The Belgium Financial Services and Markets Authority released survey findings indicating that 52% of Belgians make a budget, with increased adoption of smartphone payments and buy now, pay later apps. The results highlight the importance of financial education, coinciding with Money Week, during which FSMA will educate 190,000 school pupils on budgeting.
Norges Bank has published its monthly balance sheet for February 2026, detailing the central bank's assets, liabilities, and equity. The balance sheet is released around the 11th business day of the following month, with historical data available since 1817. Annual financial statements adhere to the Accounting Act and regulations specific to Norges Bank.
The Bank of Italy released updated Financial Market statistics for January–February 2026 in its publication "The Financial Market."
The Bank of Italy released updated statistics on public finances, detailing the borrowing requirement and public debt as of January 2026.
Ceres announced that 37 companies, investors, and trade associations will participate in LEAD on a Clean Economy 2026 on Capitol Hill from March 17 to March 19, advocating for bipartisan policies to lower energy costs and bolster US economic leadership. The agenda focuses on permitting reform, grid modernisation, electric vehicle infrastructure, and rural investment. Participants include DHL, IKEA US, Schneider Electric, and Siemens, generating nearly USD 600 billion in annual revenue and employing over 600,000 Americans.
The International Monetary Fund concluded its High-Level Pacific Islands Dialogue in Fiji, focusing on challenges facing Pacific Island economies and IMF support. The conference outcomes will guide the IMF's future engagement, including policy analysis and capacity development priorities. Participants included representatives from 14 Pacific Island countries, regional organizations, and international financial institutions.
The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission proposed amendments to Exchange Act Rule 15c2-11 to limit its quotation-related requirements to equity securities. Commissioner Hester M. Peirce supported the proposal, noting it aligns the rule with historical market understanding and addresses concerns from the 2020 amendments. Peirce invited comments on the rule's scope, including its application to crypto assets and the definition of "equity security."
The Bank of Uganda said Super Gate Forex Bureau Limited voluntarily ceased carrying on money remittance business with effect from 16 March 2026, and customers with outstanding remittance claims must submit them with evidence by 12 June 2026.
The Central Bank of Colombia's ESPE journal article examines gender gaps in Colombia, highlighting unpaid care work as a key factor. It identifies a 13% unexplained wage gap and a 20 percentage point labour force participation gap, attributing these to women's disproportionate care responsibilities. The article suggests that closing these gaps could enhance employment, productivity, and economic growth, while easing fiscal pressures.
The Central Bank of Poland reported a PLN 4.9 billion current account surplus in January 2026, reversing a PLN 0.2 billion deficit a year earlier. Goods exports fell 2.7% and imports fell 6.9%, producing a trade surplus, while services remained strongly positive. The primary income deficit widened to PLN 10.2 billion, mainly due to income earned by foreign direct investors.
The Authority for Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism (AMLA) has launched a data collection and testing exercise for selected credit and financial institutions to refine its risk assessment models. This initiative aims to inform the 2027 selection of up to 40 entities for AMLA’s direct supervision starting in 2028 and ensure consistent money laundering risk assessments across EU supervisors. The package includes a template, interpretative note, and a recorded webinar.
The Central Bank of Aruba published its quarterly Government Sector tables for 2025 Q4, updating cash-basis statistics on government financial operations, revenue, monetary system position, and debt. The data show total revenue of AWG 428.6 million and expenditure of AWG 437.0 million, resulting in a quarterly financial deficit of AWG 9.4 million, with total government debt at end-2025 of AWG 5,124.4 million, comprising AWG 2,029.8 million in domestic debt and AWG 3,094.6 million in foreign debt.
The Financial and Consumer Services Commission of New Brunswick reminded businesses and entities to review and report unclaimed monetary property under the Unclaimed Property Act. Reporting is mandatory for most businesses, including small businesses, non-profits, and government entities, during the annual period from 1 January to 31 March.
The Alberta Securities Commission appointed Deanna Steblyk, K.C. as Vice-Chair, succeeding Tom Cotter, effective until March 10, 2032. Steblyk, a senior lawyer with extensive experience in administrative and securities law, has been with the ASC since 2008. As Vice-Chair, she will also serve as a Commission Member, overseeing management and securities law changes.
The British Virgin Islands Financial Services Commission issued a warning that Xeno Portfolio Limited is no longer registered as a BVI Business Company and has never been licensed to conduct financial services, including virtual assets services, in the Territory. The company was incorporated on 10 August 2023 and dissolved on 9 February 2026. The public is advised to exercise caution and avoid business with the company.
The Central Bank of Barbados has rescheduled the launch of BiMPay, the national instant payment system, to 12 June 2026, to ensure participant readiness and complete interoperability testing. The Bank will collaborate with institutions for a secure launch, while existing electronic payment services via the Automated Clearing House will remain available until BiMPay is operational.
The Central Bank of Montenegro hosted an Open Doors Day for high school students as part of Global Money Week and its 25th anniversary, focusing on financial literacy. The event included discussions on money management, payment security, and fraud recognition, with participation from Governor Irena Radovic and Vice Governors. A knowledge quiz awarded first prize to Grammar School “Petar I Petrovic Njegoš” in Danilovgrad.
The National Bank of Moldova highlighted Governor Anca Dragu’s lecture for International Financial Education Week, focusing on responsible financial decision-making and digital payment integration with Europe. Dragu emphasized Moldova's improved sovereign rating and progress in joining the Single Euro Payments Area (SEPA), enhancing cross-border transfers. The bank also reported widespread use of its MIA Instant Payments system and regulatory alignment with European standards.
The Ukraine National Commission on Securities and Stock Market and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development discussed creating an exchange holding company in Ukraine to integrate key exchange infrastructure. The model involves a strategic investor and state participation, with regulatory oversight aligned with EU practices. Future steps include an international tender to select the strategic investor and efforts to harmonize Ukrainian legislation with European standards.
HM Treasury plans to reform the Financial Ombudsman Service (FOS) to enhance its role as a fast, impartial dispute resolution body, aligning it more closely with the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). Key changes include modifying the "fair and reasonable" test, introducing a referral mechanism to the FCA for ambiguous cases, and setting a 10-year complaint time limit. The FOS will remain independent of the FCA, with structural changes and regular reports to clarify complaint handling.
The Central Bank of Bosnia and Herzegovina invites research papers on financial sector development for a seminar series and publication. Researchers from domestic and international institutions can submit concept notes or extended abstracts on topics like banking, nonbank finance, and monetary policy. Submissions will undergo blind review, with selected papers presented in Sarajevo and published on the central bank’s website.
The Central Bank of Russia issued guidance on anti-money laundering law amendments effective 3 March 2026, prohibiting credit institutions from delegating customer identification to bank payment agents (BPAs). BPAs are no longer allowed to conduct customer identification under existing agreements.
The Austrian National Bank and Austria’s Federal Ministry of Finance have nominated Helmut Ettl, a current member of the Financial Market Authority’s Executive Board, as Executive Director at the International Monetary Fund for the term from November 2026 to October 2028. Ettl has extensive experience in European supervisory roles, including positions at the European Central Bank and the European Banking Authority. The formal election for the IMF Executive Board is set for autumn 2026.
The International Monetary Fund has released a How-To Note guiding central banks in emerging markets and developing economies on designing and reviewing inflation targets. It emphasizes the importance of a clearly defined inflation target for monetary policy and addresses challenges specific to these economies, such as volatile environments and weaker institutions. It also discusses target levels, inflation measures, time horizons, and the credibility risks of adjusting targets.
Mauritius has adhered to the IMF's Special Data Dissemination Standard (SDDS) Plus, becoming the first African nation and the 32nd globally to do so. This upgrade requires Mauritius to meet more stringent requirements for macroeconomic and financial data dissemination, including additional data categories and more detailed reporting. The data is accessible via Mauritius’s National Summary Data Page and the IMF’s Dissemination Standards Bulletin Board.
The Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario imposed administrative penalties totaling CAD 20,500 on Rebecca Thien Kim Nguyendo for contraventions of the Mortgage Brokerages, Lenders and Administrators Act, 2006. Violations included actions leading to her brokerage contravening the Act and facilitating unlicensed activities. The order followed a settlement with Nguyendo.
The Ontario Securities Commission is co-hosting Operation Atlantic with U.S., UK, and Canadian law enforcement to combat cryptoasset losses from "approval phishing" and related scams. The operation aims to disrupt fraud schemes, aid victims in asset recovery, and raise public awareness. It involves multiple agencies, including the U.S. Secret Service and the UK’s National Crime Agency, and builds on the 2024 Canadian-led Project Atlas.
The Commodity Futures Trading Commission appointed Jessica Harris as director of its Division of Data and chief data officer. Harris, with 25 years of experience in surveillance, market conduct, and financial regulation, will oversee the CFTC’s data strategy amid evolving derivatives markets.
The Moroccan Capital Markets Authority announced a youth-focused financial literacy programme for the 14th Global Money Week, combining on-the-ground initiatives with new digital content under the theme “Smart money talks”. Delivered with the Moroccan Foundation for Financial Education and the Ministry of National Education, Preschool, and Sports, the programme includes school contests, immersion days, training workshops, new “Investor Guide” editions, and expanded resources on the “Capital Market for All” portal.
The Bank for International Settlements' Quarterly Review examines how emerging market economy (EME) central banks with floating exchange rates respond to US monetary policy surprises. EMEs with high foreign currency debt and shallow FX markets align policy rates with US changes and use FX interventions, reducing exchange rate fluctuations. Economies with significant US dollar-denominated debt show stronger policy rate pass-through, while those with higher local currency debt face greater currency depreciation.
The Bank of Zambia mandates registration for all virtual asset service providers (VASPs) operating in Zambia by 27 March 2026, as part of developing a regulatory framework for the sector. From 30 March 2026, regulated entities cannot facilitate transactions with unregistered VASPs. Registration aims to build a central database, assess market risks, and support compliance monitoring, but does not equate to licensing or approval to operate.
The China Banking and Insurance Regulatory Commission's 2026 agenda focuses on systemic risk prevention, regulatory strengthening, and enhancing banking and insurance support for the real economy. Priorities include resolving risks for small and medium-sized financial institutions, advancing a new real estate financing framework, and improving financial supervision and consumer protection. The agenda aligns with the 15th Five-Year Plan and Government Work Report, emphasizing capital replenishment and sector development.
The Agency for Regulation and Development of the Financial Market of Kazakhstan, the National Bank, and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development signed a memorandum to support capital market reform in Kazakhstan. The agreement includes an EBRD technical assistance project for systemic reforms, assessing the securities market, and drafting a new securities market law. Planned measures aim to enhance market infrastructure, refine regulation, and introduce new financial instruments.
The Republic of Serbia Securities Commission conducted a workshop on 11 March 2026 to draft rulebooks under the Capital Market Law, aiming to align domestic financial services legislation with European Union law. The initiative, led by project expert Pierre Matek and supported by the PLAC IV project, focuses on compliance with EU regulations in the Chapter 9 financial services area.
The National Bank of Romania has issued a warning about the fraudulent use of its name by the website credora-romania.com, which falsely claims to offer credit products under a central bank licence. The bank clarified that no entity named CREDORA is registered with it and advised the public to verify lending offers against its official registers.
The Government of Jersey has unveiled "Time to Win," a growth strategy for the financial and professional services sector, backed by GBP 30 million from the 2026–2029 Budget. The plan emphasizes a stable tax regime, reducing business costs, enhancing market promotion, and advancing digital innovation, including tokenisation. Recommendations from an independent panel chaired by Sir Howard Davies informed the strategy.
The Bank of Greece has launched Global Money Week 2026, focusing on reducing the gender gap in financial literacy with initiatives aimed at women's empowerment in saving and investment. Activities include a social media campaign targeting young women and an educational programme at the Bank of Greece Museum. The initiative sees increased participation from financial stakeholders such as Alpha Bank and the Hellenic Capital Market Commission.
The Bank for International Settlements' Quarterly Review highlights the rapid growth of synthetic risk transfers (SRTs) for capital and credit risk management, noting a fivefold increase since 2016. SRTs have provided significant protection to loan portfolios, covering nearly EUR 800 billion by end-2024, but still protect only a small fraction of total bank loans. The review underscores potential systemic risks, such as procyclicality and cross-border complexities, and calls for enhanced transparency and monitoring to address these vulnerabilities.
CySEC announced its Global Money Week 2026 programme, aiming to enhance financial literacy among youth through lectures, presentations, and educational materials developed with the Ministry of Education, Sport and Youth. CySEC will engage supervised entities to promote the campaign's messages and encourage participation.
The BIS Quarterly Review highlights central banks' adaptation of monetary policy communication amid uncertainty, noting increased use of scenario analysis and policy rate projections. Using data from 25 central banks, the study shows a rise in uncertainty-related wording in statements and speeches, with fan charts and qualitative risk discussions becoming more prevalent. It also explores trade-offs of communication tools, including fan-chart width and scenario calibration.
The BIS Quarterly Review advocates a nationality-based approach to analysing offshore financial activity, enhancing monitoring of vulnerabilities and spillovers. It estimates USD 11 trillion of USD 33 trillion in international bonds were issued by affiliates outside their parent country, notably in financial centres like the Cayman Islands, Ireland, and Luxembourg. It highlights gaps in nationality-based statistics for portfolio and foreign direct investment, limiting tracing of offshore activity and ownership.
The Bank for International Settlements introduced the BIS Time-series Regression Oracle (BISTRO), a model for macroeconomic forecasts using transformer methods from large language models. Trained on a BIS dataset of 4,925 time series from 63 economies, BISTRO outperforms benchmarks in forecasting unemployment, GDP growth, and inflation over longer horizons. The paper includes scripts for users to generate forecasts in Google Colab, accommodating mixed frequencies and publication lags.
The Central Bank of Brazil published the January 2026 Economic Activity Index (IBC-Br), offering updated insights into Brazil's economic activity.
The Dutch Authority for the Financial Markets has issued improvement points for smaller asset managers to enhance compliance with investor protection standards. These cover suitability assessments, product approval, staff competence, cost transparency, conflict controls, incident reporting, and compliance design. The AFM publication, “Meeting investor protection standards: what does this mean for you?”, offers detailed guidance for firms to implement changes.
The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) announced changes to modernize the UK redress system, aiming for quicker consumer outcomes and clearer firm guidance. Key updates include a new registration stage for complaints, revised dismissal grounds, and enhanced guidance on the fair and reasonable test. The FCA will collaborate with the Financial Ombudsman Service and the Government on broader redress framework reforms.
The Ukraine National Commission on Securities and Stock Market has initiated a survey for capital markets participants to evaluate communication and interaction with the regulator. The survey aims to gather insights on the clarity, usefulness, and professionalism of engagements to enhance regulatory and communications policy. Responses are anonymous and intended to provide an objective view of trust in the regulator.
The Dutch Authority for the Financial Markets (AFM) released a study on pension fund compliance, emphasizing compliance functions' role in aligning board decisions with participant interests beyond legal adherence. Following the new Pension Act, the AFM's expanded duties include guidance on information provision and participant complaints. The study found that effective compliance functions, though not legally mandated, enhance decision-making by acting as independent counterweights and clarifying processes.
The Bank of Israel released its 2025 Statistical Bulletin, highlighting a 15.5% increase in the public's financial assets portfolio to NIS 7.2 trillion, driven by equity and cash/deposit growth. Nonfinancial private sector debt rose 9% to NIS 2.5 trillion, with significant increases in real estate and construction debt. Foreign assets and liabilities grew by 17% and 18% respectively, with the shekel appreciating 12.5% against the US dollar.
The Monetary Authority of Macao and the Financial Development Services of the Guangdong-Macao In-Depth Cooperation Zone in Hengqin held a presentation on Macao’s investment funds sector after the new Investment Funds Law took effect, attracting around 160 participants. The session outlined coordinated development opportunities between Hengqin and Macao, support measures for modern finance and private funds, and Macao’s legal and business framework, including facilitation for Hengqin-based managers to set up in Macao. The Authority will keep promoting Macao’s financial market to attract more qualified fund managers.
The Croatian Financial Services Supervisory Agency (Hanfa) announced its programme for Global and European Money Week, focusing on enhancing financial literacy and fraud awareness among youth through lectures, campaigns, and competitions. Survey findings reveal that while pupils value saving, they possess only basic financial knowledge, with secondary students struggling with complex concepts. Hanfa will engage in events and activities, including a student debate and a video competition on scam awareness.
The Croatian Financial Services Supervisory Agency (Hanfa) reported elevated systemic risks in the financial sector due to inflation and property price growth, despite stable capital positions in insurers and leasing companies. Positive financial market trends were noted, but geopolitical tensions and volatile investor sentiment pose potential destabilizing factors. Updates were also provided on the Fiscalisation Act and planned legislative amendments in the pension sector and other financial areas.
The National Bank of Poland reported February 2026 core inflation at 2.5% year on year, excluding food and energy, with headline CPI inflation at 2.1%. Other core measures include 1.6% excluding administered prices, 2.3% excluding the most volatile prices, and a 15% trimmed mean of 2.2%. The bank emphasizes the food-and-energy-excluding measure for its responsiveness to monetary policy.
The Securities and Exchange Commission of the Republic of North Macedonia participated in organizing the national European Money Quiz 2026, with approximately 1,300 students. Top teams from SEPUGS Vasil Antevski-Dren in Skopje will compete in the final round on 19 March 2026, with the winner representing North Macedonia at the European Final in Brussels.
The India International Financial Services Centres Authority approved a FinTech Sandbox Framework for testing FinTech and TechFin solutions across all IFSCA-regulated sectors. The framework expands eligibility to individuals and groups affiliated with recognised academic institutions, incubators and accelerators in India and FATF-compliant jurisdictions, and introduces a two-stage application and approval process via the Single Window IT System. It also permits market exploration for developed products within the International Financial Services Centre and broadens testing to all financial services, products and institutions regulated by the authority.
The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) issued a scam alert regarding fraudulent websites and an internet banking login screen linked to OCBC Bank Hong Kong Limited. HKMA emphasized that banks will not send SMS or emails with embedded hyperlinks for transactions or request sensitive information via phone, email, or SMS. Customers affected by the scam should contact their bank and report to the Hong Kong Police Force.
The European Association of CCP Clearing Houses and a coalition of energy and financial entities sent a joint letter to EU leaders opposing a proposed natural gas price cap, citing risks to energy security and market stability. They warn that capping prices could undermine market signals, disrupt hedging via energy derivatives, and increase costs across the value chain. The coalition advocates for preserving market-based price formation and designing consumer support measures that do not interfere with price signals.
The European Payments Council has updated the Verification of Payee (VOP) scheme, including the VOP scheme rulebook version 1.1, VOP API specifications version 1.1, and the VOP API Security Framework version 2.1, effective 20 September 2026. These updates help Single Euro Payments Area payment service providers comply with the EU Instant Payments Regulation. Key changes include inter-PSP rules, API field requirements, and security standards for VOP, SEPA Request-to-Pay, and SEPA Payment Account Access participants.
The National Bank of Moldova announced that an extract from its Executive Committee decision regarding a thematic on-site inspection at BC EuroCreditBank S.A. is available for collection. The inspection was conducted from 27 January 2025 to 28 February 2025.
The National Bank of the Republic of Tajikistan granted Open Joint Stock Company “Fuel Supply Company” a licence for foreign currency operations. This aligns with Tajikistan’s laws on the central bank, permitting system, and foreign exchange regulation, as well as Instruction No. 251.
The Central Bank of Taiwan published its monthly overview of renminbi business by domestic banking units and offshore banking units as of end-February 2026. End-January 2026 renminbi deposits excluding negotiable certificates of deposit totalled RMB 109.07 billion and discounts and loans RMB 22.89 billion, while January remittances fell to RMB 84.74 billion from RMB 182.63 billion in the previous month.
The Bank of Zambia launched the 2026 Financial Literacy Week with the theme “Smart Money Talks,” emphasizing continuous financial education under the National Strategy on Financial Education (NSFE). Despite existing initiatives, many remain financially uninformed, prompting an NSFE All Ages Working Group strategy for year-round activities. Provincial campaigns are planned for March 2026, with NSFE Phase III strategy completion expected by year-end.
The India International Financial Services Centres Authority (IFSCA) approved the FinTech Sandbox Framework, enabling FinTech and TechFin innovations testing within the IFSC ecosystem. Eligibility now includes individuals and groups affiliated with recognized academic institutions, incubators, and accelerators in India and Financial Action Task Force compliant jurisdictions. A two-stage approval process facilitates market exploration for developed products within IFSC.
The Uganda Insurance Regulatory Authority has directed all non-life insurers to conduct structured awareness initiatives for policyholders on procedures and requirements under the Workers’ Compensation regime to improve claims administration. Insurers must target policyholders under Workers’ Compensation and Group Personal Accident policies, cover key aspects of injury reporting, documentation, medical assessments and claims processes, integrate these activities into policyholder engagement, and maintain records as evidence. The Authority may request information to demonstrate compliance, with non-compliance subject to regulatory action.
The Central Bank of Estonia released its monthly flash estimate of the balance of payments for January, showing faster growth in exports of goods and services compared to imports. This estimate, based on limited data, is adjusted upon the release of the quarterly balance of payments compiled from comprehensive primary data sources.
Bank of Indonesia reported Indonesia’s external debt at USD434.7 billion in January 2026, with annual growth easing to 1.7% and the external debt-to-GDP ratio declining to 29.6%. Public sector external debt, largely long term and driven by government borrowing and inflows into international government securities, remained the main driver, while private external debt contracted to USD193.0 billion, mainly among non-financial corporations.
Open Banking Limited has issued updated Q&As clarifying the use of variable recurring payments (VRPs) for "sweeping" under the Competition and Markets Authority’s Retail Banking Market Investigation Order 2017. The guidance specifies criteria for destination accounts, exclusions, and escalation routes for disputes between CMA9 banks and PISPs. The Q&As will be updated as market and regulatory developments occur, with commercial arrangements for VRPs outside sweeping remaining unrestricted.
Open Banking Limited released an EY analysis estimating GBP 8.3bn in cumulative benefits to the UK economy, with higher gains expected as adoption grows. The study forecasts annual benefits of GBP 7.4bn in five years and up to GBP 43bn at full maturity, driven by increased use of consent-based data sharing. The report highlights a projected annual GDP uplift of GBP 4.8bn within five years from reduced SME administrative costs and improved consumer financial management.
The Vietnam State Securities Commission has mandated 16 individuals to pay a VND 1,000,000 licensing fee for a securities practising certificate, as per the Ministry of Finance’s Circular 25/2022/TT-BTC. Payment can be made via bank transfer or in person. Failure to complete the procedure within one year will result in certificate cancellation.
China's National Financial Regulatory Administration (NFRA) has issued Interim Measures on Supervisory Ratings for Wealth Management Companies, creating a framework for differentiated regulation of bank wealth management subsidiaries. The measures include rating requirements based on six modules, such as corporate governance and risk management, with results classified into levels 1–6 and an S level. NFRA will enhance implementation and guidance for consistent application.
Finance Secretary Frederick D. Go praised the Insurance Commission's 2025 performance, noting total insurance premiums surpassed PHP 500 billion for the first time. He emphasized extending protection to underserved groups and advocated for developing Takaful, microinsurance, and accident coverages. Go highlighted digital transformation and collaboration with ASEAN and global partners for enhanced consumer protection and efficient insurance processes.
INTERPOL's 2026 Global Financial Fraud Threat Assessment highlights AI-enabled fraud, 4.5 times more profitable than traditional methods, and the integration of sextortion into scams. To combat these threats, INTERPOL is launching Operation Shadow Storm, an international task force funded by the UK's Home Office, and issuing guidelines for National Anti-Scam Centres. These initiatives were announced at the Global Fraud Summit, co-organised with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime.
The Philippine Securities and Exchange Commission fined Nittan Capital Finance Inc. PHP 88,500 for incomplete disclosure of loan costs before a borrower signed an agreement. The company must revise its disclosure documents and amortization schedules to comply with truth-in-lending requirements.
The Philippine Securities and Exchange Commission cleared PNB Holdings Corporation’s listing by way of introduction, subject to remaining requirements. The registration covers up to 46.93 billion shares at PHP 1.20 each, for a total listing value of PHP 56.32 billion.
The Alberta Securities Commission announced the appointment of Deanna Steblyk, K.C. as Vice-Chair and Commission Member, succeeding Tom Cotter. Steblyk will oversee management and consider changes to Alberta securities laws. Cotter's 12-year tenure included work on precedent-setting panels and participation in the North American Securities Administrators Association.
The Philippines Insurance Commission and five public institutions have agreed to establish a shared cyber defense solution for the insurance cluster. Land Bank will lead procurement, while joint technical and oversight bodies will set requirements, oversee implementation and monitor cyber threats.
At Financial Education Week 2026 in Lisbon, the Portuguese Insurance Regulator (ASF) emphasized integrating financial literacy into compulsory education and improving assessment methods. ASF President Gabriel Bernardino advocated for foundational skills in mandatory subjects. The event featured key figures, including the Governor of the Bank of Portugal and the President of the Portuguese Securities Market Commission, and concluded with announcing the Todos Contam contest winners.
The Norwegian Financial Supervisory Authority reviewed Borregaard ASA's financial reporting, focusing on the impairment test of its investment in Alginor ASA in the 2024 annual report. It found non-compliance with IAS 28 and IAS 36 due to the inclusion of cash flows from undecided project phases, prompting a remeasurement showing the recoverable amount exceeded the carrying amount. The authority noted Borregaard's subsequent impairment loss of NOK 225 million in its fourth quarter 2025 interim report and will address remaining issues later.
Latvia's Ministry of Finance and Latvijas Banka have drafted amendments to the Deposit Guarantee Law to revise bank and credit union contributions. Key changes include eliminating the initial payment for new institutions, setting a target fund level of 3% of covered deposits, and capping regular contributions at 0.05% of the average covered deposit balance. The Ministry anticipates reaching the 3% target by 2027, potentially reducing annual contributions to approximately EUR 9 million.
The National Bank of Moldova and the IMF discussed a new three-year, non-financing programme focused on macroeconomic stability and structural reforms. It aims to strengthen monetary policy, implement the 2025 Financial Sector Assessment Program recommendations, and align Moldova’s financial framework with EU standards. Coordination with Moldova’s 2025–2027 Growth Plan was also addressed to ensure reform alignment and avoid overlaps.
The Securities and Exchange Board of India has revised the Core Settlement Guarantee Fund coverage framework for clearing corporations in the commodity derivatives segment. The updated framework requires stress-testing for credit exposure based on the default of at least three clearing members, replacing the previous two-member default requirement. SEBI may grant exemptions or relaxations based on market conditions and risk management adequacy.
The Italian Institute for Insurance Supervision (IVASS) issued a warning regarding a counterfeit insurance policy falsely attributed to SIAT Società Italiana Assicurazioni e Riassicurazioni per Azioni. IVASS advised customers to verify the legitimacy of insurance offers and ensure they are dealing with authorised insurers and intermediaries by consulting IVASS’s online resources.
The IMF Executive Board completed the 2026 Post-Financing Assessment for the Republic of Congo, noting intensified fiscal, external, and debt vulnerabilities amid fiscal slippage and liquidity tensions. Economic growth was 2.1% in 2024 and an estimated 2.4% in 2025, with a widened current account deficit and increased fiscal pressures. The Board emphasized the need for stronger budget discipline, fiscal consolidation, structural reforms, and enhanced governance to address significant repayment risks.
The Central Bank of Honduras announced an increase in net international reserves by USD 498.7 million from 27 January to 13 March 2026, reaching USD 10,804.5 million. This rise improved the import coverage from 6.2 to 6.51 months.
The Central Bank of the Philippines issued a circular to Authorized Agent Banks and their foreign exchange subsidiaries about lost Bangko Sentral Registration Documents (BSRDs) for inward foreign direct investments. Documents involving LG Electronics, Inc. and its investee firms should not be honored for foreign exchange transactions, aligning with Section 38 of the Manual of Regulations on Foreign Exchange Transactions.
The Vietnam State Securities Commission's Technology and Digital Transformation Department is seeking cost quotations from companies for a software upgrade project to enhance fee and charge management.
People's Bank of China Vice Governor Lu Lei participated in the Inter-American Development Bank Group's annual meeting in Paraguay, discussing reform progress and the economic situation in Latin America. He also met with Inter-American Development Bank President Ilan Goldfajn to explore strengthening bilateral cooperation.
The Thailand Office of Insurance Commission launched the "Restaurants with Insurance Protection" initiative to promote embedded insurance, enhancing safety standards and consumer confidence in the restaurant sector. The programme integrates insurance into business activities, with adoption covering property and third-party liability among over 320,000 restaurant operators. Notably, more than 20 restaurants in Bangkok and major tourist destinations have prioritized comprehensive coverage.
The Central Bank of the Philippines reported a 3.5% year-on-year increase in overseas Filipino cash remittances, reaching USD 3.02 billion in January 2026. Personal remittances also rose by 3.5% to USD 3.36 billion. The United States was the top source of cash remittances, though the central bank noted limitations in remittance-by-source data due to routing through correspondent banks and money couriers.
The Malaysia Securities Commission hosted an engagement day where the Malaysia Co-Investment Fund unveiled new programmes to support micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises through equity crowdfunding and peer-to-peer platforms. Initiatives include a Silver Economy Scheme for MSMEs in care-tech and healthcare, a VC/PE Profit-Sharing Incentive, and an expanded Food Security Scheme for agri-tech startups. MyCIF has facilitated over MYR 7.7 billion in funding for MSMEs since 2019.
The Central Bank of Colombia's new Ensayos Sobre Política Económica article highlights persistent gender gaps in Colombia, particularly in the labour market, despite advances in education and regulation for women. The study suggests that reducing these disparities could enhance employment, productivity, and economic growth, while alleviating fiscal pressures related to population ageing and social protection sustainability.
The Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) announced a staged consultation on reforms to banks' capital and liquidity settings, aligning liquidity requirements with international standards and enhancing risk sensitivity. The package includes a new Pillar 2 liquidity framework for large banks and a risk-sensitive framework for smaller banks, with expected cost savings. APRA plans targeted amendments to the capital framework and a simplified approach to market risk, aiming for overall cost neutrality for the industry.
ASIC is consulting on remaking two sunsetting legislative instruments for exchange-traded warrants, proposing a five-year extension with minor amendments. The instruments exempt certain warrants from margin lending obligations and disclosure requirements. Proposed changes include adopting market-neutral language, simplifying definitions, and rewording exemptions for clarity.
The Australian Securities & Investments Commission (ASIC) released Moneysmart research on Gen Z financial behaviors, highlighting reliance on social media and AI for financial information. The study found significant trust in these platforms, with 56% trusting social media and 64% trusting AI, and noted high exposure to cryptocurrency promotion. ASIC urged young Australians to verify financial information to mitigate riskier decisions.
The Australian Securities and Investments Commission announced that the New South Wales Supreme Court ordered Macquarie Securities (Australia) Limited to pay an AUD 35 million penalty for misreporting short sales due to systems failures. The Court found Macquarie lacked adequate risk management and supervisory systems, leading to misleading conduct. Macquarie must engage an independent expert to review its reporting systems and pay ASIC's costs.
The Australian Securities & Investments Commission has revamped its Moneysmart website to enhance consumer education, marking 15 years of operation. The redesign aims to improve accessibility and engagement, focusing on how younger Australians learn and make financial decisions. Moneysmart offers updated content on budgeting, saving, debt management, and investment risks, serving as a reliable alternative to social media for financial info.
The Central Bank of the Dominican Republic reported remittances of USD 1,870.4 million for January–February 2026, marking a 1.0% year-on-year increase. February inflows were USD 887.6 million, impacted by challenging international conditions and weaker-than-expected US economic performance, which accounted for 83.4% of remittances. The bank maintained its 2026 outlook for 3.5% remittance growth, projecting USD 12,200 million in remittances and foreign direct investment over USD 5,000 million.
The Central Bank of Bahrain’s Board of Directors approved the audited financial statements for 2025 and reviewed key activities and financial-sector developments through February 2026. Supervisory measures have been strengthened to ensure continuity of financial services amid regional developments. Monetary indicators showed increases in money supply, private deposits, and loans, while point-of-sale activity declined in January 2026.
The Central Bank of Libya has begun implementing House of Representatives instructions to cancel a tax on certain goods and to resume foreign currency sales for all purposes. It is preparing the required procedures and system changes so foreign currency can be provided at the official exchange rate within monthly revenue limits, while also continuing efforts to maintain cash liquidity across Libya.
The Central Bank of the United Arab Emirates issued a silver commemorative coin for Emirati Children's Day, with a nominal value of AED 15. The coin features the theme "The Right to Identity and National Culture" and an illustration of a fort, with 2,000 coins produced. Details on the release date and purchase mechanism will be announced later.
The Thailand Securities and Exchange Commission has filed a criminal complaint with the Economic Crime Suppression Division against IBS Intensive Co., Ltd. and its director, Mr. Kridtapon Petkeawna, for allegedly operating derivatives and digital asset fund management businesses without licences. The SEC alleges that since May 2021 the firm solicited public investments in gold futures and digital assets, including via Facebook, in breach of the Derivatives Act and the Emergency Decree on Digital Asset Businesses, and will cooperate with law enforcement.