FOMC on 18 March 2026 kept the federal funds target range at 3.50-3.75 percent, citing solid growth, still-elevated inflation and heightened uncertainty. This second straight pause after three 25 bp cuts in late 2025 passed 10-1, with Stephen I. Miran voting for a further 25 bp reduction.
The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency issued an Order of Prohibition against Tabitha McCallister for unauthorized withdrawals at Old National Bank, totaling over USD 19,000. Additionally, the OCC terminated four enforcement actions against various banks, including Heritage Bank and 1st National Bank, upon meeting requirements or due to changed circumstances.
The European Central Bank Banking Supervision's 2025 Annual Report emphasizes risk-based, efficient supervision amid geopolitical uncertainty, focusing on banks' resilience to shocks. Key indicators for significant institutions remain solid, with a Common Equity Tier 1 ratio of around 16% and a non-performing loan ratio of around 2%. The ECB is streamlining supervision by reducing stress test data templates and supervisory reporting, and standardizing processes for capital decisions and assessments.
The Swedish Financial Supervisory Authority summarized a 10 March roundtable on underwriting guarantees, gathering market views on current functions and future expectations. The meeting responded to the Law (2026:56) on penalties for unlawful financial activity, criminalizing unlicensed financial business since 1 March 2026. Participants included industry associations, trading venues, the Swedish Bar Association, and various investment firms and banks.
Kenya’s National Treasury, in collaboration with the Central Bank of Kenya and the Capital Markets Authority, has released draft Virtual Asset Service Providers Regulations, 2026, to implement the Virtual Asset Service Providers Act, 2025. The regulations aim to establish a legal framework for licensing and regulating virtual asset service providers in Kenya. A public participation process has been initiated to gather feedback.
The Ukraine National Commission on Securities and Stock Market, with the International Monetary Fund, is considering corporate governance reforms, including a supervisory board for strategy, budget, and composition oversight. The reforms aim to enhance transparency and competitive selection per international standards, starting with a governance reform concept and legislative amendments.
The Ukraine National Commission on Securities and Stock Market released a digest detailing key decisions on rulemaking, supervisory measures, and approvals in capital markets. Highlights include coordination with government drafts, special permits for securities operations, inspections, asset-blocking sanctions, and registration of financial instruments. The Commission also approved financial improvement plans, closed proceedings, and confirmed senior appointments at market participants.
The Central Bank of Ireland released Deputy Governor Colm Kincaid’s statement to the Joint Oireachtas Committee on non-bank entities in the Irish residential mortgage market and consumer protection requirements. Updated figures show banks hold 85.1% of the principal dwelling house mortgage market, with non-bank lenders and servicing firms holding 5.3% and 9.6%, respectively. The Bank's revised Consumer Protection Code, effective 24 March, includes enhanced borrower disclosures and regulations on mortgage arrears.
The World Federation of Exchanges (WFE) is concerned about the Basel Committee on Banking Supervision's review of prudential standards for banks' cryptoasset exposures, which may constrain tokenisation growth in regulated markets. The WFE advocates for technology neutrality and consistent treatment of assets with similar risk profiles, regardless of form, and calls for a clearer definition of cryptoassets. It also seeks clarification on custody-related capital requirements to prevent deterring banks from offering custody services.
The Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ) provided an interim update on its education campaign for the upgraded Big5ZiG banknote series, set to launch on 7 April 2026. The campaign has reached 75% of districts, addressing concerns about the currency's backing and circulation. Existing notes will remain legal tender, and RBZ plans to increase physical note availability to meet demand and inflation objectives.
The Liechtenstein Financial Market Authority has authorized Celsion Bank AG, Vaduz to offer specified crypto-asset services under the EU Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation (MiCAR) effective 13 March 2026. The authorization includes safekeeping, administration, exchange, and transfer services for crypto-assets.
The U.S. House Financial Services Committee held a hearing on amending Title V of the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act to modernize the financial data privacy framework. Discussions emphasized a uniform nationwide baseline to reduce compliance costs and facilitate market entry, maintaining a technology-neutral, principles-based approach. Proposals included extending privacy duties to nonbank firms and introducing consumer rights to access personal information, with enforcement by federal and state agencies.
The U.S. House Financial Services Committee’s Subcommittee on National Security, Illicit Finance, and International Financial Institutions held an oversight hearing on the Export-Import Bank of the United States (EXIM) for its December 2026 reauthorization. Subcommittee Chairman Warren Davidson emphasized a strategic role for EXIM, stronger accountability, and competition with China as key to EXIM’s mission. He supported reauthorizing the China and Transformational Exports Program and urged coordination with international allies.
The Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario has submitted its Eligible Financial Contracts Rule to the Minister of Finance for approval. The Rule aims to clarify contract qualifications for Ontario credit unions during resolution and align with federal regulations, enhancing consistency for counterparties across jurisdictions.
FDIC Chairman Travis Hill updated the agency's supervisory and regulatory initiatives at the American Bankers Association Washington Summit. Key areas include joint proposals on supervisory practices, revisions to capital and liquidity rules, and new approaches to anti-money laundering and payment stablecoin regulations. Hill also highlighted upcoming proposals on CAMELS ratings, risk-based capital, and resolution planning, with consultations on stablecoin deposit insurance and tokenized deposits expected.
The Bank of Canada on 18 Mar 2026 kept the overnight rate at 2.25 %, with the bank rate at 2.50 % and deposit rate at 2.20 %, maintaining its 30 bp corridor. The pause reflects weaker domestic growth, higher unemployment and widening external risks despite energy-driven inflation pressures, and the Governing Council reiterated its readiness to adjust policy if the outlook shifts.
Estonia's Finantsinspektsioon has launched a digital portal to streamline financial sector licence applications and significant participation notifications, enhancing transparency and communication. It covers creditors, fund managers, and crypto-asset service providers. A second phase in late 2026 will introduce fit and proper assessments for managers, with potential AI integration.
The Vietnam State Securities Commission announced its 2026 plan for the securities practising certificate examination, detailing the timetable, locations, eligibility, and exam format. Four exam rounds are scheduled in Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, and Da Nang, with a computer-based multiple-choice format covering securities law and professional knowledge. Candidates must meet eligibility under the Securities Law, submit a registration dossier, and pay fees, with further guidance published online.
The Isle of Man Financial Services Authority announced updates to the Russia and Afghanistan sanctions regimes, as issued by the Isle of Man Treasury, Customs and Immigration Division. The notice refers to recent government news releases and directs to the Treasury division’s Sanctions and Export Control webpage for detailed information. Subscription options for ongoing alerts, including an RSS feed and email services, are also highlighted.
The Guernsey Financial Services Commission released slides from presentations on its thematic review of conflicts of interest in the investment and fiduciary sectors. The review emphasized the need for firms to actively manage and mitigate conflicts to ensure fair outcomes. The presentations also offered examples of controls and areas for improvement in firms' policies and procedures.
The Bank of Greece reported a EUR 604 million increase in loans serviced by domestic Credit Servicing Firms, reaching EUR 80,020 million by Q4 2025. Corporate loans rose to EUR 28,176 million, with growth in loans to non-financial corporations and SMEs. Loans to individuals and private non-profit institutions decreased, while consumer loans increased and housing loans declined.
The European Central Bank Banking Supervision released its Supervisory Banking Statistics for Q4 2025, detailing key financial metrics for 111 significant institutions. Total assets reached EUR 27,744.77 billion with a net profit of EUR 187,783.22 million. Capital and liquidity ratios remained robust, including a Common Equity Tier 1 ratio of 16.18% and a liquidity coverage ratio of 158.60%. Asset quality indicators showed a non-performing loans ratio of 2.18% and stage 2 loans at 9.33% of total loans.
The European Central Bank Banking Supervision's 2025 Annual Report highlights that banks remain well-capitalised, liquid, and profitable, with reforms for more risk-based and efficient supervision. It outlines 2026-28 priorities, including resilience to geopolitical and macro-financial shocks and compliance with the Digital Operational Resilience Act. Key developments include a 16.1% Common Equity Tier 1 ratio, improved stress test results, and streamlined supervisory processes, with enforcement actions totaling EUR 8.77 million in penalties.
The Spanish Securities Commission (CNMV) awarded the 2025 Antonio Moreno Espejo Journalism Prize to the television report "Esto es una estafa" for its insights into financial scams. The report, broadcast on Salvados on La Sexta, was praised for its novel data and accessible format, aiding investors in fraud identification. The award, chaired by CNMV President Carlos San Basilio, includes a EUR 15,000 prize.
The State Bank of Vietnam and the International Finance Corporation (IFC) reviewed their partnership and discussed future cooperation on infrastructure, digital transformation, green growth, and capital market development. Deputy Governor Nguyen Ngoc Canh highlighted Vietnam as a major recipient of IFC support, with over USD 1 billion mobilized annually for long-term projects. IFC representatives outlined their investment portfolio and potential collaboration areas with the central bank.
The Hong Kong Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) reviewed The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited's (SEHK) 2024 listing regulation, focusing on internal control reviews and late auditor resignations. The SFC recommended SEHK enhance vetting of internal controls, update market guidance, require shareholder approval for auditor resignations, and promote early discussions on audit fees. Further scrutiny of audit committees' management of financial reporting and audit processes was also advised.
The Hong Kong Monetary Authority issued a scam alert regarding fraudulent websites, fake internet banking login screens, and phishing messages linked to several banks, including The Bank of East Asia and Ant Bank (Hong Kong). The HKMA emphasized that banks will not send SMS or emails with links for transactions or request sensitive information. Affected individuals are advised to contact their bank and report to the Hong Kong Police Force.
The European Fund and Asset Management Association and the Association for Financial Markets in Europe urge EU policymakers to enhance equity markets by fostering competition and innovation. They support the European Commission’s Market Integration and Supervision Package reforms, advocating for expedited implementation and deeper integration for unified EU liquidity. Key priorities include enforcing Reasonable Commercial Basis rules, improving post-trade integration, and simplifying regulations to address market data and settlement inefficiencies.
The European Central Bank Banking Supervision released Q4 2025 supervisory statistics for significant institutions, noting higher aggregate capital ratios and improved asset quality, but a slight decline in profitability. The Common Equity Tier 1 ratio increased to 16.18%, while the non-performing loans ratio decreased to 2.18%. The liquidity coverage ratio rose to 158.60%, with a loans-to-deposits ratio of 100.49%.
The Central Bank of Brunei Darussalam (BDCB) has updated its Alert List to include Qawenna and Central Bank of Barnai, entities not licensed or regulated by BDCB. The list aims to caution the public against unlicensed financial services, emphasizing that dealings with such entities lack BDCB's regulatory protections. BDCB continues to monitor unlicensed activities and encourages public reporting of suspicious financial conduct.
The Central Bank of Armenia has launched a "Statistical Overview" page on its website, offering graphical views of key economic and financial indicators. This new resource, updated weekly, includes data on exchange rates, economic activity, inflation, financial markets, and the banking system.
The Central Bank of Armenia hosted an Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development delegation for a benchmarking exercise on Armenia's economic and financial sectors. The assessment covers banking, non-bank financial institutions, capital markets, corporate governance, and financial literacy. Discussions aimed to clarify issues and align the analysis with national priorities for tailored policy recommendations.
The Central Bank of the Republic of Uzbekistan left its policy rate at 14%, maintaining the level set by the March-2025 50 bp hike, saying February headline inflation at 7.3%, rising core (6.3%), strong demand and external price risks justify continued tightness to reach the 5% medium-term target. It sees credit growth normalising but warns geopolitical and supply-chain shocks could lift energy and food prices and stands ready to tighten further if needed.
HM Treasury announced reforms to broaden access to credit unions in Great Britain by easing "common bond" membership rules. The cap for locality-based credit unions will increase from three million to 10 million potential members, expanding eligibility to include students, more relatives, and household members. These changes align with the government's Financial Inclusion Strategy to enhance access to financial services.
The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has confirmed final rules and guidance for incident and third-party reporting, enhancing clarity and consistency for firms. The framework, aligned with the Prudential Regulation Authority and the Bank of England, introduces a single reporting portal and removes duplicative reporting for certain entities. It includes clearer thresholds, definitions, and responsibilities, with examples to aid compliance.
Central Bank of Iceland’s Monetary Policy Committee increased the seven-day term deposit rate by 25 bp to 7.50 % on 18 Mar 2026, partly undoing last year’s easing after headline inflation stuck at 5.2 % and expectations rose. Overnight loan, seven-day collateralised loan and current-account rates were lifted to 9.25 %, 8.25 % and 7.25 % respectively, and the MPC signalled readiness to tighten further if wage deals, levies and commodity-price pressures keep inflation above target.
The Prudential Regulation Authority (PRA), with the Financial Conduct Authority and the Bank of England, has finalized its policy on standardized reporting for operational incidents and material third-party arrangements. Effective March 2027, UK financial institutions must report incidents via FCA Connect and submit annual MTP registers, excluding certain credit unions and third-country branches. The rules aim to streamline data collection, reduce firm burden, and enhance supervisory consistency.
The Ukraine National Commission on Securities and Stock Market joined an International IDEA dialogue on regulating virtual assets in political financing, presenting a draft bill addressing transparency risks. Key measures include implementing the Travel Rule, requiring reporting by virtual asset service providers, and restricting market access for entities with Russian ties. The dialogue reviewed international practices and identified regulatory gaps, with recommendations forthcoming to enhance transparency in political financing.
The Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario (FSRA) has revoked the mortgage brokerage licence of Concierge Mortgage Group Inc. and taken enforcement action against former brokers Margaret Green and Kathy Locke. Green's licence was suspended due to unsuitability, with no contest from her side. FSRA has proposed suspending Locke's licence on similar grounds, with an interim suspension in place pending a Tribunal hearing.
The Danish Financial Supervisory Authority's 2025 review of Danish banks and mortgage credit institutions using the internal ratings-based (IRB) approach reveals non-compliance with European requirements, including EBA guidelines. Key issues include governance weaknesses, data quality, and challenges in integrating ESG-related credit risks. The Authority emphasizes the need for improved processes and data management in IRB modelling.
The Central Bank of Bahrain left its overnight deposit rate unchanged at 4.25 % on 18 Mar 2026, saying the pause, in place since January after 75 bp of easing in late 2025, supports monetary and financial stability amid global market developments. The statement gave no information on liquidity, inflation or growth and offered no forward guidance beyond continued monitoring of international conditions.
The Swedish Financial Supervisory Authority stressed the need for financial firms to ensure accuracy in sustainability statements to prevent greenwashing. It found issues with funds claiming to exclude weapons but investing in such companies and announced a review of funds with sustainability-related names. The authority is working with European regulators to ensure sustainability claims are fair, substantiated, and current amid evolving regulations.
The Financial Supervisory Authority of Norway reported on NRP Project Finance AS, highlighting inadequate disclosure of its tied-agent relationship with NRP Capital Advisory AS. Customer documentation failed to clearly identify this arrangement, contrary to section 10-22 of the Securities Trading Act. NRP Project Finance plans to enhance transparency through direct customer outreach and updates to agreements and website information.
The Financial Supervisory Authority of Norway imposed an administrative fine of NOK 80,000 on Global Lineup AS for extensive breaches of the Auditor Act. The firm failed to perform necessary procedures and exercise professional scepticism in audit engagements, resulting in an inadequate basis for accepting audits.
The Agency for Regulation and Development of the Financial Market of Kazakhstan issued guidance on safe mobile banking, highlighting increased cyber risks and fraud targeting user errors. Recommendations include using strong passwords, enabling two-factor authentication, and securing devices. Users are reminded that bank staff will never request verification codes or passwords and should report suspicious activity immediately.
The Vietnam State Securities Commission has mandated four individuals to pay a VND 1,000,000 fee for reissuing securities practising certificates, as per the Ministry of Finance’s Circular 25/2022/TT-BTC. Payment can be made via bank transfer or directly at the Commission. Failure to complete the procedure within one year will result in certificate cancellation.
The Thailand Office of Insurance Commission supports the Ministry of Commerce's project to manage rising healthcare costs by discussing outpatient coverage with insurers. Medicines and medical supplies account for over 30% of treatment costs, rising up to 25% annually, prompting policyholders to choose high coverage limits. The Office noted that reducing outpatient limits can significantly lower premiums, with examples for individual and group health insurance plans.
The Australian Securities & Investments Commission (ASIC) secured a High Court ruling allowing Justice Derrington to determine penalties against Sunshine Loans for National Credit Act violations. Sunshine Loans' appeal for recusal due to alleged bias was dismissed, affirming the judge's role in the penalty phase. The case involves over 670,000 contracts with unlawful fees, resulting in approximately AUD 300,000 in payments.
The Central Bank of the Republic of San Marino warned about fraudulent social media posts using an artificially generated image and name of its President, Catia Tomasetti, to solicit investments. The Bank emphasized that no investment solicitations are made by its representatives and urged the public to verify information through official channels and report suspicious activities. Complaints are being filed to protect savers and maintain financial system integrity.
The National Bank of Moldova highlighted its Global Money Week programme, featuring mentoring sessions on personal budgeting led by Romanian expert Irina Chițu. The workshops focused on practical budgeting skills, including cost-cutting, expense renegotiation, and goal-based saving. The programme, part of a global initiative, concludes with public tours of the bank's exhibition hall.
The UK Parliament’s Joint Committee on the National Security Strategy urges amendments to the Representation of the People Bill, including a moratorium on cryptocurrency political donations until firm rules are established. The report recommends tighter donor eligibility, a central Political Finance Enforcement Unit, and safeguards and penalties to protect political finance integrity. These amendments are proposed for consideration during the Bill’s Committee Stage in the House of Commons.
South Korea's Financial Supervisory Service (FSS) released its 2026 inspection plan, focusing on financial consumer protection and market stability. It emphasizes scrutiny of internal controls, corporate governance, and digital transaction reliability, targeting high-risk areas and unfair practices affecting vulnerable consumers. The FSS will also assess virtual asset service providers to enhance IT safety and internal controls for Phase 2 of the Act on the Protection of Virtual Asset Users.
Argentina Securities Commission president Roberto E. Silva spoke at the Merge São Paulo conference on Latin American regulatory convergence and Argentina's framework for Virtual Asset Service Providers and tokenization. He highlighted Argentina's capital markets modernization, focusing on a new regulatory framework for predictability and transparency. Silva also participated in a closed-door Private Regulatory Roundtable with regulators and industry participants.
The Egypt Financial Regulatory Authority has extended the deadlines for Egyptian Exchange-listed companies to submit periodic financial statements. For the period ended 31 December 2025, the new deadline is 30 April 2026, and for the period ended 31 March 2025, it is 31 May 2026.
The Central Bank of the Philippines mandates BSP Supervised Financial Institutions to submit the Weekly Reserves Report and the Report on Trust and Other Fiduciary Accounts via the Prudential Reporting Innovation and Monitoring Engine in XML format, with a signed Control Prooflist in PDF. These new requirements, part of amendments to reserve-requirement reporting, include specific submission deadlines based on institution type and replace previous report names. A parallel run begins immediately, with live submissions starting for the reference week ending 02 July 2026.
The Central Bank of Kuwait announced that Standard and Poor’s has affirmed Kuwait’s sovereign credit rating at AA- with a stable outlook.
Bank of Ghana’s Monetary Policy Committee cut the policy rate by 150 bp to 14 % on 18 March 2026, extending its easing cycle amid sharply lower February inflation (3.3 %), robust growth and still-elevated real rates. The operating framework was unchanged, with the MPC cautioning that Middle East tensions and volatile oil prices could revive inflation and vowing to respond as needed.
Brazil’s Monetary Policy Committee cut the Selic rate by 25 bp to 14.75 %, opening a “monetary policy calibration cycle” after a 75 bp tightening in March–June 2025 and a pause since January. Copom flagged softer activity, above-target and de-anchored inflation expectations, global volatility and fiscal risks, and said any further easing will be data-dependent.
The U.S. Senate Committee on Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs summarized Chairman Tim Scott's discussion at the DC Blockchain Summit, emphasizing the GENIUS Act's role in establishing a foundation for payment stablecoins. Scott called for clear market structure rules for digital assets, highlighting ongoing bipartisan negotiations on decentralized finance, ethics, and jurisdictional issues. The discussion also noted stablecoin yield talks and Paul Atkins' influence at the Securities and Exchange Commission for a transparent regulatory approach.
The Australian Securities & Investments Commission (ASIC) has launched an interactive Internal Dispute Resolution (IDR) data dashboard, offering public access to complaints data at the individual financial firm level. This tool enables users to compare complaints volumes, handling, and outcomes across firms and products, complementing the Australian Financial Complaints Authority’s external dispute resolution reporting. The dashboard follows ASIC's consultation on publishing reportable situations and IDR data, which received 47 submissions.
The Australian Securities & Investments Commission (ASIC) has issued Consultation Paper 388 to explore increasing net tangible assets (NTA) requirements for responsible entities of registered managed investment schemes, as well as other fund operators. The consultation aims to align NTA thresholds with member interests and operational costs, with the last amendment made in 2013.
The Central Bank of the Republic of Kosovo reported a decrease in total assets to EUR 1.87bn at the end of February 2026, mainly due to reduced deposits from commercial banks and pension funds. Foreign investments in deposits and securities fell to EUR 1.38bn, with a notable decline in deposits partially offset by increased securities holdings. International reserve assets increased to EUR 1.45bn, driven by higher securities investments despite a drop in deposits.
The Central Bank of the Republic of Kosovo and the Kosovo Association of Accountants and Auditors discussed enhancing cooperation to improve financial reporting quality and support the accounting profession. Key topics included professional capacity building, financial education, and digitalisation of financial services. Plans for joint activities, such as trainings and workshops, were considered in alignment with the Central Bank's strategic priorities.
The Brazil Securities Commission (CVM) has signed technical cooperation agreements with B3 S.A. and BEE4 S.A. to support the FÁCIL regime under CVM Resolution 232. These agreements outline duties for listing, offering, and supervising Companhias de Menor Porte, focusing on disclosure monitoring and information sharing. The agreements, approved by the CVM Board, are valid for five years and may be extended.
The U.S. Securities & Exchange Commission’s Division of Economic and Risk Analysis released updated statistics and interactive data visualizations on capital raising and securities issuance, alongside a new report on security-based swap dealers' financial conditions. Key findings include a rise in initial public offerings to 374, raising over USD 70 billion in 2025, and an increase in Regulation D offerings to 34,553, raising USD 2.4 trillion. The report details security-based swap dealers' assets, leverage, and profitability.
The Central Bank of Nicaragua reported a 6.0% year-on-year GDP growth for Q4 2025, with full-year growth estimated at 4.9%. Key growth sectors included construction, trade, and water supply, while declines were noted in electricity and public administration. Domestic demand, particularly consumption and fixed investment, drove the expansion despite a fall in net external demand.
The Bulgaria Financial Supervision Commission approved prospectuses for two bond issues: a EUR 50 million Central Cooperative Bank issue meeting eligible liabilities requirements and a EUR 7 million Severcoop – Gamza Holding issue, both registered for trading on a regulated market. Innovation Capital II was registered as a manager of alternative investment funds, and draft amendments to the actuaries' framework were advanced.
Greece's Ministry of National Economy and Finance highlighted Minister Kyriakos Pierrakakis's remarks at the Euronext conference, emphasizing the urgent need for the Savings and Investment Union (SIU) to enhance European financial integration. Pierrakakis cited the integration of the Athens Stock Exchange into Euronext as a key example, aiming to boost productivity and job quality while fostering cross-border mergers and acquisitions. He noted Greece's improved economic conditions, including growth surpassing the EU average and increased investment interest.
The National Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic fined two commercial banks KGS 55,000 each for breaching national legislation and the bank's regulations.
Japan's Financial Services Agency (FSA) has published a list of initiatives for financial education targeting young people during Global Money Week 2026. This OECD campaign aims to enhance financial literacy and inclusion among children and youth. The list includes activities by organizations supporting the campaign's objectives.
The Bank of Italy released six new Working Papers (Nos. 1520–1525) on inflation behaviour, price setting, and monetary policy transmission in the euro area, as well as US macro-financial dynamics and innovation. Key topics include the Phillips curve's return, consumer price stickiness, and housing-market effects of monetary policy in the euro area, alongside studies on American innovation and macroeconomic shocks' impact on the US term premium.
Japan’s Financial Services Agency (FSA) updated its Financial Business Operator List, detailing firms adopting Principles for Customer-Oriented Business Operations, policy disclosures, and a database for KPIs on investment trusts and foreign currency-denominated insurance. The list includes 1,384 operators, with 526 new or updated entries, aiming to enhance transparency. The FSA does not judge each firm's policy content but may request corrections if discrepancies are found.
The Central Bank of Nicaragua reported continued double-digit growth in public deposits and the credit portfolio for January 2026, with improved credit quality and stable profitability. Public deposits increased by 17.0% year on year, while the credit portfolio rose by 10.8%. Liquidity and solvency levels remained above regulatory limits, with a delinquency ratio decline to 1.2%.
The Central Bank of the Republic of Kosovo invites research papers for its Young Economists Prize, targeting young researchers to explore themes related to Kosovo’s financial sector and economic development. Eligible topics include financial system resilience, payment systems modernisation, AI in finance, fintech risks, and consumer protection. Up to five winners will be recognized and awarded based on research quality, writing, citation integrity, and policy relevance.
The Central Bank of Cyprus is coordinating Global Money Week 2026 in Cyprus from 16 to 22 March, as part of an OECD initiative to enhance financial literacy among youth. The theme, “Talking, Asking and Deciding Smart About Our Money,” encourages open financial discussions and informed decision-making. Activities involve ministries, regulatory bodies, and institutions, featuring educational events, workshops, and a national competition for the International Economic Olympiad 2026.
Mexico's CONDUSEF handled 1,703 user complaints in Veracruz from January to February 2026, recovering MXN 12.8 million. Veracruz accounted for 3.6% of nationwide complaints, with a 21.8% increase from the previous year and a 52.2% user-favourable outcome rate. Unrecognised transactions and electronic transfers were the primary complaint drivers, affecting debit and credit cards and personal loans.
The National Bank of Ukraine has launched a "Sustainable Development of the Financial Sector" page, consolidating documents on ESG factors and related risks. It includes a new sustainable development glossary, reviewed with stakeholders and based on European prudential terminology, adapted for Ukraine. The NBU plans phased implementation of ESG risk management requirements, starting with banks in 2025–2026 and extending to other significant financial institutions by 2030.
The Spanish Securities Commission (CNMV) released its annual report on the supervision of listed companies' sustainability information for 2024, highlighting disclosure improvement areas and setting 2025 review priorities. Of 123 issuers, 99 included Non-Financial Information Statements, with 87 addressing the EU environmental taxonomy. The CNMV identified gaps in business model descriptions, materiality assessments, and climate disclosures, focusing on these areas and climate transition plans in 2026.
The Central Bank of Cyprus released updated data for the Cyprus banking sector as of 31 December 2025, highlighting a 13.9% decline in profitability to EUR 1,024 million due to reduced net interest income. Total assets rose by 6.6% to EUR 69,961 million, driven by increased loans, advances, and debt securities. The Common Equity Tier 1 ratio improved to 25.8%, reflecting higher CET1 capital and a reduced total risk exposure amount.
The Bank of England's Prudential Regulation Authority has initiated consultation CP5/26 on revisions to the UK prudential liquidity framework, focusing on Pillar 2 requirements and the Internal Liquidity Adequacy Assessment. Key proposals include assessing liquidity resource composition, introducing a firm-designed stress scenario, and redefining "monetisation risk" in stress testing. The changes aim to enhance firms' resilience to liquidity outflows, with estimated initial compliance costs of GBP 7.2 million and GBP 0.6 million annually.
GAFILAT initiated Costa Rica's fifth-round mutual evaluation with a high-level mission on 3–4 March 2026. The mission engaged senior national authorities and AML/CFT/CPF stakeholders to discuss the evaluation's scope and commitments. GAFILAT emphasized the assessment's role in measuring Costa Rica's compliance and effectiveness in combating money laundering, terrorist financing, and proliferation financing.
The International Banking Federation announced its involvement in the UNODC and INTERPOL Global Fraud Summit, introducing a Global Public-Private Partnership Framework against Fraud. This framework aims to enhance collaboration in fraud prevention through shared responsibility. IBFED Chair Anthony Ostler emphasized the initiative's focus on cross-border cooperation, improved information-sharing, and innovation in combating fraud.
The International Swaps and Derivatives Association (ISDA) announced that the London Stock Exchange Group (LSEG) has integrated ISDA’s Digital Regulatory Reporting (DRR) solution into its TradeAgent platform. This integration embeds DRR into a centralized over-the-counter derivatives post-trade processing system, enhancing workflow efficiency and data management. TradeAgent uses the Common Domain Model (CDM) under the Fintech Open Source Foundation (FINOS) framework.
At their first 2026 plenary meeting, the International Financial Reporting Standards Foundation Trustees prioritized sustainable funding, succession planning, and strategic development. They emphasized diversified funding models for the International Accounting Standards Board and the International Sustainability Standards Board, and discussed succession plans for key leadership roles. Strategy discussions focused on the Foundation's long-term operating model, with upcoming publications including the annual report and a revised Due Process Handbook.
The Trinidad and Tobago Securities and Exchange Commission issued Investor Alert No. 5 warning of increasingly sophisticated online and unsolicited investment scams. It highlights red flags such as fake social media profiles, unrealistic returns, impersonation of registered firms or regulators, fabricated platforms, withdrawal delays with excessive fees, and third-party money transfer services. The Commission urges investors to verify registration under the Securities Act Chapter 83:02, conduct independent due diligence, and report suspicious activity, warning that investing with unregistered entities can result in total loss of funds.
The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission issued an interpretive release clarifying federal securities laws' application to crypto assets, distinguishing securities from non-securities. It explains the Howey "investment contract" analysis in the crypto context, noting a non-security crypto asset may still form an investment contract if accompanied by managerial promises. The release also outlines factors for determining investment contract status and conditions for contract termination.
SEC Chair Paul S. Atkins announced a token taxonomy and investment contract interpretation to clarify when crypto assets fall under federal securities laws. The taxonomy identifies digital commodities, collectibles, tools, and payment stablecoins as non-securities, emphasizing clear disclosure of promises under Howey. Atkins also proposed a "Regulation Crypto Assets" safe harbor package and highlighted planned coordination with the Commodity Futures Trading Commission.
The CFTC and SEC issued a joint interpretation clarifying federal securities laws for certain crypto assets and transactions. It defines "security" and introduces a token taxonomy, addressing digital commodities, collectibles, tools, stablecoins, and securities. It aims to clarify regulatory jurisdiction between the SEC and CFTC, with the CFTC noting some non-security crypto assets may qualify as "commodities" under the Commodity Exchange Act.
Ecuador's Superintendence of Banks launched the Global Money Week campaign in Quito, focusing on financial education for children and young people under the theme “Smart money speaks.” Superintendent Roberto Romero von Buchwald emphasized practical financial education to prevent fraud and promote informed decisions. The event included contributions from key figures addressing regulation, economic inclusion, and regional development.
The Brazil Securities Commission (CVM) launched Global Money Week 2026 in Brazil, focusing on financial education and open discussions about money, especially for young people. The event, marked by an opening bell ceremony at B3 in São Paulo, also celebrated the 20th anniversary of CVM’s Education Advisory Committee. The agenda includes panels and webinars on topics like securitisation, financial decision-making, and preparing Generation Alpha for financial wellbeing.
The Financial System Supervisory Authority of Bolivia reiterated its commitment to an equitable financial system at the Ring the Bell for Gender Equality 2026 event. It highlighted the role of gender-focused social bonds, which have channelled over BOB 205.8 million to support women-led micro and small enterprises. The authority aims to continue removing structural barriers and promoting a modern, equitable financial environment.
The Financial Supervisory Authority of Norway released an ICT inspection report on Landkreditt Bank AS, highlighting deficiencies in governance, risk reporting, and compliance with the Digital Operational Resilience Act. The report identified outdated governance documentation, inadequate business impact analysis, and insufficient vendor oversight. In response, the bank updated ICT role descriptions, revised audit follow-up processes, and planned enhanced controls and testing for 2026.
The Brazilian Superintendence of Private Insurance (SUSEP) released its January 2026 bulletin, reporting total collections of BRL 36.17bn in the insurance, open private pension, and capitalization markets, a 0.51% nominal increase from January 2025. Property and personal insurance revenues, excluding VGBL, rose 1.91% year on year, with notable growth in motor, life, and creditor insurance. New charts on technical provisions highlight their faster growth compared to GDP over the past five years.
The Basel Committee on Banking Supervision has appointed Ben Gully as its next Secretary General for a three-year term starting 14 August 2026. Gully, currently Deputy Superintendent at Canada's Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions, will succeed Neil Esho, who retires on 31 March 2026. Deputy Secretary General Toshio Tsuiki will serve as Acting Secretary General until Gully assumes the role.
The European Banking Authority updated its validation rules list under the Implementing Technical Standards on supervisory reporting, addressing deactivated, reactivated, and severity-adjusted rules. Competent Authorities are advised not to validate data against deactivated rules. The EBA also introduced a micro taxonomy package and Data Point Model (DPM) validation rules update scripts, embedded in DPM 2.0 from release 4.0, to enhance implementation consistency and reporting harmonisation.
The National Bank of Ethiopia’s latest Financial Stability Report says the financial system remained safe, sound and stable in fiscal year 2024/25, supported by better macroeconomic conditions and stronger banking sector indicators. Banks improved capital, asset quality, liquidity and profitability, while stress tests showed resilience to plausible shocks. Digital financial services grew sharply to more than ETB 18.5 trillion in transactions, raising operational, cyber and fraud risk management needs.
The Central Reserve Bank of Peru reported a trade surplus of USD 4,622 million for January 2026, USD 2,452 million higher than January 2025, contributing to a cumulative 12-month surplus of USD 37,025 million. January exports rose 37.8% year-on-year to USD 9,858 million, driven by a 35.3% increase in export prices. Imports increased 5.1% to USD 5,236 million, with notable rises in durable consumer and capital goods.
The Central Bank of Aruba published its External Sector quarterly tables for 2025 Q3, updating balance of payments statistics and revising series for 2013–2022. The 2025 Q3 current account balance was -Afl. 38.3 million, with a goods deficit of -Afl. 714.7 million, a services surplus of Afl. 838.3 million, an income balance of -Afl. 161.8 million and a capital account balance of Afl. 1.1 million. Net lending/borrowing from the current and capital accounts was -Afl. 37.1 million, from the financial account -Afl. 96.9 million, with reserve assets at -Afl. 272.3 million and net errors and omissions at -Afl. 59.8 million.
Bermuda’s Ministry of Finance announced that Premier and Minister of Finance David Burt will attend the DC Blockchain Summit in Washington, DC, to enhance collaboration with US policymakers on blockchain and digital asset regulation. Discussions will focus on stablecoin frameworks, payments interoperability, tokenised markets, and financial market integrity, aligning with Bermuda's Digital Asset Business Act. The programme includes a fireside chat with the Stellar Development Foundation and meetings with US federal agencies.
The General Pension and Social Security Authority (GPSSA) outlined rules for pension contributions, emphasizing employer responsibility for deducting and remitting based on the employee's contribution salary. Contribution rates are set at 20% under Federal Law No. 7 of 1999 and 26% under Federal Decree-Law No. 57 of 2023, with a 2.5% government subsidy for private sector Emiratis. Contributions are due on the first of the following month, with penalties for late payment, and are non-refundable.