Financial Conduct Authority to open consultation on Knowledge Base changes on September 30
The Financial Conduct Authority will open a consultation on September 30 on changes to its Knowledge Base.
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National Bank of Georgia publishes September macroeconomic and financial sector reviews
The National Bank of Georgia published its September macroeconomic and financial sector reviews, providing updated analytical data on the economy and financial system.
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National Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic fines four individuals for unlicensed foreign exchange transactions
The National Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic fined four individuals KGS 17,500 each for unlicensed cash foreign currency exchange transactions in Bishkek.
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National Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic permits commercial banks to export fit US dollar banknotes until April 1, 2027
The National Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic will allow commercial banks to export fit US dollar banknotes until April 1, 2027.
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National Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic holds financial sector event to promote professional use of the Kyrgyz language
The National Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic held an event to promote wider professional use of the Kyrgyz language across the financial sector. Discussions emphasized its use in banking technology, digital services and recordkeeping.
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National Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic holds student lecture on QR payments and fraud risks
The National Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic briefed senior students in Karakol on QR code payments, money muling and fraud.
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National Bank of Serbia reports 4.1% quarterly growth in voluntary pension fund assets to RSD 69.1 billion
The National Bank of Serbia reported that voluntary pension fund net assets rose 4.1% during the second quarter of 2026 to RSD 69.1 billion. Government bonds accounted for 69.8% of assets, while the three largest funds held 80.5% of the market. The sector recorded RSD 1.4 billion in net contributions and a one-year weighted average return of 6.1%.
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Algeria Market Authority reviews Batteries ASSAD Algérie listing application and expansion plan
The Algeria Market Authority’s financial market one stop shop reviewed Batteries ASSAD Algérie’s application to list on the Algiers Stock Exchange and clarified the applicable requirements. The company plans to increase annual production capacity from 400,000 to the equivalent of 1 million batteries through the listing and operational expansion.
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South African Reserve Bank Governor outlines tight policy path to restore 3% inflation amid global shock risks
South African Reserve Bank Governor Lesetja Kganyago said tight monetary policy is needed to return inflation to 3% around the end of 2027. He warned that overlapping geopolitical, climate, AI and debt risks could intensify inflation and financial stability pressures. South Africa’s fiscal and market position has improved, but persistently weak growth remains a major constraint.
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National Bank of Ukraine reports approval of revised lending and mortgage strategies amid wartime risks
The National Bank of Ukraine reported that the Financial Stability Council approved revised lending and mortgage strategies focused on priority sectors, including defense, agriculture and energy infrastructure. The council warned that higher corporate income tax for banks reduces resilience and lending capacity, while work on virtual asset regulation continued.
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Egypt's Ministry of Finance calls for expanded AIIB financing, local currency lending and stronger risk sharing
Egyptian Finance Minister Ahmed Kouchouk called for an expanded AIIB role in financing climate resilient infrastructure tailored to member countries’ priorities. He advocated long term local currency funding, stronger risk sharing and guarantees, and greater private capital mobilization to lower financing and debt servicing costs.
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National Bank of Ukraine Monetary Policy Committee majority backs raising key policy rate to 16%
Seven of the 10 National Bank of Ukraine Monetary Policy Committee members present backed raising the key policy rate from 15.5% to 16% as inflation risks shifted upward. Three favored holding the rate amid weakening economic activity, while views on the subsequent path ranged from another increase to possible easing by the end of 2026.
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Spanish National Securities Market Commission designates IBEX 35 as a significant benchmark under revised EU rules
The Spanish National Securities Market Commission has designated the IBEX 35 as a significant benchmark under the revised EU Benchmarks Regulation, preserving enhanced oversight of the index and its administrator. AFI, SERFIEX, BBVA and MIBGAS will leave the European administrator register from Oct. 1, 2026, but supervised entities may continue using their indices.
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Portuguese Insurance and Pension Funds Supervisory Authority publishes first insurance mediation report, flags conduct and training weaknesses
The Portuguese Insurance and Pension Funds Supervisory Authority’s first insurance mediation report found that intermediaries accounted for more than 92% of premiums issued in 2025 and received EUR 1.475 billion in remuneration. Supervision identified weaknesses in training, submediator controls and the value offered by some credit protection products, while brokers’ aggregate prudential ratios remained above regulatory minimums.
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Italian Institute for Insurance Supervision orders four unauthorized insurance websites blocked, bringing total to 403
The Italian Institute for Insurance Supervision ordered four websites offering insurance services without authorization to be blocked, taking the total since November 2023 to 403. Blocking may take several days, and consumers were warned against suspicious messaging contacts, prepaid card payments and websites absent from official registers.
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Danish Financial Supervisory Authority strengthens scrutiny of highly leveraged funds and bank repo lending
The Danish Financial Supervisory Authority has strengthened supervision of highly leveraged mortgage bond funds and banks providing them with repo financing. Some funds have leverage above 20 times investor capital, while the largest funds held DKK 208 billion of mortgage bonds at the end of 2025. Scrutiny will focus on fund liquidity and leverage controls and banks’ management of repo related counterparty, concentration and market risks.
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Arab Monetary Fund convenes finance ministers on fiscal policy, artificial intelligence and international tax coordination
The Arab Monetary Fund convened Arab finance ministers to discuss fiscal policy, artificial intelligence, sustainable infrastructure finance and international tax developments. The meeting also reviewed preliminary findings from a new annual public finance report due in May 2027 and coordinated regional positions ahead of the IMF and World Bank Annual Meetings.
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HM Treasury launches GBP 5 billion Flexible Finance export guarantee pilot for overseas buyers
HM Treasury has launched a UK Export Finance pilot offering up to GBP 5 billion in loan guarantees to selected buyers in fast-growing overseas markets. Guarantees will cover up to 80% of a commercial loan, with flexible financing, supplier matchmaking and procurement support designed to increase purchases from British companies.
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French Ministry of the Economy and Finance reports rise in foreign investment screening filings to 418 in 2025
The French Ministry of the Economy and Finance reported that foreign investment screening filings rose to 418 in 2025, with 167 of 323 authorization decisions falling within the regime. Conditions applied to 49% of authorized investments, while only seven transactions were refused over the past four years. France plans to adapt its framework by the end of 2026 to the revised European Union screening regulation.
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Bank of France identifies concentrated industrial exposure to rising Chinese import competition
The Bank of France finds that rising Chinese imports create concentrated competitive pressure for French producers in automotive products, electrical equipment, metals, chemicals, pharmaceuticals and potentially aeronautics. Overall industrial exposure remains limited, while construction, automotive manufacturing, machinery and agriculture may benefit from lower-cost Chinese inputs.
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Swift advances cross-border pay by alias initiative linking domestic payment systems
Swift is developing a cross-border pay by alias capability that would let consumers send money internationally using mobile numbers, email addresses and other identifiers registered with domestic payment systems. The initiative connects participants associated with systems including Bizum, PayID and Pix and builds on Swift’s consumer payments framework, which now involves more than 100 banks.
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European Securities and Markets Authority sets 2027 delivery agenda for expanded supervision, simplification and T+1 settlement
The European Securities and Markets Authority’s 2027 work program moves major initiatives into delivery, including expanded direct supervision, regulatory simplification and the EU’s Oct. 11, 2027 transition to T+1 settlement. ESMA will advance integrated reporting, investor protection and risk-based supervision while overseeing new entities and strengthening crypto-asset, operational resilience and clearing work. It will also expand its use of data and artificial intelligence in supervision.
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European Insurance and Occupational Pensions Authority reports reporting cuts of up to 44% and sets long-term simplification agenda
The European Insurance and Occupational Pensions Authority has reported reporting-template cuts of up to 44% and a roughly one-third reduction in the length of 25 sets of guidelines. It plans to make simplification a continuous principle, supported by proportionality, integrated digital reporting, better-sequenced legislation and more consistent supervision across the EU.
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European Central Bank tightens collateral rating rules and restricts fiduciary funds in the Eurosystem monetary policy framework
The European Central Bank will generally use the second-best external rating for private sector and non-euro area public sector collateral, with a one-notch downgrade where only one rating is available. It also excludes restricted funds from excess reserves, bars direct fiduciary funds from the deposit facility and introduces notification duties and penalties. National central banks must apply the revised framework from Nov. 30, 2026.
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European Central Bank adopts revised Eurosystem collateral haircuts for application from Nov. 30, 2026
The European Central Bank has adopted revised Eurosystem collateral haircuts for application from Nov. 30, 2026. The framework introduces dedicated schedules for own use covered bonds and retained asset backed securities, while imposing higher haircuts on non-amortising credit claims. It also updates general marketable asset haircuts, issuer categorisation and foreign currency valuation markdowns.
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European Central Bank updates supplier contract terms covering audits, security and conduct
The European Central Bank has published version 1.17 of its general contract terms for suppliers of works, services and products. The terms set requirements covering subcontracting, audits, cybersecurity reporting, confidentiality, data protection, conduct and foreign trade compliance, with contractual penalties generally capped at 5% of the net contract value.
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European Central Bank invites market participants to develop and explore digital euro innovations
The European Central Bank is inviting a broad range of stakeholders to develop and explore digital euro innovations. Work in 2027 will cover payment features such as integrated receipts and conditional payments, as well as artificial intelligence and public-sector uses. Any decision to issue a digital euro remains contingent on the adoption of relevant EU legislation.
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Central Bank of Bosnia and Herzegovina estimates core inflation at 4.36% and flags persistent domestic price pressures
The Central Bank of Bosnia and Herzegovina estimated annual core inflation at 4.36% for the first eight months of 2026 and services inflation at 4.63%. Rates remained near 2025 levels, while higher international energy prices are also feeding into headline inflation.
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Georgia's Ministry of Finance reviews AIIB-funded projects and future cooperation
Georgia’s Ministry of Finance and the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank reviewed the progress of AIIB-funded projects and future cooperation. Discussions covered infrastructure with national and regional importance, capital market development and Georgia’s medium-term economic outlook.
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North Macedonia Insurance Supervision Authority promotes insurance education for school students
The North Macedonia Insurance Supervision Authority is promoting insurance education through drawing and writing activities for primary and secondary school students.
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South Korea Financial Services Commission opens inaugural three-week Korea Premium Weeks capital markets program
The South Korea Financial Services Commission and Korea Exchange have opened the inaugural three-week Korea Premium Weeks 2026 program, with about 400 participants attending the launch. Events through Oct. 16 will cover market reforms, corporate governance, trading and settlement infrastructure, growth markets and investor meetings.
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South Korea’s Financial Services Commission discusses market reforms and investment outlook with Goldman Sachs and BlackRock
The Financial Services Commission discussed South Korea’s equity market outlook and capital market reforms with senior Goldman Sachs and BlackRock executives. The firms highlighted the country’s strengths in AI, semiconductors and energy while identifying higher global interest rates as a risk. Chair Lee Eog-weon pledged continued structural reforms and close monitoring of market stability.
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South Korea Financial Services Commission discusses sustainability disclosures and Stewardship Code with PRI board chair
Financial Services Commission Chairman Lee Eog-weon and Principles for Responsible Investment board Chair Conor Kehoe discussed South Korea’s sustainability disclosures, Stewardship Code and the role of global investors. The talks followed the finalization of a phased sustainability disclosure roadmap and revisions to the Stewardship Code in July.
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National Bank of Moldova proposes repeal of 2014 concept for optimizing national transfers
The National Bank of Moldova proposes repealing its 2014 Concept for Optimizing National Transfers, effective when the final decision is published in the Official Gazette.
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National Bank of Moldova seeks user feedback on official statistics
The National Bank of Moldova is seeking data users’ views on official statistics produced by the bank and Moldova’s National Bureau of Statistics.
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Hong Kong Monetary Authority alerts public to reported banking scams
The Hong Kong Monetary Authority warned the public about reported banking scams and reminded customers that banks do not request sensitive information or send transaction links through phone, email or SMS.
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Hong Kong Interbank Clearing Limited warns of fraudulent website impersonating its Faster Payment System services
Hong Kong Interbank Clearing Limited has warned that hkfps.lol is a fraudulent website impersonating its Faster Payment System services. The site seeks identity and bank account information and directs users to fake customer service personnel.
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Hong Kong Monetary Authority and Hong Kong Association of Banks extend credit support for Tai Po fire victims to May 2027
The Hong Kong Monetary Authority and the Hong Kong Association of Banks have extended credit support for individuals affected by the Tai Po fire. All 28 retail banks will provide an additional six-month grace period on principal and interest for existing loans through May 2027, while Wang Fuk Court mortgage lenders will offer extended and flexible relief linked to affected borrowers’ housing arrangements.
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Moldova's National Commission for Financial Markets reports 71.8% rise in primary issuance as secondary trading falls 6.9%
Moldova’s National Commission for Financial Markets reported that primary securities issuance rose 71.8% to MDL 733.76 million in the first half of 2026, led by corporate bonds. Secondary trading value fell 6.9% to MDL 756.16 million, while transaction numbers declined 33.2%. More than 91% of secondary market value was traded outside the regulated market and multilateral trading facility.
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Angola Capital Markets Commission awards students in inaugural junior financial education competition
The Angola Capital Markets Commission awarded students in its inaugural CMC Junior financial education competition, which involved 12 public and private schools. The top three students received prizes and financial education course scholarships, while the other participants also received scholarships.
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National Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic signs national charter to implement the WE Finance Code with 24 participants
The National Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic and the Union of Banks of Kyrgyzstan have signed a charter governing national implementation of the WE Finance Code. The framework covers coordination, accession, data and reporting, with 24 banks, microfinance organizations and industry bodies participating.
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Greece’s Ministry of National Economy and Finance outlines minister’s BIS visit and Bundesbank conference agenda
Greek Minister and Eurogroup President Kyriakos Pierrakakis will meet senior Bank for International Settlements officials to discuss global imbalances, capital flows and financial stability. He will also discuss European competitiveness, the Savings and Investments Union and private financing for technology, energy and defense with Deutsche Bundesbank President Joachim Nagel.
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National Securities and Stock Market Commission of Ukraine reviews global oversight models and highlights first international investigations under IOSCO pact
The National Securities and Stock Market Commission of Ukraine reviewed financial supervision models across nine jurisdictions and identified common regulatory functions despite differing institutional structures. It also highlighted that it began its first international investigations in August under the IOSCO information sharing framework signed on July 14, 2026.
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Seychelles Financial Services Authority warns Fiduciary International Limited is unauthorized and unknown to the regulator
The Seychelles Financial Services Authority warned that Fiduciary International Limited and fintxpert.com are not known to the regulator, despite claims of Seychelles registration and authorization, and urged the public to conduct checks before exchanging money or personal information.
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Capital Markets Board of Türkiye clarifies treatment of canceled orders for funds in liquidation
The Capital Markets Board of Türkiye confirmed that all trading instructions submitted on Sept. 17, 2026, for funds closed on the electronic fund platform were canceled. Affected investors will receive liquidation proceeds according to their fund-unit holdings, while earlier instructions left unexecuted because of a fund default or missing price are also included in the liquidation.
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South African Reserve Bank calls for papers for 2027 Financial Stability Research Symposium
The South African Reserve Bank has called for research papers for its 2027 Financial Stability Research Symposium, with sessions scheduled for June and August 2027. Submissions may cover systemic risk, macroprudential policy, crypto assets, artificial intelligence and climate-related financial risks, among other topics. Papers are due by Feb. 26, 2027.
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Central Bank of Kuwait launches national wage protection and payment system for private sector workers
The Central Bank of Kuwait has launched a national platform to process and monitor private sector wage payments through local banks. The ISO 20022 aligned system supports electronic tracking and early detection of employer noncompliance, with the Public Authority for Manpower responsible for regulatory oversight.
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Thailand Office of Insurance Commission directs insurers to accelerate flood claims and allows premium payment relief of up to 180 days
The Thailand Office of Insurance Commission has directed insurers to accelerate flood damage assessments and claims, with clearly verifiable claims expected to be paid within seven days. It also allows premium relief of up to 180 days and calls for initial property payments ranging from THB 10,000 to THB 30,000. Insurers must maintain adequate claims, towing and repair capacity and proactively contact affected policyholders.
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De Nederlandsche Bank launches quarterly card payment data, Belgian and German fuel station spending rises 32%
De Nederlandsche Bank has launched quarterly card payment data broken down by spending category and country. Dutch card transactions at Belgian and German fuel stations rose 20% to more than 25 million in the first half of 2026, while their value increased 32% to about EUR 1.5 billion. Domestic fuel station transactions fell 3%, although spending rose 4% to EUR 6.6 billion.
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Austrian National Bank launches free financial education textbook for third-year lower secondary students
The Austrian National Bank has launched a free financial and economic education textbook for third-year lower secondary students. The 52-page resource aligns with the national curriculum and combines practical examples with videos, interactive content and exercises tested in schools.
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Finnish Financial Supervisory Authority backs targeted regulatory simplification while preserving solvency and financial stability
The Finnish Financial Supervisory Authority supports targeted simplification of financial regulation where it does not weaken solvency, risk resilience or financial stability. It wants any new competitiveness objective clearly aligned with its supervisory mandate and calls for close monitoring of recent housing finance easing given Finland’s still-high household indebtedness.
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Bank of Finland reports corporate loan growth accelerating to 7.2%, partly driven by pension reform
The Bank of Finland reported that the corporate loan stock excluding housing corporations grew 7.2% annually to EUR 66.3 billion in August 2026. New corporate borrowing reached EUR 11.5 billion during June-August, up 33% from a year earlier, partly because pension reform expanded leverage options for employee pension institution subsidiaries. The average rate on new corporate loans rose to 4.39%.
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National Bank of Denmark publishes look-through data showing half of Danish investors’ foreign equities are held through investment funds
The National Bank of Denmark’s new look-through data shows that around half of Danish investors’ DKK 3,059 billion in foreign listed equities was held through Danish investment funds in August 2026. US equities represented 56% of the total, driven primarily by valuation gains, while households held more than two-thirds of their foreign equities through funds.
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Philippine Securities and Exchange Commission halts unauthorized investment schemes run by G’s Kicks, NShop and AI Quest
The Philippine Securities and Exchange Commission ordered G’s Kicks, NShop and AI Quest to stop soliciting investments through unregistered securities. The orders also restrict related internet activity, transactions involving depository bank funds and asset transfers. The schemes advertised returns ranging from 8% in 30 days to 150% in 30 days.
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National Bank of the Republic of Tajikistan joins Sibos 2026 discussions on digital finance and cross-border payments
The National Bank of the Republic of Tajikistan is attending Sibos 2026 to discuss digital finance, cross-border payments, artificial intelligence and financial infrastructure resilience. Its delegation plans meetings with SWIFT, central banks, international financial institutions and payment technology companies.
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Dubai International Financial Centre licenses China Securities to establish regional office
Dubai International Financial Centre has licensed China Securities to establish a regional office, with the firm also receiving authorization from the Dubai Financial Services Authority. The office will support its Middle East activities and links among Chinese, UAE and international capital markets.
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Dubai International Financial Centre launches 10 executive education scholarships for Emirati women
Dubai International Financial Centre and London Business School will provide 10 executive education scholarships to Emirati women from the DIFC community. The initiative is intended to strengthen participants’ skills and leadership capabilities and support their career progression.
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Australian Prudential Regulation Authority adds direct PDF downloads for prudential materials and enhances website search
The Australian Prudential Regulation Authority has added direct PDF downloads for prudential standards and prudential practice guides to its website. Enhanced autocomplete and search functionality are intended to help users find relevant information more quickly, while reporting standards remain available through the Federal Register of Legislation.
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Australian Securities & Investments Commission remakes six managed investment scheme relief instruments, consolidating them into five
The Australian Securities & Investments Commission has replaced six expiring managed investment scheme relief instruments with five new instruments, consolidating the previous serviced apartment and property rental measures. The relief covers property schemes, charitable fundraising, school deposits, horse schemes and attribution managed investment trusts, while related regulatory guidance will be updated in the coming months.
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South Korea's Financial Services Commission strengthens oversight of KRW 1.5 trillion in dormant assets with annual disclosures from 2027
The South Korea Financial Services Commission will introduce annual disclosures of company-level dormant asset refunds and balances from 2027, covering financial sectors including banking, securities and insurance. Firms will also be expected to set management targets, promote repayments and report results through their consumer protection internal control structures.
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South Korea's Ministry of Economy and Finance and Bank of Korea agree to strengthen policy and market coordination
South Korea's Ministry of Economy and Finance and Bank of Korea agreed to strengthen economic and monetary policy coordination and integrated monitoring of financial, foreign exchange and property markets. They will also cooperate on the internationalization of the won, digital finance and measures to raise potential growth.
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Hong Kong Securities and Futures Commission and Accounting and Financial Reporting Council expand cooperation on financial reporting and audit oversight
The Hong Kong Securities and Futures Commission and the Accounting and Financial Reporting Council have expanded their cooperation on financial reporting, compliance reporting and related audit work. The framework now covers licensed corporations, virtual asset service providers, authorized funds and registered open ended fund companies, and supports information sharing, referrals and coordinated regulatory action.
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Hong Kong Securities and Futures Commission signs modernized cooperation agreement with Accounting and Financial Reporting Council
The Hong Kong Securities and Futures Commission and Accounting and Financial Reporting Council signed a modernized cooperation agreement covering financial reporting and audit oversight. The framework strengthens intelligence and expertise sharing to support earlier risk detection and more effective regulatory responses.
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Australian Securities and Investments Commission extends three financial markets relief instruments for five years
The Australian Securities and Investments Commission has extended three financial markets relief instruments for five years, with no material change to the relief. The measures support Austraclear settlement, streamline directors’ interest disclosures and simplify records for foreign market dealings, with the disclosure relief expanded to equivalent declared financial markets.
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South Korea Financial Services Commission launches consultation on regulatory framework for online deposit brokerage
The South Korea Financial Services Commission has proposed a registration and conduct framework for online deposit brokers, formalizing services tested under the regulatory sandbox since November 2022. The rules would require comparison of at least three providers, annual algorithm verification and brokerage limits, while restricting special benefits and misleading advertising. Existing sandbox operators would receive a six-month registration transition after the rules take effect.
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Hong Kong Precious Metals Central Clearing appoints Bryan Chan as inaugural CEO ahead of first quarter 2027 system launch
Hong Kong Precious Metals Central Clearing appointed Bryan Chan as its inaugural chief executive officer for three years from Oct. 2, 2026. He will lead the development and operation of Hong Kong’s gold clearing and settlement system ahead of its planned launch in the first quarter of 2027.
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Australian Prudential Regulation Authority consolidates economic and financial statistics guidance and adds set-off account treatment
The Australian Prudential Regulation Authority has consolidated all guidance for the Economic and Financial Statistics collection into a revised practice guide for authorised deposit-taking institutions and registered financial corporations. The update adds guidance on set-off accounts and incorporates the previously separate FAQs, which APRA will retire from its website.
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Australian Securities and Investments Commission approves updated auditor competency standard with stronger ethics focus
The Australian Securities and Investments Commission has approved an updated competency standard for registered company auditors, strengthening its focus on ethical behavior. Effective Oct. 1, 2026, the standard offers applicants an alternative to time based experience requirements.
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Argentina Securities Commission chair reviews Big Bang reforms and stronger oversight of market agents
Argentina Securities Commission Chair Roberto E. Silva reviewed the regulator’s Big Bang program to simplify capital markets regulation, lower costs and improve access to financing. He highlighted stronger standards for primary securities placements, final FAL rules and the Restricted Subjects regime, while emphasizing tighter supervision of market agents.
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Bank of Uganda extends large SACCO licensing compliance deadline to March 31, 2027
The Bank of Uganda has extended the deadline for large SACCO licensing and licensed-only dealings by Regulated Financial Service Providers from Sept. 30, 2026, to March 31, 2027. Eligible SACCOs must submit applications within 14 calendar days of the notice and complete licensing by the new deadline, with no further extensions planned.
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Algeria Market Authority extends EGH Chaine El Aurassi’s first half 2026 financial reporting deadline to November 30
The Algeria Market Authority extended EGH Chaine El Aurassi SPA’s deadline for publishing first half 2026 financial information to November 30, 2026.
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Thailand Securities and Exchange Commission confirms normal capital and digital asset market operations amid flooding
The Thailand Securities and Exchange Commission confirmed that capital and digital asset market systems will operate normally on Sept. 28, 2026, despite flooding. Operators will use flexible arrangements that prioritize investor protection and personnel safety.
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Central Bank of Oman adopts bank classification and licensing policy and emergency framework
The Central Bank of Oman adopted a policy governing the classification and licensing of banks and representative offices of foreign banks. It also adopted an emergency policy and framework and approved its financial position for the second quarter of 2026.
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Qatar Central Bank Governor discusses financial and banking cooperation with Algerian finance minister
Qatar Central Bank Governor Sheikh Bandar bin Mohammed bin Saoud Al Thani and Algerian Finance Minister Mohamed Lamine Lebbou discussed strengthening bilateral financial and banking cooperation.
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Saudi Capital Market Authority launches consultation on foreign market dealing rules with 50% minimum margin requirement
The Saudi Capital Market Authority is consulting on rules governing capital market institutions’ dealings with clients in foreign financial markets. The proposals clarify suitability assessments and require at least 50% client margin for external securities transactions, while prohibiting margin dealing in highly leveraged instruments and certain loss-making companies.
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Qatar Financial Centre signs agreement with U.S. Chamber of Commerce to support U.S. business expansion
The Qatar Financial Centre and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce have agreed to support U.S. companies establishing or expanding in Qatar and the wider region. Their work will focus on wealth and asset management, fintech, digital assets and enterprise technology, building on the presence of more than 350 U.S. companies on the Qatar Financial Centre platform.
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Oman Financial Services Authority reports 14.8% rise in road accidents and 19% increase in claims value
The Oman Financial Services Authority reported that road accidents increased 14.8% year over year to about 21,700 in the second quarter of 2026. Claims rose 7.2% to around 22,000, while their total value increased 19% to approximately OMR 25.1 million.
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Thailand Office of Insurance Commission coordinates nationwide flood response and prepares claims relief measures
The Thailand Office of Insurance Commission is coordinating insurers’ response to nationwide flooding and has issued guidance on coverage checks, damage documentation and claims. It will discuss claims payment timeframes, towing support, premium relief and license renewal extensions with nonlife insurers on Sept. 28, 2026.
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Central Bank of Afghanistan signs agreement to expand Islamic finance, with USD 1 million in initial grants
The Central Bank of Afghanistan and the Afghan Credit Guarantee Foundation agreed to expand Islamic financial services and MSME financing. The foundation will initially provide about USD 1 million in grants to five banks and one microfinance institution, with qualifying institutions and returnee entrepreneurs targeted in later stages.
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Central Bank of Jordan governor outlines fintech oversight approach as 2025 electronic payments exceed 695 million
Central Bank of Jordan Governor Adel Sharkas outlined a fintech strategy that combines innovation with smarter supervision. Electronic payments exceeded 695 million transactions worth more than JOD 50 billion in 2025, while the JO REGBOX sandbox has tested 12 products from 12 companies.
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Asia/Pacific Group on Money Laundering backs Phnom Penh Declaration on coordinated action against online scams
The Asia/Pacific Group on Money Laundering backed the Phnom Penh Declaration’s call for coordinated international action against online scam networks. The measures emphasize disrupting criminal networks, tracing and recovering proceeds, strengthening public-private cooperation and protecting victims.
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Kuwait Capital Markets Authority licenses private marketing of 3 million Leasing and Finance Fund 11 shares
The Kuwait Capital Markets Authority has authorized Watani Investment Company to market privately 3 million shares in the Cayman Islands-based Leasing and Finance Fund 11 KD Ltd. The KWD 100 shares are available only to professional clients and carry a one-time subscription commission of up to 2.25%.
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Austrian Ministry of Finance and OeKB expand energy infrastructure financing to projects from EUR 2 million and add 80% mezzanine guarantees
The Austrian Ministry of Finance and OeKB have extended energy infrastructure financing to network and storage investments starting at EUR 2 million. The government can also cover up to 80% of the risk on long-term mezzanine capital, while the two financing programs initially have a combined volume of EUR 2 billion.
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Angola's Ministry of Finance outlines FACRA minority equity investment model and diversification strategy
Angola's Ministry of Finance outlined FACRA’s model of taking minority equity stakes without charging interest or requiring collateral. The fund also provides management and governance support, focusing on sustainable projects that expand domestic production, diversify sectors and strengthen value chains.
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Indonesia’s Financial Services Authority emphasizes sandbox testing and safeguards for digital finance innovation
Indonesia’s Financial Services Authority emphasized that digital finance innovation should undergo sandbox testing for security and public benefit before wider deployment. With crypto and digital financial asset accounts reaching 22.93 million by July 2026, the authority called for stronger consumer protection, cybersecurity, governance and risk management.
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Egypt Financial Regulatory Authority says short selling will launch within weeks after completing central lending system and broker links
The Egypt Financial Regulatory Authority expects regulated short selling to launch within weeks after completing the central lending system, broker links and market training. The mechanism is part of a wider expansion of derivatives, hedge funds and market making as second-quarter trading exceeded EGP 6.4 trillion, up 78.3% year over year.
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Honduras National Banking and Insurance Commission approves temporary credit relief for agricultural borrowers affected by El Niño
The Honduras National Banking and Insurance Commission authorized supervised institutions to reschedule or refinance agricultural loans affected by El Niño related drought and water shortages. Applications are due by Feb. 28, 2027, with decisions required by April 30, 2027. The framework bars relief related fees and capitalization of unpaid interest while preserving existing impairment provisions and requiring continued credit monitoring.
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Dominican Republic's Pensions Superintendency removes 830 pounds of waste in coastal cleanup
The Dominican Republic's Pensions Superintendency and the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources conducted a cleanup at Güibia Beach. Twenty employees removed 830 pounds of plastic and other waste.
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National Banking and Insurance Commission of Honduras approves beneficial ownership registry rules with fines of up to 500 minimum wages
The National Banking and Insurance Commission of Honduras approved rules for the Centralized Beneficial Owner Registry, using a 25% ownership threshold alongside effective control criteria. Covered entities must file documented declarations, update or confirm information annually and retain records for five years. Violations may result in fines of 20 to 500 minimum wages, while registration will begin under a separate administrative act.
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Argentina Superintendency of Insurance emphasizes stronger risk retention and supervisory dialogue as new risks emerge
Guillermo Plate, Argentina’s superintendent of insurance, called for stronger risk retention capacity as growth in strategic sectors creates new insurance needs. He also emphasized supervision, solvency and open dialogue between the regulator and insurers.
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Bank of Italy continues disposal of surplus properties in Massa, Pavia and Vercelli
The Bank of Italy is seeking offers for surplus properties in Massa, Pavia and Vercelli.
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Moroccan Capital Markets Authority reports Heidelberg Materials’ 51% holding in Ciments du Maroc after threshold crossings
The Moroccan Capital Markets Authority reported that Heidelberg Materials AMWA Holding indirectly crossed the 5% and 10% thresholds in Ciments du Maroc after acquiring Procimar. Its direct and indirect holdings total 51% of Ciments du Maroc’s capital.
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Moroccan Capital Markets Authority reports Cartier Saada shareholder crossing below 10% ownership threshold
Debbarh Mounir Moulay Youssef reduced his Cartier Saada stake below 10% after selling 454 shares at MAD 22 each. He now holds 9.99% and intends to continue selling shares during the six months following the threshold crossing.
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Portugal’s Insurance and Pension Funds Supervisory Authority, Bank of Portugal and Portuguese Securities Market Commission sign crisis management and bilateral cooperation protocols
Portugal’s three financial supervisors have established a trilateral framework for cooperation and confidential information sharing during corrective intervention, temporary administration and resolution. They also updated their bilateral arrangements to reflect broader mandates, digitalization, changing business models and information system security threats.
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Bermuda Ministry of Finance publishes guide to Public Service Superannuation Fund reforms
The Bermuda Ministry of Finance has published guidance on reforms to the Public Service Superannuation Fund, including changes to retirement ages, contribution rates and pension benefits.
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US Commodity Futures Trading Commission sues Cash FX defendants over alleged USD 950 million forex Ponzi scheme
The US Commodity Futures Trading Commission sued Cash FX and related defendants over an alleged multilevel marketing Ponzi scheme that accepted more than USD 950 million for purported foreign exchange trading. The scheme allegedly promised weekly returns of up to 15%, conducted minimal trading and caused at least USD 406 million in participant losses. The CFTC is seeking financial remedies, industry bans and a permanent injunction.
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Federal Reserve Board analysis finds broad decline in US direct investment in China through 2025
Federal Reserve Board analysis finds a broad decline in U.S. direct investment in China, covering new projects, acquisitions and investment by existing subsidiaries. U.S. multinationals are also repatriating more earnings and reducing their Chinese operating footprints. Official bilateral data understate the exposure because investments are often routed through Hong Kong and other hubs.
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Central Bank of Eswatini Raises Discount Rate by 25 Basis Points to 7.00%
The Central Bank of Eswatini raised the discount rate by 25 basis points to 7.00%, effective 26 September 2026, with banks expected to increase the prime lending rate to 10.50%. It lowered its 2026 inflation forecast to 2.52% but cited elevated risks from Middle East tensions and a potential El Niño drought.
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Trinidad and Tobago Securities and Exchange Commission issues seventh alert on evolving online investment scams
The Trinidad and Tobago Securities and Exchange Commission has issued its seventh alert on increasingly sophisticated investment scams promoted through social media and messaging applications. Warning signs include impersonation using artificial intelligence, unrealistic returns, deposits to personal accounts, fake trading platforms, advance withdrawal fees and recovery scams. Investors should verify that entities and promoters are registered with the commission before transferring funds.
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National Bank of Moldova proposes expanded bank reporting on high earners, dividends and regional activity
The National Bank of Moldova has proposed broader prudential reporting on staff earning at least the MDL equivalent of EUR 1 million, shareholder dividends and banks’ regional activity. The draft also revises deposit, guarantee, affiliated-party and customer transaction returns. Most changes would take effect on Dec. 31, 2026, while individual high-earner reporting would first cover Dec. 31, 2028.