The Norwegian Financial Supervisory Authority fined Aqua Bio Technology ASA NOK 300,000 for breaching Market Abuse Regulation Article 17 by not promptly disclosing an auditor's resignation due to internal control issues, misleadingly presented in a general meeting notice. The decision has been appealed to the Finanstilsynet Appeals Board.
The Central Bank of Egypt announced a rise in the financial inclusion rate to 77.6% by the end of 2025 and is developing a Second Financial Inclusion Strategy for 2026–2030. The strategy aims to expand digital solutions, support a green economy, enhance financial literacy, and strengthen consumer protection, with input from national and international organizations. Key priorities include supporting SMEs, fostering public-private partnerships, and advancing financial infrastructure.
The Central Bank of Egypt's Governor, Hassan Abdalla, attended a ceremony honoring Commercial International Bank (CIB) – Egypt for being named the “Best Bank for Sustainable Finance in Africa 2025.” This recognition aligns with the central bank's support for sustainability and the integration of Environmental, Social, and Governance standards in the banking sector, consistent with Egypt's sustainable development strategy.
The Bank of Thailand's Banking Sector Quarterly Brief reports a resilient Thai banking system with strong capital, loan loss provisions, and liquidity, despite a 1.1% year-on-year decline in loan growth in Q4 2025. The contraction was due to reduced SME and consumer lending amid heightened credit risks, while gross non-performing loans fell to THB 536.0 billion, lowering the NPL ratio to 2.84%. The report emphasizes monitoring tight financial conditions and debt serviceability, with targeted measures aiding vulnerable businesses and households.
The Superintendence of the Securities Market of the Dominican Republic (SIMV) launched its 2025–2027 Citizen Service Commitment Charter, outlining quality standards for citizens and capital market participants. Key components include reduced response times, accessible processes, and mechanisms for citizen participation, focusing on inclusion and equality. The charter was presented to the National Securities Market Council's independent members, representing citizens in evaluating SIMV services.
The Central Bank of Honduras clarified that recent discussions with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) did not involve proposals to raise taxes or adjust the exchange rate. These meetings are part of the IMF's routine technical dialogue to understand the new government's economic policies. The central bank urged reliance on official communications to avoid misinformation.
The New Zealand Financial Markets Authority is pursuing High Court orders to liquidate six entities related to Chance Voight, currently under interim liquidation by PricewaterhouseCoopers. The entities include Chance Voight Investment Corporation Limited and CVI Securities Limited. A court hearing is scheduled for 19 February 2026 to set a date for further proceedings and potentially release PwC's interim liquidation report.
MENAFATF and the UN Office of Counter-Terrorism held a virtual webinar on countering the misuse of virtual assets for terrorism financing. The session focused on applying international standards to the MENA region and discussed the Security Council Counter-Terrorism Committee’s Algeria Guiding Principles. An online survey was introduced for MENAFATF members to share experiences for a forthcoming handbook addendum, with contributions from international and regional partners and private-sector participants.
The British Columbia Financial Services Authority has unveiled its inaugural three-year Strategic Plan for 2026–29, emphasizing confidence in the financial services sector. The plan, "What Matters. Made Clear," targets outcomes including trustworthy financial services, safe institutions, market integrity, and fair consumer treatment. Further details on risks and priorities will be provided in an upcoming Risk Outlook and 2027/28 Regulatory Roadmap.
The US Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) filed an amicus brief with the US Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit, asserting exclusive jurisdiction over US commodity derivatives markets, including prediction markets. In North American Derivatives Exchange, Inc. et al v. The State of Nevada, the CFTC argues that state and federal entities lack authority to regulate these markets, warning of potential destabilizing economic effects. The CFTC cites its historical recognition of event contracts and Congress's post-2008 financial crisis grant of comprehensive authority over commodity-based contracts.
The Bank of Cape Verde launched the implementation phase of its Immediate and Inclusive Transfers System (STII) project, introducing it to the financial community. The workshop, in collaboration with the AfricaNenda Foundation and ThitsaWorks, reviewed progress and introduced the Mojaloop technology platform. Implementation is supported by a memorandum of understanding with the AfricaNenda Foundation.
The Bank of Cape Verde and the Judicial Police signed a cooperation protocol to combat counterfeiting of Cape Verde escudo banknotes and coins. The protocol outlines procedures for analysis, handling, and custody of suspect notes, and promotes information sharing, technical training, and coordinated enforcement actions.
The Reserve Bank of India has issued draft Directions for Authorised Dealer Category I banks to report foreign exchange derivative transactions involving INR by related parties to the Clearing Corporation of India Limited's trade repository. This initiative aims to enhance transparency in OTC derivatives markets, addressing the lack of reporting for offshore Rupee derivative transactions. The draft builds on previous measures for reporting Rupee derivative transactions by standalone primary dealers and banks.
Governor Irena Radovic of the Central Bank of Montenegro stressed at a Brussels conference that simplifying prudential regulation should enhance coherence and efficiency without lowering standards, aligning with Montenegro's EU accession goals. She emphasized the need for a robust regulatory framework to boost investor confidence and reduce financing costs, advocating a systemic macroprudential approach to address non-bank financial intermediation and financial innovation.
The Central Bank of Montenegro met with OTP Bank and Crnogorska komercijalna banka (CKB) to discuss integrating Montenegro into the European payments area. Priorities include implementing European supervisory standards and modernizing the payment system through the TIPS Clone and SEPA projects. OTP Bank plans to enhance operations and support CKB in digital and traditional banking, with cooperation framed as essential for financial stability.
Greece's Ministry of National Economy and Finance, led by Minister Kyriakos Pierrakakis, highlighted two priorities for an upcoming Eurogroup meeting: the international role of the euro and global macroeconomic imbalances. Pierrakakis emphasized safeguarding the euro’s role and EU monetary sovereignty amid geopolitical risks. The discussion will include trade and internal imbalances, with input from non-euro area counterparts, including Canada's Minister of Finance, François-Philippe Champagne.
The National Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic, in collaboration with Open Joint Stock Company Eldik Bank, conducted a lecture for economics students at Issyk-Kul State University on 13 February 2026. The session focused on savings importance, personal money management, and household income and expenses as part of the 2026 regional financial literacy plan.
The Reserve Bank of India has appointed Punjab National Bank as the lead bank for the newly established district of Hansi in Haryana. Hansi has been assigned the district working code 02V, with no changes to lead bank assignments in other Haryana districts.
The State Bank of Pakistan has launched "Cyber Shield – the Cyber Resilience Strategy for Regulated Entities" to enhance cyber resilience in banks and financial institutions. The strategy focuses on prevention, rapid response, and recovery from cyber incidents, prioritizing governance, cooperation, talent development, and updated security practices. The State Bank will monitor cyber developments and update the strategy to address emerging threats.
Greece's Ministry of National Economy and Finance announced Minister Kyriakos Pierrakakis is attending Eurogroup and ECOFIN meetings in Brussels, focusing on the euro's international role and European monetary sovereignty. Discussions will cover economic policy directions for 2026, structural reform priorities, and the digital euro, with contributions from Professor Hélène Rey and Canada's Minister of Finance François-Philippe Champagne. The meetings will also address the economic impact of Russia's aggression against Ukraine and the Recovery and Resilience Facility implementation.
Greece's Ministry of National Economy and Finance reported a provisional state budget surplus of EUR 2,287 million for January 2026, exceeding the EUR 543 million target and the EUR 758 million surplus from January 2025. The primary balance showed a surplus of EUR 3,510 million, surpassing the EUR 1,751 million target. Net revenues were EUR 6,136 million, slightly above target, while expenditures were EUR 3,850 million, notably below target.
The Securities and Exchange Commission Ghana warned against Mekanism Marketing Ltd for running an unauthorized online investment scheme, constituting illegal capital market activity. The scheme solicits deposits via social media, promises fixed daily returns, and requires participants to perform tasks for income. The SEC is working with law enforcement to address the issue and advises the public to verify the licensing status of investment providers.
The Central Bank of the Republic of Uzbekistan held a seminar on its monetary policy framework for 150 academics, detailing the 5% inflation target, policy rate, and decision-making processes. The event covered the Central Bank's instruments, such as reserve requirements and bonds, and emphasized communication under an inflation targeting regime. Presentations titled “Monetary Policy” and “Operational Mechanism of Monetary Policy” were published.
The European Central Bank's Working Paper, “A structural model of capital buffer usability,” finds that even small stigma costs can limit banks' use of regulatory capital buffers during stress, leading to deleveraging to avoid breaching the capital buffer requirement (CBR). The paper suggests that while a non-releasable CBR can enhance resilience in normal conditions, it may not support loan supply during losses if stigma constrains buffer usability, recommending reconsidering the CBR's composition to increase releasable buffers.
The Central Bank of Bahrain hosted the 86th meeting of the Committee of Central Bank Governors of the Gulf Cooperation Council in Manama, focusing on enhancing cross-border cooperation. Key discussions included GCC payment systems, banking sector supervision, financial technologies, cybersecurity information exchange, and efforts against money laundering and terrorist financing.
The Bank of England summarized late-2025 roundtables with Prudential Regulation Authority-regulated firms on AI and ML adoption, highlighting support for a principles-based approach and existing testing frameworks like the FCA's Supercharged Sandbox. Challenges include risk function caution, skills bottlenecks, cross-border regulatory fragmentation, slow procurement, and data protection issues, with calls for enhanced testing and monitoring.
The European Central Bank released a publication titled "Overcoming structural barriers to the green transition."
The Bank of Italy will participate in Italy’s Energy Saving and Sustainable Lifestyles Day and Earth Hour by switching off all external lighting, aligning with its Transition Plan for Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation. This initiative aims to reduce the bank's carbon footprint and enhance resilience to climate-related risks.
Ireland’s Department of Finance announced that Tánaiste and Minister for Finance Simon Harris will attend the Eurogroup and ECOFIN meetings in Brussels to discuss Russia’s aggression against Ukraine, the euro’s international role, and EU savings, investment, and pensions initiatives. Harris will advocate for the swift adoption of the 20th sanctions package against Russia. The meetings will also cover the Euro Area Recommendation for 2026, global macroeconomic imbalances, and the European Investment Bank’s annual investment report.
The National Bank of Denmark has issued a security-upgraded DKK 50 banknote, completing the security enhancements of the 2009 banknote series. The upgraded notes, designated as the 2009A series, include new security features to deter counterfeiting while retaining existing designs. Both original and upgraded notes remain legal tender until new banknotes are introduced in 2028-2029.
The Securities and Exchange Commission of Zimbabwe has announced a webinar on Zimbabwe’s Warehouse Receipt System for 26 February 2026. The session will explain how the system works on FINSEC’s ZMX platform and how warehouse receipts can support storage, market access, financing, hedging and structured agricultural trade.
The Superintendency of the Financial System of El Salvador authorized Banco de Desarrollo Rural, S.A. of Guatemala to maintain its Information Office in El Salvador for two more years from 18 February 2026. The office can operate as an information centre and engage in credit or investment activities but is prohibited from passive operations. The authorization must be published in the Official Gazette and other specified outlets at the office's cost.
The Central Reserve Bank of El Salvador's financial education initiative, Mi Viaje Financiero, has reached over 50,000 students since its launch in May 2024. The program, which has visited 212 locations across 89 districts, uses interactive tools to teach practical digital financial skills. This initiative is part of a broader effort to enhance financial inclusion.
The European Commission outlined a strategy to enhance the international role of the euro, aiming to support the EU's de-risking strategy and economic stability. Key actions include advancing EU competitiveness, deepening the Single Market, and finalizing the digital euro proposal. The Eurogroup also discussed global macroeconomic imbalances, with the Commission urging swift implementation of the euro area recommendation for 2026.
Portugal's Insurance and Pension Funds Supervisory Authority (ASF) released its Q4 2025 sanctions activity summary, initiating two new administrative offence proceedings and concluding eight cases.
The British Virgin Islands Financial Services Commission issued a circular stressing ongoing customer due diligence (CDD) for financial institutions and non-financial businesses. It highlights transaction monitoring, customer screening, and updating CDD information to flag unusual activities and assess money laundering, terrorist financing, and proliferation financing risks. Firms should screen for politically exposed persons, sanctions exposure, and criminal links, updating CDD information based on risk sensitivity, with more frequent measures for higher-risk customers.
The Isle of Man Financial Services Authority (FSA) will present the consolidated Isle of Man Financial Services Authority (Fees) Order 2026 to Tynwald in March, with most fees increasing by 2.9% from 1 April. Following public consultation, the Order includes sector-specific changes for smaller designated non-financial businesses and professions (DNFBPs) and allows the FSA discretion in future inflation-linked adjustments. The FSA maintains a stable DNFBP fee structure, rejecting alignment with regulated financial services firm fees due to differing statutory frameworks and risk profiles.
Central Bank of Bosnia and Herzegovina Governor Jasmina Selimovic stressed at a Brussels conference the need for central bank independence for stability amid political and economic uncertainty. She warned that political uncertainty and rising budgetary needs could increase risks in moderately indebted countries, undermining market confidence. Selimovic advocated for safeguards like enhanced transparency, stress testing, and fiscal discipline to mitigate risks from a weaker US dollar and excessive borrowing.
The Central Bank of Russia has launched a survey to evaluate satisfaction with payment market tools among individuals and businesses. The survey aims to gather insights on payment method preferences and satisfaction with service quality, fees, and cashless payment acceptance. Results will inform efforts to enhance payment services and are expected in summer 2026.
The Central Bank of Russia's annual cyber fraud survey revealed that 29% of respondents experienced cyber fraud in 2025, a decrease from the previous year. The survey highlighted gender and age differences in exposure and behavior, with pensioners reporting the highest losses. Phone calls were the primary fraud channel, but phishing, fake QR codes, and malware incidents increased, with malware causing losses twice as often as phone calls.
The Central Bank of Russia's 2026–2028 economic research agenda addresses challenges like AI's impact on the economy and financial decision-making. Key areas include monetary policy studies, conditions for reducing the inflation target, and marketplaces' influence on inflation. The agenda also emphasizes behavioural economics, fraud techniques, and retail investor risks to enhance consumer protection.
Luxembourg's Ministry of Finance announced a letter of intent signed by Finance Minister Gilles Roth and Canada's Minister of Finance François-Philippe Champagne to enhance bilateral dialogue on financial sector policies. This agreement aims to strengthen cooperation between the Luxembourg and Canadian financial sectors, following discussions between Prime Minister Luc Frieden and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney.
At an IMF conference, Bosnia and Herzegovina's Central Bank Governor, Jasmina Selimović, stressed central bank independence's importance for macroeconomic stability amid political and economic uncertainty. She noted risks from political pressures and fiscal irresponsibility undermining market confidence and autonomy. Selimović advocated for transparency, stress testing, and operational efficiency to protect independence and support long-term stability.
Governor Gent Sejko launched the "Money Talks: 100 Years: Life and Events – Bank of Albania" exhibition in Prishtina, Kosovo, celebrating Albania's currency centenary. This financial education initiative explores the central bank's history and currency evolution, highlighting European payment integration. Sejko thanked the Central Bank of Kosovo and partners for supporting the exhibition's expansion beyond Tirana to Kosovo and other Albanian regions.
The Rwanda Capital Markets Authority, Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Resources, and East Africa Exchange held a digital dialogue on using Rwanda’s commodities exchange to connect agricultural value chains with capital market finance. The discussion highlighted structured trading and warehouse-receipt finance, including electronic receipts, to facilitate financing and attract agribusiness investment. The exchange model offers standardized contracts, transparent pricing, and electronic trading to improve market access and investor confidence.
The Oman Financial Services Authority has temporarily suspended the licence of Thara Global Business LLC for three months due to non-compliance with minimum capital and shareholders’ equity requirements. This action is in accordance with the Executive Regulation of the Capital Market Law and Article 58(g) of the Securities Law.
The Bulgarian National Bank reported on the cash changeover, confirming the euro as the sole legal tender in Bulgaria since 1 February 2026. As of the reporting date, BGN 4.8 billion in lev remained outside the bank's cash desks, with 84.5% of lev withdrawn since early 2025. Euro banknotes and coins valued over EUR 7.2 billion have been circulated to support the payment system and cash services.
The International Monetary Fund announced a staff-level agreement with Guinea-Bissau on policies for the ninth and tenth reviews under the Extended Credit Facility, potentially granting access to SDR 2.36 million (USD 3.3 million) and extending the program by five months. The agreement follows delays due to a government change and tighter regional financial conditions, with 2025 growth estimated at 5.5% and public debt at 74.3% of GDP. Transitional authorities have implemented expenditure controls and revenue measures to support the 2026 budget and maintain debt sustainability.
The European Insurance and Occupational Pensions Authority (EIOPA) has issued an Opinion on the European Financial Reporting Advisory Group's (EFRAG) advice regarding the draft revised European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS). EIOPA supports EFRAG's simplification approach but recommends a 3-year limit on waivers for omitting own-operations data to enhance interoperability with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS). Once adopted, the revised ESRS will dictate sustainability disclosures for large companies under the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) from 2028.
The Saudi Arabia Capital Markets Authority approved United International Holding Company's capital increase from SAR 250 million to SAR 750 million through bonus shares issuance. Shareholders will receive 47 bonus shares for every 25 existing shares, funded by transfers from the statutory reserve and retained earnings. An extraordinary general assembly must be held within six months, with compliance to all regulatory requirements.
Saudi Arabia's Capital Market Authority has approved Al Rajhi Bank's capital increase from SAR 40 billion to SAR 60 billion through bonus shares issuance. The increase will be funded by transferring SAR 20 billion from retained earnings, raising outstanding shares from 4 billion to 6 billion. An extraordinary general assembly must be held within six months, with all regulatory requirements met.
The Saudi Arabia Capital Markets Authority approved SNB Capital's public offer of the Namaa Waqf Fund, confirming compliance with the Capital Market Law and its Implementing Regulations. The approval is not a subscription recommendation, and investors should review the fund's terms, strategy, and risks.
Governor Gent Sejko of the Bank of Albania addressed the launch of the exhibition "Money Talks: 100 Years: Life and Events – Bank of Albania" in Prishtina, Kosovo, marking the centenary of Albania's first national currency. The exhibition highlights the Bank's historical evolution and role in economic life, focusing on financial literacy and European integration efforts, including alignment with European payment standards and cooperation with the Central Bank of Kosovo.
Mexico's National Commission for the Protection and Defense of Users of Financial Services (CONDUSEF) reported MXN 81.6 million in financial-services complaints in Baja California Sur for 2025, with MXN 24.6 million recovered. Most complaints were processed electronically, with a 44.7% user-favourable resolution rate. Key issues included unauthorised purchases and unrecognised transfers, with credit cards and multiple banking being the most affected sectors.
The Central Bank of the Republic of San Marino criticized media for discrediting its financial system, emphasizing the acquisition attempt of the Bank of San Marino was properly assessed. Authorization was denied on 24 October 2025, with all communications documented, dismissing alternative narratives. The bank highlighted compliance with supervisory rules and improvements in capitalisation, profitability, and liquidity, supported by recent assessments from the IMF and rating agencies.
The Ministry of Finance of Croatia supports further EU capital market integration, proposing partial centralization of supervisory functions while maintaining national specificities. Deputy Prime Minister Tomislav Coric indicated some market supervision could shift to a supranational level. The Eurogroup agenda also covered the E6 coordination initiative and discussions on the euro's international role and global imbalances.
The South Africa Financial Sector Conduct Authority fined QuickTrade (Pty) Ltd ZAR 710,000 for non-compliance with the Financial Intelligence Centre Act, citing deficiencies in anti-money laundering controls, customer due diligence, and cash threshold reporting. The inspection revealed failures in risk management, client identity verification, and reporting of cash deposits over ZAR 24,999.99. QuickTrade has committed to improving its compliance framework, with the FSCA warning of further action for continued non-compliance.
The National Bank of Romania reported the current account deficit for January–December 2025 widened to EUR 30,127 million from EUR 28,853 million in the previous year, with total external debt rising by EUR 23,837 million to EUR 227,347 million. The goods balance deficit narrowed, and the services surplus increased, but the primary income deficit and secondary income surplus worsened. Long-term external debt rose significantly, while international reserves covered 6.0 months of imports, up from 5.7 months at the end of 2024.
Moldova's National Commission for Financial Markets approved a prospectus for Banca Comercială „Moldova-Agroindbank” SA to issue bonds under a MDL 2 billion programme and registered new securities issues, including a share issue by Clubul profesional de fotbal „MIGDAL SGP”. The Commission also registered a share capital reduction for „BUSINESS-INVESTIȚII PENTRU TOȚI” SA and removed securities of several companies from the issuers register. Additionally, it rejected a supervisory complaint related to Moldova-Agroindbank shares and will inform the National Bank of Moldova.
The National Bank of Moldova held an online training for over 100 banking representatives on implementing its regulation on own funds requirements for operational risk, effective 1 January 2027. Part of an EU-funded project, the session provided guidance on aligning with European standards and discussed a forthcoming draft decision on the reporting framework for operational risk. Proposed amendments to banks' Common Reporting (COREP) submissions were outlined, with public consultation planned for further development.
The Guernsey Financial Services Commission will host an in-person roundtable on digital finance in the insurance sector on 3 March 2026, as part of its Digital Finance Initiative. The session will discuss insurers' use of digital technology and assets, barriers to adoption, and the adequacy of regulatory proposals from the December 2025 consultation paper.
The National Bank of Georgia released an interactive press release detailing money transfer statistics for January 2026, accessible on its website.
The Danish Financial Supervisory Authority revised its analysis on priority loans, correcting an error in the initial data code. The updated analysis shows DKK 85bn in priority loans issued in 2020, up from the previously reported DKK 50bn, confirming substantial growth in priority lending.
The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) fined former Carillion plc CEO Richard Howson £237,700 for misleading market statements despite knowing of financial issues in Carillion’s UK construction business. Howson was found to have acted recklessly, contributing to breaches of the Market Abuse Regulation and Listing Rules. Former finance directors Richard Adam and Zafar Khan were also fined earlier in January 2026.
The Hong Kong Securities and Futures Commission settled with Sino Wealth International Limited and Clear Prosper Global Limited over breaches of The Codes on Takeovers and Mergers and Share Buy-backs related to Giordano International Limited shares. The settlement involves cash payments to independent Giordano shareholders, potentially totaling up to HKD 1.5 billion. Breaches included failing to make a general offer when the Relevant Concert Group's interest exceeded 30% and lapsing a voluntary general offer despite meeting acceptance conditions.
The Central Bank of Jordan announced that the digital identity via the Sanad application is now accepted by all banks in Jordan for verifying customer identity. This initiative aims to enhance efficiency, simplify procedures, and improve security in banking transactions. The central bank will continue collaborating with the Ministry of Digital Economy and Entrepreneurship to advance Jordan’s digital financial services ecosystem.
The South African Reserve Bank proposes replacing the prime lending rate (PLR) with the SARB policy rate (SPR) for PLR-linked financial contracts. This change aims to better align monetary policy with lending rates and modernize interest rate benchmarks. The transition from PLR to SPR will follow the cessation of the Johannesburg Interbank Average Rate (Jibar) and involve measures like fallback language in contracts and legislative provisions.
The European Insurance and Occupational Pensions Authority released six instruments to aid the implementation of the Insurance Recovery and Resolution Directive (IRRD), detailing requirements for recovery and resolution planning for insurers and reinsurers. The package includes three draft Regulatory Technical Standards (RTS) and three sets of guidelines, focusing on pre-emptive recovery plans, resolution plans, and resolvability assessments. The IRRD, operational in 2027, establishes an EU framework for insurer recovery and resolution.
From 2 March 2026, the Central Bank of the Republic of Azerbaijan will transfer national currency exchanges to designated operator banks, with International Bank of Azerbaijan and Kapital Bank offering the service free. The central bank's Baku cash office will close, and jubilee and commemorative sales will occur at its administrative building. Exchanges can also be requested at regional offices, other banks, and the national postal operator.
The Central Bank of Iraq directed banks and non-banking financial institutions to cease exchange rate discrimination between older and newer US dollar banknotes. It emphasized compliance with existing rules and standards for foreign banknotes, ensuring all editions of the US dollar are treated equally. This measure aims to support safe monetary transactions and market stability.
The Central Bank of Russia's February Monitoring of Businesses commentary reports a slowdown in business activity, with the business climate indicator dropping to 0.2 points from 1.5 points. Companies showed more cautious assessments of current output and demand, though expectations for the next three months improved. Price expectations decreased significantly, falling below the average level of the fourth quarter of 2025.
The Central Bank of the Republic of Kosovo and the Bank of Albania launched the exhibition “Money Tells: 100 Years of Life and Events” in Pristina, showcasing the evolution of Albanian currency and its impact on economic and social development. Central Bank Governor Ahmet Ismaili emphasized the exhibition's reflection of monetary evolution and bilateral cooperation in regulatory harmonisation and payment infrastructure modernisation. The exhibition coincides with Kosovo's independence anniversary and follows its initial presentation in Tirana.
The Central Bank of Russia’s Banking Regulation Review for 2025 Q4 outlines planned 2026 prudential changes, including new credit risk assessment methods for capital adequacy and concentration ratios and a report on revised indicators for systemically important banks. It also plans to phase capital deductions for certain import-substitution intangible assets over four years and is preparing a more risk-sensitive methodology for assessing developers’ credit risk.
The Central Bank of Cyprus released its summary balance sheet statement as of 31 January 2026.
The Central Bank of Cyprus released a report on payment fraud statistics for the first half of 2025, detailing trends in non-cash transaction fraud. The report, available in Greek and English, will be updated semi-annually.
The Moroccan Capital Markets Authority announced that RMA Asset Management's fund, FCP RMA Dynamique, fell below the 5% participation threshold in Risma's share capital due to a dilution effect from a capital increase. Post-operation, the fund holds 782,368 shares, representing 4.94% of Risma's share capital. The capital increase prospectus was approved by the AMMC under reference VI/EM/001/2026.
The Central Bank of Malta hosted a visit from German Ambassador Tania Beyer and a Deutsche Bundesbank delegation, including Executive Board Member Burkhard Balz. Discussions focused on the Capital Markets Union, Malta’s financial centre role, the digital euro, and payments landscape developments.
The Hong Kong Monetary Authority's credit card lending survey for Q4 2025 shows an 8.7% increase in total card receivables to HKD 164.2 billion, driven by festive spending and salaries tax payments. The delinquent and rescheduled ratio improved to 0.40%, and the charge-off ratio decreased to 0.62%.
The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) issued a scam alert about fraudulent websites, fake internet banking login screens, and phishing emails. The alert highlights press releases from The Bank of East Asia, Shanghai Commercial Bank, and Chong Hing Bank. The HKMA advises against providing sensitive information via SMS, email, or phone and urges reporting incidents to the relevant bank and Hong Kong Police Force.
The Central Bank of Sri Lanka requires all finance companies licensed under the Finance Business Act to develop recovery plans for financial stability under severe stress by 31 December 2026. These plans must align with the company's risk management framework and include strategic analysis, governance, recovery options, and a communication strategy, without relying on extraordinary public support. Plans must be reviewed annually and submitted upon request, with deficiencies subject to regulatory action.
H.E. Sheikh Bandar bin Mohammed bin Saoud Al Thani, Governor of the Qatar Central Bank, attended key meetings in Manama, Bahrain, including the 86th GCC Central Bank Governors' meeting, the 21st Gulf Payments Company board meeting, and the 65th Gulf Monetary Council board meeting. The meetings covered various topics and resulted in several decisions.
Federal Reserve Board Vice Chair for Supervision Michelle W. Bowman proposed Basel-based capital changes to incentivize banks to re-enter mortgage origination and servicing, citing a decline in bank market share due to current prudential calibration. She highlighted the impact of the 2013 capital treatment of mortgage servicing rights and suggested using loan-to-value ratios for setting risk weights. Two regulatory proposals are expected to address these issues by adjusting capital requirements and risk weights.
The Thailand Securities and Exchange Commission has extended ERX Co., Ltd.'s deadline to address its capital maintenance deficiency to 30 March 2026. The extension, granted under Section 35(1) of the Emergency Decree on Digital Asset Businesses B.E. 2561 (2018), follows ERX's request and includes measures to improve board governance. The SEC will continue to closely monitor business operations and client asset reports.
AFI Global held a virtual meeting with Working Group leaders to review 2025 progress and align on the 2026–2028 Working Group Strategy. The strategy focuses on enhancing Working Group architecture, generating high-quality insights, and improving policy implementation and capacity-building. The next step involves translating these strategic priorities into specific work plans and deliverables.
The Reserve Bank of India mandates authorised dealer category I banks to implement the Foreign Exchange Management (Borrowing and Lending) (First Amendment) Regulations, 2026, affecting borrowing and lending transactions. These amendments consolidate the External Commercial Borrowing (ECB) framework and require deleting specific paragraphs from the Master Directions and FAQs. Banks must inform affected customers, with directions issued under the Foreign Exchange Management Act, 1999.
The Central Bank of Egypt and the International Finance Corporation (IFC) hosted a sustainable finance conference on 15 February 2026, focusing on climate financing and financial system resilience. The event included signing cooperation protocols between IFC and Banque Misr, and IFC and Export Development Bank of Egypt (EBank). The Banque Misr protocol involves an IFC investment of up to USD 220 million, while the EBank protocol launches an advisory programme for green financing impact tracking.
The Eurasian Group has published the final report of an international AML/CFT dialogue held during GAFILAT's December 2025 plenary. The report highlights fifth-round FATF evaluation priorities including beneficial ownership, asset recovery, risk-based supervision and virtual assets. It also identifies fraud, digital finance risks and cross-border organized crime links as major regional pressures.
The Monetary Authority of Singapore and the National University of Singapore have appointed Professor Arvind Krishnamurthy as the MAS Distinguished Term Professor in Economics and Finance from 18 to 28 February 2026. Professor Krishnamurthy, a finance expert from Stanford, will deliver a public lecture at NUS and engage with policymakers on international economics and monetary policy. He is the 25th MAS Term Professor since the programme began in 2009.
The Central Bank of Honduras is hosting meetings with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to discuss the new government's economic and fiscal policy priorities. The discussions, led by Emilio Fernández-Corugedo, aim to define a reform roadmap and include priorities such as increasing central bank capitalisation, enhancing foreign exchange access, and engaging in tariff negotiations with the United States.
The Thailand Securities and Exchange Commission has extended the deadline for ERX Co., Ltd. (KuCoin Thailand) to address a capital maintenance deficiency to 30 March 2026. This follows ERX's request for more time and the SEC's acknowledgment of ERX's governance remediation efforts. The SEC will maintain close oversight, including daily monitoring of client asset reports, to ensure compliance.
The Kuwait Capital Markets Authority has introduced new investment controls for multi-asset funds and amended existing controls for other fund types, including changes to the marketing regime for collective investment schemes established outside Kuwait. Key amendments involve expanded permissible instruments, increased borrowing limits, and revised concentration limits, alongside updates to foreign scheme marketing rules and procedures.
Greece's Ministry of National Economy and Finance outlined tax reforms including reduced withholding tax for employees and pensioners, a 50% reduction in imputed income tax for freelancers in small settlements, and a phased reduction of ENFIA for small communities. The reforms also introduce a new tax filing schedule and measures to combat tax evasion, with the VAT gap now below 10%.
The Algeria Market Authority has started its 13th training session for financial market professionals, aimed at improving the skills of participants from the banking, insurance and wider financial sectors. The program runs for five months with two days of classes per week and includes a visit to the Tunis Stock Exchange under the November 2024 cooperation agreement with Tunisia's Financial Market Council.
The Central Bank of Libya agreed emergency steps with industry representatives and suppliers to address shortages of essential food commodities ahead of Ramadan. The package includes imports of 2.5 million boxes of cooking oil over this week and next, plus USD 100 million in letters of credit for a further 6 million boxes. Periodic meetings will monitor market conditions and goods supply.
The Jordan Securities Commission, with the Integrity and Anti-Corruption Commission, held a workshop on integrity standards for Jordan’s National Integrity Index. Led by Chairman Imad Abu Hultam, it focused on law enforcement mechanisms, whistleblower protection, and applying integrity criteria to improve the Commission's integrity index and investment outcomes.
The International Monetary Fund published a 34-page "Australia: Selected Issues" paper analyzing labor market topics such as labor demand and supply, unemployment, and wages, as part of its country report series.
The International Monetary Fund released documents for Australia's 2025 Article IV consultation, highlighting the government's reform agenda as the economy stabilizes post-high inflation, with a focus on productivity, fiscal sustainability, and resilience.
The Central Bank of Barbados detailed the operation of BiMPay, the national instant payment system set to launch on March 31, emphasizing its role in fostering innovation and a level playing field in payments. Key features include instant settlement, 24/7 availability, interoperability, and proxy-based payment initiation, with ongoing collaboration with commercial banks and user groups.
The Central Bank of Sri Lanka has initiated an expression of interest process to select external auditors for finance companies licensed by the bank, with audits starting from 1 January 2027. Eligible firms must meet specific criteria, including a decade of practice, compliance with quality management standards, and the ability to conduct comprehensive audits, with submissions due by 6 March 2026.
The Jordan Securities Commission, with the Integrity and Anti-Corruption Commission, held a workshop to boost employee awareness of integrity standards in the National Integrity Index, focusing on whistleblower protection and the Commission's preventive role. Chairman Emad Abu Haltam emphasized that applying these standards could improve the Commission's Integrity Index ranking and Jordan's standing in the Corruption Perceptions Index.