The Bank of Spain released its Strategic Plan 2030 for the period 2025–2030, outlining its future agenda. The plan was approved by the Governing Council and is detailed in an accompanying press release and blog post.
The South African Reserve Bank has launched a scholarship for the 2026 academic year for Master's students in data science, machine learning, and AI, focusing on financial analytics. Part of the SARB’s External Bursary Scheme, it collaborates with the Data Science Academic Committee of the National Graduate Academy for Mathematical and Statistical Sciences. Eligibility requires South African citizenship, being under 35, and provisional acceptance into specified programmes with a relevant Honours degree.
Central Bank of Iraq Governor Ali Mohsen Al-Alaq opened the second session of the Conference on Combating Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing, emphasizing Arab banks' need to comply with international laws and correspondent banking requirements. He highlighted efforts to enhance regional and international cooperation and the use of artificial intelligence and network analysis to strengthen Iraq's position in global financial transactions.
The UAE Securities & Commodities Authority has launched the region's first finfluencer licence to regulate digital financial content, ensuring compliance with investment analysis and promotion standards. The licence mandates registration with the SCA and adherence to disclosure and compliance rules. Unlicensed financial promotions remain prohibited, and licensed influencers must uphold professional ethics.
The Sustainable Banking and Finance Network hosted a luncheon in Santo Domingo with 68 participants from 14 member institutions and stakeholders. Discussions included the launch of IFC’s Silver Economy Program, the 2025 Resilient Banking Survey, and Circular Economy Finance Guidelines. Updates on sustainable finance regulatory developments, such as green taxonomies and ESG standards, were also exchanged.
The Sustainable Banking and Finance Network hosted a luncheon at the III Latin American Congress on Sustainable and Inclusive Banking to discuss sustainable finance initiatives and regulatory developments. Key topics included the International Finance Corporation’s Silver Economy Program, the 2025 Resilient Banking Survey, and the Circular Economy Finance Guidelines. Participants also shared updates on regional regulatory activities, including green taxonomies, thematic bond issuance, and enhanced ESG standards.
The Vietnam State Securities Commission announced the fee for issuing securities practising certificates is VND 1,000,000 per person, payable via bank transfer or directly to the Commission. Failure to collect the certificate within one year of the fee payment notice will result in cancellation.
The Brazil Securities Commission (CVM) and the Association of Investors in the Capital Markets (Amec) hosted an event on stewardship practices in Brazil, emphasizing their role in enhancing corporate relationships and reducing shareholder absenteeism. CVM President João Pedro Nascimento highlighted the importance of shareholder engagement and noted legislative changes and technological advancements in shareholder meetings. Panels explored global stewardship evolution, including the UK and Brazilian Stewardship Codes, and practical applications by managers, focusing on fiduciary duty and investor protection.
The Central Bank of Estonia reported a slowdown in average wage growth to 6.1% year-on-year in Q1, with unemployment rising to 8.6%. The wage deceleration is attributed to a weak economic backdrop and increased labour market slack, affecting both public and private sectors. Despite rising unemployment, the bank anticipates an economic recovery to mitigate employment declines and enhance labour productivity.
The National Bank of Serbia has begun discussions with an IMF mission on Serbia's economic programme under the Policy Coordination Instrument and the regular Article IV consultation. Led by IMF's Annette Kyjobe and Serbia's Governor Jorgovanka Tabakovic, the talks will cover macroeconomic developments, fiscal discipline, and structural reforms. The Policy Coordination Instrument is advisory and does not involve financing.
The Albania Financial Services Authority released its January–April 2025 statistical bulletin, noting an 8.14% increase in gross written premiums to ALL 7,666 million and an 11.76% rise in insurance contracts. Non-life business dominated with 90.43% of premium volume, while compulsory motor insurance premiums grew 14.26% to ALL 4,650 million. Gross paid claims decreased 4.25% to ALL 2,669 million, with motor insurance claims comprising 74.61% of the total.
The Central Bank of Paraguay has opened the XXVII Workshop in International Economics and Finance, jointly organized with the Ministry of Economy and Finance. The first day covered tax policy, economic reform, informality, poverty and fiscal stimulus, and the event will continue on May 29 and 30 at Itaipu. Paraguay is hosting the workshop for the first time.
Bank Negara Malaysia fined Maybank Islamic Berhad MYR 1,200,000 for failing to comply with credit information submission requirements to the Central Credit Reference Information System (CCRIS). The breach affected three borrowers' credit records and was penalized under the Islamic Financial Services Act 2013. The penalty considered the impact on data, remedial actions, and Maybank Islamic's compliance history.
Bank Negara Malaysia imposed MYR 3,264,000 in penalties on HSBC Bank Malaysia Berhad and HSBC Amanah Malaysia Berhad for non-compliance with the Financial Services Act 2013, Islamic Financial Services Act 2013, and AML/CFT and targeted financial sanctions requirements. The penalties addressed customer due diligence failings and sanctions screening breaches, with remedial actions including enhanced compliance monitoring and system improvements.
Bank Negara Malaysia imposed Administrative Monetary Penalties totaling RM493,500 on Bank Pembangunan Malaysia Berhad for non-compliance with the Development Financial Institutions Act 2002 and anti-money laundering policies. Penalties included RM229,500 for inadequate verification of beneficial owners and RM264,000 for lapses in sanctions screening. BPMB has since enhanced procedures and staff training, and has paid the penalties.
The Guernsey Financial Services Commission amended designation details for seven individuals and entities under the UK's Russia sanctions in Guernsey. Affected parties remain subject to asset freeze and trust services sanctions. Businesses must freeze relevant assets, report findings to the States of Guernsey Policy & Resources Committee, adhere to statutory reporting obligations, and refrain from providing funds or resources to designated persons unless permitted by derogation or licence.
The Guernsey Financial Services Commission issued a sanctions notice amending details of 12 persons/entities under the UK ISIL (Da’esh) and Al-Qaida (Sanctions) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019, effective in the Bailiwick of Guernsey. Firms must freeze relevant assets and report findings to the States of Guernsey Policy & Resources Committee, complying with the Sanctions (Bailiwick of Guernsey) Law, 2018. Affected firms should also notify the Commission and provide detailed reports as per Handbook Rule 12.37.
The Guernsey Financial Services Commission announced the removal of Lionel Dumont from the UK ISIL Da'esh and Al-Qaida sanctions list, lifting his asset freeze in Guernsey. This update follows the implementation of the UK sanctions regime in Guernsey through Brexit-related regulations.
The Guernsey Financial Services Commission amended Michel Litvak's details under the UK Russia (Sanctions) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019, maintaining his asset freeze and trust services sanctions. Businesses must comply by freezing assets linked to designated individuals and reporting to the States of Guernsey Policy & Resources Committee. Firms must also inform the Commission and submit a report under Handbook Rule 12.37 regarding affected relationships or transactions.
The Sustainable Banking and Finance Network held a regional luncheon in Santo Domingo, discussing the launch of the International Finance Corporation’s Silver Economy Program, the 2025 Resilient Banking Survey, and the Circular Economy Finance Guidelines. These guidelines are the first comprehensive framework for circular economy finance, aiding financial institutions in identifying and tracking financing flows for such projects.
The Philippine Securities and Exchange Commission approved Ayala Corporation's offering of preferred shares worth up to PHP 20 billion, subject to compliance with remaining requirements. The offering includes five million preferred B shares with an overallotment option, priced at PHP 2,000 per share. Proceeds will be used for loan repayment, corporate purposes, and capital expenditures, with listing on the Philippine Stock Exchange expected on June 18.
The Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario (FSRA) has issued a notice of proposal against Joel Kelman and 1368486 Canada Inc., operating as Quick Cash Mortgage, for alleged breaches of Ontario’s mortgage brokerage regulations. FSRA proposes to refuse Kelman's licence renewal, impose CAD 120,000 in penalties, and revoke Quick Cash Mortgage’s licence, citing non-compliance and false information provision. Kelman and Quick Cash Mortgage have requested a hearing before the Financial Services Tribunal.
The Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario published the Consumer Advisory Panel’s 2024-25 Annual Report, detailing its contributions to FSRA’s strategic approach through consumer research, policy initiatives, and education. The panel participated in eight FSRA working groups, evaluated the Financial Professionals Title Protection Framework, and made submissions on insurance, mortgage brokering, and regulation. It also engaged in meetings to influence policy initiatives and provided input on FSRA’s strategic direction for 2025-26.
The United Nations Environment Programme Finance Initiative (UNEP FI) is updating its Sector Mappings to enhance usability and support sustainability disclosures. The revisions include changes to impact areas, sector classifications, and transparency on sector-impact associations, with a release targeted for Q1 2026. Feedback is being solicited through a survey, with further consultations planned for Q4 2025.
The Sustainable Banking and Finance Network hosted a luncheon at the III Latin American Congress on Sustainable and Inclusive Banking, discussing initiatives like IFC’s Silver Economy Program and Circular Economy Finance Guidelines, which help financial institutions track circular economy projects. Participants also shared regional regulatory developments, including green taxonomies and open finance regulations.
The Thailand Securities and Exchange Commission received The Asian Banker’s Best Conduct of Business Regulator in Asia Pacific Award for 2025, recognizing its efforts to enhance transparency and integrity in Thailand’s capital market. Initiatives include improved governance, enforcement against misconduct, new digital fundraising channels, and regulation of high-frequency trading. The SEC also emphasized international collaboration and capital market research for policy development.
The Thailand Securities and Exchange Commission advises NR Instant Produce Public Company Limited’s NRF254A bondholders to review information and exercise rights at the upcoming meeting. It will address amendments to repayment terms, early redemption conditions, and default exemptions. The SEC mandates the bondholders’ representative to evaluate these amendments and provide an informed opinion to assist decision-making.
The Moroccan Capital Market Authority and the Association of Moroccan Regions co-organized a workshop in Rabat to explore capital market financing solutions for regions and local authorities. Around 40 participants discussed diversifying regional funding sources and potential regulatory, financial, and accounting developments. Key topics included knowledge-sharing needs and tailored financing arrangements for local and regional authorities.
The Swedish Financial Supervisory Authority (Finansinspektionen, FI) released new statistics on mortgage interest rates at Sweden's eight largest mortgage banks, revealing significant rate variations. The average variable-rate mortgage was 3.10% in April 2025, with a 0.47 percentage point difference impacting annual interest costs by over SEK 9,000 on a SEK 2 million loan. FI noted that only 30% of borrowers regularly compare rates and that this publication replaces previous reports on banks' gross mortgage margins.
The Egypt Financial Regulatory Authority joined Cairo University's annual employment forum to promote non-banking financial literacy and career opportunities. Assistant Chairman Mohamed Abdel Aziz highlighted the importance of enhancing youth skills for better market integration and financing access. The Authority also aims to establish a specialized centre at Cairo University for non-banking financial sector needs.
At the 2025 Middle East and North Africa Marine Insurance Forum, Egypt Financial Regulatory Authority's chair, Mohamed Farid, emphasized marine insurance's role in international trade and highlighted regulatory changes to enhance the Egyptian insurance market's financial soundness. Key developments include the Unified Insurance Law, mandating increased capital requirements and new investment rules for insurance funds. Farid also stressed the importance of developing climate-risk databases for better planning and risk management in marine insurance.
The Finnish Financial Supervisory Authority (FIN-FSA) launched an online tool to monitor patient insurance statistics and profitability in Finland, reflecting changes under the 2021 Patient Insurance Act. The tool shows a highly concentrated market with Finnish Mutual Patient Insurance Company holding 50.8% of premiums in 2023. Despite an average underwriting result of EUR 2.3 million, adjustments led to a EUR 2.1 million loss, highlighting sensitivity to technical provision assumptions.
The Central Bank of Russia's April update shows a moderate rise in bank funding to companies and a continued decline in consumer lending, with household funds in banks growing faster. The banking sector recorded a profit of RUB 261 billion, though financial performance was slightly impacted by securities revaluation. Notably, corporate loans increased by 0.9%, and new mortgage issuance rose 13% due to subsidised programs, while consumer loans fell by 0.7%.
The Central Bank of Russia's May Regional Economy report highlights moderate consumer demand growth and a decline in durable goods demand, with slowed price growth but high inflation expectations. Business activity varied, with increases in shipbuilding and aircraft manufacturing, and declines in metal and chemical production. The report also addresses regional consumer price trends, freight logistics, and domestic tourism.
The Central Bank of Russia allows financial institutions to offer qualified investors non-deliverable derivatives, securities, and digital assets linked to cryptocurrency prices, while advising against direct cryptocurrency investments. Credit institutions should adopt a conservative risk approach by covering exposures with capital and setting limits. The central bank plans to formalize this in regulations, and the Russian Government is considering a test regime for restricted cryptocurrency transactions.
The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation's Quarterly Banking Profile for Q1 2025 reports a net income of USD 70.6 billion for 4,462 FDIC-insured banks, with a return on assets of 1.16 percent, driven by higher noninterest income. Domestic deposits rose for the third consecutive quarter, and the Deposit Insurance Fund reserve ratio increased to 1.31 percent. Asset quality remained favorable, though commercial real estate portfolios showed weakness.
Norway's Financial Supervisory Authority (Finanstilsynet) has advised the European Commission on revising the SFDR, advocating simplification to cut firms' costs while ensuring ESG transparency. They suggest removing sustainability risk, consolidating product-level disclosures, and introducing a mandatory adverse impact template to reduce greenwashing and enhance comparability in financial product marketing.
The Norwegian Financial Supervisory Authority is implementing a new reporting system for Capital Requirements Regulation and Solvency II data, transitioning to XBRL-CSV format. An information meeting will cover the new reporting portal, changes to reporting materials, and the Pillar 3 datahub for major banks in 2025. The authority will also discuss ongoing reporting simplifications.
The State Bank of Vietnam has signed a cooperation agreement with five commercial banks to advance the national innovation and digital transformation agenda, including the "Bình dân học vụ số" digital skills programme. Banks are focusing on expanding digital banking, developing integrated digital ecosystems, and enhancing organisational digitisation. Vietcombank has advocated for stronger policy support and a sandbox mechanism for digital banking inclusion and product testing.
The Federal Reserve Board's Economic Well-Being of U.S. Households in 2024 report indicates stable financial well-being compared to previous years, with inflation and prices as primary concerns. Seventy-three percent of adults reported financial comfort, and 63 percent could cover a USD 400 emergency expense. The report also notes a decline in job satisfaction among job changers and highlights significant consumer exposure to financial fraud, with losses estimated at USD 63 billion.
The Chile Financial Market Commission (CMF) invites research proposals from academics on financial system stability, client protection, and market development, aiming to enhance policy analysis and public debate. Topics include sustainable finance and the impact of emerging risks on financial stability. Proposals must include a CMF researcher and meet specific publication standards, with no payments to researchers or CMF expenditure.
The British Columbia Financial Services Authority (BCFSA) issued a consent order requiring submortgage broker Siavash Ahmadi to pay a CAD 35,000 penalty for submitting inaccurate mortgage applications and accepting unverified client documents. Ahmadi also faces CAD 3,500 in enforcement expenses. BCFSA previously penalized Ksenia Ivanova, who submitted misleading applications via Ahmadi's account, with a CAD 35,000 fine.
The SEC’s Division of Economic and Risk Analysis released reports on capital formation via Regulation A and Regulation Crowdfunding, and on beneficial ownership concentration in hedge funds. Regulation A raised over USD 9.4 billion from 2015–2024, while crowdfunding raised USD 1.3 billion from 2016–2024. The hedge fund report links higher ownership concentration to faster growth and more liquid portfolios, but lower average gross returns compared to unconcentrated funds.
At the Angola Banking Conference, the Angola Ministry of Finance said artificial intelligence should improve banking efficiency and support predictive supervision, fraud detection, systemic risk analysis and cyber resilience while remaining focused on households, businesses and vulnerable customers. Banco Nacional de Angola added that broader AI adoption will require robust governance, regulation, technical capacity, ethics and data protection.
The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) released its Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) evaluation schedule for national banks and federal savings associations for Q3 and Q4 2025. The OCC invites public comments on the CRA activities of banks listed in the schedule.
The Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA) reviewed websites of Malta-licensed Crypto-Asset Service Providers (CASPs) for compliance with the Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation (MiCA). The review found issues with licensing statements, risk disclosures, and promotion of unregulated services, setting expectations for immediate remediation. The MFSA will continue monitoring and engaging with firms to address these gaps.
The Argentina Securities Commission (CNV) has amended rules to reduce restrictions on the ARS 200 million daily limit for non-residents transferring negotiable securities abroad. The limit exemption now applies to securities amortising from two years after issuance, down from three, if acquired in a primary placement or auction up to the subscribed face value.
The Australian Prudential Regulation Authority reported total superannuation assets of AUD 4.1 trillion as of March 2025, with a 0.8% quarterly decline but a 5.9% annual increase. APRA-regulated assets rose 7.4% year-on-year to AUD 2,890.8 billion, while total contributions increased 14.4% to AUD 202.8 billion, and benefit payments rose 11.6% to AUD 127.5 billion.
The Monetary Authority of Macao has opened subscriptions for the 2025 catastrophe property insurance programme for SMEs, continuing a premium support plan to reduce costs for eligible firms. Participation by local insurers has increased to six, with coverage triggered by severe weather alerts and no deductible or indemnity limit for goods. The Macao SAR Government will provide premium support equal to 50% of the annual standard premium or MOP30,000, whichever is less.
The Eurasian Group said it and MENAFATF held a joint forum on risk management in the era of new technologies during their plenary week. The forum brought together supervisors and private sector experts from member states, and its outcomes were captured in joint recommendations focused on partnership-based approaches to combating financial crime.
The Bank of Korea published its International Investment Position data for Q1 2025, detailing net international investment position, external assets, and external debt.
The Bank of Korea released its May 2025 Business Survey Index and Economic Sentiment Index results, with detailed figures available in an accompanying file.
The National Bank of Denmark reported DKK 80 billion in dividends paid by Danish listed companies from January to April, with banks contributing a record DKK 17 billion. Dividend payments were higher than last year but below 2022 and 2023 levels, with a few large companies, including Novo Nordisk and Danske Bank, accounting for over 75% of payouts. Share repurchases remained high at DKK 54 billion in 2024, though lower than in 2023 and below 2021-2023 levels.
The Central Bank of the UAE imposed financial sanctions totaling 18.1 million AED on two foreign bank branches for violations of the Anti-Money Laundering and Combating the Financing of Terrorism and Illegal Organisations framework. The penalties, 10.6 million AED and 7.5 million AED respectively, were enforced under Article 14 of Federal Decree Law No. 20 of 2018.
Jamaica's Ministry of Finance and the Public Service appointed Dennis Chung as Chief Technical Director of the Financial Investigations Division, effective 2 June 2025. Chung will focus on combating financial crimes, overseeing policies under the FID Act, and enhancing asset recovery initiatives under the Proceeds of Crime Act. He will resign from his current board roles prior to assuming the position.
The Bank of Israel's Composite State of the Economy Index fell by 0.10% in April, primarily due to a sharp drop in goods exports, credit card purchases, and job vacancies, partially offset by increased imports and industrial production. The Bank also revised January to March index readings downward, reflecting weaker revenue indices and lower services exports.
The Vanuatu Financial Services Commission has mandated that companies update their registered office and principal place of business details on the VFSC Online Registry by 31 July 2025, following relocations due to the Port Vila earthquake, in accordance with section 17 of the Companies Act No 25 of 2012.
The Dominican Republic's Pensions Superintendency (SIPEN) released a policy note emphasizing principles for enhancing the national pension system, focusing on financial sustainability, universal coverage, intergenerational equity, and administrative efficiency. Key elements include mandatory and voluntary contributions, efficient fund management, and policies promoting active ageing. The note references international models, advocating flexible affiliation for self-employed workers and a guaranteed minimum pension.
The Hong Kong Mandatory Provident Fund Schemes Authority endorsed measures from the Working Group on Promoting Silver Economy to enhance retirement financial management for near-retirees, including leveraging the eMPF Platform. The authority plans to continue public education through various channels and aims for full trustee integration into the eMPF by end-2025, facilitating efficient retirement savings management for all scheme members.
The Hong Kong Insurance Authority endorsed measures by the Working Group on Promoting Silver Economy to address demographic ageing and demand for social support and medical services. The IA is collaborating with insurers to potentially offer affordable products for Hong Kong residents to access elderly care in Mainland cities of the Greater Bay Area. It also emphasized the need for early retirement planning.
The Superintendency of Banks of Panama published its Banking Activity Report, noting a 5.4% increase in International Banking Center deposits to USD 112,486 million and a 4.5% rise in National Banking System deposits to USD 98,359 million. Liquidity and capital ratios remain above regulatory minimums, with the liquidity ratio at 55.94% and the Capital Adequacy Index at 15.71%. The report highlights growth in retail deposits and lending, despite contractions in sectors like livestock and construction.
The Saudi Arabia Capital Markets Authority (CMA) approved Alinma Capital's public offering of the Alinma Free-Style Equity Fund. The CMA emphasized the importance of reviewing the fund's terms, strategy, and risks, noting that its approval is not an investment recommendation but confirms compliance with legal requirements.
Saudi Arabia's Capital Market Authority approved the National Shipping Company of Saudi Arabia's capital increase from SAR 7.38 billion to SAR 9.23 billion through the issuance of bonus shares. The increase involves issuing one bonus share for every four existing shares, funded by transferring SAR 1.85 billion from retained earnings. An extraordinary general assembly must be held within six months, and all regulatory requirements must be met.
Saudi Arabia's Capital Market Authority (CMA) has approved guidelines for issuing green, social, sustainable, and sustainability-linked debt instruments, effective 27 May 2025. These guidelines support sustainable debt issuance without altering existing capital market rules, requiring issuers to disclose non-compliance in offering documents. The guidance distinguishes between use-of-proceeds and sustainability-linked instruments, focusing on projects with positive environmental or social impacts.
The Saudi Arabia Capital Markets Authority approved Saudi Lime Industries Company's request to increase its share capital from SAR 220 million to SAR 231 million by issuing 1,100,000 bonus shares, structured as one bonus share for every 20 existing shares. The increase will be funded by transferring SAR 11 million from retained earnings. Eligibility for bonus shares is based on shareholders registered at the Securities Depository Center as of the close of the second trading day after a due date set by the company's board.
Montenegro Capital Market Authority President Željko Drinčić attended the 28th "Financial Market" conference in Opatija, discussing macroeconomic, financial, and regulatory developments. Topics included inflation pressures, European Central Bank monetary policy, fiscal sustainability, and digitalisation of financial services. Drinčić met with Croatian representatives to enhance inter-institutional cooperation and exchange regulatory practices.
The Belgium Financial Services and Markets Authority reached a settlement with AION BANK SA, involving a EUR 700,000 payment. The settlement will be publicly disclosed by name on the FSMA website.
The Central Bank of Luxembourg reported a significant rebound in consumer confidence in May 2025, with the overall indicator rising to -7 from -16 in April. Improvements were noted in expectations for the general economic situation and households' future financial situation, while major purchase intentions also increased. However, households' assessment of their past financial situation slightly declined.
The Belgium Financial Services and Markets Authority (FSMA) issued a newsletter emphasizing mandatory prior registration for intermediaries and the requirement to work only with authorized individuals. It also addresses the use of the FSMA's name or logo and issues related to branch 26 and branch VI products linked to investment funds.
The Committee on Economic and Monetary Affairs conducted a hearing with the European Securities and Markets Authority's CCP Supervisory Committee directors, whose terms were recently extended. Chair Klaus Löber and members Nicoletta Giusto and Froukelien Wendt outlined their five-year vision for the committee's tasks.
The Ukraine National Commission on Securities and Stock Market registered new securities market actions, including share and corporate bond issues without public offerings, and updated bond prospectuses for collective investment vehicles. It also cancelled certain investment certificate registrations, approved chief accountant appointments at asset management companies, and published its 2024 activity report and a Q1 2025 analytical report on capital and commodity markets.
The Central Reserve Bank of El Salvador released an explainer on obtaining a certified electronic signature certificate. The Electronic Signature Law equates electronic signatures with handwritten ones, and the Bank has been authorized to issue these certificates since June 2023. Certificates cost USD 15.00 via bank transfer or USD 15.39 via card payment, with a one-year validity and fully online issuance.
Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) stressed the need for high-quality financial statements to prevent window dressing. OJK noted pressures on accounting from technological changes and sustainability reporting, emphasizing technical and ethical competence. It also referenced regulations on professional certification, audit reporting, and adopting IFRS Sustainability Disclosure Standards.
Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) held the 2025 Integrated Capital Market Education Outreach in Jayapura, Papua, to boost capital market literacy and promote sharia-compliant investments. Key metrics include a rise in the Indonesia Sharia Stock Index and growth in sharia mutual fund assets and sukuk. The event also aimed to increase retail investor participation and support local SMEs in accessing market-based funding.
The National Bank of Georgia has published interactive updates on trends in resident commercial banks' loan portfolios and deposits as of April 2025. These updates are accessible in the Statistics section of its website.
The Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) concluded its 2025 Mutual Fund Focus Group Session in Karachi, highlighting mutual funds as catalysts for financial inclusion and economic growth. Insights from the event will inform SECP's reform agenda and future policy work for Pakistan's mutual fund ecosystem. The session featured discussions on regulatory challenges, innovation, digital transformation, governance, and investor inclusion, with input from global mutual fund markets.
The Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan clarified that BMA Capital Management Limited is a licensed securities broker and is not associated with fraudulent platforms using similar names. SECP identified "BMA Capital No.108" and "BMAC Global Pro" as unrelated to the licensed broker. The public is advised to verify the legitimacy of investment platforms through the SECP and official broker websites.
Governor Anita Angelovska-Bezhoska of the National Bank of the Republic of North Macedonia stressed regional economic integration's importance for sustainable growth in the Western Balkans, highlighting the Western Balkans Common Regional Market. The region's income is below half the EU average, with growth hindered by productivity stagnation and labor outflows. Enhanced cooperation is crucial for boosting trade, investment, and productivity, with the Central European Free Trade Agreement increasing trade among members by 74%.
The Algeria Market Authority published a notice that Crédit Populaire d'Algérie Spa will hold its Ordinary General Meeting on June 23, 2025 at 09:30 in Algiers.
The Algeria Market Authority said MOUSTACHIR Spa’s 2024 dividend is set at DZD 8 per share and will be paid from June 1, 2025, to both existing and new shareholders.
The Bank of Italy released findings from its monitoring of Less Significant Institutions' integration of climate and environmental risks into business processes. The report highlights integration into business strategies, governance, control systems, and risk management frameworks, updating good practices since December 2023.
The Bank of Italy released findings from a monitoring exercise on Less Significant Institutions' progress in integrating climate and environmental risks into business strategies and risk management frameworks. The report includes updated good practices supplementing the December 2023 publication.
The Bank of Portugal released a statistical note on Q1 2025 direct investment, highlighting EUR 1.3 billion in outward investment and -EUR 1.1 billion in net foreign direct investment into Portugal. Outward investment focused on European countries, with the Netherlands, Spain, and Germany as key recipients. The negative inward figure was largely due to a EUR 1.2 billion reduction in intra-group debt, with significant outflows to Spain.
The Bank of the Lao participated in the opening of the Lao Foreign Exchange Market Company Limited's office, establishing a new FX market system for transactions through the banking system. The platform allows spot foreign currency transactions via commercial banks' online channels, with nine banks participating. Transactions involve the Lao kip against the US dollar, Thai baht, and Chinese yuan.
Hong Kong's Financial Services and the Treasury Bureau reported that Secretary Christopher Hui is visiting Canada to promote Hong Kong as a wealth management hub. Hui highlighted Hong Kong's stablecoins legislation and tax incentives for family offices, including profit tax exemptions and planned enhancements to preferential tax regimes. The Government aims to finalize proposal details by 2025 and submit legislative proposals in 2026.
The Federal Housing Finance Agency reported a 4.0% rise in U.S. house prices from Q1 2024 to Q1 2025, with a 0.7% increase from Q4 2024 to Q1 2025. The March seasonally adjusted monthly index fell 0.1% from February. Updated metropolitan area delineations are now in use, and future Excel tables will transition to .xlsx format.
The Slovenia Insurance Supervision Agency released a guide on insuring vintage vehicles, detailing "starodobnik" status criteria and its impact on registration and insurance costs. The guide outlines the legal definition, categorization, and application process, noting reduced registration charges and insurance discounts for classic vehicles. It also highlights valuation challenges for comprehensive cover, advising formal appraisals for older, high-value vehicles.
Peru's Superintendence of Banking, Insurance and Private Pension Funds (SBS) reports a recovery in credit growth and improved portfolio quality in its Financial System Stability Report to May 2025. The total loan portfolio grew by 1.2% as of March 2025, with a robust average capital ratio of 16.8%. Stress tests indicate the system's resilience, with capital ratios remaining above regulatory requirements even under adverse scenarios.
The Hong Kong Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) secured disqualification orders against four former senior officers of National Agricultural Holdings Limited (NAH) for two to nine years due to breaches of duty. The orders followed investigations into questionable transactions, including unpaid share allotments and misused funds, with former financial manager Lu Ying coordinating payments and others failing to address misconduct. The Court's decision was based on the respondents' admissions of duty breaches.
The Financial Action Task Force of Latin America (GAFILAT) convened in Cusco, Peru, to prepare for its Fifth Round of Mutual Evaluations and address challenges under the new process. Part of Guatemala's 2025 presidency action plan, the meeting included discussions on implementation difficulties, good practices, and changes to Recommendation 4. Participants also reviewed regional risk factors and sector-specific red flags related to money laundering and human trafficking.
The Agency for Regulation and Development of the Financial Market of the Republic of Kazakhstan has suspended the licence of Batys kapital Microfinance Organization LLP for three months due to breaches of prudential norms. During the suspension, the firm cannot enter new microcredit agreements or amend existing ones to increase obligations, but must fulfill existing contracts. Clients remain liable for non-performance under current agreements.
Kazakhstan's Financial Market Agency and Azerbaijan's Central Bank signed a memorandum to enhance cooperation via information exchange, focusing on market stability. The agreement includes sharing insights on market conditions, regulatory standards, and legislative improvements. This aligns with the Financial Sector Assessment Program recommendations and coincided with the inaugural meeting of the Council of Central Banks of the Organization of Turkic States.
The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) issued an alert regarding fraudulent websites and internet banking login screens reported by Shanghai Commercial Bank Limited. The HKMA emphasized that banks will not request sensitive personal information via SMS, email, or embedded hyperlinks. Individuals who interacted with these fraudulent sites are advised to contact the bank and report to the Hong Kong Police Force.
The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) issued a public alert after The Bank of East Asia, Limited reported fraudulent websites and internet banking login screens. The HKMA stressed that banks do not send SMS or emails with embedded hyperlinks for transactions or request sensitive information via phone, email, or SMS. Customers who interacted with these fraudulent sites should contact the bank and report to the Hong Kong Police Force.
The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) issued an alert regarding fraudulent websites and internet banking login screens linked to Chong Hing Bank Limited. The HKMA emphasized that banks will not send SMS or emails with embedded hyperlinks for transactions or request sensitive information through such means. Affected individuals should contact Chong Hing Bank and report to the Hong Kong Police Force’s Crime Wing Information Centre.
The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) issued a public alert about a fraudulent social media account reported by Bank of Singapore Limited. The HKMA reminded the public that banks will not send SMS or emails with embedded hyperlinks for transactions or request sensitive information via phone, email, or SMS. Individuals who have shared personal information or conducted transactions through the account should contact the bank and report to the Hong Kong Police Force.
The Central Bank of Samoa seeks an individual consultant to manage the implementation of a Supervisory Technology platform aimed at modernizing supervisory processes, with expressions of interest due by 11:00 Samoa time on 05 June 2025.
The Isle of Man Financial Services Authority released phase 2 results of its sanctions thematic review, highlighting compliance with the Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism Code 2019. The report identifies good practices and areas for improvement, such as enhancing customer due diligence and using screening tools more effectively. Findings will inform the National Risk Assessment and the Authority’s supervisory risk framework.
The Reserve Bank of India has added The Vishweshwar Sahakari Bank Ltd., Pune to the Second Schedule of the Reserve Bank of India Act, 1934. This inclusion was formalized through an RBI notification on April 7, 2025, and published in the Gazette of India on May 9, 2025.
The Central Bank of the Republic of Uzbekistan, in collaboration with the Alliance for Financial Inclusion, initiated the 15th ECAPI meeting in Samarkand on 26 May 2025. The event focuses on equitable access to financial services and promoting sustainable development through inclusive green finance.