The France Autorité des Marchés Financiers released issue 21 of its Active Retail Investors Dashboard, monitoring quarterly changes in individual transaction activity in financial instruments.
The French Financial Markets Authority (AMF) released an updated quarterly dashboard on retail stock market investors, highlighting unprecedented activity in 2025 with nearly 2.5 million French individuals trading equities. Retail share transactions rose to 56 million, with 26% executed via EU providers outside France. ETF trading also surged, with over 1.1 million investors participating, doubling transactions to 14.4 million, and 47% conducted through EU providers outside France.
The National Bank of Denmark reported that Danish listed companies' share repurchases totaled DKK 47 billion in 2025, marking the lowest annual level since 2020. While buybacks were previously concentrated among a few large firms, they were more widely distributed across companies in 2024 and 2025. The statistics are based on net transactions and end-of-month prices, with some data limitations noted.
The European Association of CCP Clearing Houses (EACH) released a position paper on the EU's Market Integration and Supervision Package, supporting its single market goals while suggesting changes for effective CCP oversight. EACH advocates for ESMA's exclusive decision-making power over significant CCPs, streamlined NCA-ESMA cooperation for less significant CCPs, and cost-effective ESMA fees. It also calls for simplified reporting, outsourcing, legal clarity for CCP DLT use, and highlights the need for a global competitiveness objective in ESMA's mandate.
Anneli Tuominen of the European Central Bank Banking Supervision highlighted supervisory priorities, including a reverse stress test on geopolitical risks and a thematic review of banks' credit underwriting practices. She noted European banks' strengthened positions, citing improvements in the Common Equity Tier 1 ratio and non-performing loans, while emphasizing operational resilience amid rising cyberattacks. Concerns were raised about commercial real estate, particularly in Austria, with issues in collateral valuations and interest-only loans.
ECB President Christine Lagarde detailed the ECB's strategy to tackle the energy shock from the war in Iran, stressing a flexible policy approach based on the shock's nature rather than fixed rate paths. She noted that while energy shock pass-through is historically rare in the euro area, vigilance is needed due to potential global oil supply disruptions and inflationary pressures. ECB staff have released scenarios showing varying inflation impacts, with the ECB ready to adjust policy as needed based on evolving evidence.
The National Bank of Georgia kept its refinancing rate at 8.0 % at the 25 March MPC meeting, warning that Middle-East tensions and Hormuz-linked energy and shipping shocks have pushed the economy into a high-inflation-risk scenario. While February CPI eased to 4.6 %, the bank now expects short-term inflation to overshoot before returning to the 3 % target from Q2 2026 and said it will keep policy tight or raise rates if second-round effects arise.
The Ministry of Finance of Georgia announced the start of an International Monetary Fund Article IV consultation mission to assess the macroeconomic environment and the direction of fiscal and monetary policies. The mission, led by Alejandro Hajdenberg, met Finance Minister Lasha Khutsishvili to review IMF cooperation, discuss current macroeconomic indicators and medium-term forecasts, and address the 2026 Eurobond refinancing and international investor participation.
Bank of Guatemala’s Monetary Board kept the leading rate at 3.50 %, pausing after four 25 bp cuts since Aug 2025, as growth remains solid and February inflation stayed below the 3–5 % target range. The Board flagged potential imported price pressures from higher oil amid Middle East tensions and reiterated readiness to adjust policy if needed.
The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India has issued special measures for the 2025-26 financial year, advising insurers to keep branches open during normal working hours on 31 March 2026 to avoid hardship to policyholders. Insurers have been asked to note the arrangement and provide adequate publicity.
The South Korea Financial Supervisory Service reported that domestic banks’ substandard or below loan ratio was stable at 0.57% in December 2025, with balances rising to KRW 16.6 trillion and provisioning and coverage indicators weakening. Total provisions for bad debts fell to KRW 26.7 trillion, reducing the non-performing loan coverage ratio to 160.3%, while new substandard or below loans of KRW 5.9 trillion were broadly offset by KRW 5.7 trillion in resolutions in the fourth quarter of 2025.
The Financial Supervisory Service held its FSS SPEAKS 2026 forum with foreign financial companies, outlining a shift toward consumer-centred supervision as its core value for 2026. Key priorities include a comprehensive risk-focused supervisory framework, overhauled dispute settlement standards, tighter oversight of debt and capital markets, expanded consumer-protection measures, and strengthened IT risk management. The authority will incorporate foreign firms’ feedback into its supervisory work and maintain regular market communication.
The Securities and Exchange Board of India and the Investor Education and Protection Fund Authority will host the sixth Niveshak Shivir in Bhubaneswar on March 27, 2026. The event aims to facilitate the transfer of unpaid dividends, assist with KYC and nomination updates, and resolve pending claims related to unclaimed shares and dividends. Participants include major market infrastructure institutions and registrar and transfer agents.
Indonesia’s Financial Services Authority (OJK) reaffirmed that the banking sector remains solid with positive growth, despite Moody’s and Fitch revising the outlook on major Indonesian banks, including Himbara, to negative after the sovereign outlook change. OJK cited January 2026 credit growth of 9.96% year on year, deposit growth of 13.48%, non-performing loans of 2.14%, strong capital and liquidity ratios, and predominantly domestic deposit-based funding, and called the outlook changes potentially temporary while pledging continued close supervision and coordination with Financial System Stability Committee stakeholders.
Indonesia’s Financial Services Authority (OJK) confirmed the swearing-in of seven Board of Commissioners members before the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, formalising their appointments under a presidential decree and enabling them to exercise OJK’s statutory powers. The new line-up, including Chair Friderica Widyasari Dewi and commissioners responsible for capital markets, market conduct and financial sector technology innovation, was confirmed by the House of Representatives following fit-and-proper tests, with two ex officio members from the Ministry of Finance and Bank Indonesia. OJK reiterated its focus on integrated supervision, market deepening, consumer protection and strengthened law enforcement.
The Central Bank of Russia's February 2026 review indicates moderate growth in corporate lending, with a 0.6% rise following a January decline, while household mortgage expansion slowed significantly due to changes in the Family Mortgage programme. Consumer lending contracted by 0.7%, and credit card utilisation decreased compared to January. Household and corporate funds with banks increased by 1.9% and 2.7%, respectively, reflecting seasonal and tax-related factors.
The Saudi Arabia Insurance Authority has approved licensing requirements for underwriting activities by insurance companies and managing general agencies. Licensees must maintain at least SAR 1 million in capital and SAR 3 million in professional liability insurance, alongside qualified staff and appropriate governance, compliance and risk management arrangements.
The Danish Financial Supervisory Authority released its 2025 supervisory report, highlighting reduced inspections due to Denmark's EU Presidency but increased case processing. Key figures include 121 inspections initiated and 155 completed, with improved timeliness and 14,697 cases handled. The report covers supervision across various sectors and anticipates increased activity in 2026.
Li Yunze, Director of China's National Financial Regulatory Administration, met with HSBC Group CEO Georges Elhedery to discuss the international economic and financial situation, China–UK financial cooperation, and HSBC's development in China.
The Central Bank of the Philippines confirmed the corporate name change of Panguil Bay Rural Bank of Ozamiz, Inc. to "Panguil Bay Rural Bank of Ozamiz, Inc. doing business under the name/s and style/s of PBRB." The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas approved amendments to the bank's Articles of Incorporation and By-Laws on 12 September 2025, with the Securities and Exchange Commission granting approval on 23 December 2025.
The Hong Kong Monetary Authority issued an alert regarding scams involving fraudulent websites, fake internet banking login screens, and phishing emails. The alert includes warnings from several banks and reminds the public that banks will not request sensitive information via SMS, email, or phone. Affected individuals should contact their bank and report to the Hong Kong Police Force.
The Philippine Securities and Exchange Commission will host ASEAN securities regulators on March 26 to advance regional capital market integration, sustainable finance and cross-border enforcement. Planned initiatives include a supervisory and enforcement network, standards for sustainable finance verifiers and an expanded corporate governance assessment.
Vietnam's Ministry of Finance and the Vietnam State Securities Commission released a compilation of consultation feedback and responses on the draft Circular. The Circular outlines the economic and technical characteristics of securities-sector services provided by the Vietnam Stock Exchange and the Vietnam Securities Depository and Clearing Corporation, where prices are state-determined.
On 23 March 2026, an authorised officer from the National Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic delivered a lecture to employees on the new anti-corruption law. The session covered the law's objectives, tasks, key provisions, and current legislative requirements.
The National Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic fined three individuals KGS 17,500 each for unlicensed cash foreign currency exchange operations in Bishkek.
The State Bank of Vietnam met with a UK delegation to discuss cooperation on developing Vietnam's international financial centre, focusing on green finance and digital trade finance infrastructure. Drawing on the Astana International Financial Centre's experience, they emphasized strategic clarity, a fit-for-purpose legal framework, and governance arrangements. Discussions included UK PACT support for green finance legal frameworks and plans for a trade finance data platform, highlighting legal considerations like cross-border data handling and cybersecurity.
The Financial Supervisory Authority of Norway published an inspection report finding that Deloitte AS breached the Norwegian Auditor Act in its 2024 audit of a public interest entity by failing to obtain sufficient and appropriate audit evidence over inventory existence and sales transactions. The authority identified deficiencies in the audit approach and documentation for inventory and revenue, including weaknesses in responses to IT control issues and reliance on a bank transaction list from the audited entity, and noted that engagement partner review did not detect these shortcomings. Deloitte acknowledged that the audit file documentation did not support the risk assessment or provide sufficient audit evidence.
The South Korea Financial Supervisory Service reported that the substandard or below (SBL) loan ratio for domestic banks remained at 0.57% at the end of December 2025, with the SBL balance rising to KRW 16.6 trillion. Business-loan SBLs totaled KRW 13.2 trillion, with large-company SBL ratios increasing to 0.49% and SME ratios decreasing to 0.83%. Household-loan SBLs were KRW 3.1 trillion, with a 0.31% ratio, while new SBL inflows were KRW 5.9 trillion against KRW 5.7 trillion resolved.
South Korea's Financial Supervisory Service (FSS) announced a shift towards consumer-centered supervision at its FSS SPEAKS 2026 forum, emphasizing financial consumer protection. The FSS plans to implement a comprehensive supervisory framework to manage risks, overhaul dispute settlement standards, and enhance capital markets transparency. Additional priorities include supporting MSCI Developed Markets Index inclusion, diversifying exchange-traded fund products, and strengthening IT risk management.
South Korea's Financial Services Commission reported survey results from 27 registered virtual asset service providers for the second half of 2025, revealing a 3% increase in eligible users and a 31% rise in KRW deposits despite a 15% drop in average daily trading volume and a 38% decline in total operating profits. KRW-based exchanges maintained market dominance, while coin-only exchanges saw a 26% decrease in market capitalization but a 36% increase in trading volume. External transfers to registered entities rose 6%, with notable increases in transfers to whitelisted overseas entities and personal digital wallets.
The India International Financial Services Centres Authority (IFSCA) has recognized India International Bullion Exchange (IFSC) Limited (IIBX) as both a Bullion Exchange and a Bullion Clearing Corporation in the GIFT IFSC, granting it Qualifying Central Counterparty (QCCP) status. This recognition, under the Securities Contracts (Regulation) Act, 1956, and IFSCA regulations, designates IIBX as a Market Infrastructure Institution, requiring adherence to the Principles for Financial Market Infrastructures.
The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) introduced a "Verified" label on the Google Play Store for stock trading apps by SEBI-registered brokers to help retail investors identify genuine apps. This initiative, developed with Google, will expand to other regulated intermediaries' apps. SEBI's Chair emphasized investor diligence with the "Pehle Pechaan Kare, Fir Nivesh Kare!" approach, encouraging verification of broker accounts and app authenticity.
The Central Bank of the Philippines (Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, BSP) received two Bronze Stevie Awards at the 2026 Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards for its public communications initiatives. The "Check-Protect-Report" campaign was recognized for Innovation in Community Relations/Public Service Communications, while the "Meaning in a Minute" series won for Innovation in Short-Form Video Series.
The Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas reported that oil and gas activity in the Eleventh District returned to expansion in the first quarter of 2026, with the business activity index rising 27 points to 21 and firms citing a stronger but uncertain outlook tied to the Middle East conflict. Production and employment were broadly flat, while cost pressures increased and oilfield services firms saw improved utilization and pricing but continued negative operating margins. Executives cited an average West Texas Intermediate price of about USD 43 per barrel to cover operating expenses for existing wells and USD 66 per barrel to profitably drill a new well.
The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) outlined findings from Project Acacia, emphasizing tokenisation's future role in enhancing efficiency and reducing risk in Australia's financial system. The project tested 20 use cases with regulatory relief, highlighting potential economy-wide gains of AUD 24 billion annually, while addressing challenges like legal uncertainty and interoperability. The RBA plans further exploration of digital financial market infrastructure and policy reviews, alongside new industry forums to advance tokenisation and modernize the Reserve Information and Transfer System (RITS).
The Central Bank of Ecuador reported a 3.7% GDP growth for 2025, driven by stronger exports, higher investment, and increased household consumption. Exports rose 6.4%, with significant contributions from non-oil products, while investment and household consumption increased by 5.6% and 2.7%, respectively. The release includes updated annual figures and methodological improvements, aligning with international practices and the System of National Accounts 2025.
The Brazil Securities Commission (CVM) Board rejected IQ Option LLC's revised settlement proposal in Administrative Sanctioning Proceeding PAS 19957.006709/2021-81, citing legal impediments and ongoing concerns about alleged misconduct. The proposal, which included increased amounts and commitments on investor reimbursement, was deemed untimely and inconvenient by the Term of Commitment Committee. The proceeding continues to investigate unauthorized securities offerings targeting Brazilian residents.
Senator Elizabeth Warren warned of rising financial stability risks after a Financial Stability Oversight Council meeting, criticizing the Trump Administration's weakening of post-crisis oversight. She highlighted concerns over private credit deterioration, an oil price shock linked to the President's actions in Iran, and a potential debt bubble in the artificial intelligence sector. Warren argued that deregulation could lead to conditions necessitating taxpayer bailouts and broader economic harm.
The Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) and the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) issued a joint letter to RSE licensees about implementing Payday Super, effective 1 July 2026, to address unpaid superannuation. The ATO will lead on superannuation data and payment standards, while APRA will oversee RSE licensees, who must process employer contributions within three business days. The letter also highlights the commencement of SuperStream 3.0 and notes concerns about RSE licensees' readiness, particularly regarding the Member Verification Request service.
The Bulgaria Financial Supervision Commission approved senior management appointments at the Bulgarian Export Insurance Agency EAD and rejected crypto-asset service provider license applications from GRX Europe EOOD, Stor Assets EOOD, and NIMLAB EOOD due to incomplete submissions. Additionally, the FSC set the 2026 annual contributions for the Investment Intermediary Resolution Fund.
The Montenegro Capital Market Authority conducted workshops for Economics Faculty students at FINVEO AD as part of its CAPITAL CONNECT education project, enhancing financial literacy and capital markets knowledge. Students engaged in a trading simulation to understand trading financial instruments and investment decision-making. CAPITAL CONNECT, initiated in October 2024, offers interactive lectures and simulations to bridge academic learning with practical business experience.
The Angola Capital Markets Commission participated in the 7th BODIVA Forum in Luanda, focusing on technological innovation's impact on Angola’s capital markets and alternative financing. Executive Administrator Edna Mascarenhas and Director Dalvim Pipa emphasized financial literacy and investor confidence as essential for market deepening, highlighting the need for institutional coordination to foster informed and inclusive economic participation.
The Angola Capital Markets Commission (CMC) reminded supervised entities to maintain functional and up-to-date websites as per regulatory requirements, emphasizing this as a legal duty for market transparency. Compliance is expected under Regulation No. 2/25 and CMC Regulation No. 4/14, with timely publication of financial statements and reports to bolster investor confidence and integrity in Angola’s capital markets.
The Angola Capital Markets Commission participated in a Global Money Week webinar on preparing Generation Alpha for financial wellbeing, represented by Márcia Aurélio. The session addressed the challenges of educating this digital-native generation, focusing on financial education strategies amid increasing digitalisation and early exposure to financial products.
The Japan Financial Services Agency released implementation status reports for the fiscal year ending September 7 from several banks, including Bank of Fukui Co., Ltd. and Aichi Bank Co., Ltd., under the fund grant system "Implementation Plan."
The Japan Financial Services Agency released reports on Management Enhancement Plans for the fiscal year ending September 7, focusing on financial institutions under special-case frameworks, including COVID-19 and earthquake-disaster cases. The disclosures involve multiple banks and credit unions, with a revised-law framework highlighted. The agency will continue to monitor management strategies, evaluate initiatives, and accumulate repayment resources for public funds.
Brazil’s Superior Labour Court ruled that ordinary courts, not labour courts, have jurisdiction over damages claims by members of underfunded pension funds against sponsor companies, resolving a jurisdictional impasse. The Brazilian Pension Funds Authority (PREVIC) participated as amicus curiae, linking the decision to Article 202 of the Federal Constitution, enhancing legal certainty and potentially reducing sponsor costs. PREVIC also emphasized its role in monitoring litigation with sector-wide impact through the Commission for Monitoring Relevant Actions.
The Japan Financial Services Agency released a summary of Finance Minister Katayama's press conference, where he defended a government subsidy to stabilize gasoline prices at JPY 170 amid Middle East tensions. Katayama described the subsidy as an emergency measure, with its duration linked to crude oil price trends and speculative containment efforts. He also addressed yen weakness, emphasizing vigilance and readiness to act against speculative currency swings.
The Bank of Italy released a note highlighting the rapid growth of Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL) in Italy, identifying vulnerabilities due to limited data on volumes and riskiness. BNPL usage surged from 4% of households in 2022 to 30% in 2025, with a concentration among financially vulnerable groups. The upcoming European Consumer Credit Directive (CCD2) will extend to most BNPL transactions, enforcing stricter transparency and creditworthiness assessments to mitigate over-indebtedness.
The Hong Kong Mandatory Provident Fund Schemes Authority announced a reduction in the eMPF Platform fee from 37 to 29 basis points of an MPF scheme’s assets under management for the 2026-27 financial year, effective 1 April 2026. This 21.6% fee reduction is due to the platform’s streamlined administration model and non-profit approach, with administrative cost savings estimated at HKD 50 billion over less than 10 years. The eMPF Company aims to further increase digital usage and maintain cost control for additional fee reductions.
The State Bank of Pakistan has revoked the authorization of M/s Dream Exchange (Private) Limited due to serious regulatory violations. The firm is prohibited from conducting any foreign exchange activities.
The State Bank of Pakistan revoked the license of Al Raj International Exchange Company (Private) Limited due to serious regulatory violations. The firm is prohibited from conducting any foreign exchange-related activities.
The Japan Financial Services Agency is recruiting certified public accountants for fixed-term assistant section manager roles focused on corporate accounting, audits, and corporate disclosure. Responsibilities include international conference preparation, meeting support, and reviewing audit-related topics. Candidates must have relevant qualifications and experience, with English proficiency preferred.
The Japan Financial Services Agency is recruiting qualified lawyers to draft regulatory frameworks for digital decentralized finance, including stablecoins, and international business by domestic financial institutions. The role involves preparing draft laws, handling legal examinations, and researching financial systems. Candidates must be licensed lawyers with financial law expertise and high English proficiency, with hiring under a fixed-term national civil servant contract.
The British Virgin Islands Financial Services Commission issued a public alert regarding fraudulent emails impersonating Commission officials. Industry practitioners and the public are advised to verify emails claiming to be from the regulator by checking the domain extension bvifsc.vg. Further guidance is available in the Commission’s Public Statement 5 of 2026.
The Central Bank of Brazil has introduced measures to enhance operational security and management of the Instant Payments Account (Conta PI) within the Instant Payments System (SPI). These measures include setting a minimum operational balance, automatic blocking options, and an alternative channel for accessing Conta PI statements during network outages. These enhancements are part of the central bank's Agenda BC and the second phase of a toolset to strengthen the payments ecosystem.
U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission Commissioner Hester M. Peirce, at the 2026 Investment Company Institute Investment Management Conference, advocated for problem-focused, cost-transparent investment company regulation. She criticized current proxy voting mechanics and paper disclosure requirements for high costs without clear benefits, citing significant expenses in fund proxy campaigns and annual printing. Peirce proposed alternatives like lowering voting thresholds, adopting electronic disclosures, and exploring new voting models to reduce costs and improve efficiency.
The Commodity Futures Trading Commission’s Division of Market Oversight has expanded Brexit-related no-action relief by adding OptAxe Limited and Capitolis UK Limited to the list of eligible United Kingdom trading facilities. This amendment updates Appendix A to CFTC Staff Letter 24-11.
The International Organization of Securities Commissions (IOSCO) released an Investment Funds Statistics Report and updated its Dashboard.
The National Credit Union Administration has proposed eliminating certain Code of Federal Regulations requirements related to third-party servicing of indirect vehicle loans. This change would remove limits on federally insured credit unions' ability to purchase or participate in these loans, aiming to reduce regulatory burden and increase flexibility. Stakeholders are encouraged to review and comment on the proposal.
Clark Lauritzen, chairman and president of First National Bank of Omaha, has been elected to the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City's head office Board of Directors. Chanda Chacón, president and CEO of Children’s Nebraska, has been appointed to the Omaha Branch board. Lauritzen will serve until December 31, 2026, while Chacón's term ends December 31, 2028.
Central Bank of Chile held the policy rate at 4.5 %, unchanged since its 25 bp cut in December 2025, citing heightened global uncertainty and oil approaching USD 100 that are expected to push inflation to about 4 % in Q2 before easing toward the 3 % target by 2027. The Board will decide “meeting by meeting” and signalled readiness to tighten if pass-through or persistence risks grow.
Riksbank’s First Deputy Governor Aino Bunge supported the Government’s bill to safeguard cash payments for essential goods and enhance access to cash services during a seminar in Parliament. She emphasized cash's importance in crises and for those without digital payment access, urging regular cash use to maintain system functionality. The bill mandates cash acceptance at grocery stores and pharmacies and improves cash deposit and change services, with the Riksbank enhancing support through new cash depots and banknote reserves.
Norges Bank released four reports on digital central bank money (DSP), concluding there's no current basis to introduce DSP in Norway, though it may become relevant later. The reports cover final project phase 5 findings, a digital euro's impact on Norway, experimental testing results, and analysis of tokenised bank deposits and wholesale Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC). Further work will focus on tokenisation and DSP forms, including technology testing and collaboration with payment system participants.
The Uganda Capital Markets Authority held a roundtable on a proposed Ugandan Depository Receipts framework. UDRs would let investors trade shares of foreign companies in Uganda’s market, with discussions focusing on market-access benefits, liquidity and the regulatory conditions needed for implementation.
The Bank of Ghana's Governor, Dr. Johnson Pandit Asiama, delivered a keynote at the 3i Africa Summit 2026, emphasizing the theme "Shaping Africa’s Integrated FinTech Future." The address underscored priorities such as enhancing interoperability, investing in digital infrastructure, and fostering cross-border integration. The 3i Africa platform aims to unite regulators, industry, and investors to translate policy ambitions into practical actions.
In a speech, Mr. Conway of the Reserve Bank of New Zealand highlighted the country's cost of living challenge as a purchasing power issue, emphasizing that monetary policy alone cannot enhance affordability. He noted that while inflation has eased, prices remain significantly higher than pre-pandemic levels, with New Zealand's overall prices above the OECD average. Sustainable improvements in living standards require productivity gains through structural policies fostering competition, investment, and innovation.
U.S. Senators Jim Banks and Elizabeth Warren have urged the Bureau of Industry and Security to pause and review export licenses for Nvidia AI chips following allegations of illegal exports to China. The senators highlighted concerns over Nvidia's compliance and supply-chain monitoring, questioning the reliance on executive assurances and emphasizing the importance of adhering to Export Administration Regulations.
Superintendent Peter Routledge of the Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions (OSFI) outlined a strategic shift towards fine-tuning capital standards and regulatory processes, emphasizing evidence-based adjustments. OSFI is recalibrating capital requirements for SMEs and infrastructure investments, modernizing regulatory guidance, and developing a fast-track approvals framework for new market entrants. Supervisory priorities include monitoring AI-related governance risks, housing credit risks, and banks' exposures to private credit funds, focusing on insurers' private market exposures and alignment with IFRS 18.
The Central Bank of Egypt announced a 28.4% year-on-year increase in remittances from Egyptians working abroad, reaching approximately USD 25.6 billion from July to January 2025/2026. January 2026 alone saw a 21.0% rise to about USD 3.5 billion.
The European Association of CCP Clearing Houses (EACH) announced support for aligning the exercise and assignment process for deliverable equity exchange traded derivatives (ETDs) to T+1, while deliverable fixed income ETDs will remain on T+2. This move aligns with the Futures Industry Association's request and addresses market queries about the voluntary shift to T+1 for physical delivery. EACH anticipates individual central counterparties will issue formal confirmations.
The State Bank of Vietnam (SBV) updated the National Steering Committee on Anti-Money Laundering on Vietnam's national action plan, noting three of 17 actions are "Completed" or "Largely completed," while 14 need further work. Recent developments include an IMF-supported toolkit for risk-based inspection and a circular on the Anti-Money Laundering Law. The Deputy Prime Minister instructed SBV to refine the report and directed ministries to enhance resources and review legal provisions for anti-money laundering efforts.
Deputy Governor Colm Kincaid outlined the revised Consumer Protection Code at the Central Bank of Ireland’s workshop, addressing risks from operational disruptions, fraud, digitalisation, and AI. The Code mandates robust risk management, consumer-focused digital technologies, and limits on data use to prevent consumer exploitation. The Central Bank plans 52 initiatives in 2026, including thematic reviews and supervisory actions to ensure compliance.
The Bank of the Republic of Burundi conducted an internal awareness session for directors and department heads on risk management and the Business Continuity Plan. The session aimed to embed a proactive risk culture and highlighted the Business Continuity Plan as crucial for maintaining or restoring critical activities after major incidents. This initiative is part of the bank's focus on institutional resilience and modern governance.
The Bank of Greece reviewed Greek bank resilience, supervisory priorities and regulatory developments with the heads of the Single Supervisory Mechanism and Single Resolution Board. While assessing banks as substantially stronger, the authorities emphasized vigilance over credit risks arising from geopolitical uncertainty and energy price shocks.
North Macedonia's Finance Minister Gordana Dimitrieska-Kocoska highlighted significant budget pressures due to over EUR 8 billion in liability servicing needs and rising interest costs, expected to reach nearly 2% of GDP by 2026. She emphasized that further government measures will be targeted and aligned with fiscal space and inflation risks, stressing the importance of fiscal consolidation and coordination with the National Bank. The government will monitor developments and assess the necessity of new measures.
The National Bank of Moldova is drafting an Executive Committee decision to implement EU regulatory technical standards for cooperation and information exchange in supervising cross-border payment and electronic money institutions. This initiative aligns with Moldova's commitments under the 2025–2029 National Programme for EU accession and aims to apply Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2021/1722 upon accession.
National Bank of Moldova Governor Anca Dragu highlighted reforms aligning with European standards for financial modernization and EU integration. She emphasized banking system stability and capitalization, supported by positive IMF and World Bank assessments. Dragu noted infrastructure advancements, including reduced euro transfer costs via the Single Euro Payments Area and progress in capital market development.
SEC Chairman Paul S. Atkins, at the Digital Asset Summit 2026, discussed the SEC's token taxonomy and Howey test interpretation to clarify when crypto assets fall under federal securities laws. The framework defines "investment contract" and categorizes digital assets, with four out of five categories viewed as not securities. Atkins emphasized the need for Congress to enact comprehensive legislation to future-proof digital asset regulation.
The Central Bank of Malta and the Malta Bankers’ Association highlighted practical steps for identifying and avoiding increasingly sophisticated digital financial scams. They stressed that banks never request personal credentials and called for stronger information sharing and cooperation against fraud.
Hungarian National Bank’s Monetary Council kept the base rate at 6.25 % (deposit 5.25 %, lending 7.25 %) within the ±100 bp corridor, citing heightened geopolitical tensions, higher energy prices and global risk aversion. It will maintain FX liquidity support and a positive real policy rate, warning inflation will top the 3 ± 1 pp tolerance band from Q3 2026 before easing in H2 2027 and pledging data-driven, cautious policy.
The European Banking Authority (EBA) released its second impact assessment of the minimum requirement for own funds and eligible liabilities (MREL), noting EU banks' continued MREL resource growth and market access expansion, with limited impact on business models. By end-2024, MREL-eligible instruments averaged 34.7% of total risk exposure amount, with larger banks issuing across subordination layers and smaller banks relying on retained earnings and Common Equity Tier 1 capital. The EBA is exploring ways to streamline the capital and TLAC/MREL framework following recommendations on regulatory efficiency.
The Central Bank of Russia released its March 2026 monitoring results for maximum interest rates on Russian ruble deposits from the 10 largest credit institutions by household deposits. The average maximum rate was 13.87% for the first 10 days and 13.80% for the second 10 days of March. Rates are indicative and exclude special client categories, compound interest, and other conditional deposits.
Finansinspektionen reminded financial institutions to submit their anti-money laundering reports for the 31 December 2025 balance sheet date via the Reporting Portal by 31 March 2026.
Finansinspektionen has released a new schema for the Standard Report, effective for reporting with the 31 March 2026 reference date, updating from module version stnd_v4 to stnd_v5. This update addresses incorrect regulatory references in the schema's "descriptions" field in tab C of the balance sheet specifications.
The International Association of Insurance Supervisors announced that the Illinois Department of Insurance has joined the IAIS Multilateral Memorandum of Understanding, facilitating international supervisory cooperation and information exchange. The MMoU provides a global framework for compliance and confidentiality among insurance supervisors. Membership now covers approximately three-quarters of global gross written premiums.
The Bank of Namibia has signed a gold purchase agreement with QKR Namibia Navachab to acquire domestically produced gold for its reserve portfolio, aligning with international standards. This initiative is part of a broader programme to enhance reserve asset composition and bolster Namibia's resilience to external shocks. The phased implementation will include governance, risk management, and operational safeguards.
The Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe’s Monetary Policy Committee kept the Bank Policy Rate at 35% and left statutory reserve requirements unchanged at 15% for savings and time deposits and 30% for demand and call deposits in local and foreign currency, saying it will stay the course to contain second-round effects from fuel price increases, anchor inflation expectations and preserve low, stable single-digit inflation. The committee said annual inflation slowed to 3.85% in February 2026 and is expected to remain below 5% in March, while stronger foreign-currency inflows of USD 3.35 billion in the first two months of 2026 helped rebuild reserves, support foreign-exchange market stability and back the ZiG.
The Kosovo Ministry of Finance signed agreements with the World Bank for EUR 96 million to enhance financial sector strength and trade facilitation. The EUR 50 million Financial Sector Development Project aims to establish a Development Bank, capitalize financial institutions, expand credit guarantees, and develop a fast payments system. The Western Balkans Trade and Transport Facilitation Project 2.0, funded by a EUR 35 million loan and a EUR 12 million grant, focuses on border infrastructure, trade digitalization, and aligning Kosovo with EU standards.
The Italian Institute for Insurance Supervision (IVASS) has ordered the blocking of five websites unlawfully offering insurance services, bringing the total number of blocked sites to 357 since November 2023. The blocks, implemented by Italian internet service providers, may take several days to take effect. IVASS also warned consumers against policy offers via instant messaging or text and advised verifying against official lists of supervised insurance intermediaries and undertakings.
Greece's Ministry of National Economy and Finance and the Hellenic Bank Association agreed to institutionalize regular coordination meetings to support economic initiatives, including primary residence protection. The meeting, attended by key bank executives, highlighted the resilience of the Greek economy, banks' capital adequacy, and continued credit growth. Bank representatives supported the ministry's initiative to protect primary residences and committed to expediting related processes.
The U.S. Department of Justice announced that Irazmar Carbajal De Jesus pleaded guilty to conspiring to operate an unlicensed money transmitting business to circumvent U.S. sanctions on Venezuelan officials. Carbajal agreed to transfer nearly USD 100,000 into the U.S. using fake invoices and coded language, with a 20 percent fee. Sentencing is set for June 12, with a maximum penalty of five years in prison.
China's National Financial Regulatory Administration held a meeting to discuss Zhou Liang's disciplinary review and investigation for suspected serious violations. The meeting, led by Li Yunze, emphasized support for central authorities, strengthening political discipline, and maintaining an anti-corruption stance. It urged leaders to ensure strict party governance and use the case as a learning opportunity.
The Commodity Futures Trading Commission has launched an Innovation Task Force to establish clearer regulations for novel products and technologies in U.S. derivatives markets. The task force, in collaboration with the Innovation Advisory Committee, will focus on crypto assets, blockchain technologies, artificial intelligence, and prediction markets. It will also coordinate with other federal agencies, including the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.
The Bank of France reported 2025 net profit of EUR 8.1bn, which after a mandatory EUR 0.4bn reserve allocation will fully eliminate EUR 7.7bn of negative retained earnings, lifting net worth to EUR 283.4bn. Results were supported by improved monetary income as excess liquidity and the average deposit facility rate declined, stronger non-monetary income including an exceptional EUR 11bn foreign-exchange gain on gold standardisation, lower operating expenses, and the use of EUR 5bn in reserves. The Bank expects excess liquidity to keep falling in 2026 and reported completion of its "Construire Ensemble 2025" plan, with a 28% headcount reduction since 2015 and a 92% user satisfaction score.
Ecuador's Superintendencia de Bancos highlighted gender participation in financial services at the Gender Equity Forum, noting near parity with 50% male and 49% female users, and a predominantly female client base in development banking. Superintendent Roberto Romero von Buchwald discussed collaborations with international organizations to enhance financial inclusion, green finance, and ecosystem protection projects for women and youth.
The Capital Markets Board of Türkiye, in collaboration with the Ministry of National Education, launched a financial literacy lesson in all primary and secondary schools to enhance students' awareness and competencies. The initiative is part of broader efforts, including the Financial Literacy Platform and "Cyber World and Financial Traces Project," focusing on digital security and fraud prevention. Over one million participation certificates have been issued through these programmes.
People's Bank of China Governor Pan Gongsheng and IMF First Deputy Managing Director Dan Katz discussed China's and the global economic situation, as well as cooperation between China and the International Monetary Fund. Deputy Governor Xuan Changneng was also present at the meeting.
The People's Bank of China announced that DBS Group has been authorized as Singapore's second renminbi clearing bank, marking the first time a Singapore-based bank assumes this role. Governor Pan Gongsheng and DBS CEO Tan Su Shan discussed DBS's business expansion in China and broader financial cooperation. The agreement aims to enhance renminbi clearing services and settlement options to bolster China–Singapore trade and investment.
The Thailand Securities & Exchange Commission filed a criminal complaint against Bitazza Co., Ltd., Freedomverse Co., Ltd., and three individuals for allegedly operating a digital asset dealer business without a licence under the Emergency Decree on Digital Asset Businesses B.E. 2561 (2018). The SEC claims Bitazza and FreedomVerse offered unlicensed services, including Crypto Dust and Freedom Card, involving digital asset transactions outside a licensed exchange. The case is under investigation, and the SEC advises caution with unlicensed digital asset services due to potential risks.