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2026-02-23•United States•U.S. Securities & Exchange Commission
SEC Chairman Paul S. Atkins outlined an agenda to boost IPOs and address the decline in U.S.-listed public companies, emphasizing his personal views. His strategy includes re-anchoring disclosures in materiality, refocusing shareholder meetings, and creating litigation alternatives to deter frivolous claims. Atkins supported the INVEST Act and the Empowering Main Street in America Act, highlighting proposals for IPO flexibility, modernizing investor definitions, and expanding retirement account investment options.
Policy & regulationReform agendas & prioritiesSecurities offerings and listings
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2026-02-23•United States•Federal Reserve Board
The Federal Reserve Board proposed removing "reputation risk" from bank supervision and reinforcing a policy against penalizing banks for serving lawful customers. This aims to focus on material financial risks and improve clarity, emphasizing that discrimination based on political views, religious beliefs, or lawful business activities is unlawful. The change does not affect expectations for robust bank risk management and compliance with laws.
Policy & regulationRules & requirementsSupervision process and methodologies
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2026-02-23•United States•Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas
The Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas released the third edition of “At the Heart of Texas,” detailing economic profiles of Texas' largest metropolitan areas from 2016 to 2023. The report highlights industry growth, the impact of the artificial intelligence boom on data center expansion, and varying growth drivers and constraints across metros, including migration, sector diversification, and energy sector recovery. Key themes include Dallas' expanding finance and e-commerce clusters, Houston's slower rebound, and Austin's growth from business relocations and tech services.
ResearchEconomic data and developments
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2026-02-22•Dominican Republic•Central Bank of the Dominican Republic
The Central Bank of the Dominican Republic reported a net increase of 133,915 workers in 2025, driven predominantly by formal employment, which constituted 98.5% of job creation. The average employment rate reached 62.9%, with a participation rate of 66.2%, while the informality rate decreased to 54.1%. In the last quarter of 2025, total employment rose by 2.3% year-on-year, with significant job growth among women and an unemployment rate of 5.0%.
Data & statisticsEconomic data and developments
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2026-02-22•Global•Financial Action Task Force
The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) released its Annual Report 2024-2025, detailing efforts under the Mexican Presidency of Elisa de Anda Madrazo. Key initiatives include addressing online child sexual exploitation, terrorist financing, and proliferation financing, alongside evaluations of nearly 200 countries' counter-illicit finance systems. The report also updates payment transparency requirements and efforts to integrate more individuals into the formal financial sector.
Policy & regulationPeer reviews and country evaluationsAML and CFT
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2026-02-22•Oman•Central Bank of Oman
The Central Bank of Oman has introduced regulations for buy now, pay later (BNPL) services, establishing a supervisory framework for disciplined and transparent operations. The rules mandate licensing, capital adequacy, disclosure standards, risk management, and consumer protection for licensed institutions.
Policy & regulationRules & requirementsBNPL
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2026-02-22•Libya•Central Bank of Libya
The Central Bank of Libya invited commercial banks to subscribe to Issue No. 5-2026 of unrestricted Mudaraba deposit certificates, following the procedures and controls used in earlier issuances and the tenors and maturity dates in the subscription announcement.
Monetary policyMonetary policy instruments & operationsOther
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2026-02-22•Middle East•Middle East and North Africa Financial Action Task Force (MENAFATF)
MENAFATF and the UN Office of Counter-Terrorism held a webinar on countering virtual assets misuse for terrorism financing. It focused on applying international standards in MENA and discussed the Algeria Guiding Principles. An online survey was introduced for MENAFATF members to share experiences for a forthcoming handbook addendum.
Policy & regulationGuidance & interpretationAML and CFT
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2026-02-22•Egypt•Egypt Financial Regulatory Authority
The Egypt Financial Regulatory Authority mandates factoring companies to verify invoices through its electronic system to prevent duplicate financing. The digital platform, launched with eFinance, allows electronic invoice queries and verification, connecting to the Ministry of Finance and the Egyptian Tax Authority. Decision No. 51 of 2026 also requires factoring agreements to include a clause for publicising security rights in the Movable Collateral Registry.
Policy & regulationRules & requirementsSupervision process and methodologies
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2026-02-22•Vietnam•State Bank of Vietnam
Governor Nguyen Thi Hong of the State Bank of Vietnam attended high-level meetings in Washington, D.C., discussing a Joint Declaration on Currency with the US Treasury. The delegation also met with US President Donald Trump, who pledged to remove Vietnam from the strategic export control list and recognized Vietnam's efforts to balance trade relations.
Policy & regulationCooperationMonetary policy decisions and developments
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2026-02-22•Palestine•Palestine Capital Market Authority
The Palestine Capital Market Authority met with the EU4B project, the European Union, and financial leasing companies to enhance leasing sector funding and support SMEs. Discussions included accessing diverse funding sources and expanding asset financing for sector sustainability. The Authority reviewed sector development, highlighting registered contracts, investments, and experiences with Italian funding initiatives.
Policy & regulationCooperationOther
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2026-02-22•Kuwait•Central Bank of Kuwait
The Central Bank of Kuwait has launched the seventh cycle of the Certified Sharia Auditor programme under its Kafa’a initiative to enhance Sharia supervisory governance in Islamic banks. Delivered by the Institute of Banking Studies, this mandatory programme aligns with the Bank's 2016 governance instructions and aims to build capacity in Sharia-compliant financial institutions by addressing the demand for qualified Sharia audit specialists.
Policy & regulationImplementation, projects & pilotsAuditing
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2026-02-21•Peru•Central Bank of Peru
The Central Bank of Peru reported a 6.9% year-on-year increase in the formal wage bill in December 2025, driven by a 4.1% rise in formal employment. The private-sector wage bill grew 6.1%, with notable gains in services and commerce sectors.
Data & statisticsEconomic data and developments
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2026-02-21•Tanzania•Tanzania Insurance Regulatory Authority
The Tanzania Insurance Regulatory Authority (TIRA) convened with health insurance schemes in Zanzibar to emphasize the legal requirement for health facilities to be registered. Concerns were raised about higher service costs charged by health facilities compared to the National Health Insurance Fund, with suggestions for a one-stop registration centre to streamline licensing processes.
Policy & regulationGuidance & interpretationLicensing and supervisory fees
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2026-02-21•Philippines•Philippine Securities and Exchange Commission
The Philippine Securities and Exchange Commission issued SEC Memorandum Circular No. 10, Series of 2026, detailing compliance guidelines for one person corporations (OPCs), including reportorial requirements and penalties. OPCs must appoint key officers and submit a Form of Appointment within 20 days of incorporation, with penalties for non-compliance. The circular mandates audited financial statements for OPCs with assets or liabilities over PHP 3 million and introduces a bond posting requirement for OPCs where the single stockholder is also the treasurer.
Policy & regulationRules & requirementsCompliance
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2026-02-21•Pakistan•Securites & Exchange Commission of Pakistan
The Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) announced that the Government of Punjab has waived stamp duty on property transfers from mergers and schemes of arrangement approved by courts or the SECP under the Companies Act, 2017. This follows a Lahore High Court judgment clarifying that provincial notification or legislation is needed for such exemptions, which the Punjab government has now issued. The waiver resolves conflicts between federal company law and provincial stamp duty regulations.
Policy & regulationRules & requirementsCorporate governance
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2026-02-20•Global•Egmont Group
The Egmont Group Secretariat seeks proposals for an independent external security audit of its IT system to assess compliance with security, confidentiality, and access-control requirements. The audit will include penetration testing, technical configuration assessments, and threat risk analysis, focusing on identity management, encryption, and compliance with standards like NIST and ISO/IEC 27001. Deliverables must include documented findings and a proposed Plan of Action, with the final report due within three weeks of project initiation.
Institutional developmentProcurementCyber resilienceIT management
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2026-02-20•Global•Institute of International Bankers
The Institute of International Bankers (IIB) submitted a comment letter to the Federal Reserve Board advocating for increased transparency in stress testing and changes to capital planning. The IIB recommends refining model calibration and risk sensitivity to better reflect the business models of international financial institutions in the U.S. It also suggests incorporating transfer pricing into pre-provision net revenue and revising the global market shock threshold to exclude firms in Category III and below.
Policy & regulationOtherStress testingPrudential risks
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2026-02-20•Italy•Bank of Italy
The Bank of Italy announced a reorganization of its branches' institutional functions, effective 23 February, altering the allocation of responsibilities for supervised intermediaries. The new model assigns supervisory duties, including prudential and anti-money laundering supervision, either to branches or Head Office departments on a case-by-case basis. Updates on branch responsibilities, including customer protection supervision, will follow.
Institutional developmentMandate & organizational structureOrganizational structure
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2026-02-20•Italy•Bank of Italy
The Bank of Italy has initiated a public consultation on the review of the Systemic Risk Buffer (SyRB), a macroprudential measure set at 1% of domestic exposures weighted for credit and counterparty risk. The SyRB was introduced in 2024, and the consultation document outlines the rationale for the review.
Policy & regulationRules & requirementsCapital adequacyFinancial stability and systemic risk
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2026-02-20•Nicaragua•Central Bank of Nicaragua
The Central Bank of Nicaragua reported a 4.1% growth in the December 2025 Monthly Index of Economic Activity (IMAE) compared to December 2024, with a cumulative annual increase of 4.8%. Seasonally adjusted, the IMAE rose 0.8% from the previous month and 3.1% year on year. Significant annual growth was observed in trade, livestock, and hotels and restaurants, while declines occurred in mining, public administration, and forestry.
Data & statisticsEconomic data and developments
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2026-02-20•Cyprus•Central Bank of Cyprus
The Central Bank of Cyprus launched "The CBC Blog" to enhance awareness of economic and central bank topics through articles by Bank executives. It will cover the economy, financial stability, and monetary policy. The inaugural post, "Inflation and Inflation in Cyprus: Recent Trends and Dynamics," is by Dimitris Kapatais, Maria Mithillou, and Maria Papageorgiou, with views solely those of the authors.
Financial literacy & educationActivity and performance reporting
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2026-02-20•Germany•BaFin
Germany's Federal Financial Supervisory Authority (BaFin) has released a draft circular for consultation detailing its administrative practice in takeover law to enhance transparency and address recurring questions. The circular consolidates existing materials and clarifies BaFin's interpretation of section 35(3) of the German Securities Acquisition and Takeover Act, without imposing new requirements.
Policy & regulationGuidance & interpretationOther
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2026-02-20•Europe•European Central Bank
The European Central Bank (ECB) confirmed that Executive Board remuneration components are publicly disclosed, with plans to enhance accessibility by adding more details in the Annual Accounts 2025. President Christine Lagarde clarified that remuneration levels align with major central banks and have only seen general salary adjustments since 1998. Lagarde also noted her remuneration from the Bank for International Settlements is not included in ECB accounts as it is not paid by the ECB.
Policy & regulationGuidance & interpretationCorporate governance
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2026-02-20•Kyrgyzstan•National Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic
The National Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic's Issyk-Kul regional department fined a credit union KGS 55,000 for breaching Kyrgyz Republic legislation and National Bank regulations.
EnforcementInvestigations & enforcement actionsCompliance
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2026-02-20•Kyrgyzstan•National Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic
The National Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic conducted meetings in Austria and the Czech Republic, supported by the World Bank, to discuss the Supervisory Review and Evaluation Process (SREP) methodology. Discussions with local central banks and financial institutions focused on internal oversight, supervisory assessments, and SREP implementation, including stress testing and macroprudential regulation.
SupervisionCooperationSupervision process and methodologiesCross-border cooperation
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2026-02-20•Kyrgyzstan•National Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic
The National Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic has extended its temporary permission for commercial banks to export old cash US dollars, including worn banknotes and those issued before 2006, until 1 September 2026. Banks can exchange these for cash or non-cash USD.
Policy & regulationRules & requirementsCurrency and cash management
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2026-02-20•Kyrgyzstan•National Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic
The National Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic has extended the suspension of its 2022 resolution on transactions with the Kazakh tenge until 15 September 2026. This extension, affecting commercial banks, exchange bureaus, and microfinance and microcredit companies, was enacted through amendments to the 2025 board resolution.
Policy & regulationRules & requirementsCurrency and cash management
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2026-02-20•Kyrgyzstan•National Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic
The National Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic has amended its 2013 rules on setting official foreign currency rates against the Kyrgyz som, removing the Bulgarian lev from the list of currencies for which it determines official rates weekly.
Policy & regulationRules & requirementsForeign exchange policy and markets
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2026-02-20•Dominican Republic•Pensions Superintendency (SIPEN)
The Dominican Republic's Pensions Superintendency (SIPEN) has trained over 600 employees of the General Directorate of Customs on the Dominican Pension System as part of its mass education programme. The initiative, led by Larissa Llibre, aims to qualify organisations for the “Here We Know About Pensions” seal, requiring 70% staff completion of SIPEN training.
Financial literacy & educationCapacity building
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2026-02-20•Japan•Japan Financial Services Agency
The Japan Financial Services Agency finalized revisions to its Comprehensive Supervisory Guidelines, aligning them with the Regional Financial Capacity Enhancement Plan. Updates focus on promoting M&A support, business succession, non-guaranteed loans, digitalisation, and recruitment services for small and medium-sized regional financial institutions. The revisions, effective 1 April 2026, include comparison tables for various financial entities.
Policy & regulationRules & requirementsSupervision process and methodologies
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2026-02-20•Japan•Japan Financial Services Agency
The Japan Financial Services Agency has amended corporate and securities disclosure ordinances, mandating sustainability disclosures per SSBJ Standards and expanded human capital requirements. Companies on the Tokyo Stock Exchange Prime Market with a market capitalization of at least JPY 1 trillion must include sustainability information in securities reports. The amendments streamline disclosures and introduce a safe-harbour approach for certain Scope 3 emissions information.
Policy & regulationRules & requirementsDisclosures
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2026-02-20•Japan•Japan Financial Services Agency
The Japan Financial Services Agency has updated its guidance on "pre-general meeting disclosure" to encourage listed companies to file securities reports well in advance of shareholder meetings. The update includes practical guidance, a consultation desk, and tools to track market practices, such as lists of companies filing reports early and examples of good disclosure practices.
Policy & regulationGuidance & interpretationRegulatory reporting
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2026-02-20•Japan•Japan Financial Services Agency
The Japan Financial Services Agency published documents detailing its response to the policy-by-policy budgeting in the fiscal year 8 government budget proposal.
Policy & regulationGuidance & interpretationOther
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2026-02-20•Europe•European Securities and Markets Authority
The European Securities and Markets Authority issued a supervisory briefing on counterparties' compliance with the representativeness obligation under the active account requirement (AAR). It aims to enhance supervisory convergence and includes guidance on identifying relevant derivative subcategories and reporting trades cleared at EU central counterparties. Counterparties are expected to adhere to this guidance to fulfill their regulatory obligations.
Policy & regulationGuidance & interpretationSupervision process and methodologies
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2026-02-20•Montenegro•Montenegro Capital Market Authority
The Montenegro Capital Market Authority has released draft amendments to the rulebook on reporting requirements for open-ended investment funds with a public offering, initiating a public consultation. The draft, adopted at the authority's 171st session, outlines content and submission deadlines for monthly, semi-annual, and annual reports.
Policy & regulationRules & requirementsRegulatory reporting
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2026-02-20•Indonesia•OJK
The Indonesia Financial Services Authority (OJK) fined social media influencer BVN and three parties for share price manipulation. BVN was fined IDR 5.35 billion for manipulating shares of PT Agro Yasa Lestari Tbk, PT MD Pictures Tbk, and PT Bintang Samudera Mandiri Lines Tbk during 2021–2022. PT Dana Mitra Kencana and individuals UPT and MLN were fined for similar activities involving PT Impack Pratama Industri Tbk shares in 2016, with fines totaling IDR 2.1 billion and IDR 1.8 billion each.
EnforcementInvestigations & enforcement actionsMarket abuse
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2026-02-20•Mexico•Mexico Comision Nacional Bancaria y de Valores (CNBV)
Mexico's National Banking and Securities Commission (CNBV) reported a December 2025 Índice de Capitalización (ICAP) of 20.17% for the commercial banking sector, with all institutions in early warning category I. The Basic Capital Ratio was 18.16% and the Core Capital Ratio was 16.85%, meeting Basel III standards for systemic risk capital surcharge.
Data & statisticsCapital adequacy
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2026-02-20•Uzbekistan•Central Bank of the Republic of Uzbekistan
The Central Bank of the Republic of Uzbekistan, in collaboration with the Ministry of Justice and the Notary Chamber, will implement a new procedure mandating non-cash sales of property and motor vehicles through notarisation starting 1 April 2026. This initiative, based on Presidential Decree No. PF–246, aims to promote cashless payments and reduce the shadow economy. Discussions focused on public communication, implementation proposals, and infrastructure development with commercial banks.
Policy & regulationImplementation, projects & pilotsPayments and payment systems
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2026-02-20•Australia•Australian Securities & Investments Commission
The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) released its Reporting and Audit Update Issue 3, highlighting developments in sustainability and financial reporting, including new educational modules and an online lodgement form for sustainability reports. ASIC issued infringement notices to 12 large proprietary companies for late FY24 financial report lodgements and plans further surveillance in 2026. Legislative amendments extend modified liability settings and assurance requirements to voluntary sustainability reports, with updates to Regulatory Guides 280 and 26 forthcoming.
Policy & regulationGuidance & interpretationRegulatory reportingSupervisory data
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2026-02-20•Europe•European Central Bank
European Central Bank President Christine Lagarde emphasized sustaining the international legal and economic order through pragmatic reform. She highlighted updating rules to maintain legitimacy amid shifting economic power and warned against trade fragmentation risks, which could significantly reduce global output. Lagarde advocated for World Trade Organization reform and highlighted bilateral and regional agreements' role in enhancing cooperation.
Policy & regulationInternational standards & recommendationsOther
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2026-02-20•Global•International Monetary Fund
The IMF's end-of-mission statement on Honduras noted robust growth, controlled inflation, and stable reserves. Discussions with authorities focused on strengthening monetary and exchange rate policies, improving public sector efficiency, and implementing energy-sector reforms. The IMF stressed the importance of passing and implementing the Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism framework before the 2026 Financial Action Task Force evaluation.
Policy & regulationGuidance & interpretationOther
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2026-02-20•Global•International Monetary Fund
The International Monetary Fund's report on Bhutan's fintech regulatory sandbox recommends reforms to enhance strategic direction, governance, resourcing, and risk oversight. It identified issues like unclear objectives, fragmented governance, and resource constraints. Suggested actions include aligning the sandbox with the Royal Monetary Authority of Bhutan's priorities and improving governance and capacity-building.
Policy & regulationReform agendas & prioritiesFintech and insurtech
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2026-02-20•Peru•Central Bank of Peru
The Central Bank of Peru reported a 4.1% year-on-year increase in national formal employment for December 2025, marking 21 months of consecutive growth. Electronic payroll data showed 249,000 new formal jobs, with private-sector employment rising 5.4% and significant contributions from services, agriculture, and commerce. Sectoral growth rates were led by mining at 10.9%, followed by agriculture, construction, services, and manufacturing.
Data & statisticsEconomic data and developments
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2026-02-20•Nigeria•Ministry of Finance (Nigeria)
Nigeria's Finance Minister, Wale Edun, proposed shifting from external borrowing to a growth model driven by domestic reforms, private capital, and diversified financing, targeting 7% growth and a 30% investment-to-GDP ratio. The plan includes attracting private capital via public-private partnerships, tax reforms to raise the tax-to-GDP ratio to 18%, and advocating for global financial architecture reforms. Central Bank Governor Olayemi Cardoso stressed the need for digital cross-border payment system reforms and improved regulatory frameworks.
Policy & regulationReform agendas & prioritiesEconomic data and developmentsFinancial stability and systemic risk
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2026-02-20•Rwanda•Rwanda Capital Markets Authority
The Rwanda Capital Markets Authority met with licensed investment managers to prioritize strengthening the asset management industry and capital market. Discussions focused on investment management practices, market conduct, and regulatory improvements to enhance service quality and investor protection. The authority emphasized structured engagement and the role of professional asset management in mobilizing savings and diversifying investments.
SupervisionSupervision approach, priorities & toolkitSupervision process and methodologies
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2026-02-20•Europe•European Financial Reporting Advisory Group
EFRAG submitted a position paper on the Greenhouse Gas Protocol's Scope 2 Guidance consultation, supporting improved comparability and accuracy but criticizing complexity and insufficient user benefits. EFRAG calls for simpler proposals, a thorough cost-benefit analysis, and piloting revised guidance before full implementation. It also recommends longer consultation periods, concrete draft amendments, and alignment across standards to avoid inconsistencies.
Policy & regulationInternational standards & recommendationsClimate risk and sustainable finance
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2026-02-20•United Kingdom•Financial Conduct Authority
The Financial Conduct Authority announced that seven social media influencers were sentenced at Southwark Crown Court for promoting an unauthorised foreign exchange trading scheme. Fines and costs were imposed on five individuals, while two received conditional or absolute discharges. The FCA highlighted the influencers' significant Instagram following and referenced its guidance on financial promotions on social media.
EnforcementInvestigations & enforcement actionsUnlicensed or unauthorized activity
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2026-02-20•Canada•British Columbia Securities Commission
The British Columbia Securities Commission imposed a CAD 12,000 penalty on Fulcra Asset Management Inc. for failing to comply with auditor change notification requirements. Fulcra breached three sections of National Instrument 31-103, marking its third late filing despite prior warnings. No investor harm or financial risks were identified.
EnforcementInvestigations & enforcement actionsAuditing
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2026-02-20•Philippines•Central Bank of the Philippines
The Central Bank of the Philippines has signed information-sharing agreements with the National Bureau of Investigation, the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center, and the Securities and Exchange Commission. These agreements facilitate the lawful exchange of confidential financial account information to support investigations into scams, aligning with the Anti-Financial Account Scamming Act and BSP Circular 1214, and include safeguards for bank secrecy and data privacy.
Policy & regulationCooperationCross-border cooperationAML and CFT
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2026-02-20•Costa Rica•Superintendencia General de Seguros de Costa Rica
The Chamber of Industries of Costa Rica opposes legislative initiatives for the total or accelerated liquidation of assets in the Régimen Obligatorio de Pensiones Complementarias (ROPC), arguing it would undermine the pension system's sustainability and affect retirees. The chamber emphasizes the ROPC's role as a pension complement and highlights that 76.5% of contributions come from employers. It criticizes the exclusion of the business sector from discussions on potential ROPC liquidation.
Policy & regulationOther
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2026-02-20•United Kingdom•Financial Conduct Authority
The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) announced an update on a global initiative against unlawful financial influencers, involving nine regulators to tackle illegal financial promotions on social media. In the UK, the FCA made three arrests, initiated criminal proceedings against three individuals, and issued 50 warning alerts expected to lead to over 650 takedown requests. The FCA did not disclose the identities of those arrested or involved in proceedings.
EnforcementInvestigations & enforcement actionsFraud and scams
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2026-02-20•Trinidad & Tobago•Ministry of Finance (Trinidad & Tobago)
Trinidad and Tobago’s Ministry of Finance announced that Liquor Licence Holders must file Amusement Gaming Tax Returns online via the Inland Revenue Division’s e-Tax Logged In Service from 1 April 2026. Paper-based returns will no longer be accepted for 2026, and outstanding returns for prior periods must be submitted manually. Licence Holders need a ttconnect ID to register for e-Tax services, requiring specific identification and documentation.
Policy & regulationRules & requirementsLicence approval
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2026-02-20•Laos•Bank of the Lao
The Bank of the Lao’s Monetary Policy Committee approved a 0.5 percentage point cut in the 7-day kip base interest rate to 8% and endorsed future measures, including foreign exchange management and economic support. Inflation is projected to remain around 5%, prompting coordinated monetary and exchange rate policy using a managed market mechanism. Supporting measures include strengthening foreign currency management, improving the foreign exchange cash-flow management system, and advancing commodity price management initiatives.
Monetary policyPolicy rate decisionsOther
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2026-02-20•Moldova•National Commission for Financial Markets
Moldova's National Commission for Financial Markets (CNPF) published decisions on capital markets, consumer protection, and supervision, including a draft law on central securities depositories to align with European standards and reopened consultation on motor accident settlements. The bill aims to transpose Regulation (EU) No 909/2014, introducing settlement discipline tools and strengthening risk management. Additionally, CNPF approved the voluntary pension fund ARAGONN and addressed compliance issues with FINANCECASA SRL and IM CIA TRANSELIT SA.
Policy & regulationRules & requirementsConsumer and investor protection
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2026-02-20•Moldova•National Bank of Moldova
The National Bank of Moldova released January 2026 statistics on the domestic cash foreign exchange market, reporting a total turnover of EUR 350.4 million. The euro dominated with EUR 257.5 million, while the US dollar accounted for EUR 49.7 million. Overall turnover decreased by 23.2% from the previous month and 7.3% year-on-year.
Data & statisticsForeign exchange policy and markets
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2026-02-20•Moldova•National Bank of Moldova
The National Bank of Moldova's January 2026 data on licensed banks shows MDL 55.37bn in foreign-currency assets and MDL 55.16bn in liabilities. Key assets include foreign-currency cash and placements (MDL 19.36bn) and lending (MDL 19.01bn), while liabilities are dominated by clients' current accounts (MDL 27.52bn). The system reported MDL 319.95m in long open FX positions and MDL 104.69m in short positions, with significant exposures in EUR and USD.
Data & statisticsBalance of payments and other external statistics
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2026-02-20•Moldova•National Bank of Moldova
The National Bank of Moldova reported MDL 5,254 million in new loans for January 2026, with 64.5% allocated to businesses and 35.5% to individuals. The update includes data on loan volumes and nominal interest rates, highlighting that individuals primarily borrowed in Moldovan lei. Statistics are compiled under Instruction No. 331/2016.
Data & statisticsFinancial and market indicatorsMonetary data
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2026-02-20•Moldova•National Bank of Moldova
The National Bank of Moldova reported that new deposits in January 2026 totalled MDL 24,746 million, with 68.2% from businesses and 31.8% from individuals. MDL time deposits constituted 73% of total time deposits. The data is based on bank reporting under Instruction No. 331/2016.
Data & statisticsFinancial and market indicatorsMonetary data
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2026-02-20•Moldova•National Bank of Moldova
The National Bank of Moldova reported that in January 2026, cash receipts at banks exceeded disbursements by MDL 96 million. Total cash receipts were MDL 13,079 million, a 6.8% decrease from the previous year, with consumer goods sales comprising 57% of receipts. Cash disbursements totalled MDL 12,983 million, down 3.1% year on year.
Data & statisticsCurrency and cash management
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2026-02-20•Isle of Man•Isle of Man Financial Services Authority
The Isle of Man Financial Services Authority issued a warning about fraudulent emails and documents falsely claiming to be from its Enforcement Division, using the @iomfsa.com domain. The scam involves forged Isle of Man High Court documents and fake enforcement actions, with no funds received by victims. The Authority advises recipients to report the fraud to local police and the Isle of Man Cyber Security Centre.
SupervisionAlertsFraud and scams
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2026-02-20•Dominican Republic•Central Bank of the Dominican Republic
The Central Bank of the Dominican Republic will introduce 2025-series DOP 2,000 banknotes into circulation from 24 February 2026, with existing DOP 2,000 notes remaining legal tender. The new series, procured via an international public tender, maintains the current security features, including watermark, tactile marks, latent image, security thread, microprinting, and the Central Bank’s visual identity logo, and is issued under constitutional and Monetary and Financial Law provisions.
Monetary policyMonetary policy instruments & operationsProcurement
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2026-02-20•Germany•BaFin
The Federal Financial Supervisory Authority (BaFin) has published Consultation 01/2026 on a draft circular xx/2026 (WA) outlining its administrative practice on takeover law. The draft circular is intended to clarify how BaFin applies and interprets takeover law requirements.
Policy & regulationGuidance & interpretation
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2026-02-20•Germany•BaFin
The Federal Financial Supervisory Authority (BaFin) has launched a written consultation on a draft circular consolidating its administrative practice under takeover law to simplify procedures and increase transparency, without introducing new requirements for market participants. The circular compiles recurring questions and BaFin’s established positions, including its interpretation of section 35(3) WpÜG, and BaFin plans to publish consultation submissions unless respondents object.
Policy & regulationGuidance & interpretationOther
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2026-02-20•Brazil•Central Bank of Brazil
The Central Bank of Brazil announced that BC PROTEGE+, a free tool to prevent identity fraud in account openings, has reached 1 million activations. Available via the Meu BC portal, it allows users to block unauthorized account openings by logging in with a gov.br account at silver or gold level. This initiative enhances control over personal data use in the financial system.
Policy & regulationImplementation, projects & pilotsFraud and scams
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2026-02-20•Global•World Federation of Exchanges
The World Federation of Exchanges published research on extending exchange trading hours, noting benefits depend on coordinated changes in trading, clearing, settlement, and regulatory arrangements. The study maps trading hours across 60 exchanges, noting regional variations and evolving session designs, and reviews US proposals by NYSE Arca, Nasdaq, and Cboe Global Markets. It emphasizes that 24/7 trading is feasible but poses risks like lower liquidity and higher volatility, requiring significant post-trade ecosystem transformations.
ResearchMarket infrastructureTrading
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2026-02-20•Global•International Monetary Fund
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) announced a staff-level agreement with Nepal to complete the final review under the Extended Credit Facility, pending Executive Board approval, unlocking SDR 31.32 million (USD 43.2 million). The review highlighted satisfactory program performance, with most targets met, and emphasized the need for legislative amendments and financial sector reforms. The statement projects FY2025/26 growth at 3 to 3.5 percent, low inflation, and a strengthening external position, while noting financial-sector vulnerabilities, including rising non-performing loans.
Policy & regulationImplementation, projects & pilotsOther
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2026-02-20•Canada•Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario
The Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario appointed Russell White as Chief Information Officer, effective 25 February 2026, to enhance its digital transformation and technology foundation. White, with over 20 years of senior leadership experience, previously served as CIO at the Ontario Securities Commission, focusing on digital transformation and IT modernization.
Institutional developmentLeadership change & appointmentsLeadership change and appointments
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2026-02-20•United Kingdom•Prudential Regulation Authority
The Prudential Regulation Authority has issued its final policy on Credit Union Service Organisations, amending the Credit Unions Part of the PRA Rulebook and Supervisory Statement SS2/23 to permit and supervise credit union investments in, and use of, CUSOs. The policy broadens permissible CUSOs, allows joint ownership with non-credit unions, and raises the maximum investment limit from 5% to 7.5% of capital, while setting expectations on due diligence, governance, conflict management, and legal and operational separation to manage prudential risks. SS2/23 is also updated to remove outdated references without altering existing risk management expectations.
Policy & regulationRules & requirementsPrudential risks
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2026-02-20•India•India International Financial Services Centres Authority
India's International Financial Services Centres Authority signed a memorandum of understanding with the Indian Institute of Corporate Affairs to cooperate on corporate law, sustainable finance, ESG, and cross-border transactions. The collaboration will include training, knowledge initiatives, and advocacy events to enhance regulatory processes and governance within the International Financial Services Centre.
Policy & regulationCooperationCross-border cooperationESG
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2026-02-20•Liechtenstein•Liechtenstein Financial Market Authority
The Liechtenstein Financial Market Authority has authorized Wyden Capital AG to offer portfolio management services for crypto assets under Article 60(3) of Regulation (EU) 2023/1114 on markets in crypto-assets (MiCAR), effective 12 February 2026.
SupervisionAuthorisations & approvalsLicence approval
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2026-02-20•Liechtenstein•Liechtenstein Financial Market Authority
The Liechtenstein Financial Market Authority (FMA) requires firms to submit the information register under Article 28(3) of the Digital Operational Resilience Act via the FMA’s e‑Service Portal, reflecting data as of 31 December 2025. During submission, the FMA will provide implementation instructions and solutions for validation errors. Post-submission, data quality tests by the European Supervisory Authorities and the FMA may result in cancellations and resubmission requests in April 2026.
SupervisionRegulatory reporting
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2026-02-20•Moldova•National Commission for Financial Markets
Moldova's National Commission for Financial Markets warned about fraudulent online ads misusing public figures' names to promote fake investment platforms like “Harmony Bitspire” and “Nexura AI”. These schemes use misleading marketing and psychological pressure, promising unrealistic returns without proper authorisation. The Commission advises verifying platform authenticity, avoiding sharing personal data, and reporting suspected fraud.
SupervisionAlertsFraud and scams
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2026-02-20•Moldova•National Bank of Moldova
The National Bank of Moldova released a practical guide for the public on safeguarding against scams and enhancing payment card safety. The guide offers recommendations for protection against financial fraud and fraudulent schemes.
Financial literacy & educationFraud and scams
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2026-02-20•Moldova•National Bank of Moldova
The National Bank of Moldova warned against unauthorized use of public institution names, urging reliance on official channels for verification before financial actions. The alert cautions against investment offers promising rapid returns, often on social media, and emphasizes avoiding disclosure of sensitive data. The bank clarified it does not engage in investment proposals or financial transactions and reiterated that cryptocurrency investments are unregulated in Moldova.
SupervisionAlertsFraud and scams
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2026-02-20•Moldova•National Bank of Moldova
The National Bank of Moldova's January 2026 foreign exchange market statistics reveal that net foreign currency supply from individuals covered 90.3% of the demand from economic agents, with both flows declining month on month. The central bank intervened by selling EUR 2.0 million in the interbank market. The EUR/MDL exchange rate increased slightly to 19.8771, with euros comprising 71.9% of individuals' net supply.
Data & statisticsCurrency and cash management
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2026-02-20•Greece•Bank of Greece
The Bank of Greece reported that the December 2025 current account deficit widened by EUR 129.2 million year-on-year to EUR 3.9 billion, while the full-year 2025 deficit narrowed by EUR 2.8 billion to EUR 14.1 billion. The goods deficit increased in December due to rising imports, and the services surplus decreased, though travel receipts improved. Greece's reserve assets rose to EUR 20.3 billion at the end of December 2025, up from EUR 14.6 billion the previous year.
Data & statisticsBalance of payments and other external statistics
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2026-02-20•Bosnia and Herzegovina•Banking Agency of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina
The Banking Agency of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina issued supervisory expectations for banks' conduct in 2026 to support its supervisory measures. The guidance encourages banks to adopt socially responsible policies to bolster economic development and banking sector stability. Further details are available in the document on the agency's website.
SupervisionSupervision approach, priorities & toolkitSupervision process and methodologies
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2026-02-20•Austria•Austria Financial Market Authority
The Austria Financial Market Authority (FMA) has introduced a true-crime format, "Cash & Crime," in its "Reden wir über Geld" podcast, debuting with an episode on a WhatsApp investment scam. The episode features FMA investigator Bibiane Kaufmann discussing anonymized fraud cases, highlighting tactics used by scammers and significant financial losses.
Financial literacy & educationFraud and scams
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2026-02-20•Tanzania•Tanzania Insurance Regulatory Authority
The Tanzania Insurance Regulatory Authority (TIRA) conducted a capacity-building programme for staff to support the implementation of its Quality Management System, aiming for ISO 9001:2015 certification. The training, facilitated by the Tanzania Bureau of Standards, included a self-assessment exam, with successful participants advancing to further audit training.
Institutional developmentCooperation & capacity buildingCapacity building
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2026-02-20•Brazil•Brazilian Pension Funds Authority (PREVIC)
The Brazilian Pension Funds Authority (PREVIC) clarified media misinterpretations about deficits in Brazil’s closed complementary pension system, reporting a BRL 10.4 billion actuarial surplus for 2025. PREVIC emphasized the cyclical nature of deficits and surpluses, advocating for portfolio diversification and improved investment capabilities in a lower interest-rate environment. It also urged modernizing solvency rules to distinguish between structural and cyclical imbalances, with a proposal under review by the National Council of Complementary Pensions.
Policy & regulationGuidance & interpretation
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2026-02-20•Malaysia•Malaysia Securities Commission
The Malaysia Securities Commission announced that the Kuala Lumpur High Court dismissed appeals by Su Eng Kooi and Yap Choong Seong against their convictions and sentences for unlicensed trading in futures contracts and dealing in derivatives. The High Court upheld the Sessions Court's decision, finding no errors and agreeing the sentences were appropriate. A stay of execution was granted pending a final appeal to the Court of Appeal.
EnforcementInvestigations & enforcement actionsUnlicensed or unauthorized activity
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2026-02-20•Hong Kong•Hong Kong Monetary Authority
The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) issued a scam alert about fraudulent websites, fake internet banking login screens, and phishing emails involving The Bank of East Asia, Chong Hing Bank, and Bank Julius Baer. The HKMA stressed that banks will not send SMS or emails with embedded hyperlinks for transactions or request sensitive information via phone, email, or SMS. Affected individuals should contact the relevant bank and report to the Crime Wing Information Centre of the Hong Kong Police Force.
SupervisionAlertsFraud and scams
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2026-02-20•Moldova•National Bank of Moldova
The National Bank of Moldova has approved functional and technical requirements for interfaces used by payment service providers offering account management services, as per Executive Committee Decision No. 33. These requirements will take effect on 20 March 2026.
Policy & regulationRules & requirementsOpen banking and finance
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2026-02-20•Philippines•Philippine Securities and Exchange Commission
The Philippine Securities and Exchange Commission issued Memorandum Circular No. 9, Series of 2026, detailing the 2026 filing schedule for annual financial statements (AFS) and general information sheets (GIS). Corporations with a 31 December fiscal year-end must file AFS by 29 May via the Electronic Filing and Submission Tool (eFAST), while other fiscal year-ends have a 120-day deadline. GIS must be filed within 30 days of the annual meeting or SEC license anniversary, with specific requirements for different corporation types.
Policy & regulationRules & requirementsRegulatory reporting
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2026-02-20•Philippines•Philippine Securities and Exchange Commission
The Philippine SEC issued a cease and desist order against Umeta Credit Lending Corp. for unauthorized platforms and unfair debt collection practices. The order affects the company, its affiliates, and online platforms like Meta Cash and Cash Twig, due to SEC Memorandum Circular violations. Over 300 complaints were received, with some escalated to formal proceedings, framing the order as an interim measure to prevent further borrower harm.
EnforcementInvestigations & enforcement actionsUnlicensed or unauthorized activity
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2026-02-20•Brunei Darussalam•Central Bank of Brunei Darussalam
The Central Bank of Brunei Darussalam released the Business Sentiment Index for December 2025, showing a slight rise in business confidence with the Current Business Conditions sub-index at 50.3. Investment expectations are positive, while employment remains slightly negative due to turnover and contract expirations. Transport & Communication and Oil & Gas Related sectors showed the strongest confidence, whereas Health & Education and Other Private Services were weaker.
Data & statisticsEconomic data and developments
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2026-02-20•Albania•Albania Financial Services Authority
The Albania Financial Services Authority and the World Bank’s new Country Manager for Albania discussed European integration and financial supervision modernization. Key topics included insurance and pensions sector reforms, IFRS implementation, and supervisory system upgrades. Both parties emphasized aligning Albania's financial legal framework with EU standards and international best practices.
Policy & regulationCooperationOther
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2026-02-20•Thailand•Thailand Securities & Exchange Commission
Thailand's SEC filed criminal complaints against Bitazza International, Bitazza Co., and two executives for allegedly operating a digital asset exchange without a licence. The SEC is blocking access to Bitazza Global and issued an investor alert, advising users to secure assets before public access ends on 22 March 2026. The SEC is cooperating with relevant agencies during the investigation and prosecution.
EnforcementInvestigations & enforcement actionsUnlicensed or unauthorized activity
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2026-02-20•Azerbaijan•Central Bank of the Republic of Azerbaijan
The Central Bank of the Republic of Azerbaijan hosted an event on open banking, highlighting its role in digital transformation and secure data exchange between banks and fintechs. The session reviewed progress, challenges, and opportunities in open banking, with insights from international practices shared by the International Finance Corporation. Participants collaborated on product ideas and use cases with expert guidance.
Policy & regulationImplementation, projects & pilotsFintech and insurtechOpen banking and finance
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2026-02-20•Paraguay•Central Bank of Paraguay
The Central Bank of Paraguay has published official corporate bond yield curves for Paraguay as a new benchmark for the local capital market. The curves cover zero-coupon and par-yield measures by rating, currency and maturities from six months to 10 years. They will initially be updated monthly.
Data & statisticsFinancial and market indicatorsFinancial benchmarks
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2026-02-20•Pakistan•Securites & Exchange Commission of Pakistan
The Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan has approved a second phase of reforms to digitise share ownership in unlisted companies by mandating conversion of physical share certificates into electronic holdings in the Central Depository System operated by the Central Depository Company. Unlisted companies must convert physical shares into book-entry form before any share-related transaction, with all subsequent transfers, allotments and corporate actions executed through the Central Depository System under newly approved eligibility, documentation, verification and tariff procedures.
Policy & regulationRules & requirementsCorporate governance
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2026-02-20•Russia•Central Bank of Russia
The Central Bank of Russia is consulting on draft rules to let companies make bulk digital ruble payments, including payroll, supplier and contractor disbursements, and related tax payments. The draft also adds a legal framework for cross-border settlements in central bank digital currencies. Pilot participants would test the service first, ahead of broader digital ruble rollout from September 2026.
Policy & regulationRules & requirementsCBDCPayments and payment systems
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2026-02-20•Türkiye•Central Bank of Türkiye
The Central Bank of the Republic of Türkiye (CBRT) will publish a new Household Expectations Survey (HES) to gauge household expectations on inflation, exchange rates, housing prices, and investment tendencies. The HES will replace the Consumer Tendency Survey data for the household 12-month-ahead consumer inflation expectations in the CBRT’s Sectoral Inflation Expectations. Results will be released monthly on the CBRT website.
Data & statisticsEconomic data and developmentsMonetary data
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2026-02-20•Türkiye•Central Bank of Türkiye
The Central Bank of the Republic of Türkiye will take over publishing Türkiye’s External Debt Statistics from the Ministry of Treasury and Finance, aligning with the residency principle. This involves compiling securities-related external liabilities based on securities holders' residency and discontinuing the "Outstanding Loans Received from Abroad by Private Sector" series. A related revision will affect Balance of Payments Statistics, with interest payments from securities liabilities calculated using a security-based method.
Data & statisticsBalance of payments and other external statistics
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2026-02-20•Sweden•Finansinspektionen
The Swedish Financial Supervisory Authority (Finansinspektionen) is investigating Swedbank's compliance with anti-money laundering requirements, focusing on customer due diligence from December 2023 to November 2025. The authority has highlighted the prevention of money laundering and terrorist financing as a supervisory priority for 2026.
SupervisionReviews, inspections & stress testsAML and CFT
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2026-02-20•Sweden•Finansinspektionen
Sweden's Finansinspektionen released Q&A guidance on underwriting and placing financial instruments on a firm-commitment basis. The guidance clarifies the characteristics of underwriting activities requiring authorisation, particularly in relation to issuances.
Policy & regulationGuidance & interpretationLicensing framework and process
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2026-02-20•Global•International Monetary Fund
The International Monetary Fund recommends integrating material climate-related risks into existing supervisory frameworks and core financial stability and market integrity mandates. Regulators should align with international standards but avoid using supervisory tools to direct green investment. Emerging market authorities should base priorities and resource allocation on evidence of risk materiality.
Policy & regulationGuidance & interpretationClimate risk and sustainable financeFinancial stability and systemic riskGreenwashing
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2026-02-20•Norway•Norwegian Finanstilsynet
Norway's Financial Supervisory Authority's report on KNIF Trygghet Forsikring AS highlights risk management deficiencies as the firm expands into Sweden. It criticizes operational risk assessment, strategic alignment, reliance on deferred tax for capital requirements, and outsourcing governance weaknesses. The authority has requested more documentation and will address payment protection insurance issues separately.
SupervisionReviews, inspections & stress testsRisk managementCorporate governance
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2026-02-20•Hungary•National Bank of Hungary
The National Bank of Hungary's Trends in Lending update for 2025 Q4 shows a significant increase in lending, with household loans rising 14.7% and corporate loans up 7.5% year on year. The Home Start loan programme drove a 130% increase in housing loan disbursements, while corporate loan demand improved, particularly for forint and short-term lending. Despite a challenging economic and regulatory environment, banks anticipate increased consumer-loan demand and continued corporate-loan growth, especially among SMEs.
Data & statisticsLending