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2026-02-19•United States•Federal Reserve Board
Federal Reserve Board Vice Chair for Supervision Michelle W. Bowman, at the 2026 Banking Outlook Conference, outlined priorities including tailored supervision for community banks, modernization of large-bank capital rules, and a focus on core financial risks. The Federal Reserve is reviewing safety and soundness Matters Requiring Attention (MRAs) for state member banks, with non-compliant MRAs to be downgraded. Key initiatives include revising the community bank leverage ratio, mutual bank capital framework, and advancing U.S. Basel III implementation.
SupervisionSupervision approach, priorities & toolkitSupervision process and methodologies
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2026-02-19•Norway•Norwegian Finanstilsynet
Norway's Financial Supervisory Authority warned against entities marketing crypto investments via unauthorised platforms lacking permission to operate. Investors should avoid agreements or transfers to such platforms, which are outside regulatory supervision. Warning signs include undocumented profits, aggressive deposit calls, and withdrawal issues. Consumers should verify company legitimacy and consult Finanstilsynet’s registers.
SupervisionAlertsUnlicensed or unauthorized activityFraud and scams
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2026-02-19•Norway•Norwegian Finanstilsynet
The Financial Supervisory Authority of Norway reported a 35% decrease in fraud for the first half of 2025, with the gross defrauded amount from account transfers and payment card use totalling NOK 404 million. Account transfer fraud fell to NOK 238 million, and payment card fraud decreased to NOK 166 million. The authority attributes the decline to more effective preventive measures by payment service providers, though results varied across companies.
Data & statisticsFraud and scams
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2026-02-19•Norway•Norwegian Finanstilsynet
The Norwegian Financial Supervisory Authority (Finanstilsynet) warns that Saptrust Bank, Instant Bank, Banksured Bank, and WATTPROSAVER Bank are operating without authorization and are likely fraudulent. These entities falsely claim to offer payment and lending services in Norway via various web platforms. Finanstilsynet advises consumers to verify firms through its market warning register before engaging in unsolicited investment offers.
SupervisionAlertsUnlicensed or unauthorized activityFraud and scams
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2026-02-19•Norway•Norwegian Finanstilsynet
The Financial Supervisory Authority of Norway inspected PRA Group Norge AS, noting deficiencies in annual training and testing of its disaster recovery plan per the ICT Regulation. The inspection also reviewed compliance with client funds reconciliation, debt collection processes, and risk assessments for outsourced arrangements. Finanstilsynet requested further explanations on VAT joint registration, invoicing court fees, and debtor complaint handling, noting the firm's subsequent actions and explanations.
SupervisionReviews, inspections & stress testsClient asset custody and safekeeping
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2026-02-19•Argentina•Argentina Securities Commission (CNV)
The Argentina Securities Commission (CNV) issued General Resolution No. 1108 to align with the Fiscal Innocence Law, allowing individuals in the "Simplified Sworn Declaration Regime for Income Tax" to engage in capital market transactions and use registered Virtual Asset Service Providers (PSAVs). Eligible investors can make cash deposits, transfer securities, and virtual assets, provided the originating jurisdictions are not on non-cooperative or high-risk lists. Compliance with anti-money laundering and CNV requirements is mandatory.
Policy & regulationRules & requirementsAML and CFTFinancial inclusion
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2026-02-19•Argentina•Argentina Securities Commission (CNV)
The Argentina Securities Commission (CNV) issued General Resolution No. 1109, deregulating the Regional Representative Entities (ERR) regime and removing ERR from CNV oversight. The resolution allows stock exchanges previously registered as ERR to record purchase-sale agreements and contracts linked to future real estate units, expanding entities permitted for these activities. This change aligns with measures to support the mortgage credit market under Emergency Decree No. 1017/24.
Policy & regulationRules & requirementsLicensing framework and process
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2026-02-19•Japan•Japan Financial Services Agency
The Japan Financial Services Agency released an updated executive list detailing recent senior leadership changes. The publication includes references to previous executive-list updates from the Reiwa and Heisei eras.
Institutional developmentLeadership change & appointmentsLeadership change and appointments
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2026-02-19•Colombia•Central Bank of Colombia
The Central Bank of Colombia released a working paper analyzing the impact of reduced intergovernmental transfers on municipalities along the Magdalena River. The study highlights a decline in local economic activity and municipal investment post-2002 reform, despite increased local tax revenues. It also notes ineffective implementation of 2007 legislation mandating special transfers for environmental and navigability projects, indicating governance and compliance challenges.
ResearchOther
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2026-02-19•United States•Federal Reserve Board
The Federal Reserve Board has approved Fulton Financial Corporation's application to acquire Blue Foundry Bancorp, including its subsidiary, Blue Foundry Bank.
SupervisionAuthorisations & approvalsLicence approval
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2026-02-18•United States•U.S. Securities & Exchange Commission
The U.S. Securities & Exchange Commission proposed amendments to Form N-PORT to reduce reporting burdens while maintaining data utility, including extending filing deadlines and reducing public data availability. The proposal eliminates Names Rule reporting from Form N-PORT and adds information for exchange-traded fund share classes. Compliance dates for the Names Rule were extended to November 2027 for large fund groups and May 2028 for smaller ones.
Policy & regulationRules & requirementsRegulatory reporting
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2026-02-18•Europe•Committee on Economic and Monetary Affairs
The European Parliament’s Committee on Economic and Monetary Affairs will hold a hearing with François-Louis Michaud, the proposed candidate for Chair of the European Banking Authority, before a committee vote on his appointment. Michaud, currently the EBA’s Executive Director, was nominated following José Manuel Campa's resignation at the end of January 2026.
Institutional developmentLeadership change & appointmentsLeadership change and appointments
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2026-02-18•Europe•European Securities and Markets Authority
The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) issued a supervisory statement regarding Barclays Bank PLC's withdrawal from the Euribor panel, effective 27 February 2026. ESMA and the National Competent Authorities concluded that this does not affect Euribor's representativeness. The panel has expanded with three new banks since 2022, and another bank is expected to join soon, reinforcing the benchmark's robustness.
SupervisionRisk monitoring & watch pointsFinancial benchmarks
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2026-02-18•India•Reserve Bank of India
The Reserve Bank of India mandates eligible market participants to report a Unique Transaction Identifier (UTI) for over-the-counter derivative transactions to the Clearing Corporation of India Limited’s trade repository, effective 1 January 2027. This requirement covers derivatives under RBI and FEMA frameworks, with UTIs generated per CPMI-IOSCO guidance. CCIL will provide guidelines, and participants must comply with reporting deadlines, including interim measures for cross-jurisdictional transactions.
Policy & regulationRules & requirementsRegulatory reporting
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2026-02-18•India•Reserve Bank of India
The Reserve Bank of India has revised reporting requirements for External Commercial Borrowings (ECB) under the Foreign Exchange Management Act, 1999, updating the ECB return formats in its Master Direction to align with the revised ECB Framework. New formats are provided in Annex I (Form ECB 1 and Revised Form ECB 1) and Annex II (Form ECB 2) following the Foreign Exchange Management (Borrowing and Lending) (First Amendment) Regulations, 2026. Authorised Persons must inform customers of these changes.
Policy & regulationRules & requirementsRegulatory reporting
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2026-02-18•Montenegro•Central Bank of Montenegro
The Central Bank of Montenegro's Financial Stability Council reviewed the Q4 2025 financial stability update, confirming system stability and progress in sustainable finance governance. The Council noted 3.2% economic growth, moderate systemic risk, and challenges in sustainable finance, including limited capacity and data issues. Priorities include operational rollout of frameworks, data improvement, and enhanced cooperation.
Policy & regulationImplementation, projects & pilotsClimate risk and sustainable finance
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2026-02-18•Montenegro•Central Bank of Montenegro
The Central Bank of Montenegro reviewed the progress of its Financial Education Development Programme 2023–2027, reporting 84% completion of the 2025 Action Plan. Efforts focused on youth education, with plans to expand to other groups and develop a financial literacy web platform in 2026. The National Committee endorsed recommendations to enhance institutional capacity and coordination.
Financial literacy & educationFinancial literacy and education
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2026-02-18•Europe•European Central Bank
ECB Executive Board member Isabel Schnabel highlighted fiscal challenges amid geopolitical uncertainty and ageing societies, focusing on higher public spending needs, debt sustainability, and market conditions in the euro area. She contrasted Germany’s low debt-to-GDP ratio with low public investment and analyzed defence and infrastructure spending impacts on GDP and debt. Schnabel noted rising government interest expenditure, weaker potential GDP growth, and the euro's growing role as a "safe haven" in global foreign exchange reserves.
ResearchGeopolitical risk
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2026-02-18•Belgium•Belgium Financial Services and Markets Authority
The Belgium Financial Services and Markets Authority has settled with DELA Enterprises and six former sub-agents, resulting in a EUR 54,000 payment and public disclosure of the parties' names on the FSMA website.
EnforcementInvestigations & enforcement actionsOther
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2026-02-18•Kyrgyzstan•National Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic
The National Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic's Talas Regional Department and OJSC Eldik Bank conducted a financial literacy lecture at Talas State University on 17 February 2026. The session, part of the 2026 regional financial literacy plan, addressed savings importance, personal money management, and financial fraud awareness.
Financial literacy & educationFinancial literacy and education
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2026-02-18•Kyrgyzstan•National Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic
The National Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic has suspended the licences of two exchange bureaus, Imin Salim LLC and Sanson Grand LLC, for violations of national legislation and bank regulations. The suspensions are effective from 19 February to 5 March 2026.
EnforcementInvestigations & enforcement actionsUnlicensed or unauthorized activity
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2026-02-18•Japan•Japan Financial Services Agency
The Japan Financial Services Agency released preliminary results from its NISA Account Usage Survey, detailing the number of NISA accounts and purchase amounts as of December 2025. The survey includes data from all financial institutions handling NISA and trend materials since 2014. These figures are preliminary and may differ from future confirmed results.
Data & statisticsActivity and performance reporting
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2026-02-18•Japan•Japan Financial Services Agency
The Japan Financial Services Agency released minutes from the Financial Services Council’s Market System Working Group meeting, where members agreed on a draft report proposing changes to Japan’s unfair trading framework. Key proposals include expanding insider trading rules, recalibrating administrative surcharges, and enhancing investigative tools for enforcement. The draft also suggests redefining "parent company" for insider trading, adjusting surcharge calculations, and extending the Securities and Exchange Surveillance Commission's criminal investigation remit.
Policy & regulationRules & requirementsMarket abuse
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2026-02-18•Israel•Bank of Israel
The Bank of Israel released updated inflation expectations derived from capital-market breakevens and other sources, showing one-year expectations ranging from 1.5% to 1.9% and five-to-ten-year forward expectations at 2.2%. The report details the methodology for deriving these expectations, noting significant biases in one-year breakevens in January 2024.
Data & statistics
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2026-02-18•Europe•European Securities and Markets Authority
The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) issued guidance on applying the revised prospectus framework under the Listing Act, detailing transitional arrangements and interim disclosure expectations. Registration documents approved or filed by 4 June 2026 fall under the Article 48a transitional regime. ESMA expects national authorities to adhere to this guidance, enabling issuers and advisors to rely on its content.
Policy & regulationGuidance & interpretationSecurities offerings and listings
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2026-02-18•Cyprus•Central Bank of Cyprus
The Central Bank of Cyprus released investment fund statistics for December 2025, showing a stable market with a slight decrease in the number of funds to 350 and a 0.1% increase in total assets to EUR 7,899.0 million. These figures are part of the February 2026 Investment Fund Statistics publication.
Data & statisticsFinancial and market indicators
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2026-02-18•Japan•Japan Financial Services Agency
The Japan Financial Services Agency will purchase trust beneficiary rights and related instruments linked to a preferential investment by Kyoei Shinkin Bank under the Act on Special Measures for Strengthening Financial Functions. The agency has published the Management Enhancement Plan and Management Enhancement Guidance Plan for Noto Kyoei Shinkin Bank and Shinkin Central Bank.
Policy & regulationImplementation, projects & pilotsSupervision process and methodologies
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2026-02-18•Japan•Bank of Japan
The Bank of Japan introduced an Application Programming Interface (API) service for its Time-Series Data Search, allowing access to statistical data in JSON and CSV formats. Guidance is available via an API User Manual and a notice on appropriate use.
Data & statisticsRegulatory reporting
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2026-02-18•Europe•European Central Bank
The European Central Bank released research analyzing the impact of U.S. tariffs on global trade redirection, focusing on the resulting changes in Chinese export patterns.
ResearchOther
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2026-02-18•Europe•European Securities and Markets Authority
The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) published its opinion on EFRAG’s draft revised European Sustainability Reporting Standards, endorsing the European Commission’s simplification goals while suggesting amendments for enhanced investor protection and financial stability. ESMA recommends improvements in readability, format, and a focus on material matters, alongside technical adjustments like time limits on permanent reliefs and enhanced transparency on sustainability actions. The Commission will consider ESMA’s input with other feedback to adopt the revised standards by summer 2026, with ESMA supporting national authorities in supervision.
Policy & regulationGuidance & interpretationAccounting and financial reporting
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2026-02-18•Cyprus•Central Bank of Cyprus
The Central Bank of Cyprus reported a decline in non-performing exposures and loans for the Cyprus banking sector as of 31 December 2025. The Non-Performing Loans (NPLs) ratio dropped to 3.2%, while the MEX ratio fell to 1.6%, below the EU average for the first time since 2014. The coverage ratio of non-performing exposures decreased to 62.3%, with total restructured loans at EUR 0.8 billion.
Data & statisticsFinancial and market indicatorsSupervisory data
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2026-02-18•Australia•Australian Securities & Investments Commission
ASIC has cancelled Red Panda Future Wealth Pty Ltd's financial services licence, effective 16 February 2026, as the firm ceased operations. The licence remains valid until 16 February 2027 solely for maintaining membership with the Australian Financial Complaints Authority. This is part of an ongoing ASIC investigation involving Red Panda and related entities.
SupervisionAuthorisations & approvalsUnlicensed or unauthorized activity
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2026-02-18•Australia•Australian Securities & Investments Commission
The Australian Securities & Investments Commission (ASIC) is reviewing financial advice licensees using lead generation services, focusing on practices that may inappropriately encourage superannuation switching. ASIC aims to identify these arrangements and may take enforcement action against contraventions like misleading conduct or unlicensed advice. A list of entities involved in lead generation has been published, with updates to follow, though inclusion does not imply legal breach.
SupervisionReviews, inspections & stress testsSales and distribution
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2026-02-18•Australia•Australian Securities & Investments Commission
The Australian Securities & Investments Commission (ASIC) issued an infringement notice to Fundhost Limited, which paid AUD 19,800, for allegedly making false or misleading representations about the Polen Capital Global Growth Fund's performance. The performance chart, updated monthly by Fundhost, inaccurately suggested the fund outperformed the MSCI ACWI Net Total Return Index since inception. Payment of the notice is not an admission of liability.
EnforcementInvestigations & enforcement actions
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2026-02-18•Global•International Monetary Fund
The International Monetary Fund's research shows that since 2020, stocks and sovereign bonds increasingly sell off together during market stress, weakening diversification benefits. This affects 60/40 equity-bond allocations and risk parity strategies, potentially impacting financial stability. Central bank interventions can temporarily stabilize bond markets, but fiscal discipline and price stability are needed to restore bonds' safe haven status. Regulators should include stock-bond correlation breakdowns in stress tests.
ResearchAsset qualityCredit riskFinancial stability and systemic risk
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2026-02-18•Global•International Monetary Fund
The IMF's Executive Board completed the 2025 Article IV consultation with China, noting resilient growth but weak private demand and muted inflation. The Board recommended a macroeconomic support mix and structural reforms for consumption-led growth, including fiscal expansion, monetary easing, and exchange rate flexibility. It advised addressing housing issues, enhancing social protection, and restructuring local government financing vehicle debt for long-term sustainability and stability.
Policy & regulationPeer reviews and country evaluationsEconomic data and developments
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2026-02-18•Global•International Monetary Fund
The IMF's 2026 Article IV consultation on Japan revised growth projections to 0.8% for 2026, with inflation expected to meet the Bank of Japan's 2% target by 2027. The IMF advised against near-term fiscal loosening, recommended gradual monetary tightening, and highlighted the need for high-quality public investment and reforms to manage public debt and ageing-related spending. It also cautioned against a proposed consumption tax suspension, suggesting targeted, budget-neutral support instead.
Policy & regulationInternational standards & recommendationsMonetary policy decisions and developments
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2026-02-18•Global•International Monetary Fund
The IMF's 2025 Article IV consultation with China highlights economic resilience despite weak domestic demand and deflationary pressures from the property sector and local government debt. Strong export growth, aided by real exchange rate depreciation, partially offsets demand shortfalls, but emerging external imbalances and unsustainable export reliance are concerns. The report criticizes state-led, debt-financed investments and industrial policies for weakening productivity and increasing financial vulnerabilities, noting a modest policy response to these challenges.
ResearchEconomic data and developments
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2026-02-18•Global•International Monetary Fund
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) recommends China adopt a more robust macroeconomic policy and enhance social protection to pivot its growth model towards domestic consumption. The IMF suggests additional fiscal stimulus, monetary easing, and increased social spending to counter weak domestic demand and deflationary pressures. It estimates these measures could raise the consumption-to-GDP ratio by about 4 percentage points over five years.
Policy & regulationReform agendas & priorities
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2026-02-18•British Virgin Islands•British Virgin Islands Financial Services Commission
The British Virgin Islands Financial Services Commission announced that Economic Substance filing fees are now processed through the VIRRGIN system, eliminating the need for BOSS System subscription fees to the Ministry of Finance. The Commission will provide details on the new fee regime following industry consultation and advises practitioners to monitor updates regarding Economic Substance transactions.
Policy & regulationRules & requirementsLicensing and supervisory fees
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2026-02-18•Ireland•Central Bank of Ireland
Central Bank of Ireland Governor Gabriel Makhlouf stressed central bank independence's role in price stability and economic prosperity, based on clear mandates and accountability. He noted credibility, competence, and public trust are vital, contrasting past political pressures with credible central banks' decisive post-pandemic actions. Makhlouf argued independence must be continuously justified and earned through societal dialogue and accountability.
Monetary policyMonetary policy framework & strategyOther
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2026-02-18•Peru•Central Bank of Peru
The Central Reserve Bank of Peru reported that Peru led regional growth in non-traditional exports in 2025, with a 14.4% increase, surpassing Colombia, Mexico, Brazil, and Chile. From 2021 to 2025, Peru's non-traditional exports grew at an average annual rate of 9.8%, driven by agricultural, textile, chemical, and steel and metalworking sectors. The data excludes commodity sales and includes country-specific exclusions for comparability.
Data & statisticsEconomic data and developments
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2026-02-18•Canada•Canadian Investment Regulatory Organization
The Canadian Investment Regulatory Organization (CIRO) is accepting applications for its Investor Advisory Panel, which advises on regulatory policy and strategic initiatives. CIRO seeks candidates with expertise in investor protection and diverse perspectives, excluding those employed by CIRO Members or on CIRO Hearing Panels. Applications should detail relevant experience and potential conflicts of interest.
Institutional developmentLeadership change & appointmentsHiring and recruitment
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2026-02-18•Botswana•Botswana Non-Bank Financial Institutions Regulatory Authority
The Botswana Non-Bank Financial Institutions Regulatory Authority (NBFIRA) mandates all non-bank financial institutions to adopt a revised Personal Questionnaire for Controllers/Key Persons, including a Data Privacy Notice per the Data Protection Act, 2024. This directive, based on NBFIRA's authority under Section 5(2)(e) of the Non-Bank Financial Institutions Regulatory Authority Act of 2023, requires immediate compliance. The updated questionnaire is available on NBFIRA’s website.
Policy & regulationRules & requirementsOther
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2026-02-18•United States•U.S. Department of the Treasury
The U.S. Department of the Treasury concluded a public-private initiative to enhance cybersecurity and risk management for artificial intelligence in the financial sector. Led by the Artificial Intelligence Executive Oversight Group, the initiative will produce six resources focusing on governance, data practices, transparency, fraud, and digital identity, aimed at supporting secure AI use, particularly for small and mid-sized institutions.
Policy & regulationImplementation, projects & pilotsCyber resilienceArtificial intelligence
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2026-02-18•Trinidad & Tobago•Ministry of Finance (Trinidad & Tobago)
The Trinidad and Tobago Ministry of Finance announced the country's removal from the EU's list of non-cooperative tax jurisdictions after the EU Economic and Financial Affairs Council's decision on 17 February 2026. This delisting follows reforms aligning with international tax standards, including transitioning to a Special Economic Zone regime and enhancing tax transparency. Measures include signing the OECD Multilateral Convention, achieving a "Largely Compliant" Global Forum rating, and meeting standards for automatic exchange of financial account information.
Policy & regulationRules & requirementsTax transparency and information exchange
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2026-02-18•Portugal•Portuguese Insurance Regulator (ASF)
The Portuguese Insurance and Pension Funds Supervisory Authority (ASF) reported to the parliamentary committee on the insurance market's response to recent severe storms, estimating insured losses up to EUR 600 million. ASF outlined measures for rapid claims processing and noted a significant protection gap, with 49% of homes lacking storm or flood coverage. Under its 2026–28 Strategic Plan, ASF aims to propose a shared-responsibility framework to improve natural catastrophe protection.
SupervisionRisk monitoring & watch pointsClimate risk and sustainable finance
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2026-02-18•Moldova•National Bank of Moldova
The National Bank of Moldova reported a visit to the National Bank of Romania to enhance cooperation and support Moldova's integration into European financial structures. Discussions led by Governor Anca Dragu focused on institutional collaboration, technical assistance, and financial education. The partnership is linked to Moldova's accession to the Single Euro Payments Area, with the National Bank of Romania's support crucial for aligning with European standards.
Policy & regulationCooperationCross-border cooperation
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2026-02-18•Estonia•Central Bank of Estonia
The Supervisory Board of the Central Bank of Estonia confirmed its profit distribution strategy, allowing the state to receive 0% to 25% of the previous year's profit. The Board aims to increase the central bank's capital to align with the euro area average, considering Eurosystem-wide risk factors. Amendments to the Estonian Fiscal Council's statutes were also approved to reflect recent changes in the State Budget Act.
Institutional developmentMandate & organizational structureOther
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2026-02-18•Ethiopia•National Bank of Ethiopia
The National Bank of Ethiopia appointed two external members to its Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) to enhance analytical capacity and support evidence-based decision-making. The appointments, approved by the NBE Board, involve economists with strong academic and professional backgrounds in macroeconomic analysis. This move aims to strengthen policy deliberations and reinforce the MPC's effectiveness in fulfilling its mandate.
Institutional developmentLeadership change & appointmentsLeadership change and appointments
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2026-02-18•Ukraine•Ukraine National Commission on Securities and Stock Market
The Ukraine National Commission on Securities and Stock Market (NSSMC) adopted regulatory, supervisory, and licensing decisions, including regulations for non-state pension funds and updates to its 2026 rule-making plan. Key actions involved approving draft codes, strategies for financial investigations, EU-linked sanctions proposals, and asset blocking sanctions on FREEDOM FINANCE UKRAINE LLC. The NSSMC also registered bond and share issues, made changes to authorized entities, and confirmed compliance and risk management appointments at several market participants.
Policy & regulationRules & requirementsOther
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2026-02-18•Ukraine•Ukraine National Commission on Securities and Stock Market
The Ukraine National Commission on Securities and Stock Market approved a revised Regulation on the Administration of a Non-State Pension Fund, transitioning most administrative procedures to electronic form. This aims to enhance remote management, transparency, and accessibility for participants. The regulation also outlines procedures for handling cases involving missing participants and interactions with heirs or legal representatives.
Policy & regulationRules & requirementsOther
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2026-02-18•Ukraine•Ukraine National Commission on Securities and Stock Market
The Ukraine National Commission on Securities and Stock Market discussed strategies with the Minister of Economy to enhance market transparency and competition, including exchange trading's role in price formation. Key topics included municipal bonds development, virtual assets regulation, and potential exchange holding creation. The NSSMC chair emphasized transparent exchange pricing benefits for solid biofuels as an alternative energy resource.
Policy & regulationReform agendas & prioritiesMarket development
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2026-02-18•Sweden•Riksbank
The Executive Board of Sweden's Riksbank has adopted a research agenda focusing on four themes: challenges in money, banking, and payments; the monetary transmission mechanism; structural transitions in the labour market, demography, and the green economy; and the interaction between monetary, fiscal, and financial stability policies. The agenda emphasizes using modern methods and new data sources relevant to Sweden's open economy.
Research
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2026-02-18•Tanzania•Tanzania Insurance Regulatory Authority
The Tanzania Insurance Regulatory Authority (TIRA) launched the film Koti Jeupe as part of a public education initiative to enhance understanding of life insurance. The initiative aligns with TIRA's broader strategy to promote insurance awareness through various channels, aiming to increase the adoption of life, health, property, and investment insurance products.
Financial literacy & educationFinancial literacy and education
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2026-02-18•Jordan•Jordan Securities Commission
The Jordan Securities Commission held a lecture for Criminal Investigation Department personnel on financial crime investigation, focusing on theft and fraud, as part of investor-protection initiatives. The session detailed global anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing frameworks, Jordan’s laws, and the Commission’s compliance monitoring. It covered risk-based firm classification, inspection stages, and cooperation with criminal investigators, including efforts to develop an early warning system.
Policy & regulationGuidance & interpretationAML and CFTConsumer and investor protection
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2026-02-18•Germany•BaFin
The Federal Financial Supervisory Authority (BaFin) has opened a hearing on a draft general order to partially revoke its 15 June 2023 decision permitting deferrals of post-trade publication for certain non-equity instruments. From 2 March 2026, the revocation would apply to bonds, structured finance products and emission allowances to align with revised EU post-trade transparency rules under amended Regulatory Technical Standards 2, while the national deferral regime would remain in place for derivatives pending further EU changes.
Policy & regulationRules & requirementsMarket infrastructure
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2026-02-18•Germany•BaFin
BaFin has opened a hearing on a draft general administrative act to partially revoke its 15 June 2023 order allowing investment firms to defer post-trade publication for over-the-counter transactions in non-equity instruments. The withdrawal will apply to bonds, structured finance products and emission allowances from 2 March 2026, but not to derivatives. BaFin cites changes to the legal basis in the Markets in Financial Instruments Regulation and the introduction of harmonised deferral conditions in Delegated Regulation (EU) 2025/1246 and revised Regulatory Technical Standards 2.
Policy & regulationRules & requirementsMarket infrastructure
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2026-02-18•Colombia•Central Bank of Colombia
The Central Bank of Colombia released a working paper analyzing the fiscal impact of demographic changes on public education financing, highlighting declining enrolment due to a sharp drop in fertility rates. The study projects a significant decrease in the school-age population by 2050 and suggests reallocating savings from lower enrolment to enhance pre-school and upper-secondary education, contingent on institutional reforms. Part of the bank's Borradores de Economía series, the paper reflects the authors' views.
ResearchOther
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2026-02-18•Brazil•Central Bank of Brazil
The Central Bank of Brazil ordered the extrajudicial liquidation of Banco Pleno S.A. and extended a special regime to Pleno Distribuidora Títulos e Valores Mobiliários S.A. due to financial deterioration and regulatory breaches. The Pleno conglomerate, classified as small within the S4 segment, holds 0.04% of total assets in Brazil's financial system. The Central Bank will pursue further actions, potentially leading to administrative sanctions and legal referrals.
SupervisionInterventionsPrudential risksLiquidity risk
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2026-02-18•Albania•Bank of Albania
Bank of Albania's Second Deputy Governor Natasha Ahmetaj highlighted Corridor VIII's role in European integration and regional economic development at a Tirana Economic Forum. She noted Albania's potential benefits from reduced trade costs, enhanced export competitiveness, and the Port of Durrës's strategic importance. Ahmetaj also discussed the banking system's EU-aligned regulatory framework and the need for international cooperation and blended financing for large infrastructure projects.
Policy & regulationReform agendas & prioritiesMonetary policy decisions and developments
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2026-02-18•United States•New York State Department of Financial Services
The New York State Department of Financial Services and the New York State Comptroller approved the Butternut Valley Banking Development District (BDD), placing USD 35 million at Sidney Federal Credit Union's Morris branch. This designation aims to expand banking access in underserved areas and marks the state's 58th BDD. As of February 2025, state deposits in BDDs total approximately USD 514 million across 13 institutions.
Policy & regulationImplementation, projects & pilotsMarket development
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2026-02-18•United States•National Association Of Insurance Commissioners
The National Association of Insurance Commissioners has adopted its 2026 strategic priorities, emphasizing enhanced oversight in a changing insurance and risk environment. Key initiatives include a new investment and capital regime, expanded data analytics for risk monitoring, and resilience-related regulatory work. The strategy also focuses on technology oversight, including cybersecurity frameworks and an AI evaluation tool.
Policy & regulationReform agendas & prioritiesSupervision process and methodologies
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2026-02-18•Oman•Oman Financial Services Authority
The Oman Financial Services Authority has issued a notice emphasizing that accounting and audit service providers must be licensed by the FSA, following findings of unlicensed practices in 2025. It clarified that a commercial registration alone does not authorize such services, and contracts with unlicensed entities are invalid. Market participants are advised to consult the FSA's list of authorized offices before engaging services.
Policy & regulationGuidance & interpretationLicence approval
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2026-02-18•Bulgaria•National Bank of Bulgaria
The National Bank of Bulgaria's Economic Review 4/2025 reports a moderation in annual economic growth to 3.0% in Q3 2025 and an acceleration in Harmonised Index of Consumer Prices inflation to 3.5% in December 2025. Private consumption remained robust, while net exports negatively impacted growth and government consumption slowed. Rising unit labour costs and strong private consumption allowed firms to pass higher costs to consumers, contributing to inflation.
ResearchEconomic data and developments
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2026-02-18•Global•International Monetary Fund
The International Monetary Fund released a paper on macroeconomic challenges and policy approaches for fragile and conflict-affected economies, highlighting slower growth and increased shock exposure due to impaired government functions. It emphasizes strengthening core government functions to improve macroeconomic performance and suggests international financial institutions support through tailored advice, capacity development, and partnerships.
Research
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2026-02-18•Namibia•Bank of Namibia
Bank of Namibia’s Monetary Policy Committee left the repo rate at 6.50 %, saying the level protects the Namibia dollar/South African rand peg while aiding a cooling economy with muted credit demand and low inflation. The hold follows two 25 bp cuts in 2025, keeps prime lending at 10 %, and will be reviewed again in late April.
Monetary policyPolicy rate decisionsMonetary policy decisions and developments
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2026-02-18•Germany•BaFin
Germany's Federal Financial Supervisory Authority (BaFin) has issued a draft order to revoke its measure allowing trading venues to defer post-trade publication for non-equity instruments, effective 2 March 2026. This change aligns with amended EU rules under MiFID II and MiFIR, which removed the legal basis for such deferrals. The existing deferral system will continue for derivatives as the RTS 2 regime for these instruments remains unchanged.
Policy & regulationRules & requirementsSecurities offerings and listings
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2026-02-18•Europe•European Banking Authority
The European Banking Authority released an updated ESG risk dashboard with data up to Q2 2025, showing stable climate-related risk indicators. Banks' exposures to high climate-impact sectors remain at 62% of non-financial corporate portfolios, with improved environmental data quality and reduced reliance on proxy indicators. The dashboard, available via the EBA Data Access Portal, includes data from nearly 120 large EU/EEA banks under Pillar 3 ESG disclosure rules.
Data & statisticsClimate risk and sustainable finance
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2026-02-18•Germany•BaFin
Germany's BaFin is holding a hearing on a draft ruling to partially revoke its 2023 decision allowing delayed publication of post-trade details for certain non-equity instruments. The proposal would remove deferral permissions for bonds, structured financial products, and emission allowances from 2 March 2026, aligning with revised EU transparency standards. The existing deferral regime for derivatives will remain until further technical standard amendments.
Policy & regulationRules & requirementsSecurities offerings and listings
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2026-02-18•Albania•Bank of Albania
The Bank of Albania highlighted Second Deputy Governor Ahmetaj’s participation in an Economic Forum session on Corridor VIII's role in strategic connectivity and regional economic growth. Additional communications included Governor Sejko’s remarks at various events, including the “Money Talks: 100 years” exhibition and the FT Live CEE Forum, as well as discussions on sovereign guarantee schemes for agriculture and Global Money Week 2026.
Other
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2026-02-18•Mexico•CONDUSEF
Mexico's National Commission for the Protection and Defense of Users of Financial Services (CONDUSEF) issued an alert regarding fraudulent emails misusing its name to deceive recipients. These emails falsely claim a formal complaint process and request confidential information, redirecting to non-official sites. CONDUSEF advises treating such messages as suspicious and urges financial institutions to enhance cybersecurity measures.
SupervisionAlertsFraud and scams
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2026-02-18•India•Securities & Exchange Board of India
The Securities and Exchange Board of India has formed a Working Group to review the regulatory framework for ESG Rating Providers (ERPs) following stakeholder feedback. The group, including industry representatives, will assess the current framework, suggest improvements for transparency and reliability, and consider international regulatory developments for alignment with global best practices. A report with findings and recommendations will be submitted to SEBI.
Policy & regulationReform agendas & prioritiesESG
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2026-02-18•Romania•National Bank of Romania
The National Bank of Romania issued a warning about deepfake posts impersonating Governor Mugur Isărescu to promote financial investments via a fraudulent website. The bank clarified it does not make investment recommendations and advised against sharing personal data with such sites. Official communications are limited to bnr.ro and its institutional social media accounts.
SupervisionAlertsFraud and scams
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2026-02-18•Isle of Man•Isle of Man Financial Services Authority
The Isle of Man Financial Services Authority announced updates to the Russia sanctions regime, as issued by the Isle of Man Treasury, Customs and Immigration Division. Firms are directed to the Treasury’s Sanctions and Export Control webpage for detailed information and options for receiving ongoing notifications.
Policy & regulationGuidance & interpretationSanctions list update
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2026-02-18•Georgia•National Bank of Georgia
The National Bank of Georgia held the tenth meeting of the Financial Education National Strategy Steering Committee, approving the 2025 Action Plan and discussing 2026 priorities. The 2026 activities will be managed by working groups, with committee composition set for renewal.
Financial literacy & educationFinancial literacy and education
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2026-02-18•Albania•Bank of Albania
At an Economic Forum, the Bank of Albania's Second Deputy Governor Natasha Ahmetaj emphasized Corridor VIII's role in European integration and regional economic development. She noted the Albanian banking system's alignment with European standards and highlighted the need for international cooperation and blended financing for large infrastructure projects. Ahmetaj also discussed efforts to modernize payment infrastructure and align regulations with EU standards, aiming for inclusion in the Single Euro Payments Area to enhance trade and financial exchanges.
Monetary policyMonetary policy assessments & outlooksCross-border cooperationMarket development
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2026-02-18•Russia•Central Bank of Russia
The Central Bank of Russia released a profile of CEOs in financial institutions, highlighting that the typical CEO is a 50-year-old man with a university degree and an average tenure of five years. Men constitute about two-thirds of CEOs, though the proportion of women is rising. Nearly 20% of CEOs hold shares or stakes in their organizations.
Data & statisticsCorporate governance
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2026-02-18•Russia•Central Bank of Russia
The Central Bank of Russia advised credit institutions to ensure written consent from a minor's legal representatives before opening accounts for customers aged 11 to 18. The regulator highlighted cases of non-compliance, warning of increased risks of minors being used in high-risk operations, including money laundering and illegal activities.
Policy & regulationGuidance & interpretationConsumer and investor protection
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2026-02-18•Netherlands•Dutch Authority for the Financial Markets
The Dutch Authority for the Financial Markets released a speech by board member Jos Heuvelman on the impact of generative artificial intelligence on mortgage advisers and supervision. Heuvelman highlighted that AI will streamline the mortgage advice process, positioning advisers as orchestrators responsible for AI-generated judgments.
Policy & regulationGuidance & interpretationArtificial intelligence
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2026-02-18•United Kingdom•Financial Conduct Authority
The FCA announced the Upper Tribunal upheld its decision to ban Stephen Burdett and James Goodchild from financial services, confirming penalties of GBP 265,071 and GBP 47,600 for exposing pension holders to high-risk investments. The FCA intervened in 2016, dissolving Synergy Wealth Limited and Westbury Private Clients LLP, with victims compensated over GBP 1.4 million.
EnforcementInvestigations & enforcement actions
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2026-02-18•United Kingdom•The Pensions Regulator
The Pensions Regulator has appointed Ben Gunnee as Interim Executive Director, Market Oversight, effective 23 February 2026, succeeding Julian Lyne. Gunnee, with over 25 years of experience, will lead teams supervising pensions market businesses and trustees as TPR shifts towards a prudential-style approach. A recruitment process for a permanent Executive Director is underway.
Institutional developmentLeadership change & appointmentsLeadership change and appointments
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2026-02-18•Argentina•Central Bank of Argentina
The Central Bank of the Argentine Republic and the Financial Information Unit issued guidance for AML/CFT/CPF obligated entities on applying a risk-based approach to customers’ cash use of US dollars under Law 27,799 and Decree 93/2026. The note clarifies that holding or depositing foreign currency in cash is not inherently suspicious, that source-of-funds information at the teller is required only for deposits above 40 times the Minimum, Vital and Mobile Salary, and that enrolment in the Simplified Income Tax Return Regime may be treated as a favourable risk factor. Obligated entities must recalibrate thresholds, documentation requirements, risk matrices and alert systems under Resolution 14/2023 while maintaining compliance with AML Law 25.246.
Policy & regulationGuidance & interpretationAML and CFTRegulatory burden
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2026-02-18•Europe•European Central Bank
The European Central Bank (ECB) updated on the digital euro project, outlining a provisional timeline for a pilot exercise and initial transactions by mid-2027, with potential issuance readiness by 2029. The current phase focuses on technical readiness, market engagement, and legislative support, involving EU-licensed payment service providers with banks central to distribution. A 12-month pilot in a controlled Eurosystem environment is planned for late 2027, with fee caps and other measures under negotiation by the Council of the European Union.
Policy & regulationImplementation, projects & pilotsCBDC
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2026-02-18•Europe•European Central Bank
The European Central Bank has partnered with the ONCE Foundation to ensure the digital euro app is accessible to all, including people with disabilities and those with limited digital skills. The ONCE Foundation will provide technical advice and collaborate on the app's design and accessibility testing. This initiative aims to exceed the European Accessibility Act's requirements and enhance user experience for payment service providers.
Policy & regulationImplementation, projects & pilotsFinancial inclusion
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2026-02-18•Italy•Italian Institute for Insurance Supervision (IVASS)
The Italian Institute for Insurance Supervision (IVASS) has ordered the blocking of two websites unlawfully offering insurance services. Since November 2023, IVASS has blocked 348 abusive sites and advises consumers to be cautious of policy offers via instant messaging and prepaid credit card payments, recommending reliance on official IVASS lists of supervised insurers and intermediaries.
EnforcementInvestigations & enforcement actionsFraud and scams
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2026-02-18•Europe•European Banking Authority
The European Banking Authority (EBA) issued an Opinion to the European Commission on the draft amended European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS), supporting simplification to reduce compliance costs but expressing concerns over permanent reliefs. The EBA warns these reliefs could reduce quantitative reporting, conflict with the Commission's data priorities, and affect interoperability with international standards. The European Commission will consider the EBA's concerns and input from other authorities before finalizing the ESRS amendments.
Policy & regulationGuidance & interpretationAccounting and financial reporting
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2026-02-18•Philippines•Philippine Securities and Exchange Commission
The Philippine SEC released a draft memorandum for public comment, proposing updated guidelines for mandatory corporate governance training for board members and key officers. The guidelines apply to publicly listed companies, public companies, and registered issuers, expanding training content to include governance principles and reporting standards. The draft also revises the accreditation framework for training providers, with proposed fees and penalties for non-compliance.
Policy & regulationRules & requirementsCorporate governance
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2026-02-18•Guatemala•Bank of Guatemala
Guatemala’s Monetary Board cut the Bank of Guatemala’s policy rate by 25 bp to 3.50 %, saying inflation remains below the 4 % ± 1 pp target band and is expected to stay under the midpoint this year. The move extends 25 bp trims made in August, September and November 2025 (cumulative –100 bp) amid projected 2025 GDP growth of 4.1 % and reduced external risks, with the Board pledging continued monitoring.
Monetary policyPolicy rate decisionsMonetary policy decisions and developments
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2026-02-18•Albania•Albania Financial Services Authority
The Albania Financial Services Authority has released two draft laws for public consultation, focusing on takeovers of publicly offered companies and transparency requirements for securities issuers. These drafts aim to amend the existing takeover framework and establish new transparency standards, aligning with Albania's European integration commitments.
Policy & regulationRules & requirementsSecurities offerings and listings
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2026-02-18•Albania•Albania Financial Services Authority
The Albania Financial Services Authority released the agenda for its Board meeting on 25 February 2026, focusing on EU integration priorities, draft laws on financial conglomerates and crypto-asset markets, and supervisory items. Key topics include inspections on motor insurance premiums, bond issuance approvals, capital changes at Eurosig, and appointments at financial institutions. The agenda also covers anti-money laundering inspections and 2025 audit results.
Institutional developmentGovernanceOther
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2026-02-18•Estonia•Central Bank of Estonia
The Central Bank of Estonia reported that the average interest rate on housing loans remained unchanged in Q4. The release details interest rate changes on new loans, leases, and deposits by banks and other financial institutions.
Data & statisticsFinancial and market indicators
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2026-02-18•Denmark•Danish Finanstilsynet
The Danish Financial Supervisory Authority is simplifying regulations for smaller, non-complex Danish credit institutions, aiming for a national proportionality regime alongside the EU framework. Proposals include extending simplified obligations, adjusting recovery plan submission frequency, and raising the balance sheet threshold for capital procurement plans. Further simplifications and sector guidance are planned, with a status update expected by the end of 2026.
Policy & regulationImplementation, projects & pilotsRegulatory burden
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2026-02-18•Switzerland•Swiss Financial Market Supervisory Authority (FINMA)
The Swiss Financial Market Supervisory Authority (FINMA) has appointed Alain Girard as the new Head of its Banks division, effective 1 April 2026. Girard, currently leading the Recovery and Resolution division, succeeds Thomas Hirschi and has been involved in key regulatory projects and crisis management. Simon Brönnimann, who served as interim head, will transition to interim leadership of the Recovery and Resolution division.
Institutional developmentLeadership change & appointmentsLeadership change and appointments
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2026-02-18•Global•International Monetary Fund
The IMF warns that post-pandemic, equities and sovereign bonds increasingly sell off together, weakening diversification benefits and amplifying portfolio losses. This poses financial stability risks, especially for 60/40 portfolios and leveraged risk-parity strategies. The IMF advises restoring bonds' hedging role through credible fiscal frameworks and urges regulators to include correlation-breakdown scenarios in stress tests.
ResearchAsset qualityFinancial stability and systemic risk
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2026-02-18•Switzerland•Swiss Financial Market Supervisory Authority (FINMA)
FINMA announced updates to Switzerland's sanctions against entities supporting Hamas or Palestinian Islamic Jihad. The Federal Department of Economic Affairs amended the ordinance annex, and the State Secretariat for Economic Affairs updated the SESAM sanctions database, effective 18 February 2026. Financial intermediaries must implement prohibitions, freeze assets, and report to SECO, while fulfilling obligations under the Anti-Money Laundering Act.
Policy & regulationRules & requirementsSanctions list update
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2026-02-18•Pakistan•Securites & Exchange Commission of Pakistan
The Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) announced that 88% of unlisted licensed companies are now disclosing their annual audited financial statements on the Pakistan Stock Exchange's Financial Portal for Unlisted Companies, following a directive issued in January 2025. Supervisory actions are being taken against non-compliant entities.
SupervisionInterventionsAccounting and financial reporting
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2026-02-18•Solomon Islands•Central Bank of the Solomon Islands
The Central Bank of the Solomon Islands announced the first climate risk parametric insurance payouts through the TrigaCash microinsurance product, following a heavy rainfall event in January 2026. A total of 35 YouSave members received SBD 8,800 in aggregate, with payouts made within two weeks. The initiative, launched in May 2025 with various partners, will continue to be monitored with plans for national scaling.
Policy & regulationImplementation, projects & pilotsClimate risk and sustainable finance
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2026-02-18•Eswatini•Central Bank of Eswatini
The Central Bank of Eswatini's update highlights a slowdown in inflation to 2.3% in December 2025 and a 5.8% year-on-year GDP growth in Q3 2025, driven by a rebound in the primary sector. Key lending rates remained unchanged, while the lilangeni appreciated against the USD. The report also notes a contraction in broad money due to lower net foreign assets, alongside increased private sector credit and reduced official reserves.
Monetary policyMonetary policy assessments & outlooksEconomic data and developments
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2026-02-18•Philippines•Central Bank of the Philippines
The Central Bank of the United Arab Emirates and the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas have signed a memorandum of understanding to enhance financial and economic cooperation, prioritising faster and easier cross-border payments through linking instant payment platforms. The agreement also envisages future connections of card switches and messaging systems and provides for knowledge sharing on central bank digital currencies, open finance, digital assets, and Islamic banking, including potential CBDC use for remittances from Filipinos in the UAE.
Policy & regulationCooperationCross-border cooperationCross-border paymentsPayments and payment systems