The Central Bank of Barbados will hold a press conference on 28 January to publish its 2025 economic review, featuring updates on key indicators and an economic outlook for 2026 by Governor Dr. Kevin Greenidge. The event will be livestreamed and include a Q&A session.
The Reserve Bank of New Zealand's analytical note indicates that global market shocks, particularly from the US, account for about 56% of the variation in the 10-year New Zealand Government Bond-swap spread, with both US and domestic shocks contributing to its increase since mid-2023. The note highlights increased volatility in NZGB-swap spreads during global sovereign bond market illiquidity and a persistent rise post-Global Financial Crisis.
The Bank of Israel's Monetary Policy Report for the second half of 2025 outlines the Monetary Committee's decisions, including maintaining the interest rate at 4.5% through September, followed by two 0.25 percentage point reductions, ending at 4% in January 2026. The report highlights inflation within the target range, significant shekel appreciation, sharp economic recovery, and a decline in Israel's risk premium, with GDP growth projected at 5.2% in 2026.
The Pensions Superintendency (SIPEN) reported that Dominican workers' pension savings have become a primary financing source for the tourism sector, with investments through Investment Fund Managers (AFI) accounting for 34% of total pension fund investments. As of December 2025, pension funds managed DOP 1.6 trillion, with significant growth in investment funds and a decline in public sector investments.
The European Parliament's plenary session, led by President Roberta Metsola, addressed Bulgaria's euro adoption and Ukraine financing under urgent procedure, with procedural votes scheduled for Tuesday. The agenda included retitling a debate on Greenland to focus on EU-US relations and postponing a vote on EU-US political relations, alongside requests for urgent procedure on Ukraine-related financial regulations.
The Japan Financial Services Agency has released draft amendments to its Guidelines for Countermeasures against Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing, inviting public comments by 19 February 2026. The amendments aim to enhance AML/CFT risk management frameworks in response to evolving operational environments and align with the Financial Action Task Force's methodology.
The Philippine SEC issued guidelines to streamline corporate amendments via the eAMEND Portal, expanding Simple Processing to 28 transactions and introducing penalties for late submissions. The framework aligns with the Ease of Doing Business Act, offering digital certificates for Simple Processing and requiring SEC review for Regular Processing, which includes complex amendments and dissolutions.
The Central Bank of Cyprus released the Governor's opening remarks from the 13th Banking, Payments & Fintech Forum and EXPO, held on 19 January 2026, at the Hilton Nicosia Hotel, with an English version provided.
The National Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic has licensed Alma Finance Bank Closed Joint Stock Company to conduct banking operations in national and/or foreign currency, following a Board decision on 14 January 2026.
The National Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic fined a commercial bank KGS 55,000 for breaching national legislation and the bank's regulations.
The Reserve Bank of India has amended its priority sector lending framework, updating calculation methods, PSL targets, and conditions for various exposures, while aligning definitions and reporting with prudential directions. Key changes include audit-certification requirements, portfolio-verification expectations, and specific PSL targets for different bank categories, with guidance on ANBC deductions, CEOBSE measurement, and on-lending conditions.
The Securities and Exchange Regulator of Cambodia has opened registration for the 31st Training and Examination and Continuing Professional Education Program in the securities sector, with a registration deadline of March 20, 2026, and fees ranging from KHR 1,200,000 to KHR 1,500,000.
The Bank of Japan's 104th survey reveals a less negative sentiment on economic conditions for the one-year outlook, despite continued expectations of rising prices. Awareness of the Bank's objectives remains low, with only 20.6% aware of the 2% price stability target, and confidence levels are mixed among respondents.
Chile's Ministry of Finance announced that the bill establishing an Economic Intelligence System to trace illicit financial flows has advanced to the Chamber of Deputies’ Finance Committee, following amendments rejecting expanded bank secrecy access for the Financial Analysis Unit (UAF). The initiative, including new intelligence units and enhanced governance measures, aims to strengthen anti-money laundering efforts and address illegal gambling, with the ministry advocating for broader UAF powers in the legislative process.
The Central Bank of Brazil revised the filing calendar for the quinquennial Foreign Capital Census declaration, requiring submissions from 1 January to 31 March via the Foreign Capital Information Provision System for Foreign Direct Investment (SCE-IED). This applies to Brazilian entities with non-resident participation and assets of at least BRL 100,000, with non-compliance potentially resulting in suspension from SCE-IED and fines under Central Bank Resolution BCB 131/2021.
The Dominican Republic Superintendency of Banks reported a 7.9% year-on-year growth in financial system assets to DOP 4.15 trillion by end-December 2025, driven by credit expansion. System liquidity increased by 7.1% to DOP 659 billion, while public deposits and net equity rose by 10.3% and 11.4%, respectively. The system remains adequately capitalised with reduced leverage, and profitability indicators showed a 6.0% rise in net income to DOP 90,445 million.
The Central Bank of Iraq participated in a Financial Literacy Program for Youth in Erbil Governorate, training 100 participants on economics, finance, and financial inclusion.
The International Monetary Fund's January 2026 World Economic Outlook Update projects global growth of 3.3% in 2026 and 3.2% in 2027, with inflation expected to decline, though US inflation may return to target more slowly. The update highlights technology investment and fiscal support as growth drivers, while noting risks from technology reevaluation and geopolitical tensions, urging policymakers to restore fiscal buffers and ensure stability.
The Alberta Securities Commission issued an investor alert identifying three scam trends expected in 2026, including AI-generated impersonations, use of private messaging apps for fraudulent schemes, and risks from "finfluencers" offering unregistered advice. The alert advises investors to verify registration through CheckFirst.ca and report suspicious activities to the ASC.
The Canadian Investment Regulatory Organization (CIRO) is partnering with Brampton Library to offer free financial literacy workshops in 2026, targeting retirees, youth, and new investors with sessions on investing basics, youth finance, and retirement planning. These workshops, led by CIRO’s Office of the Investor, will be available both online and in person at library branches.
Ireland's Department of Finance announced that Tánaiste and Minister for Finance Simon Harris will attend Eurogroup and Economic and Financial Affairs Council meetings in Brussels to address US tariff threats and trade risks linked to Greenland, advocating for EU coordination to protect economic stability. The meetings will also discuss Ukraine's economic situation, the Recovery and Resilience Facility, macroeconomic imbalances, fiscal compliance, and selecting the next Vice-President of the European Central Bank.
The Thailand Securities & Exchange Commission has revised requirements for listed companies' material transactions and related party transactions, effective 1 July 2026, to align with international standards and enhance investor protection. Key changes include updated transaction mechanics, expanded investor rights, reduced compliance burdens, and forthcoming guidance and training for stakeholders.
The Thailand Securities and Exchange Commission has released its 2026–2028 strategic plan, focusing on enhancing capital market competitiveness, digital and technology-led development, and sustainability. Key priorities include improving fundraising and corporate governance, advancing technology-enabled supervision, developing a digital capital market ecosystem, and aligning sustainability efforts with international standards.
Lithuania's Vice-Minister of Finance Januš Kizenevic will attend the World Economic Forum in Davos from 19-21 January, focusing on financial digitalisation, ecosystem resilience, and global defence spending challenges, with meetings planned with international firms in financial markets, fintech, and cybersecurity. The agenda includes panels on European stability, strategic cooperation, and the impact of a fragmented global environment on the financial system.
Lithuania’s Finance Minister Kristupas Vaitiekunas emphasized Europe's economic strength and the need for unity in decision-making with the United States ahead of the Eurogroup meeting, while expressing support for the digital euro project despite an unclear implementation timeline.
The Superintendency of Banks of Ecuador, led by Roberto Romero von Buchwald, is intensifying efforts against unauthorised financial entities by enhancing investigations, prosecuting cases, and implementing public prevention measures. Coordination with the Attorney General and the Ministry of Telecommunications is crucial, as these entities often lack deposit insurance and may be involved in money laundering. Romero advises the public to verify legal status through official channels and be wary of high-return promises.
The Philippines Department of Finance has commenced its co-chairship of the ASEAN+3 Finance Process, focusing on regional financial resilience and cooperation. Key priorities include operationalizing the Chiang Mai Initiative, advancing regional bond market development, and enhancing the Disaster Risk Financing Initiative, with discussions on a 2026–2028 roadmap.
The Bank of Korea's Loan Officer Survey for Q4 2025 reveals that domestic banks are expected to slightly ease lending standards in Q1 2026, with increased loan demand anticipated across corporate and household segments, despite elevated credit risks, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises. Non-bank financial institutions are expected to maintain a tightening stance, though with some moderation in lending standards.
Bulgaria's Finance Minister Temenuzhka Petkova will participate in the Eurogroup meeting on 19 January 2026 in Brussels, marking Bulgaria's first attendance as a full euro area member, with discussions on the euro changeover and euro area policy priorities. Petkova will also attend the ECOFIN meeting on 20 January 2026 to address amendments to recovery and resilience plans for several EU countries.
Bulgaria's Finance Minister Temenuzhka Petkova attended her first Eurogroup meeting as a full member, reporting a smooth transition to the euro since 1 January, with stable payment systems and effective adaptation by stakeholders. Consumer protection remains a priority, with dual price display and circulation measures in place, while breaches of euro introduction laws are being sanctioned by relevant authorities.
The Banking Agency of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina warned that Bosscar d.o.o. Bosanska Krupa is offering leasing services without approval, violating Articles 3 and 6 of the Leasing Law. The agency has taken legal action and advised caution, as it does not supervise the company or protect users' rights under its contracts.
The Luxembourg Commission de Surveillance du Secteur Financier (CSSF) has enabled legal reporting for institutions for occupational retirement provision (IORPs) via its eDesk platform as of 15 January 2026. Reports must be submitted exclusively through the specified eDesk methods and are free of charge. A user guide for the submission process is available on the platform.
The Central Bank of Slovenia is hosting a free Prešeren Day programme at the Banka Slovenije Museum and Mala Galerija Banke Slovenije, featuring family activities, guided tours, and exhibitions. Advance registration is required for most museum activities by 6 February, with participation limits in place.
The National Bank of Serbia reported continued growth in the IPS NBS instant payment system for Q3 2025, with a 25.7% increase in transactions to 27.3 million and a total value of RSD 357.1 billion. Danube-Union d.o.o. Belgrade joined as an indirect participant, and the system set a record with 565,213 payments on 14 November 2025.
The Portuguese Insurance and Pension Funds Supervisory Authority (ASF) reported a 13% increase in direct insurance premiums for 2025, totaling over EUR 16.1bn. Life premiums rose by 17.1%, while non-life premiums increased by 9.2%, with significant growth in health, motor, and workers' compensation sectors. Fosun (Fidelidade) continues to lead in market share among economic groups.
The Portuguese Insurance and Pension Funds Supervisory Authority reported that pension fund assets under management reached EUR 19.8 billion at the end of 2025, marking a 2.9% increase from the previous year. The number of pension funds decreased to 238, with notable changes in the top five management entities, which account for 79.5% of the market.
The Oman Financial Services Authority approved amendments to the Unified Motor Insurance Policy Model, introducing automatic cover for natural disaster-related vehicle damage and new claims settlement procedures. The policy includes a compensation cap of OMR 5,000 per vehicle, options for cash compensation, and mandates implementation within 30 days, with daily compensation for repair delays beyond 30 days.
The Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario reported continued asset growth and stable profitability for Ontario credit unions in its delayed Q2 and Q3 2025-26 Sector Outlook Reports, with total assets reaching CAD 102.83 billion by end-Q3 and profitability at 31 basis points. Residential and commercial loans increased, while the over-30-day loan delinquency rate rose to 1.18%.
The Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario has created a Property & Casualty Division to enhance oversight of the insurance sector, focusing initially on market conduct and later on prudential regulation. Jordan Solway will lead the division as Acting Executive Vice President from February 1, with a go-live date of February 15, while Jeff Kehoe will serve as Interim Executive Vice President, Legal & Enforcement.
The Bank of Canada's fourth-quarter 2025 Business Outlook Survey indicates subdued business sentiment due to trade-related uncertainty, with weak sales growth and limited near-term pricing pressure. Recession planning eased, but firms reported declining sales volumes, soft US demand, and policy uncertainty, while investment intentions improved slightly but remained focused on maintenance, with oil sector investment expected to decline in 2026.
The Bank of Canada's fourth-quarter 2025 Canadian Survey of Consumer Expectations indicates a slight decline in the CSCE indicator due to concerns over high prices and trade-conflict uncertainty, with modest deterioration in perceived financial health and spending intentions. Inflation perceptions remain above pre-pandemic levels, though long-term expectations have eased, and tariffs are still a significant inflation driver.
The Middle East and North Africa Financial Action Task Force (MENAFATF) held its first 2026 Advisory Committee meeting in Abu Dhabi, chaired by President H.E. Hamid Al Zaabi. Discussions focused on capacity building, governance, regulatory enhancement, and Plenary preparations. MENAFATF reaffirmed priorities under the UAE's chairmanship, emphasizing regional readiness for mutual evaluations and developing tools for a sustainable financial system.
Burundi's Ministry of Finance and National Planning outlined a strategic retreat aimed at aligning sector priorities and harmonizing action plans to create a five-year roadmap with measurable objectives. Key discussions focused on reforms in domestic resource mobilization, public financial management modernization, and service digitalization, aligned with Vision Burundi 2040–2060 and the macroeconomic stabilization program.
The Vietnam State Securities Commission has instructed individuals listed in an attached notice to pay a fee of VND 1,000,000 for securities practice certificate issuance, as per Ministry of Finance Circular No. 25/2022/TT-BTC. Failure to complete the procedures within one year of the fee payment announcement will result in certificate cancellation.
The Vietnam State Securities Commission's Department of Technology and Digital Transformation has extended the bid closing and opening schedule for the consultancy package related to the centralized data warehouse project, with the new bid closing set for 14:00 on 29 January 2026. All other details remain unchanged.
Honduras' CNBS issued Circular No.001/2026, requiring private pension and severance fund administrators to submit monthly electronic disclosures via the Financial Interconnection System and provide a website link to the CNBS “Know and Compare” tool. The first report, covering January and February 2026, is due by 13 March 2026, with subsequent reports due within the first ten business days after each month-end. Non-compliance may result in sanctions.
The Swedish Financial Supervisory Authority is consulting on repealing its mortgage amortisation regulations and related guidance, with the repeal proposed to take effect on 31 March 2026. Written comments are due by 4 February 2026 under reference FI Dnr 25-33519.
Norway's Department of Finance and the Expert Council for the Government Pension Fund Global will host an open seminar on 26 January 2026, featuring a report presentation and assessment of Norges Bank’s active management. The event, including remarks from Finance Minister Jens Stoltenberg and comments from Norges Bank representatives, will be held at the R5 auditorium and available via live stream, with registration required for in-person attendance by 23 January 2026.
The National Bank of Romania maintained its monetary policy rate at 6.50%, with the lending facility rate at 7.50% and the deposit facility rate at 5.50%, amid a slight easing in headline inflation and a GDP contraction in Q3 2025. The Bank anticipates a gradual decline in inflation in early 2026, with fiscal consolidation expected to exert disinflationary pressure, while noting uncertainties related to budget measures and geopolitical risks.
The Dutch Authority for the Financial Markets has released its Agenda 2026, emphasizing enhanced supervision of digital operational resilience, responsible artificial intelligence use, and financial crime prevention. Key initiatives include intensified oversight of AI risks, strengthened digital resilience under the Digital Operational Resilience Act, and coordinated actions against investment fraud and money laundering.
The Portuguese Securities Commission (CMVM) issued warnings about IQCapitalInvest and Roctec Futures Limited. Investors are advised to consult the CMVM's Investor Portal for information on unauthorised entities and subscribe for email notifications.
The State Bank of Vietnam, in partnership with the Asian Development Bank, launched a training course on the Supervisory Review and Assessment Process to enhance banks' internal governance and risk management, aligning with Basel standards. The program includes 15 sessions with international experts, focusing on governance, risk culture, and data aggregation, with ongoing support from ADB.
The State Bank of Vietnam reported on the preparatory session of the Communist Party of Vietnam’s 14th National Congress, where delegates approved the congress programme, election regulations, and confirmed delegate eligibility. The session, chaired by Tran Thanh Man, included the election of a presidium, secretariat, and verification committee, and concluded with ceremonial activities and document study.
The State Bank of Vietnam's Region 13 Branch reviewed 2025 banking activities and outlined 2026 priorities for Dong Thap and Tay Ninh, focusing on digital transformation, non-cash payments, and tightening supervision of bad debts. In 2025, credit outstanding in these provinces rose by 10.9% to nearly VND 525,100bn, with significant growth in agriculture and corporate lending, while capital mobilization increased over 15% to approximately VND 431,435bn.
The International Association of Deposit Insurers has initiated a public consultation on the effects of digitalisation and financial innovation on global deposit insurance systems, focusing on innovative deposit products, service providers, and transformative technologies. Feedback is sought by 16 March 2026 to address potential adaptations in deposit insurance frameworks to ensure depositor protection and financial stability.
The European Banking Federation has urged the European Commission to simplify the EU banking regulatory and supervisory framework, citing its complexity as a constraint on banks' economic support capabilities. The EBF highlights excessive capital requirements and administrative burdens as disadvantages compared to US and UK banks, and calls for streamlined reforms in capital requirements, macroprudential tools, and digital regulatory frameworks.
Central Bank of Colombia Board member César Giraldo discussed maintaining the monetary policy rate at 9.25%, citing macroeconomic conditions and a fiscal deficit projected to rise to 7.1% of GDP. Giraldo highlighted growth driven by agriculture, manufacturing, and commerce, with unemployment at a 30-year low, while noting structural challenges and fiscal policy issues like high spending rigidity and a proposed financing law.
The Central Bank of Colombia's analysis attributes the country's higher unemployment rate to a structurally higher labour supply, with unemployment around 10% in mid-2025 versus a regional average of 6.5%. The study highlights that Colombia's employment rate aligns with the regional average, but its labour force participation rate is 1.5 percentage points higher, suggesting that if participation matched the regional average, unemployment could decrease to approximately 7%.
Greece's Ministry of National Economy and Finance outlined discussions from Eurogroup and ECOFIN sessions in Brussels, focusing on euro area enlargement post-Bulgaria's accession and selecting a new European Central Bank Vice-President. ECOFIN will address financial services initiatives, EU budget items, tax simplification, and the economic impact of Russia's aggression against Ukraine, including a EUR 90 billion EU loan to Ukraine for 2026–2027.
Greece's Ministry of National Economy and Finance outlined tax reform priorities, highlighting 83 tax reductions and measures to combat tax evasion, including linking point-of-sale terminals with cash registers. The reforms aim to increase disposable income, particularly for workers with children, young people, and regional support, while enforcement efforts have generated approximately EUR 2 billion in additional revenues and reduced the VAT gap to below 10%.
Greece’s Minister of National Economy and Finance, as President of the Eurogroup, issued a pre-meeting statement in Brussels outlining the Eurogroup’s 2026 agenda, including euro area recommendations and the process to select a single candidate for Vice-President of the European Central Bank. The Eurogroup will also welcome Bulgaria as a full member and receive input from the European Commission on euro area recommendations for 2026.
Mexico's National Commission for the Protection and Defence of Users of Financial Services (CONDUSEF) reported MXN 282 million recovered from financial services complaints in Mexico City during 2025, with 57.6% processed electronically. Credit cards, debit cards, and personal loans comprised 43.7% of complaints, with multiple banking accounting for 64.1%. Unrecognised transactions and abusive debt-collection practices contributed to 26.3% of complaints.
Mexico's CONDUSEF reported a third-quarter 2025 score of 9.15 out of 10 for the IDATU in the SOFIPOS sector, an improvement from the previous quarter. The index evaluates service quality in handling customer complaints, with SFP Porvenir, Financiera Monte de Piedad, and Caja Progressa achieving the highest scores. CONDUSEF promotes the index as a transparency tool and encourages public consultation of detailed results.
The Central Bank of Russia concluded a pilot project assigning non-credit ratings to ordinary shares of Russian issuers, with initial results indicating these ratings as a guide for investors' long-term portfolio decisions. The ratings, issued by National Credit Ratings and the National Rating Agency, assess companies' fair value based on corporate governance and investment potential, and will be integrated into financial market regulation in 2026.
The Bank of Russia will release a RUB 2 silver commemorative coin on 20 January 2026, honoring satirist Mikhail Saltykov-Shchedrin's 200th birth anniversary as part of the Outstanding Personalities of Russia series. The coin, with a mintage of 3,000 pieces, features the National Coat of Arms, Saltykov-Shchedrin's portrait, and is legal tender in the Russian Federation.
The Central Bank of Russia released its Guidelines for Cash Circulation Development for 2026–2030, focusing on maintaining cash availability, enhancing banknote quality, transitioning to domestic technology, and automating customer service, with input from market participants.
The Financial Conduct Authority's decision to ban Darren Antony Reynolds from financial services and fine him £2,037,892 was upheld by the Upper Tribunal due to his dishonest pension transfer advice and investment recommendations, causing significant customer harm. Reynolds' misconduct led to over £17.6 million in compensation to more than 470 affected customers, and the FCA plans to pursue full recovery of the penalty, including potential bankruptcy proceedings.
The Isle of Man Financial Services Authority and the Department of Home Affairs have initiated a consultation to modernize the countering the financing of terrorism framework for non-profit organizations, especially charities with overseas activities. Central to this is the draft Specified Non-Profit Organisation (Countering the Financing of Terrorism) Code 2026, which aims to broaden the definition of Specified Non-Profit Organisations and replace the 2019 Code, enhancing risk-based requirements and oversight.
The Isle of Man Treasury amended its Russia sanctions general licence, reducing the crude oil price cap from USD 47.60 to USD 44.10 effective 31 January 2026, with a wind-down period for contracts at the previous cap until 16 April 2026. The licence allows shipping and associated services for Russian crude oil at or below the cap, with specific conditions and reporting obligations.
The Isle of Man Treasury has issued a Russia sanctions general licence permitting transactions related to agricultural commodities, including insurance services, under the Russia (Sanctions) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019, with specific provisions for Relevant Exporters, Trade Licence Holders, and designated persons. The licence outlines notification and record-keeping requirements, directing users to the full text for detailed conditions.
Finance Liechtenstein announced that Prime Minister Brigitte Haas hosted IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva in Vaduz to discuss economic stability, institutional functionality, and the IMF's assessment of European and global trade policies. Georgieva's visit marked Liechtenstein's recent accession to the IMF in 2024.
The Belgium Financial Services and Markets Authority has updated its opinion on disclosures in International Financial Reporting Standards financial statements concerning potential breaches of debt covenants within 12 months post-reporting period, replacing the 2016_05 opinion.
The European Council released remarks from the Eurogroup chair on Bulgaria's euro adoption, euro area governance priorities for 2026, and the ECB Vice-President vacancy. The Eurogroup endorsed Boris Vujčić, Governor of the Croatian National Bank, for the ECB Vice-President role. Discussions included the European Commission's 2026 recommendations on competitiveness, resilience, and stability, with final recommendations expected in February.
The Albania Financial Services Authority and the GIZ SANECA project held a coordination meeting to enhance cooperation for Albania's EU accession under Chapter 9 Financial Services. The focus is on harmonizing national legislation with EU regulations, assessing regulatory policy impacts, and strengthening institutional capacities. GIZ will continue supporting the drafting of a comprehensive legal package aligned with EU standards.
The Brazil Securities Commission (CVM) issued Circular Letter CVM/SIN 1/2026, clarifying the use of derivatives in FIFs under CVM Resolution 175. The guidance specifies that derivatives can be used for hedging, taking directional risk positions, or leverage, with regulatory limitations on "coverage or margin of guarantee in organised markets" applying solely to leverage transactions.
The Brazil Securities Commission's Superintendence of Institutional Investor Supervision issued a circular letter interpreting CVM Resolution 19, governing securities advisory activities. It clarifies issues related to advisers' remuneration, investment order forwarding, advisory reports, and certification. It emphasizes advisers' duties to provide independent guidance, understand client profiles, assess risks, and prioritize clients' best interests.
The Portuguese Securities Commission (CMVM) contributed to an opinion article in Jornal de Negócios, emphasizing the importance of linking savings to capital markets, referencing European Central Bank President Christine Lagarde's statement on the potential for Europeans to enhance wealth through capital markets.
The Portuguese Securities Commission (CMVM) issued alerts about IQCapitalInvest and Roctec Futures Limited, advising investors to consult its Investor Portal for a comprehensive list of warnings on unauthorised entities.
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) projects global growth to reach 3.3% in 2026, attributing resilience to easing trade tensions and increased IT investment, particularly in artificial intelligence. The IMF highlights risks from concentrated tech investment and debt reliance, urging strong prudential oversight and flexible monetary policy to manage potential shocks and AI-driven market disruptions.
The Hong Kong Monetary Authority issued a scam alert following reports from five banks about fraudulent websites and phishing scams, emphasizing that banks will not request sensitive information via SMS, email, or phone. Affected individuals should contact their bank and report to the Crime Wing Information Centre of the Hong Kong Police Force.
The Ukraine National Commission on Securities and Stock Market approved a Ministry of Finance draft order amending risk criteria for money laundering and related activities, and issued supervisory and licensing decisions. Key actions involved asset blocking for Freedom Finance Ukraine LLC, registration of share issues for JSC ZNVCIF PAP-INVEST and JSC ZNVCIF DIMIDIUM, and registration of corporate bonds by MIBIBON LLC and Motor Sich JSC without public offerings.
The Middle East and North Africa Financial Action Task Force published a notice linking to an Emirates News Agency interview with its President, Hamed Al Zaabi, but offered no additional substantive details.
The Middle East and North Africa Financial Action Task Force (MENAFATF) held its first Advisory Committee meeting of 2026 in Abu Dhabi, focusing on capacity building, governance, and regulatory enhancement. Discussions included progress of working groups, preparations for the upcoming Plenary, and participation in the 15th United Nations Congress on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice.
Bank Indonesia's fourth quarter 2025 Business Survey shows stable business activity with a Weighted Net Balance (WNB) of 10.61%, led by Financial Services and other key sectors. Production capacity utilisation remained at 73.15%, with sound corporate financial conditions and expectations of increased activity in early 2026 driven by seasonal demand and the harvesting season.
Bank of Indonesia's latest Prompt Manufacturing Index (PMI-BI) results indicate strengthened manufacturing performance in Q4 2025, with the index rising to 51.86, supported by gains in production, inventory, and order volumes. The PMI-BI is projected to further expand to 53.17 in Q1 2026, driven by continued growth in order and production volumes and faster supplier delivery times.
The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) announced banknote exchange arrangements for Lunar New Year 2026, encouraging the use of Fit notes or e-hong baos and requiring DBS, OCBC, and UOB customers to pre-book online starting 27 January 2026. MAS reported a significant increase in Fit note exchanges in 2025, with environmental benefits, and emphasized security measures to prevent phishing.
The Central Bank of Nigeria released Volume 49, No. 4 of its Bullion journal, featuring research on monetary policy, liquidity conditions, external debt, trade policy, and financial inclusion. Notable contributions include a proposed Monetary Policy Effectiveness Index for developing economies and analyses of Nigeria's external debt servicing and tariff impacts. The issue also introduces updated contributor guidelines and a consumer complaint escalation process.
SEBI issued a master circular consolidating all existing circulars for India's Social Stock Exchange framework, centralizing requirements for not-for-profit organizations and social enterprises. It outlines eligibility, registration, issuance criteria, restates disclosure obligations, and clarifies roles of Social Impact Assessors and SSE governance, ensuring continuity for actions under rescinded circulars.
The Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan has amended the Companies (Further Issue of Shares) Regulations, 2020, allowing listed companies to bypass the clean Credit Information Bureau report requirement for rights issues if a No Objection Certificate is obtained from financial institutions, with mandatory comprehensive disclosures on defaults and debt status.
The Jordan Securities Commission approved the issuance of a JD 15 million Islamic financing sukuk for Al-Kawthar Leasing Company, structured as an absolute Mudaraba. This initiative aligns with the 2026–2029 Economic Modernization Vision and follows the establishment of the Central Shariah Supervisory Board under the Islamic Finance Sukuk Law.
Jawan Capital Company has fulfilled the requirements to begin Managing Investments in the securities business under its Saudi Arabia Capital Markets Authority licence, following a CMA resolution dated 04 November 2024.
Austria's Ministry of Finance and State Secretaries outlined plans for inflation response, focusing on energy-price relief, food pricing oversight, housing cost controls, and a VAT reduction on basic foodstuffs from July 2026. Key measures include an energy package reducing electricity levies, enhanced food sector transparency with penalties for misleading practices, and a rent package introducing caps and extended lease terms, with further steps involving VAT adjustments and regulatory interventions planned for 2026.
The Egypt Financial Regulatory Authority has issued rules for insurance operations under the government fund insuring against medical errors, setting annual premium rates for medical practitioners and establishments. Premiums vary by profession and establishment type, with discounts for newly graduated professionals. Subscription to the fund is mandatory for practising and licensing, and actuarial studies are required to support pricing.
The Egypt Financial Regulatory Authority approved the incorporation and licensing of nine entities for seven non-banking financial activities, including sukuk issuance, factoring, and consumer finance. Notable approvals include Aman for sukuk issuance, Sadara Holding for financial investments, and Square Forty Capital for securities promotion and underwriting. The Authority also granted in-principle approval for Commercial International for Finance to add financial leasing.
The European Commission outlined policy priorities for the euro area, emphasizing fiscal rule compliance, defense spending flexibility, and completion of recovery plans by August 2026. Additionally, Bulgaria's euro adoption was noted as smooth, and the Eurogroup agreed on Boris Vujcic's candidacy for European Central Bank Vice President.
The Chile Financial Market Commission granted Tenpo Bank Chile its Operating Authorisation, completing the bank's licensing process. This represents the final stage under the current framework, following the earlier Existence Authorisation. Under Article 31 of the General Banking Act, Tenpo Bank Chile has one year to commence operations.
The Chile Financial Market Commission (CMF) announced measures to aid those affected by fires in southern Chile in accessing insurance payments. The CMF is overseeing claims processes and has directed insurers to ensure timely client responses and prompt claims settlements. Additionally, the CMF enhanced its Citizen Services Office, expanded coordination with Chile Atiende, and provided online guidance for insurance inquiries.
The Hong Kong Monetary Authority published the "Project Cargox Recommendation Report," outlining 20 recommendations and a roadmap to modernize Hong Kong's trade finance landscape through data-driven, digitally enabled solutions. The report, developed by an Expert Panel, focuses on data integration, digital infrastructure, and international connectivity, with implementation via pilot trials under the HKMA's roadmap.
The IMF's World Economic Outlook projects global growth of 3.3% in 2026 and 3.2% in 2027, with inflation expected to decline, though US inflation may return to target more slowly. The report highlights technology investment and fiscal and monetary support as key growth drivers, while noting risks from potential technology expectation reassessments and geopolitical tensions. It emphasizes the need for fiscal buffer restoration, price and financial stability, uncertainty reduction, and structural reforms.
Norway's Financial Supervisory Authority has opened a new office in Hamar to combat economic crime, including targeting enablers of criminal activities. Inaugurated by Finance Minister Jens Stoltenberg, it employs 14 staff focused on anti-money laundering, auditing, and fraud, with plans to expand to 20 employees by 2026. This initiative aligns with the government's focus on combating economic crime and aims to foster cooperation and data sharing with other authorities and the financial sector.