United States the largest recipient at USD 25.3bn. The ministry cited easier global financial conditions and strong equity markets and said it will keep monitoring outward investment.
The Joint Committee of the European Supervisory Authorities published its spring 2026 cross-sectoral risk update, warning that geopolitical tensions and the continued expansion of private finance could amplify market and funding shocks despite the EU financial sector’s resilience. It highlights transmission channels including higher energy prices, inflationary pressures, higher-for-longer interest rates, cyber risks, multi-line insurance exposures, and data gaps and opaque interconnections in private markets, illustrated by recent redemption pressures in US private credit funds. Supervisors, financial institutions and investors are urged to strengthen geopolitical risk assessments, manage sovereign and energy-related exposures prudently, and enhance due diligence and oversight of private market exposures ahead of the 2027 Solvency II review.
The South Korea Financial Supervisory Service reported that in February 2026 foreign investors were net sellers of listed stocks by KRW19.5580 trillion and net buyers of listed bonds by KRW7.4320 trillion, extending a two-month trend of net stock selling and a four-month trend of net bond buying. Cumulative foreign holdings stood at KRW2,025.5 trillion in listed stocks and KRW337.3 trillion in listed bonds, with stock outflows led by investors from the United States, the United Kingdom and Canada, and bond inflows concentrated in Korean Treasury Bonds with 1–5 year and over 5 year maturities.
The Ukraine National Commission on Securities and Stock Market reported a February 2026 turnover of UAH 122.8bn on organised securities markets, primarily driven by domestic government bonds. PFTS and Perspektyva stock exchanges accounted for 70% and 30% of trading volumes, respectively. Commodity exchange turnover was UAH 26.2bn, with electricity dominating at UAH 19.5bn.
The National Bank of Denmark reports that the average administration margin on Danish households' mortgage loans, stable at 0.80% since 2022, is expected to decrease due to announced margin reductions by several mortgage credit institutions. Realkredit Danmark, Totalkredit, Jyske Realkredit, and Nordea Kredit have lowered margins for selected loan types, with Totalkredit and Nordea Kredit extending reductions to existing customers. The impact on the average margin will be evident from July 2026, influenced by loan type and characteristics.
Indonesia’s Financial Services Authority (OJK) acknowledged and respected the Business Competition Supervisory Commission tribunal ruling finding online lending providers guilty of price-fixing under Article 5 of Law No 5 of 1999. OJK reiterated it will strengthen governance, risk management and consumer protection in technology-based joint funding services under OJK Circular Letter No 19/2025, including limits on “economic benefit” charges, and will monitor industry developments to safeguard financial stability and public trust.
The National Bank of Denmark released securities statistics for February 2026, revealing that the insurance and pension sector holds DKK 275 billion, or 48%, of Danish government debt securities, primarily in long-term bonds. Foreign investors hold DKK 182 billion, representing 32% of the total. The dataset includes details on green government bonds and adjusts for indirect ownership through investment funds.
The Central Bank of the Solomon Islands has licensed Credit & Data Bureau Solomon Islands Limited (CDBSIL) to operate as a Credit Reporting Service Provider under the Solomon Islands Credit Reporting Regulations 2025. CDBSIL is authorized to collect and maintain credit information for lawful purposes, including credit assessment and fraud prevention, while adhering to consumer rights and data privacy standards. The framework mandates CDBSIL to comply with Central Bank oversight and reporting duties.
The Danish Financial Supervisory Authority reported 319 cases of suspected market abuse in 2025, up from 248 in previous years, with 204 cases involving insider dealing. The increase was attributed to large price swings in C25-index shares during major events, though overall breaches were consistent with normal levels. Additionally, nine actors were referred to the police, and seven reprimands and orders were issued for disclosure breaches.
The Liechtenstein Financial Market Authority has enforced measures against Nucleus Life AG, transferring its insurance portfolio to Quantum Life AG and revoking its licence to protect insured persons and the market's reputation. This decision follows findings that Nucleus Life AG and its shareholders failed to meet regulatory standards under the Insurance Supervision Act. Insurance contracts will remain unchanged, with Quantum Leben AG assuming administration as the new contractual counterparty.
Bank of Indonesia reported that broad money (M2) reached IDR10,089.9 trillion in February 2026, growing 8.7% year on year, down from 10.0% in January. M2 growth was driven by a 14.4% year-on-year increase in narrow money (M1) and 3.1% growth in quasi-money, with developments mainly reflecting a 25.6% rise in net claims on central government and an 8.9% increase in disbursed loans.
The Swedish Financial Supervisory Authority (Finansinspektionen) has warned about 104 unauthorised entities using fake online trading platforms to defraud consumers. These entities pose as trading firms offering investments in shares, foreign exchange, indices, or crypto-assets, often backed by fake reviews and AI-generated videos. FI also cautions against "recovery" firms that charge fees to retrieve funds and advises consumers to verify firm authorisation through FI's company register.
The Central Commission for Discipline Inspection, the National Supervisory Commission, and the Taizhou Municipal Supervisory Commission concluded an investigation into former China Securities Regulatory Commission (CSRC) official Guo Xudong for serious violations and suspected bribery. Guo, a former senior CSRC official, accepted bribes, abused regulatory authority, and engaged in misconduct post-office, leading to confiscation of illegal gains and referral for prosecution. The investigation revealed breaches of conduct rules, improper employment, and acceptance of private fund equity linked to his official position.
The Central Bank of the Philippines announced the authorization of Rizal Microbank, Inc.'s name change to RCBC Microbank – A Thrift Bank Inc. The Securities and Exchange Commission approved the amended articles of incorporation and by-laws reflecting this change.
The Central Bank of the Philippines reported a 1.6% year-on-year increase in residential property prices in Q4 2025, the slowest since Q1 2019. Price growth in the National Capital Region remained at 2.3%, while Areas Outside the NCR saw a record low increase of 1.0%. House prices rose by 0.1%, and condominium prices accelerated to 3.5%.
Hong Kong's Financial Services and the Treasury Bureau announced new appointments to the Resolvability Review Tribunal (RRT) and the Resolution Compensation Tribunal (RCT) for a two-year term starting April 2026. The RRT panel includes two new members, Mr Lam Chi-ki and Dr Lu Mengyu, while the RCT panel adds three new members, Mr Michael Li Shun-fai, Mr Jacky Lio Veng-hei, and Ms Sally Wan Yuen-wai. Both tribunals, under the Financial Institutions (Resolution) Ordinance, address appeals related to resolution authority decisions and compensation eligibility.
The Bank of Namibia has launched the National Payment System Vision and Strategy 2026–2030 with the Payments Association of Namibia and the wider industry. The plan is built on five pillars covering user focus, resilience, digital enablement, innovation and industry capability, with emphasis on interoperable and instant payments. It also ties into pilot programmes to shift selected government-to-person payments, including social transfers, onto Instant Payments Namibia.
The International Monetary Fund outlined a supervisory framework for prudent and consistent IFRS 9 implementation, with particular attention to capacity constraints in emerging market and developing economies. It supports clear supervisory expectations, rigorous review and corrective powers, alongside proportionate transition periods and temporary prudential backstops. Supervisors should also address procyclicality through timely loss recognition and adequate capital buffers.
The Thailand Office of Insurance Commission announced a shift to a "Health Partner" model for private health insurance, focusing on prevention and proactive health management. The policy aims to address high health-cost growth and premium cycles by expanding coverage to middle-income groups, promoting public hospital use, and developing a standard treatment-cost database. Additional measures include standardized prescriptions, allowing medicine purchases outside hospitals, and implementing copayment strategies to manage medical inflation.