The Saudi Arabian Monetary Authority has approved the use of the "Visitor ID" for opening bank accounts in Saudi Arabia, aligning with banks' account-opening rules. Issued by the Ministry of Interior, the Visitor ID can be verified through authorised digital platforms. This change is part of SAMA's efforts to enhance financial inclusion and digital transformation in banking services.
Saudi Arabia's Capital Markets Authority announced that Rushd Capital Company has fulfilled the requirements to commence arranging activity in the securities business. This activity is authorized under a licence granted by a CMA resolution dated 24 April 2024, in accordance with the Capital Market Law and its Implementing Regulations.
The Tanzania Insurance Regulatory Authority (TIRA) conducted an insurance law education seminar for magistrates in Singida Region to enhance understanding and efficiency in handling insurance-related cases. The seminar, held on 26 September 2025, aimed to deepen cooperation with the judiciary for effective implementation of insurance laws. TIRA plans to continue educational initiatives to raise awareness and support sector growth.
The Algeria Market Authority approved RELAXI SPA’s information notice for a DZD 400 million participatory securities issuance. The offering is aimed at professional investors, including institutional and qualified investors.
Peru's Superintendency of Banking, Insurance and Private Pension Funds (SBS) issued the operational procedure for an optional withdrawal from the Private Pension System (SPP) of up to four tax units (UIT) under Law No. 32445. Affiliates must submit withdrawal requests within 90 days from 21 October, with disbursements scheduled in up to four instalments. Withdrawn funds remain protected, except for court-ordered child support withholdings up to 30%.
Central Bank of Iraq Governor Ali Mohsen Al-Allaq announced at the Iraq Investment Forum that the central bank has achieved its banking sector reform objectives and is implementing them on schedule, enhancing the sector's role in investment. He highlighted Iraq's historically low inflation rates and adequate foreign reserves, attributing these to effective monetary policy and a supportive investment environment.
The Oman Financial Services Authority convened to discuss enhancing the legal and regulatory frameworks for Sharia-compliant finance and insurance. Key topics included the Muscat Stock Exchange's role, the Takaful Insurance Law, and challenges in financial innovation. The meeting also highlighted Decision No. (11/2025) establishing the Supreme Sharia Supervisory Authority and its alignment with Oman Vision 2040.
The Hong Kong Mandatory Provident Fund Schemes Authority detailed the eMPF Platform's design prioritizing user privacy and data security, with a multi-layer security approach compliant with local and international standards. Data is stored on Hong Kong servers, protected by encryption, third-party audits, and 24-hour monitoring. The platform includes contingency measures, strict access controls, and phased onboarding to manage system load.
The State Bank of Pakistan clarified that digital fund transfers are processed in real time, with a two-hour "cooling period" applying only to cash-outs or usage of funds in branchless banking wallets. This measure, introduced in April 2023, aims to mitigate fraud risks due to simpler customer due diligence in branchless banking. The central bank reports the cooling period has effectively checked fraudulent transactions.
Egypt Financial Regulatory Authority chair, Mohamed Farid, emphasized insurance's role in boosting national savings and digital transformation for inclusion at the 2025 Society of Actuaries forum. He discussed implementing the Unified Insurance Law No. 155 of 2025 and IFRS 17, highlighting efforts to address the actuarial specialist shortage through education. The forum also focused on actuaries' evolving role in managing emerging risks like climate change and cyber threats.
Mohamed Farid, Chair of the Egypt Financial Regulatory Authority, highlighted upgrades to Egyptian Accounting Standards and auditor oversight at an international conference, emphasizing their role in enhancing transparency and supporting sustainable finance. Key changes include alignment with International Accounting Standards, a revaluation model for assets, and eased auditor registration rules. Farid also noted Egypt's first green bond issuance and the launch of a voluntary carbon market as indicators of a shift towards sustainable finance.
The Central Bank of Egypt conducted its annual drill to test Business Continuity Plans and Management System, simulating operations from alternative sites connected to the Disaster Recovery site. Organized by the Risk Management and Information Technology Sectors, the exercise assessed readiness for disruptions and threats, ensuring continuity of activities and critical transactions.
The Tanzania Insurance Regulatory Authority announced that a delegation visited Tanzania's embassy in South Korea to gain insights into supervising and implementing the universal health insurance law. The visit was led by National Insurance Board Chair CPA Moremi Marwa and Insurance Commissioner Dr Baghayo Saqware, invited by Ambassador Togolani Mavura.
Hong Kong’s Financial Services and the Treasury Bureau reported on Secretary Christopher Hui’s visit to Poland to enhance financial-market ties and tax cooperation. Discussions included removing Hong Kong from Poland’s list of jurisdictions with harmful tax practices and negotiating a Comprehensive Avoidance of Double Taxation Agreement. Hui highlighted Hong Kong’s stock market activity and proposed optimizing listing regimes and exploring cooperation in asset tokenisation and gold trading.
The State Bank of Vietnam is spearheading efforts to establish international financial centres in Ho Chi Minh City and Da Nang, focusing on legal frameworks for banking, foreign exchange, and financial security. Deputy Governor Nguyen Ngoc Canh engaged with Abu Dhabi Global Market and Dubai International Financial Centre to develop policy mechanisms for capital markets, fintech, and green finance. A memorandum of understanding was signed with Abu Dhabi Global Market, and an investment promotion event in the UAE is planned for early 2026.
Deputy Governor Nguyen Ngoc Canh of the State Bank of Vietnam visited the UAE to explore financial centre models. UAE officials supported the initiative, highlighting the need for a unique legal framework, independent authority, and global market responsiveness. Both parties agreed to enhance policy exchanges and strengthen financial centre ties, discussing the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement and a bilateral trade goal of USD 20 billion.
The State Bank of Vietnam reported on its delegation's visit to the UAE, discussing cooperation with UAE technology, digital-asset, and real-estate groups for Vietnam's international financial centres. Vietnam plans to pilot a crypto-asset exchange and has established a legal foundation for digital assets. Engagements included potential investments by G42 and Emaar Properties, and collaborations with Bybit and Binance on digital asset frameworks and blockchain technology.
The National Bank of Moldova released a podcast transcript with Governor Anca Dragu and Moldova State University rector Igor Șarov discussing financial education initiatives linked to the Financial Inclusion Strategy, in public consultation. Developed with the World Bank, the strategy aims to enhance financial literacy and track progress, focusing on urban-rural disparities. The podcast highlights educational delivery channels, including a National Financial Education Program and partnerships with educational institutions.
The U.S. Securities & Exchange Commission has issued a concept release seeking public input on improving rules for residential mortgage-backed securities (RMBS) and asset-backed securities (ABS). It addresses the absence of public RMBS offerings since 2013, exploring potential regulatory changes, disclosure requirements, and privacy concerns. Feedback is also requested on updating regulatory definitions and assessing the costs and benefits of potential changes.
The Bulgaria Financial Supervision Commission approved the prospectus for Bioiasys AD's EUR 15,000,000 secured, non-convertible bond issue for trading on a regulated market. The bonds, with a nominal value of EUR 1,000 each, feature a floating coupon of six-month EURIBOR plus 1.00%, capped at 5.75% and floored at 2.75% per annum, maturing on 22 July 2033.
Montenegro Capital Market Authority's chair, Željko Drinčić, outlined plans for market clean-up via delistings, new Corporate Governance Code standards, and initiatives to deepen Montenegro’s capital markets in a Bloomberg Adria interview. Key points included attracting investors through IPOs and bond issuance, developing the domestic funds industry, and introducing tax incentives for voluntary pension funds. A crypto register will be established on 12 December 2025 to regulate the digital asset market.
The Financial Superintendence of Colombia, with the Superintendence of Companies and the Superintendence of Industry and Commerce, reported on the "Me informo y cuido mi dinero" campaign, reaching 31 cities and towns with 4,891 participants since 2022. The campaign focuses on preventing illegal deposit-taking and financial fraud, warning against schemes promising quick returns and risks with digital borrowing platforms. A memorandum of understanding was signed to enhance cooperation, with the final 2025 event planned in Pasto, Nariño.
The Central Bank of Cyprus released its Summary Balance Sheet Statement as of 31 August 2025.
The Hong Kong Mandatory Provident Fund Schemes Authority (MPFA) announced the Legislative Council's approval of amendments for Phase One of MPF full portability, allowing employees starting after 1 May 2025 to transfer employer contributions to a personal account. This initiative, linked to the eMPF Platform, aims to enhance investment management and foster competition. The MPFA plans to implement Phase One within a year and support legislative amendments for Phase Two, extending portability to earlier employees.
The Central Bank of Luxembourg revealed new national sides for Luxembourg’s euro coins after Grand Duke Henri's abdication and Grand Duke Guillaume's accession. Coins with the new sovereign’s effigy will debut in 2026, with existing coins still valid. The redesign, coordinated with the Grand Duke’s Household and relevant ministries, includes three distinct designs for circulation coins and a new obverse for collector coins.
The Australian Securities & Investments Commission (ASIC) has permanently banned former financial adviser Anthony Joseph Del Vecchio from providing financial services after his fraud conviction. Del Vecchio misappropriated AUD 4,479,670 from clients, family, and friends between February 2020 and December 2023, pretending to invest in bonds, shares, and term deposits. He pleaded guilty to 24 charges of obtaining financial advantage by deception and was sentenced to 7 years and 6 months imprisonment, with parole possible after 4 years; the ban is recorded on ASIC’s banned and disqualified register.
The Tanzania Insurance Regulatory Authority (TIRA) participated in the Tanzania Insurance Brokers Association conference, emphasizing regulation, innovation, and collaboration as key priorities. TIRA highlighted efforts to address market challenges through technological advancements, stakeholder forums, and digital system improvements to enhance efficiency and transparency in the insurance sector.
The Tanzania Insurance Regulatory Authority (TIRA) facilitated a visit by insurance stakeholders to the Geita Regional Police Commander’s office to enhance cooperation in supervising the insurance sector. The collaboration aims to oversee motor vehicle insurance, curb fraud, and improve public awareness of insurance importance. TIRA emphasized this initiative as part of its broader strategy to strengthen oversight and integrity in the sector.
The Ukraine National Commission on Securities and Stock Market released decisions on rule-making, supervision, and registration, including amendments and the 2025 rule-making plan. Key actions involve supervisory prohibitions on depository accounting changes and securities transactions, and corporate actions related to share issuances and governance. The Commission also registered and cancelled share issues and denied a director appointment for FC ZHYTLO-CAPITAL LLC.
The Belgium Financial Services and Markets Authority fined Nyrstar NV EUR 80,000 for two EU Market Abuse Regulation infringements: market manipulation and failing to inform the FSMA of delayed inside information disclosure. Nyrstar provided misleading liquidity information in October 2018 but was cleared of other allegations, including misleading statements on solvency and its relationship with Trafigura. The decision is available on the FSMA website in Dutch.
Dutch Authority for the Financial Markets chair Laura van Geest urges enhanced legislation and centralized European supervision under a proposed "MiCAR 2.0" to address gaps in current crypto regulations. Despite the Netherlands' licensing regime, she highlights insufficient supervisory tools, rising retail crypto exposure, and challenges in tackling market manipulation and illicit activities. Van Geest also notes the impact of US policy shifts and stablecoin expansion on European markets.
Mexico's National Banking and Securities Commission released an explainer on the Monto Transaccional del Usuario (MTU), also known as the User Transaction Amount.
The Central Reserve Bank of El Salvador has initiated the 2025 National Survey on Financial Inclusion and Education (ENIEF), targeting over 10,500 households to assess access to financial products, services, and literacy. This third edition aims to inform public policy design and evaluation, contributing to updating the National Financial Inclusion Policy. Data collection will occur from September to October, ensuring confidentiality and methodological rigor.
Bank of Italy Director General for Financial Supervision and Regulation Giuseppe Siani discussed digital resilience and the implementation of the Digital Operational Resilience Act (DORA) at a CSE conference in Turin. The speech text is available in Italian.
Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) hosted the 21st annual Ijtima’ Sanawi meeting to enhance coordination among Sharia Supervisory Boards and support innovation in the Islamic financial sector. The meeting highlighted Islamic finance assets totaling IDR 2,972.95 trillion as of June 2025 and Indonesia's strong position in the Global Islamic Fintech Report. OJK emphasized aligning product innovation with regulatory expectations and addressing challenges like the gap between financial literacy and product use, and rising digital financial fraud.
The National Bank of Georgia released the September editions of its Current Macroeconomic Review and Financial Sector Review, offering analytical data to support public economic analysis.
Governor Natia Turnava of the National Bank of Georgia highlighted the banking sector's robust capitalisation and liquidity, noting its resilience to shocks over the past 30 years. She reported loan growth of nearly 15%, with business loans leading, and non-performing loans at a low 2.6%. Turnava also discussed fintech initiatives, including new digital bank categories, and the regional expansion of Georgian banks.
Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK), with the Indonesian National Police and other agencies, has repatriated and detained AAG, a former director of PT Investree Radhika Jaya, for allegedly collecting funds illegally without an OJK licence. The activities, involving at least IDR 2.7 trillion, occurred from January 2022 to March 2024 using special purpose vehicles. Legal proceedings are underway under the Banking Law and Law No. 4 of 2023, with potential imprisonment of five to 10 years.
The Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan has released draft additions to its Guidelines on ESG Disclosures for Listed Companies, proposing phased disclosure requirements that remain voluntary until 2029. These additions align with Pakistan’s updated Nationally Determined Contributions and the Pakistan Green Taxonomy to support climate risk mitigation and adaptation.
The People's Bank of China, China Securities Regulatory Commission, and State Administration of Foreign Exchange announced expanded access for overseas institutional investors to conduct bond repo transactions in China's interbank bond market. This initiative allows all foreign institutional investors, including central banks and asset managers, to engage in repos via direct market access or Bond Connect, adopting an international market approach for collateral reuse. The framework includes risk controls and requires compliance with Chinese laws, with a 12-month transition period for existing participants.
The People's Bank of China, China Securities Regulatory Commission, and China's State Administration of Foreign Exchange announced expanded access for eligible foreign institutional investors to conduct bond repurchase transactions in China's bond market. This move addresses rising demand for repo-based liquidity management among foreign investors, who held approximately CNY 4 trillion in bonds as of August 2025. The authorities aim to align the interbank bond repo mechanism with international practices and will continue refining supporting arrangements to advance market opening.
EBA CLEARING completed pan-European volume testing of its Fraud Pattern Anomaly Detection Verification of Payee (FPAD VOP) solution with STEP2 and RT1 users, assessing readiness for the Instant Payments Regulation. The exercise involved interoperability and performance checks, with over 55 participants across 14 countries preparing to adopt the functionality by October. The FPAD toolset also offers network-level fraud indicators to enhance PSP fraud prevention.
Norway's Ministry of Finance has proposed a bill to integrate the EU Crowdfunding Regulation into Norwegian law, establishing a unified legal framework for crowdfunding. The bill mandates licensing and operational standards for crowdfunding service providers and introduces investor protection measures. It also seeks parliamentary consent to incorporate the regulation into the EEA Agreement, aligning Norwegian platforms with EU/EEA standards.
The Bank of the Lao PDR attended the 17th SEACEN-BIS High-level Seminar and 24th SEACEN Executive Committee meeting in South Korea, discussing central banking policy amid global uncertainty. Topics included financial volatility, supply-chain disruptions, and cyber risks, focusing on strengthening domestic frameworks and regional cooperation. The EXCO meeting reviewed SEACEN Centre operations and strategic plans for 2026–2030, with outcomes to be presented to the SEACEN Board of Governors in October 2025.
The Bank of the Lao conducted an inter-agency review meeting to enhance inspections of foreign-exchange transactions, aiming to reduce foreign currency use and improve currency-exchange services. The meeting, co-chaired by the Foreign Exchange Management Department and the Economic Police Department, focused on revising the memorandum of understanding to strengthen cooperation and expedite issue resolution.
The Financial Services and the Treasury Bureau of Hong Kong announced appointments to the Accounting and Financial Reporting Review Tribunal (AFRRT) for a two-year term starting 1 October 2025, with Mr Jonathan Chang Tien-yin, SC reappointed as chair. The AFRRT includes reappointed members Professor Terence Chong Tai-leung and Mr Louis Chow Ka-leung, along with five new appointees. The Tribunal reviews applications against decisions by the Accounting and Financial Reporting Council, with expanded jurisdiction since 1 October 2022.
The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has initiated High Court proceedings against Concept Capital Group and individuals over an alleged unauthorised GBP 23 million static homes investment scheme. The FCA claims breaches of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 and the Financial Services Act 2012, including unauthorised activities and misleading promotions. Asset-freezing undertakings have been given by CCG, and the FCA seeks restitution for affected investors and injunctions to prevent further breaches.
The Financial Superintendence of Colombia discussed cybersecurity and market innovation at a seminar, focusing on fintech in the securities market, open finance, and cyber risks. The SFC highlighted the regulation of the Electronic Order Routing System and noted stable e-trading volumes, comprising 10% to 12% of equity market trading. Additionally, the SFC emphasized securities crowdfunding and advancements in payment systems, including rapid transactions via QR codes and "keys."
Greece's Ministry of National Economy and Finance announced that its General Directorate of Fiscal Audits (GDDE) won the Best Compliance Team – Public Sector category at the Compliance Awards for the second consecutive year. The recognition was for GDDE's reform and modernisation of its compliance regulatory framework, enhancing transparency and audit effectiveness. From 2018 to mid-2025, GDDE conducted 1,518 audits, issuing fiscal corrections and surcharges totaling EUR 20.76 million.
The Hong Kong Securities and Futures Commission announced distributing over HKD 189 million to about 600 independent public shareholders of Combest Holdings Limited, nearing completion. This follows court proceedings under the Securities and Futures Ordinance against Mr Ng Kwok Fai, Mr Liu Tin Lap, and Mr Lee Man To, mandating total compensation of HKD 192 million. The distribution is managed by Bruno Arboit of Kroll (HK) Limited, appointed by the SFC and Combest.
The Hong Kong Securities and Futures Commission has sought a court order to freeze up to HKD 219 million in assets related to an alleged ramp-and-dump scheme involving KNT Holdings Limited shares. This action is part of proceedings against 17 individuals for alleged market manipulation in early 2019. A separate criminal trial for 12 defendants is set for April 2027, addressing charges of conspiracy to defraud under various legal provisions.
The General Council of Sweden's Riksbank has begun recruiting a new Executive Board member to replace Anna Breman, who will step down on 11 October 2025. Aino Bunge has been appointed as the new First Deputy Governor. The recruitment process, open only to Swedish citizens, requires strong financial market knowledge and will involve security vetting.
The Austrian Financial Market Authority (FMA) reported a 4% decline in foreign currency loans to private households in Q2, totaling EUR 5.63 billion, or 3.2% of total household lending. Since the 2008 ban on new foreign currency loans, the volume has decreased by 91% from its 2006 peak. Most remaining loans are in Swiss francs, with the FMA mandating annual meetings between credit institutions and affected borrowers.
The Portuguese Securities Commission (CMVM) suspended trading in Impresa - SGPS, SA shares under Articles 214 and 213(2)(b) of the Securities Code. This action was taken to allow the market to absorb newly disclosed information.
The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) issued a scam alert following reports of fraudulent websites and phishing scams targeting several banks, including The Bank of East Asia and Bank of China (Hong Kong). The HKMA emphasized that banks will not send SMS or emails with links for transactions or request sensitive information. Affected individuals are advised to contact their bank and report to the Hong Kong Police Force.
The Hong Kong Monetary Authority, with mainland authorities, launched a cross-boundary bond repurchase business, allowing overseas institutional investors to conduct onshore repo transactions and remit RMB liquidity offshore. This complements the earlier offshore RMB repo business, enhancing asset allocation and liquidity management for offshore investors, supporting Hong Kong's RMB liquidity, and reducing funding costs. Mainland authorities issued a notice to support overseas investors, including Bond Connect participants.
The Hong Kong Monetary Authority and Treasury Markets Association hosted the Treasury Markets Summit 2025, focusing on developments in treasury markets. Key discussions included Renminbi business opportunities, Hong Kong's role as a corporate treasury hub, and AI's impact on treasury markets. The event attracted over 300 participants from various financial sectors.
The Hong Kong Monetary Authority released highlights of The Hong Kong Mortgage Corporation Limited’s interim results for H1 2025, noting a significant increase in unaudited consolidated profit after tax to HKD 53.3 million from HKD 9 million in H1 2024. Key drivers included increased income from placements with the Exchange Fund, foreign exchange gains, and higher net interest income. The HKMC's loan portfolio was HKD 85.6 billion, with debt securities at HKD 135.6 billion, maintaining credit ratings of AA+ and Aa3.
The Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe’s Monetary Policy Committee left the Bank Policy rate unchanged at 35% for the next quarter and maintained statutory reserve requirements, citing one year of price and exchange rate stability, low inflation pressures and robust domestic activity. The committee said monthly ZiG inflation averaged 0.6% between February and August 2025, annual inflation should trend toward 20% by December 2025, second-quarter year-on-year growth was estimated at 11%, and reserves rose to about USD900 million by 25 September 2025 from just over USD700 million at end-June.
Eleon Capital Management Ltd has initiated the dissolution and liquidation of ONEWORLD RAIF V.C.I.C. PLC, a Registered Alternative Investment Fund under CySEC. The fund will remain registered and listed on CySEC’s website as "under liquidation" until the process is finalized. CySEC will remove the fund from the RAIFs Register upon completion and submission of necessary documentation.
The Reserve Bank of India amended its prudential framework to allow State and Central Co-operative Banks to invest in a Shared Service Entity by NABARD. This investment, capped at five percent of owned funds, is exempt from the prudential limit on non-SLR investments and restrictions on unlisted non-SLR securities. The updated directions are effective immediately under the Banking Regulation Act, 1949.
The Reserve Bank of India has issued revised directions for banks to standardize the settlement of claims related to deceased customers' deposit accounts, safe deposit lockers, and articles in safe custody. The framework applies to all commercial and co-operative banks, excluding government savings schemes, and includes procedures for accounts with and without nominees, as well as for lockers and safe custody. Banks must settle claims within 15 days of receiving required documents, with compensation for delays, and implement the directions by March 31, 2026.
The Reserve Bank of India has issued operational instructions for banks in the Cheque Truncation System and the National Payments Corporation of India to conduct a special clearing day on 3 October 2025, with modified session timings. This is to facilitate the transition to continuous clearing and settlement on realisation, set to begin on 4 October 2025. The directive is issued under the Payment and Settlement Systems Act, 2007.
The Central Bank of the Republic of Uzbekistan hosted a regional meeting in Tashkent with Central Asian and Azerbaijani central banks to discuss payment systems and digital finance priorities. Key topics included digital infrastructure, cybersecurity, fintech regulation, and innovative solutions like regulatory sandboxes. The meeting aims to enhance cooperation and advance joint initiatives in payments and digital financial technologies.
The Thailand Office of Insurance Commission launched the "Proactive insurance promotion to the regions sustainably 2025" initiative in Loei province, focusing on insurance literacy and uptake in tourism-dependent communities. The program involved public-private collaboration, promoting specific insurance covers and affordable options, alongside disaster-preparedness training and equipment handover. Over 19 insurers participated, offering guidance and services through information booths.
The European Central Bank's blog post affirms Europe's robust statistical governance, citing improvements since the 2009 Greek deficit revision. It highlights strengthened Eurostat verification powers and the 2015 regulation enhancing national statistical authorities' independence. The post contrasts the roles of the European Statistical System and the European System of Central Banks, citing the Harmonised Index of Consumer Prices and the euro short-term rate as key examples.
At the CORE Summit 2025, the Brazilian Superintendence of Private Insurance (SUSEP) emphasized cyber resilience as a strategic priority within Brazil’s National Financial System. SUSEP, currently chairing Coremec, highlighted the need for policies addressing digitalisation, competition, and geopolitics, advocating for enhanced coordination among supervisors. Director Carlos Queiroz outlined SUSEP’s focus on cybersecurity as an insurance product, supervisory priority, and operational challenge.
The Brazilian Superintendence of Private Insurance (SUSEP) has initiated Public Consultation Notice No. 7/2025 on a draft resolution to regulate insurance cooperative societies under Supplementary Law No. 213 of 2025. This marks the first detailed regulation of insurance cooperatives, aiming to enhance legal certainty, expand insurance access in underserved areas, and boost competition and consumer protection.
Bank of Spain Governor José Luis Escrivá addressed the challenges facing the Spanish economy in his speech "Strengthening Europe: integration, competitiveness and institutional quality" at FEDEA's 40th-anniversary conference.
Brunei Darussalam Central Bank joined the China-ASEAN Financial Cooperation and Development Forum, where Managing Director Yang Mulia Dayang Hajah Rashidah binti Haji Sabtu delivered a keynote on Brunei's digital transformation and ASEAN's cross-border payment initiatives with China. The forum, themed on AI development and financial innovation, included discussions on financial market cooperation, sustainable finance, and anti-money laundering.
The Brazilian Pension Funds Authority (PREVIC) announced new strategies and regulatory standards on cybersecurity and data privacy for closed supplementary pension entities, referencing frameworks like NIST and ISO 27000. Implementation will begin with awareness and self-diagnosis, followed by risk-based supervision and governance control assessments. Cybersecurity will be a focus in PREVIC’s 2026 Annual Supervision Plan for the largest pension funds.
The Brazilian Pension Funds Authority (PREVIC) participated in the International Organisation of Pension Supervisors (IOPS) Committee Meetings and OECD Working Party on Insurance and Pensions in Paris. Discussions focused on governance, demographic ageing, pension education, climate-related impacts, and cybersecurity strategies for pension funds. PREVIC emphasized its role in enhancing international supervisory standards and methodologies.
The New York State Department of Financial Services issued guidance allowing state-chartered banks to receive Community Reinvestment Act credit for lending to or investing in Community Development Financial Institutions, even if their 2024 federal certification has lapsed. This aims to sustain funding for mission-driven lenders supporting underserved communities. The guidance follows discussions with CDFIs, Minority Depository Institutions, and major banks, highlighting Empire State Development's support.
The European Central Bank's report on its digital euro innovation platform details outcomes from the "visionaries" and "pioneers" workstreams conducted from February to May 2025. It highlights the successful simulation of conditional payments via a "reservation of funds" functionality and outlines potential value-added applications beyond the digital euro's basic payment function. The ECB emphasizes these findings will guide future design choices and ongoing market dialogue.
In a keynote speech, ECB Executive Board member Piero Cipollone outlined the ECB's payments modernisation agenda, focusing on a digital euro and DLT transaction settlement in central bank money. The ECB released a report from its digital euro innovation platform, highlighting features like conditional payments and AI-enabled transactions. Cipollone also discussed interoperability testing between private DLT platforms and Eurosystem infrastructures, and flagged risks from stablecoins in Europe's retail payments landscape.
ECB President Christine Lagarde stressed the need for global standards and supervision of crypto-assets and stablecoins, citing concerns about multi-issuance schemes undermining EU safeguards under MiCAR. The ECB linked stablecoin issuance restrictions to risks from third-country regimes lacking prudential elements. Additionally, 9.7% of euro area households owned crypto-assets, mainly for investment, highlighting the importance of MiCAR reporting for effective monitoring.
The Central Bank of the Philippines reported a 7.5% year-on-year increase in residential property prices in Q2 2025, slightly down from 7.6% in Q1. Price growth was notably higher in Areas Outside the National Capital Region at 11.5%, compared to a 2.4% rise in the National Capital Region. The Residential Property Price Index, derived from banks' housing loan data, serves as a key indicator for monitoring real estate and credit market conditions.
Estonia's Financial Supervision and Resolution Authority, with the Bank of Estonia and Eesti Väitlusselts debating society, hosted a youth debate on cash's future and financial fraud prevention. Discussions highlighted cash's resilience in crises versus digital payments' security and debated the effectiveness of complexity and two-factor authentication in fraud prevention. The event also marked the start of a new cooperative season among the organizing entities.
The European Central Bank's Eurosystem weekly financial statement reports total assets and liabilities of EUR 6,070,838 million, a EUR 294 million increase from the previous week. Key figures include EUR 4,174,848 million in securities of euro area residents and EUR 24,450 million in lending to euro area credit institutions. Liabilities feature EUR 1,589,067 million in banknotes and EUR 2,785,173 million in liabilities to euro area credit institutions, with a notable EUR 28,222 million increase in the deposit facility balance.
The Italian Institute for Insurance Supervision (IVASS) issued a public warning regarding counterfeit surety bond policies falsely attributed to Berkshire Hathaway European Insurance DAC, which the insurer has disowned. IVASS noted that a fraudulent website and email are circulating under the insurer's name. Consumers are advised to verify offers through IVASS's online resources before making payments.
The Italian Institute for Insurance Supervision (IVASS) has ordered the cessation of unauthorized insurance intermediation through five websites and directed providers in Italy to block access. IVASS published these orders in its "Defend ourselves from scams" section, noting 284 sites have faced cease-and-block orders since November 2023. Consumers are advised to verify insurance offers and ensure they are from authorized insurers and intermediaries by consulting IVASS's online registers.
The South Korea Financial Supervisory Service reported a rise in domestic banks' won-denominated loan delinquency rate to 0.57% as of July 2025, marking an increase of 0.05 percentage points from the previous month. Delinquencies in small and medium-sized enterprises rose to 0.82%, while household loan delinquency increased to 0.43%. The figures are preliminary and may be revised.
The Astana Financial Services Authority and Kazakhstan's Financial Monitoring Agency agreed to enhance the national anti-money laundering framework and mitigate related risks. The agenda included managing risks for emerging financial technologies and digital assets, strengthening infrastructure in the Astana International Financial Centre, and improving Kazakhstan’s Financial Action Task Force rating. Emphasis was placed on enhanced internal monitoring, customer due diligence, and beneficial owner identification.
Poland's Ministry of Finance reported on the Financial Security Committee's review of progress in implementing Moneyval's 2021 recommendations and addressing the Supreme Audit Office's 2024 audit remarks on the AML/CFT system. The committee evaluated the justification for special restrictive measures on sanctioned entities and discussed legal improvements for AML/CFT prevention. It serves as an advisory body within the national AML/CFT framework, providing recommendations and opinions on risk assessment and reduction strategies.
At the Macedonian Stock Exchange's annual conference, the Securities and Exchange Commission of North Macedonia outlined priorities for developing a competitive capital market aligned with Europe. Key initiatives include EU regulatory harmonisation, amendments to the Financial Instruments Act, and digitalisation efforts. Workshops in collaboration with the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development are planned for November.
The Albania Financial Services Authority released insurance market statistics for January–August 2025, highlighting a 9.53% increase in gross written premiums to ALL 17,906 million and a 6.12% rise in insurance contracts. Non-life insurance dominated with 91.57% of premiums, while motor insurance claims accounted for 76.72% of total claims paid, which decreased by 2.27% to ALL 5,468 million.
The Central Bank of Paraguay trained representatives of supervised financial entities on its new TeamMate+ audit management platform. The system is intended to improve the submission, management and monitoring of information required by the Superintendency of Banks and forms part of the central bank’s 2025-2029 strategic plan.
The Bank of Zambia announced an immediate increase in the withholding tax on Government Securities from 15 percent to 20 percent. This new rate affects coupon interest on Government Bonds and discount income on Treasury Bills for both resident and non-resident holders, applicable to all existing and future issuances.
The Bank of England's Staff Working Paper No. 1,142 explores deep reinforcement learning (DRL) for representing bounded rationality in dynamic stochastic general equilibrium models. It shows DRL's ability to learn equilibria, including explosive or indeterminate ones, through global utility maximisation, contrasting with adaptive learning. The paper introduces "first-order condition distances" as a metric for proximity to rational expectations solutions, emphasizing the research's exploratory nature.
The Bank of England's Staff Working Paper No. 1,143 introduces a "Blockwise Boosted Inflation Model" (BBIM) analyzing UK Consumer Prices Index inflation by separating demand, supply, and trend contributions. It attributes the post-pandemic inflation surge mainly to global supply shocks and tight labour markets, with short-term household inflation expectations temporarily elevating trend inflation. BBIM demonstrates competitive forecasting performance, outperforming linear benchmarks and unstructured machine learning models.
The Central Bank of Montenegro and the Ministry of Finance, alongside the International Monetary Fund, presented the staff concluding statement of the 2025 Article IV mission at a joint press conference. Remarks were made by CBCG Governor Irena Radovic, Finance Minister Novica Vukovic, and IMF mission head Srikant Seshadri, followed by a Q&A session.
The National Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic suspended the licence of the Salahidin Valyuta exchange bureau (LLC) in Bek-Abad village, Suzak district, following regulatory violations. The suspension is effective from 24 September to 3 October 2025.
The Croatian Financial Services Supervisory Agency approved a prospectus for TOKIĆ's public offering of up to 1,200,000 registered ordinary shares and listing of up to 4,080,000 shares on the regulated market. Additionally, Hanfa authorized SQ Capital d.o.o. to publish a takeover bid for Čateks d.d. at EUR 43 per share, covering the remaining 66,976 shares not already held by the bidder and its affiliates.
The National Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic's Naryn regional office conducted a financial literacy lecture and a "Savings" game for senior students at the M. Subakozhoev Naryn Lyceum. This initiative is part of the bank's regional financial awareness action plan.
The National Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic conducted a seminar in Osh for regional journalists, detailing its monetary policy, financial supervision, payment-system development, and consumer protection efforts. The seminar highlighted anti-fraud measures, including a self-prohibition on lending mechanism, and concluded with a media Q&A session.
The National Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic is spearheading a large-scale information and education campaign for "World Savings Day 2025" to enhance financial literacy and promote a savings culture. Activities include financial fairs, lectures, and interactive games, in collaboration with the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Science, Higher Education and Innovations, and international partners.
The Central Bank of Ecuador has joined the Network for Greening the Financial System (NGFS) to enhance its climate and environmental risk management capabilities. The NGFS, established in 2017, aids members in supervision, climate scenario design, and achieving net zero emissions. The BCE's membership aligns with national sustainable development goals and the Paris Agreement, promoting regulations for environmentally sustainable financing.
Democratic members of the U.S. Senate Committee on Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs, led by Elizabeth Warren, have requested information from Federal Housing Finance Agency Director William Pulte about the agency's role in alleged mortgage fraud investigations. The inquiry questions if the agency targets political opponents of President Donald Trump and seeks clarification on scrutiny applied to Republican officials. Democratic ranking members from other Senate committees support the request.
The Central Bank of Russia released a draft ordinance outlining requirements for issuing credit digital financial assets (DFAs), focusing on enhancing investor information by transferring loan default risk to investors. Issuing banks must disclose key loan agreement details and provide links to issuer and credit rating agency websites.
The Central Bank of Russia has extended the suspension of cross-border fund transfers from brokerage and trust management accounts held by non-residents from "unfriendly states" for another six months from 1 October 2025. This restriction, in place since April 2022, applies to accounts with Russian brokers and trust managers but exempts foreign investors and their representatives under a presidential order. The decision aims to ensure financial stability.