The Central Bank of Brunei Darussalam updated its Alert List, adding Loan Adakami BDCB, to identify entities not licensed or regulated by the bank. The list aims to prevent public misconceptions about regulatory status and emphasizes the importance of engaging only with licensed financial institutions. The central bank reiterated that unlicensed services lack regulatory protection.
The Central Bank of Brunei Darussalam's January 2026 Business Sentiment Index showed slight optimism in current conditions at 50.2 and stable February expectations at 50.0. Investment sentiment was modestly positive, while employment and cost indices indicated subdued conditions and moderate cost increases. Health and Education sectors showed the strongest optimism, whereas Transport and Communication lagged, with sentiment varying slightly by business size.
The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has restricted Beauforce Corporation Limited from conducting regulated activities and ordered the return of client funds. This action stems from concerns over senior management suitability, particularly the disqualification of Mr. Duckett, and the firm's failure to notify the FCA or provide requested information. The FCA issued a Decision Notice in May 2025 to cancel the firm's permissions, which Beauforce has referred to the Upper Tribunal.
The Ukraine National Commission on Securities and Stock Market has updated its list of potentially fraudulent investment projects, adding "EXT Ltd" and "Universal Group." The list now includes 464 projects and highlights common red flags such as missing authorisations and manipulative advertising. Investors are encouraged to report suspicious projects to the regulator.
The Ukraine National Commission on Securities and Stock Market and the National Depository of Ukraine plan to digitise and streamline non-public share registration by shifting this function to the central securities depository. The reform introduces a declarative approach, reducing the process from seven to four stages and shortening registration time to 2–5 business days. Legal amendments are required to implement these changes, applicable to specific placements and capital increases.
Germany’s Federal Financial Supervisory Authority (BaFin) issued a notice on voting rights attribution under the German Securities Trading Act (WpHG) after a European Court ruling. BaFin will align Section 34(2) WpHG with the EU Transparency Directive, ceasing certain broader attribution grounds. This affects those under notification obligations and market participants involved in procedures under the German Securities Acquisition and Takeover Act (WpÜG).
The National Bank of Moldova released February 2026 statistics on new bank lending, totaling MDL 6,722 million, with businesses accounting for 67.8% and individuals 32.2%. The data includes loan volumes and nominal interest rates for both sectors, highlighting that individuals primarily borrowed in Moldovan lei.
The National Bank of Moldova released February 2026 statistics on newly attracted bank deposits, totaling MDL 25,517 million, with 68.4% from the business sector and 31.6% from individuals. MDL-denominated term deposits comprised 77% of all term deposits. The data includes volumes and nominal interest rates for new deposits, segmented by business and individual sectors.
The National Bank of Moldova released monthly statistics on the non-cash foreign exchange market, detailing banks' foreign currency transactions against the Moldovan leu. In SPOT trading, interbank purchases and sales were EUR 10.8m and EUR 15.4m, respectively, while intrabank activity was significantly higher. SWAP activity was minimal, and no FORWARD transactions were reported.
The National Bank of Moldova released February 2026 statistics on the domestic cash foreign exchange market, showing a total turnover of EUR 332.4 million. The euro dominated with 75.0% of the turnover, while overall turnover decreased by 5.1% from January and 0.7% year-on-year. Purchases increased by 5.2% compared to February 2025, whereas sales dropped by 20.3%.
The National Bank of Moldova released data on licensed banks' foreign currency assets and liabilities and the banking system's open foreign exchange position for February 2026. Total foreign currency assets were MDL 57.04 billion, and liabilities were MDL 56.75 billion, with the largest long position in euros and the largest short position in US dollars. The monthly report includes balance-sheet items, off-balance-sheet positions, and Moldovan leu items linked to foreign exchange rates.
The Bank of the Lao PDR's Financial Stability Committee reviewed financial stability from 2025 to early 2026, finding the sector stable but highlighting the need for enhanced oversight amid challenging economic conditions. Priorities include aligning supervisory practices with international standards, designating systemically important banks, and urging financial institutions to bolster risk management. The committee also emphasized resolving weak institutions, improving payment systems, and strengthening IT security.
The Bank of the Lao's Governor, Bounkham Vorachith, met with Carlos Felipe Jaramillo, World Bank Vice President for East Asia and the Pacific, to discuss ongoing World Bank support for Lao PDR’s socio-economic development plan and macroeconomic review. Talks included technical assistance for microenterprise capital access and anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing measures. The Governor expressed gratitude for the World Bank's support and anticipated continued collaboration.
The European Central Bank reported a EUR 38 billion current account surplus for the euro area in January 2026, up from EUR 13 billion in December 2025. Over the 12 months to January 2026, the surplus was EUR 261 billion, or 1.6% of GDP, down from EUR 377 billion, or 2.5%, a year earlier. The report includes updated statistics reflecting Bulgaria's adoption of the euro and recalculated data from 2013.
The Central Bank of Honduras reported a USD 586.2 million increase in net international reserves (RIN) from 27 January to 19 March 2026, raising the reserve cover of imports from 6.22 to 6.56 months. RIN rose from USD 10,305.8 million to USD 10,892.0 million, with weekly changes ranging from USD 46.0 million to USD 98.0 million.
The Reserve Bank of Fiji's Fiji Innovation Hub has launched applications for the Fiji Innovation Activator 2026, a nine-week accelerator for early-stage founders and entrepreneurs in Fiji. The programme focuses on fintech solutions to streamline business operations, with additional slots for sustainability-focused initiatives. Up to seven startups will receive free support, including coaching, mentorship, and market validation.
The Australian Securities & Investments Commission (ASIC) announced the Federal Court found Macquarie Investment Management Limited violated the Corporations Act by not placing the Shield Master Fund on a watch list. Macquarie agreed to repay over 3,000 affected members approximately AUD 321 million. ASIC's investigations into misconduct related to the Shield and First Guardian Master Funds continue, with ongoing compensation proceedings and coordination with the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority.
The Australian Securities & Investments Commission (ASIC) focuses on market disclosure, financial reporting, and mandatory sustainability reporting, emphasizing auditor regulation under the Corporations Act. ASIC formalized information-sharing with accounting bodies and reviewed superannuation entities' financial reports, highlighting auditor independence and conflict-of-interest issues. ASIC plans to expand its audit surveillance program to include mandatory sustainability report reviews and summarized recent enforcement actions against auditors.
The Agency for Regulation and Development of the Financial Market of the Republic of Kazakhstan approved Olga Ivanovna Shuster's appointment to the executive body of JSC Freedom Finance, as documented in protocol No. 295/RCB/T on 18 March 2026.
Kazakhstan's Financial Market Agency issued guidance on co-borrowers in credit agreements, clarifying their shared liability with borrowers, allowing banks to seek repayment from them if the borrower defaults, unlike guarantors' limited obligations. The agency advises potential co-borrowers to review contract terms and assess their ability to fulfill obligations.
The China Securities Regulatory Commission Chair Wu Qing met with a Hong Kong delegation to discuss the economic and financial landscape and enhance cooperation between mainland and Hong Kong capital markets. The discussions focused on the 15th Five-Year Plan and supporting Hong Kong's role as an international financial centre.
The State Bank of Vietnam (SBV) reported over VND 20 trillion in outstanding loans under Decree 100/2024 and a VND 120 trillion programme by state-owned banks to boost social housing lending. The programme offers preferential rates 1.5 to 2 percentage points below average lending rates, with improved disbursements. Additionally, the Prime Minister has called for amendments to Decree 100/2024 to expand eligibility and simplify verification processes.
Thailand’s Office of Insurance Commission (OIC) has partnered with Google to combat cyber-enabled insurance fraud affecting consumers. The collaboration focuses on addressing issues such as fake insurance applications and unlicensed foreign insurers marketing products online. The OIC and Google will continue to coordinate on technology-related risk prevention and future fraud prevention initiatives.
The Philippines Insurance Commission recorded total insurance premiums above PHP 500 billion for the first time in 2025, while industry assets reached PHP 2.66 trillion. Finance Secretary Frederick Go called for stronger consumer protection, digital transformation and broader development of inclusive insurance products.
The South Korea Financial Supervisory Service reported an increase in the delinquency rate on domestic banks’ won-denominated loans to 0.56% as of January 2026, up from 0.50% in December 2025. The rise was driven by a KRW 0.4 trillion increase in newly delinquent loans and a KRW 3.8 trillion decrease in resolved loans. Delinquency rates rose across segments, with large companies at 0.13%, SMEs at 0.82%, and household loans at 0.42%.
The South Korea Financial Supervisory Service released preliminary 2025 financial data for savings banks and mutual financial cooperatives. Savings banks reported a KRW 417.3 billion net profit due to reduced credit costs and improved asset quality, while mutual financial cooperatives saw a 15.5% decline in net income amid weaker delinquency and capital metrics. The FSS emphasized the need for these institutions to enhance loss-absorbing capacity and stability.
Bank of Mongolia kept its policy rate at 12.0 % at the 18–20 March meeting, citing easing headline inflation to 6.5 % yet warning that geopolitical tensions could reignite fuel and food price pressure. The Committee still sees inflation staying within the 4–6 % band, reaffirmed its 5 % ±2 pp 2027 goal, and said it stands ready to adjust policy as conditions evolve.
The Central Bank of Paraguay’s Monetary Policy Committee unanimously kept the monetary policy rate at 5.50% on 20 March, saying the decision maintains a neutral stance amid still-low inflation, inflation expectations anchored at the 3.5% target, continued but slower economic expansion, and external energy-price risks. February inflation was 2.3% year on year, with headline inflation expected to remain temporarily below target before converging to 3.5% toward end-2026.
The OECD has released a survey through its International Network on Financial Education to assess individuals' knowledge of climate-related financial risks and sustainable finance. Structured into four modules, it aims to provide comparable evidence for policymakers on household preparedness and understanding. The OECD encourages public use and coordination with its Secretariat for data sharing and updates.
The Central Bank of the Solomon Islands (CBSI) warned against using banknotes in crafts, citing legal prohibitions under the Central Bank of Solomon Islands Act 2012 and the Solomon Islands Penal Code. CBSI emphasized that such practices tamper with legal tender, increasing replacement costs, and urged community leaders to use alternative materials. Non-compliance may result in enforcement action, including penalties and fines.
The Monetary Authority of Singapore concluded phase two of Project MindForge by releasing an AI Risk Management Toolkit for financial institutions. Developed with 24 industry partners, it includes an AI Risk Management Operationalisation Handbook and case studies, structured around MAS’ proposed Guidelines on AI Risk Management. MAS will periodically update the handbook and establish a workgroup under BuildFin.ai to enhance AI risk management resources and capabilities.
Ecuador’s Superintendence of Banks has mandated entities within the Credit Guarantee System to submit detailed institutional and operational information to aid supervisory activities under the Organic Monetary and Financial Code. Required data includes contact details, credit guarantee agreements, usage confirmations, and a breakdown of guarantees as of 28 February 2026. Submissions must be made digitally via the official online channel.
The Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA) released videos with Shail Singh, Lead Ombudsman Investments and Advice, explaining AFCA's jurisdiction and complaint criteria. AFCA accepts complaints against current scheme members but not about managed investment schemes' or superannuation funds' management or performance. Complaints should be lodged against the licensee, not individual advisers, and distinguish between self-managed superannuation funds and those with APRA-regulated trustees.
The NAIC's Center for Insurance Policy and Research will host an event at the 2026 Spring National Meeting on 23 March, focusing on catastrophe mitigation and resilience. It will address aligning mitigation science, insurance markets, and regulatory frameworks to improve insurability and reduce wildfire and wind hazard losses. Key speakers include California Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara and Minnesota Commerce Commissioner Grace Arnold.
The National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) will hold its 2026 Spring National Meeting in San Diego from March 22–25, focusing on modernizing oversight and consumer protection. Key workstreams include enhancing capital frameworks, improving data architecture, and leading on AI model governance and cyber threats. NAIC President Scott A. White will deliver the keynote address on March 23.
During Global Money Week 2026, Governor Ahmet Ismaili's lecture emphasized the Central Bank of Kosovo's role in financial stability and sustainable economic development. It highlighted microprudential and macroprudential policies, positive banking-sector developments, and regulatory reforms. The bank announced the "Central Bank of Kosovo Award for Young Economists" and plans to enhance financial literacy and youth engagement.
The European Council has appointed Boris Vujcic as Vice-President of the European Central Bank for a non-renewable eight-year term, effective 1 June 2026, succeeding Luis de Guindos. The appointment was made following consultations with the European Parliament and the ECB’s Governing Council, and was supported by the Eurogroup.
The Superintendency of Banks of Panama's January 2026 Banking Activity Report indicates robust growth in the International Banking Center, with deposits up 8% to USD 117,466 million and a 5.4% increase in the net loan portfolio to USD 100,348.3 million. Liquidity and capital ratios exceeded regulatory minima, with a legal liquidity index of 56.15% and a capital adequacy index of 16.27%. Net profit rose slightly to USD 253.6 million, while profit before provisions increased by 8.0%.
The Central Bank of Mexico has initiated a public consultation on proposed amendments to rules for financial institutions and the Interbank Electronic Payment System (SPEI) to enhance the mobile electronic fund transfer experience. The amendments target Circular 3/2012 and Circular 14/2017, aiming for a more uniform and intuitive process for mobile transfers.
The Bulgaria Financial Supervision Commission approved Euro Invest Management AD’s EUR 25 million bond issue for trading on a regulated market. The Commission also admitted three candidates to the May 2026 investment consultant exam and rejected Cu500 Europe EOOD’s crypto-asset services provider licence application due to incomplete documentation.
The Japan Financial Services Agency, UK Treasury, Bank of England, and Financial Conduct Authority issued a joint statement after the Japan-UK Financial Regulation Forum in Tokyo, focusing on digital finance, sustainable finance, and other key regulatory topics. The discussions are part of ongoing cooperation under the Japan-UK Economic Partnership Agreement.
The National Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic fined five exchange offices in Bishkek KGS 55,000 each for violating foreign currency exchange regulations. Additionally, a Kyrgyz citizen was fined KGS 17,500 for unlicensed cash foreign currency exchange transactions.
The National Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic's Naryn regional department conducted a lecture at Zh. Mambetov secondary school in Ak-Talaa village, focusing on financial literacy. Topics included activating and removing the self-ban on loans in the Tunduk application and understanding "dropping."
The National Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic has suspended the licence of AktilekMik LLC's exchange bureau from 20 March to 3 April 2026 due to violations of national legislation and central bank regulations.
The National Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic fined three individuals KGS 17,500 for unauthorized cash foreign currency exchange transactions in Bishkek. The transactions were conducted without a National Bank licence.
The Japan Financial Services Agency released draft revisions to the Comprehensive Supervisory Guidelines for Insurance Companies, focusing on small-amount and short-term insurers, and opened them for public comment. The revisions aim to enhance claims management and business promotion frameworks, clarify co-insurance contract supervision, and incorporate recommendations from recent industry reports. A comparison table of the old and new text and related public comment materials were published.
The Japan Financial Services Agency released a draft revision to the Comprehensive Supervision Guidelines for Insurance Companies, focusing on small and short-term insurers, for public comment. It aligns with planned amendments to the Enforcement Regulations of the Insurance Business Act, aiming to enhance practices at multi-tied insurance agencies. The revisions are based on reports from the Expert Meeting on Structural Issues and Competition in the Non-life Insurance Industry and the Financial Services Council Working Group.
Japan's Financial Services Agency has released a draft revision to its Comprehensive Supervision Guidelines for Insurance Companies, focusing on small-amount and short-term insurers, to align with the amended Insurance Business Act. The draft is open for public comment and aims to synchronize supervisory guidelines with recent legislative changes.
The Financial Action Task Force of Latin America (GAFILAT) conducted an intensive course in Costa Rica to prepare its anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing (AML/CFT) authorities for a mutual evaluation. Supported by experts from Spain, the program focused on the effectiveness of the AML/CFT framework and the mutual evaluation process. Participants included GAFILAT’s Executive Secretariat and Costa Rican authorities.
The Bank of Israel published updated statistics on inflation expectations, comparing market-implied breakeven inflation with survey forecasts, bank measures, and inflation contract pricing. Current one-year inflation expectations are 1.5% from the capital market, 1.7% from forecasts, 1.9% from banks, and 1.8% from contracts. Forward expectations for the second year are 1.7%, rising to 2.2% for years 3–5, then declining to 1.5% for years 5–10.
The Central Bank of Cyprus released its Bank Lending Survey for Q4 2025, indicating stable lending standards and terms for new credit. While enterprise loan demand remained unchanged, household borrowing demand increased, particularly for consumer and other loans.
The National Bank of Angola and the South African Reserve Bank's Prudential Authority conducted a banking supervision exercise at Standard Bank Angola from 3 to 5 March. This collaboration, under their memorandum of understanding, included discussions on banking sector performance, regulatory developments, and supervisory processes, as well as meetings with Standard Bank Angola's key personnel and external auditors.
The National Bank of Angola announced that domestic-currency credit to the economy rose to AOA 7.2 trillion in January, marking an 18.9% increase from January 2025.
The Brazilian Pension Funds Authority (PREVIC) released its first execution report for the 2025 Annual Supervision and Monitoring Programme, detailing 72 inspection procedures across 70 closed pension funds (EFPC) and generating 1,057 supervisory acts. The report highlights a shift to risk-based supervision and segmentation of the supervised population, with 96% of planned procedures executed. Key outputs included 233 determinations, 367 recommendations, and four infringement notices, with ongoing monitoring covering 103 entities and 191 plans.
Argentina’s Superintendency of Insurance has issued circulars detailing registration fees for Insurance Producer Advisers (PAS), PAS companies, and Agentes Institorios. Fees are ARS 33,000 for individual PAS, ARS 132,000 for PAS companies, and ARS 210,000 for Agentes Institorios, with surcharges applied for late payments.
European Parliament President Roberta Metsola urged EU leaders to advance competitiveness measures, emphasizing progress on the Savings and Investments Union and reviewing outdated regulations. She advocated for the "One Europe, One Market" initiative with fixed timelines and full European Parliament involvement. Metsola also highlighted Europe's energy vulnerabilities and geopolitical concerns, including Iran, Gulf attacks, Cyprus, and Russia's war in Ukraine.
The State Bank of Pakistan's Quarterly Report on Payment Systems for Q4 2025 highlights 3.4 billion retail transactions, with 92% via digital channels, totaling PKR 167 trillion. Mobile app payments dominated, accounting for 2.6 billion transactions worth PKR 40 trillion. The Raast Instant Payment System processed 645.7 million transactions valued at PKR 18.5 trillion, with significant person-to-person and person-to-merchant activity.
The Central Bank of Mexico received the Digital Transformation Award 2026 from Central Banking Publications for modernizing its systems with an Autonomous Decentralized Service-Oriented Architecture. This migration enhances the resilience and adaptability of core systems for financial market operations. The bank's efforts align with its mandate to maintain low inflation, promote financial system development, and ensure smooth payment systems.
The Japan Financial Services Agency and the Bermuda Monetary Authority held a bilateral meeting in Tokyo to discuss insurance regulatory and supervisory developments. The meeting addressed key issues from the International Association of Insurance Supervisors, emphasizing the need for enhanced cross-border coordination among national insurance supervisors.
Peru's Superintendency of Banking, Insurance and Private Pension Funds (SBS) and the Metropolitan Municipality of Lima inaugurated the Lima Ahorra fair as part of Global Money Week, focusing on interactive financial education. The event features 31 public and private entities offering activities on saving, financial product use, and financial education talks, under the theme “Let’s talk clearly about money.”
The British Columbia Securities Commission (BCSC) announced that the British Columbia Court of Appeal upheld a Supreme Court order mandating Earle Douglas Pasquill to forfeit payments from two Life Income Fund accounts to the BCSC to settle outstanding sanctions. Pasquill owes CAD 36.7 million, including a CAD 15 million penalty and CAD 21.7 million in ill-gotten gains, with no payments made. The Court also dismissed the BCSC's cross-appeal for a receiver appointment.
The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency has opened registration for its 2026 in-person workshops for board directors and senior management of national community banks and federal savings associations. The programme includes six full-day workshops on management, risk governance, compliance risk, credit risk, operational risk, and asset management, plus a half-day session on capital markets. Details on the schedule, locations, and costs are available on the OCC’s website.
The Dutch Authority for the Financial Markets has updated benchmark amounts for determining maximum credit in the Caribbean Netherlands, effective 1 April 2026. These benchmarks, reflecting 2025 consumer price index increases, vary by household composition and island, and are used in creditworthiness assessments for mortgages and consumer credit. The updates are incorporated into a revised table in the Financial Markets BES Regulation 2012.
Senator Elizabeth Warren criticized the U.S. Senate Committee on Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs' Basel III proposal, claiming it would weaken safeguards by reducing large banks' loss-absorbing capital. She argued the proposal results from big banks' lobbying and would increase risks by allowing more debt-funded activities, potentially leading to higher payouts for shareholders and executives while reducing small business and family lending.
Senator Elizabeth Warren has requested information from Federal Reserve chair nominee Kevin Warsh about his name in materials released under the Epstein Files Transparency Act. The inquiry seeks to clarify Warsh's potential interactions with Jeffrey Epstein before his nomination hearing. Warren and other Democrats have also urged delaying Warsh's hearing pending investigations against Federal Reserve officials Jerome Powell and Lisa Cook.
The Central Bank of Brazil released its Financial Stability Research, known as Pesquisa de Estabilidade Financeira (PEF).
The State Bank of Vietnam reported on the National Currency Printing Factory's 2026 workers’ congress, highlighting the completion of the 2025 production plan and setting 2026 priorities on banknote quality, cost control, and modernization. The factory aims to reduce defective output, cut production costs, and advance the NH.09B project for a new plant. Commendations were awarded to factory teams and individuals for their achievements.
The Central Bank of Peru reported a 51.8% year-on-year increase in traditional exports to USD 7,855 million in January 2026, driven by higher prices for gold and copper. Non-traditional exports rose 0.9% to USD 1,976 million, with notable growth in fresh grapes, blueberries, mangoes, and frozen jumbo squid, despite lower export prices. Hydrocarbon exports declined due to reduced volumes and lower prices.
The Bermuda Monetary Authority has introduced a streamlined Approval in Principle process to provide an expedited, conditional pre-approval pathway for establishing new investment funds in Bermuda. Complete applications may receive conditional pre-approval within two to three business days, compared with eight business days for standard review, but this does not constitute registration or authorisation under the Investment Funds Act 2006, and funds may not commence business until formal authorisation is granted and all requirements are met.
The Central Bank of the Republic of Azerbaijan has restricted the insurance operating licence of “AtaSigorta” Open Joint-Stock Company, revoking authorisations for various insurance classes following a voluntary request. The cancellation affects motor liability, property, personal accident, medical, travel, and professional liability insurance. Under Article 105.3 of the Law on Insurance Activity, the restriction prohibits concluding new contracts or extending existing ones for these insurance types.
The Ontario Securities Commission (OSC) warned of fraudsters impersonating regulators, including the OSC, to legitimize unlicensed trading platforms and scams. These schemes involve fake licensing numbers, misuse of OSC branding, and emails impersonating OSC staff, often requesting upfront payments. The OSC emphasized it never solicits funds or promotes investment opportunities and advised verifying suspicious communications through its official website.
FDIC Chairman Travis Hill endorsed two proposals to modernize the capital framework for large banks. The first implements the 2017 Basel agreement with a risk-sensitive "single stack" approach, while the second updates the standardized approach with adjustments to risk weights and operational risk assessments. Hill emphasized the importance of feedback on operational risk simplification and anticipated a swift conclusion post-comment period.
The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, Federal Reserve, and Office of the Comptroller of the Currency proposed revisions to risk-weighted asset measurement for Category I and II banks and those with significant trading activity. Changes include eliminating internal models for credit risk, revising the standardized approach, and updating methodologies for counterparty credit risk and securitization. The proposal also introduces a standardized approach for operational risk and revises the market risk and credit valuation adjustment frameworks.
The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, Federal Reserve, and Office of the Comptroller of the Currency proposed revisions to the standardized approach for risk-weighted assets and regulatory capital definitions. Changes include modified risk weights for various exposures, adjustments to counterparty credit risk methodologies, and updates to synthetic risk transactions. The proposal affects Category III and IV banking organizations by including most components of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income in regulatory capital over a five-year transition.
The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) announced proposed rulemaking to modernize the regulatory capital framework, estimating a 6.9% reduction in minimum capital requirements for banks it supervises. The proposals aim to simplify the framework by eliminating multiple risk weight methodologies, addressing complexity issues. The OCC will collaborate with the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) and the Federal Reserve in reviewing public feedback.
The Bermuda Monetary Authority has introduced a streamlined Approval in Principle (AIP) process to expedite new investment funds by providing a conditional pre-approval pathway. Complete applications are reviewed within eight business days, while AIP applicants may receive pre-approval in two to three days. The AIP does not equate to registration or authorisation under the Investment Funds Act 2006, and funds must meet all statutory and regulatory requirements before commencing business.
The Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) and Major League Baseball (MLB) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to facilitate cooperation and information exchange on issues like safeguarding the integrity of professional baseball and related prediction markets. This agreement aims to enhance response to incidents and anticipate trends, supporting market integrity and participant protection against fraud and manipulation.
The Eastern Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB) highlighted the "energy revolution" in Governor Antoine’s "Big Push" strategy to double GDP by 2030. Charlin Bodley from the Caribbean Centre for Renewable Energy advocated for renewable energy to enhance fiscal space and create jobs. Five conditions for this transition include leadership, strategic planning, an enabling environment, financing access, and human capital development.
The European Banking Authority (EBA) published final draft amendments to its Regulatory Technical Standards, reducing the assessment timeframe for institutions' applications to call, redeem, repay, or repurchase own funds and eligible liabilities from four to three months. This change reflects the EBA's confidence in authorities' ability to complete assessments more efficiently. The amendments also adjust consultation periods and remove certain simplified procedures, aligning with Directive (EU) 2024/1174.
The Central Bank of Trinidad and Tobago has launched “Club FINLIT”, a 12‑month pilot financial literacy club for secondary schools under its National Financial Literacy Programme as part of Global Money Week 2026. The initiative targets students aged 13 to 15 in seven schools and includes monthly meetings, competitions, entrepreneurship sessions and leadership roles, with support from partners such as the Trinidad and Tobago Securities and Exchange Commission, the Trinidad and Tobago Stock Exchange and the Deposit Insurance Corporation.
The South African Reserve Bank's Financial Stability Department briefing highlights how global geopolitical risk (GPR) shocks impact small open emerging market economies, affecting sovereign risk premiums and banks' balance sheets. GPR shocks are inflationary, depreciate currencies, weaken demand, and tighten financial conditions. Macroprudential policies stabilize credit and output but create an inflation-output trade-off. Empirical analysis shows a positive relationship between GPR and Emerging Markets Bond Index Global spreads, with significant coefficients for South Africa, Brazil, and India.
The Central Bank of Ireland has issued a warning notice against Suisse Equity, stating it is not authorised to operate as an investment firm or business in Ireland. The notice, published under section 53 of the Central Bank (Supervision and Enforcement) Act 2013, links Suisse Equity to the website suisseequity.com.
The Central Bank of Colombia announced that Bre-B, the country's instant payments system, won a Central Banking Awards 2026 prize for "Payments and market infrastructure development – retail segment." The award recognizes Bre-B's agile implementation, proactive regulation, and effective market adoption, enhancing Colombia's retail payments infrastructure. The system complements high-value payments with a fast, interoperable retail capability, operational since 2025.
The Superintendence of the Securities Market of the Dominican Republic reported significant growth and diversification, with total placements exceeding DOP 3 trillion. Sovereign debt remains dominant, though its market share has decreased to 85%, while corporate bonds and investment funds have increased to 12%. Superintendent Ernesto Bournigal emphasized financial education initiatives and highlighted over DOP 15 billion invested in renewable energy.
The China Securities Regulatory Commission (CSRC) held a Beijing roundtable, chaired by Wu Qing, with major institutional investors to discuss capital market development for the 15th Five-Year Plan. Key topics included a market stabilization mechanism with "Chinese characteristics," encouraging medium- and long-term investments, and enhancing investor returns. Proposals also focused on deepening investment-side reforms and improving market inclusiveness and stability.
The Canadian Investment Regulatory Organization (CIRO) will launch a Disgorgement Distribution Program on April 1, 2026, allowing funds from disgorgement orders to be distributed to financially harmed investors. The program introduces eligibility criteria, governance controls, and oversight mechanisms, while investors can still pursue existing recovery avenues. Further details, including eligibility and process information, have been published by CIRO.
The Canadian Securities Administrators (CSA) launched a pilot project allowing eligible venture issuers on the TSX Venture Exchange Inc. or CNSX Markets Inc. to opt for semi-annual financial reporting under Coordinated Blanket Order 51-933. This exempts them from filing first- and third-quarter reports required by National Instrument 51-102. The CSA plans to use insights from this pilot to develop broader rules on voluntary semi-annual reporting.
SEC Chair Paul S. Atkins outlined an "A-C-T" framework at SEC Speaks, focusing on market-aligned rules, clarifying SEC-CFTC jurisdiction, and transforming regulatory requirements to reduce burdens. He emphasized moving away from "regulation by enforcement" in crypto markets, harmonizing definitions with the CFTC, and revising disclosure and reporting regimes. Atkins invited market feedback on the SEC's token guidance and broader agenda.
National Bank of Moldova on 19 Mar 2026 left the base rate at 5.00 %, overnight lending/deposit rates at 7.00 %/3.00 %, the repo at 5.25 % and reserve ratios at 18 % (MDL) and 26 % (FX), noting February inflation at 5.06 % is within its 5 % ± 1.5 pp target band. The Board warned that Strait of Hormuz–driven energy price rises pose upside risks and said it is ready to tighten if sustained cost pressures trigger second-round effects.
The People's Bank of China held discussions with Hong Kong officials, including Financial Secretary Chen Maobo, on enhancing financial cooperation and connectivity between mainland China and Hong Kong. Key topics included strengthening Hong Kong's offshore renminbi market and its role as an international financial centre.
The India International Financial Services Centres Authority hosted the second IFSCA Talent Summit at GIFT City, focusing on developing a future-ready talent pipeline for GIFT IFSC. The event emphasized global career opportunities, industry-academia collaboration, and the role of foreign universities in education. Key speakers highlighted priorities such as social infrastructure, human resource development, and tax policies for GIFT IFSC.
The India International Financial Services Centres Authority (IFSCA) reported non-compliance among capital market intermediaries (CMIs) in the GIFT International Financial Services Centre regarding "substance" requirements. Inspections revealed inadequate infrastructure, absence of key personnel, and conflicts of interest, leading to regulatory action under the IFSCA Capital Market Intermediaries Regulations, 2025. IFSCA advised all CMIs to adhere strictly to the regulations and guidelines.
Czech National Bank held the two-week repo rate at 3.50 %, with the discount and Lombard rates unchanged at 2.50 % and 4.50 % respectively, after the 25 bp repo cut in February 2026; no macro commentary or forward guidance was offered.
Greece's Ministry of National Economy and Finance highlighted Eurogroup President Kyriakos Pierrakakis's statement at the Eurozone Summit, linking the Middle East crisis to rising costs and uncertainty in Europe. The strategy focuses on crisis management and long-term economic strengthening, emphasizing support for households and businesses, removing EU trade barriers, and enhancing the euro's international role. The response will depend on the Strait of Hormuz's closure duration, influencing whether measures are national or European.
European Central Bank left the deposit facility, main refinancing and marginal lending rates at 2.00%, 2.15% and 2.40%, keeping June’s stance while monitoring Middle East conflict risks to inflation and growth. APP and PEPP run-offs continue and staff now forecast headline inflation falling from 2.6% in 2026 to 2.0% in 2027, with the Council staying data-dependent.
The National Bank of Ukraine held its key policy rate at 15 %, postponing the easing outlined in January amid higher energy prices, February inflation of 7.6 % y/y and worsening expectations. Stressing the need to sustain hryvnia demand and reserves of almost USD 55 bn, the NBU signalled it will pause cuts and stands ready to raise rates if external and inflationary pressures grow.
The Bank of Greece released provisional residential property price indices indicating a 7.6% year-on-year increase in apartment prices for Q4 2025, with an average annual rise of 7.8% compared to 9.1% in 2024. New apartments saw a 7.4% price increase, while old apartments rose by 8.1% in 2025. Regional price growth varied, with Athens at 6.2%, Thessaloniki at 9.6%, other cities at 9.8%, and other areas of Greece at 8.8% for the year.
The India International Financial Services Centres Authority hosted the second IFSCA Talent Summit 2026 at GIFT City, focusing on workforce development for the GIFT International Financial Services Centre and positioning it as a hub for international financial services careers. The event emphasised industry–academia collaboration, the role of foreign university branch campuses in providing industry-relevant education, and included announcements on employment initiatives and new programmes. IFSCA Chairperson K. Rajaraman said recommendations from the first summit have been acted upon and ideas from the 2026 edition will also be pursued.
The India International Financial Services Centres Authority published findings from supervisory visits assessing whether Capital Market Intermediaries in the GIFT IFSC maintain adequate on-the-ground substance, identifying multiple non-compliance instances and initiating regulatory action. Issues included closed or unattended offices during business hours, absence or dual-hatting of Principal and Compliance Officers, poor awareness of the regulatory framework, deficient operational infrastructure, remote trading inconsistent with jurisdictional requirements, and conflicts of interest where Compliance Officers also handled trading. The authority reminded intermediaries to ensure substance and strict adherence to the IFSCA Capital Market Intermediaries Regulations, 2025 and related guidance.
The Central Bank of Russia has extended the suspension of money transfers abroad by non-residents from unfriendly states for another six months starting 1 April 2026. This applies to transfers from brokerage and trust management accounts of individuals and legal entities with Russian brokers and trustees. The restrictions, in place since April 2022, aim to ensure financial stability and exclude foreign investors with In-type accounts.