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2026-03-19•Global•International Monetary Fund
The IMF assessed macro and financial spillovers from the Middle East conflict, noting significant disruptions from the Strait of Hormuz closure and a 50% rise in oil and gas prices. The IMF is engaging with member countries on potential impacts and support options, with no formal emergency financing requests received. Updates include ongoing talks with Lebanon, approved program reviews for Egypt, and a new Extended Fund Facility for Ukraine.
Research Economic data and developments Financial stability and systemic risk
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2026-03-19•Japan•Bank of Japan
Bank of Japan voted 8–1 to keep the uncollateralised overnight call rate at around 0.75%, judging the recovery intact and inflation near 2%, and reiterated that, contingent on its baseline outlook, it plans further rate hikes to secure its price-stability goal.
Monetary policy Policy rate decisions Monetary policy decisions and developments
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2026-03-19•New Zealand•Department of Internal Affairs
New Zealand’s Department of Internal Affairs issued guidance for law firms on managing legal professional privilege in relation to suspicious activity reporting under the Anti-Money Laundering and Countering Financing of Terrorism Act. The guidance addresses balancing privileged communications with reporting obligations.
Policy & regulation Guidance & interpretation AML and CFT
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2026-03-19•Australia•Australian Financial Complaints Authority
The Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA) expelled 801 members, primarily for non-payment, insolvency, or lack of authorization, under section 3.4(a) of the AFCA Constitution. Prospero Markets Pty Ltd is set for expulsion on 25 March 2026. Expelled members required by law to maintain AFCA membership may seek reinstatement upon rectifying issues and meeting additional conditions.
Enforcement Sanctions & designations Other
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2026-03-19•Philippines•Central Bank of the Philippines
The Central Bank of the Philippines reported a balance of payments (BOP) deficit of USD 2.3 billion in February 2026, with a total deficit of USD 2.7 billion for January to February. Gross international reserves (GIR) rose to USD 113.3 billion by end-February, providing a liquidity buffer equivalent to 7.5 months of imports and covering 4.3 times the short-term external debt.
Data & statistics Balance of payments and other external statistics
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2026-03-18•Panama•Superintendencia de Bancos de Panama
The Superintendency of Banks of Panama held a training session for the banking sector on compliance reporting updates, focusing on new structures and data quality challenges. The session covered changes to the RE01, PB01, and PB02 reporting frameworks to standardize submissions and enhance supervisory effectiveness against money laundering and financing risks. Led by Coordinator Yodalys Gómez, 85 bank representatives received guidance on adapting to the updated requirements.
Supervision Regulatory reporting
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2026-03-18•Colombia•Superintendencia Financiera de Colombia
The Financial Superintendency of Colombia summarized Superintendent César Ferrari’s remarks at a CELAC–Africa High-Level Forum, urging the global financial system to enhance climate finance by redirecting financing flows. Ferrari highlighted the limited allocation of private credit markets, around 35% of GDP, to climate action and noted Colombia’s capital market size at 1.1% of GDP. He advocated reorienting credit markets towards green projects and adjusting evaluation criteria to support sustainable development.
Other Climate risk and sustainable finance
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2026-03-18•Kyrgyzstan•National Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic
The National Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic introduced Almaz Baketaev as its new Chairman. Adylbek Kasymaliev, Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers, emphasized the Bank's mandate for price and system stability. Baketaev expressed commitment to advancing the financial sector.
Institutional development Leadership change & appointments Leadership change and appointments
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2026-03-18•Nicaragua•Central Bank of Nicaragua
The Central Bank of Nicaragua reported a 4.0% decline in gross foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows to USD 3,059.2 million in 2025, while net FDI flows rose 7.6% to USD 1,502.5 million. Related-party debt disbursements comprised 50.5% of gross inflows, with significant net FDI flows in manufacturing, energy and mining, and financial intermediation. Panama, Barbados, and the United States were the largest sources of net inflows.
Data & statistics Balance of payments and other external statistics
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2026-03-18•Cyprus•Central Bank of Cyprus
The Central Bank of Cyprus released its quarterly House Price Index report for Q4 2025, detailing index results and real estate market developments. The report and related time series are available on its website.
Data & statistics Financial and market indicators Supervisory data
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2026-03-18•Kyrgyzstan•National Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic
The National Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic fined five exchange offices in Bishkek KGS 55,000 each for breaching legal and regulatory requirements. Additionally, a Kyrgyz citizen was fined KGS 17,500 for unlicensed cash foreign currency exchange transactions.
Enforcement Investigations & enforcement actions Unlicensed or unauthorized activity
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2026-03-18•Kyrgyzstan•National Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic
The National Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic announced the start of an IMF mission for Article IV consultations. Discussions with Chairman M.Zh. Turgunbaev and the IMF team, led by Dmitry Gershenson, focused on the macroeconomic situation, inflation drivers, external challenges, and the National Bank's monetary policy and financial stability measures. The consultation will include meetings with the Cabinet of Ministers and other organizations.
Monetary policy Monetary policy assessments & outlooks Other
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2026-03-18•Kyrgyzstan•National Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic
The National Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic fined two payment institutions in Bishkek a total of KGS 550,000 for breaching national legislation and the bank's regulations.
Enforcement Investigations & enforcement actions Compliance
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2026-03-18•Ukraine•National Bank of Ukraine
The National Bank of Ukraine reported no shortage of foreign currency cash, as banks' demand was below the available supply. On 18 March 2026, USD 100 million and EUR 30 million were offered, with only USD 50 million and EUR 30 million demanded. The NBU remains prepared to meet FX cash needs, with measures initiated after the illegal seizure of Oschadbank’s vehicles in Hungary, without impacting Ukraine’s international reserves.
Monetary policy Monetary policy instruments & operations Foreign exchange policy and markets
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2026-03-18•Israel•Bank of Israel
The Bank of Israel reported a USD 28 billion increase in outstanding liabilities abroad and a USD 29 billion rise in foreign assets for Q4 2025, raising the surplus of assets over liabilities by USD 1 billion to USD 263 billion. Nonresidents' direct investment in Israel and the value of Israeli securities held by nonresidents rose, while Israeli residents' foreign investments and securities prices also increased. Net external debt grew by USD 9 billion to USD 331 billion, with the gross external debt-to-GDP ratio declining to 26.6 percent.
Data & statistics Balance of payments and other external statistics
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2026-03-18•Israel•Bank of Israel
The Bank of Israel reported a 0.2% increase in its monthly Index of Economic Activity for February, indicating slower growth than the previous three months and below the long-term trend of 0.3%. Positive contributions came from imports and the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange, while trade revenue, exports, job vacancies, and gasoline consumption were offsetting factors. The index does not account for the economic impact of Operation Roaring Lion, which began on February 28, and recent readings were revised downward due to updated data.
Data & statistics Economic data and developments
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2026-03-18•Türkiye•Capital Markets Board of Türkiye
The Capital Markets Board of Türkiye, as the national coordinator for Global Money Week, organized museum visits in Ankara and Istanbul to enhance children's financial awareness. Nearly 150 middle school students participated, learning about the history of money, savings, and banking culture through educational content and workshops. School representatives expressed positive feedback and gratitude to the Board and contributing institutions.
Financial literacy & education Financial literacy and education
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2026-03-18•Kosovo•Central Bank of the Republic of Kosovo
The Central Bank of the Republic of Kosovo, with the Kosovo Banking Association and German Sparkassenstiftung, co-hosted the "Stock Market Learning Competition" awards to promote financial education for young bankers. Deputy Governor Nesrin Shileku-Shala emphasized the central bank's dedication to financial education, consumer protection, and EU-aligned capital market development. The event was part of Global Money Week, linking financial education with technological change.
Financial literacy & education Financial literacy and education
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2026-03-18•Europe•European Securities and Markets Authority
The European Securities and Markets Authority announced that the United States Securities and Exchange Commission will exempt directors and officers of European Economic Area foreign private issuers from Section 16(a) reporting requirements of the US Securities Exchange Act of 1934. This exemption aligns with the EU's Market Abuse Regulation, which has similar disclosure requirements for managerial personnel.
Policy & regulation Rules & requirements Securities offerings and listings
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2026-03-18•Japan•Japan Financial Services Agency
The Japan Financial Services Agency summarized Finance Minister Katayama’s press conference after the 10th Japan–Republic of Korea Financial Dialogue, focusing on economic conditions, financial stability, and cooperation. Key topics included energy supply risks, currency depreciation concerns, and economic security, with Japan planning to release inventories and promote critical minerals supply chain diversification. Cooperation will continue through ASEAN+3, G20, and bilateral engagements.
Policy & regulation Cooperation Geopolitical risk
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2026-03-18•Japan•Japan Financial Services Agency
The Japan Financial Services Agency summarized Finance Minister Katayama's press conference on urgent fuel-oil support measures, including subsidies to lower gasoline prices to JPY 170 per litre starting 19 March. Katayama noted the fiscal impact is uncertain due to volatile crude oil prices and geopolitical tensions, with a fuel-subsidy fund balance of JPY 280 billion and a fiscal-year reserve fund of JPY 860 billion available. He emphasized the government's commitment to maintaining support amid potential distribution bottlenecks and supply concerns.
Policy & regulation Implementation, projects & pilots Other
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2026-03-18•United Kingdom•Bank of England
The Bank of England's Prudential Regulation Authority has issued Supervisory Statement 1/26, detailing expectations for firms to comply with operational incident reporting requirements under the PRA Rulebook, effective 18 March 2027. These requirements aim to enhance the operational resilience of the UK financial sector by standardizing incident reporting for risks to firms' safety, policyholder protection, or UK financial stability. The statement applies to UK banks, building societies, PRA-designated investment firms, UK branches of overseas banks, UK Solvency II firms, the Society of Lloyd’s, and its managing agents.
Policy & regulation Guidance & interpretation Operational risk and resilience
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2026-03-18•Italy•Bank of Italy
The Bank of Italy hosted a workshop in Rome on behavioural finance and neurofinance, emphasizing their role in enhancing financial decision-making and customer protection. The event, co-organized with Tor Vergata University and Università Politecnica delle Marche, included discussions on applying research to protect customers amid digitalization of financial products and sales channels.
Financial literacy & education Consumer and investor protection Financial literacy and education
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2026-03-18•United Kingdom•UK Parliament
The UK Parliament’s Treasury Committee Chair has urged legislation for a statutory lock requiring the Committee's consent for appointing or dismissing the Financial Ombudsman Service (FOS) Chair to ensure independence. This mirrors the Budget Responsibility and National Audit Act 2011, allowing the Committee to veto appointments to the Office for Budget Responsibility. The request follows the Treasury's consultation response indicating plans to make the FOS Chair a government appointment, aligning with other significant financial services roles.
Policy & regulation Rules & requirements Other
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2026-03-18•Global•International Monetary Fund
The International Monetary Fund has updated its Primary Commodity Prices resources, offering a downloadable dataset and an interactive Commodity Data Portal for tracking international commodity price developments. The portal provides monthly updated prices for 68 commodities across energy, agriculture, fertilizers, and metals, along with a commodity terms of trade database for 182 economies.
Data & statistics Fintech and insurtech Artificial intelligence
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2026-03-18•Kuwait•Central Bank of Kuwait
The Central Bank of Kuwait announced that Standard & Poor’s has affirmed Kuwait’s sovereign ratings at AA- with a stable outlook. This follows an S&P ratings update and an Arabic-language ratings highlights statement.
Other Credit ratings
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2026-03-18•United States•Federal Housing Finance Agency
The Federal Housing Finance Agency revised Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac mortgage insurance requirements to lower homeowners insurance costs and enhance mortgage eligibility, focusing on rural areas and condos. The updates permit Actual Cash Value coverage for roofs while retaining Replacement Cost Value for other property parts. Additionally, the "maximum per-unit deductible" requirement for condos is simplified, and a 2024 insurance clarification is removed to expedite claims and reduce costs.
Policy & regulation Rules & requirements Other
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2026-03-18•France•Bank of France
The Bank of France announced senior appointments in its Financial Stability and Operations Directorate General. Philippe Mongars is now head of the financial stability division and Deputy Secretary General of the Prudential Supervision and Resolution Authority, while Elie Lewi becomes Deputy Director General for Financial Stability and Operations. Both bring extensive experience in financial stability, market operations, and regulatory roles.
Institutional development Leadership change & appointments Leadership change and appointments
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2026-03-18•United States•National Credit Union Administration
The National Credit Union Administration released its Q4 2025 state-level credit union data report, highlighting a 3.3% increase in median assets and a 0.7% rise in median loans outstanding. The median loan-to-share ratio was 70%, with aggregate membership growth despite a 0.5% decline in median membership, particularly among smaller credit unions. Profitability improved, with 88% of federally insured credit unions reporting positive net income, up from 86% in Q4 2024.
Data & statistics Supervisory data
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2026-03-18•United Kingdom•Financial Conduct Authority
The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has released guidance to help firms design consumer segments for targeted support, building on policy statement PS25/22. Segments should reflect shared financial needs without comprehensive investment advice, using readily accessible data. The Financial Ombudsman Service will consider this guidance in complaints, and the FCA offers pre-application support for firms developing these propositions.
Policy & regulation Guidance & interpretation Consumer and investor protection
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2026-03-18•Uganda•Bank of Uganda
The Bank of Uganda said Lomodi Forex Bureau Limited voluntarily ceased engaging in foreign exchange business with effect from 18 March 2026.
Supervision Authorisations & approvals Licence withdrawal
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2026-03-18•United States•U.S. Financial Services Committee
The U.S. House Financial Services Committee's Task Force on Monetary Policy, Treasury Market Resilience, and Economic Prosperity held a hearing on the 1951 Treasury Fed Accord's impact on central banking. Chairman Frank Lucas plans to introduce a resolution for dialogue between the Treasury and the Federal Reserve to enhance market resilience and maintain monetary policy independence. Lucas emphasized improved communication on quantitative easing and reserve management to address the rising deficit and ensure stability.
Policy & regulation Cooperation Monetary policy decisions and developments
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2026-03-18•Vietnam•Vietnam State Securities Commission
The Vietnam State Securities Commission released a consolidated text from the Ministry of Finance, merging Circular 98/2020/TT-BTC and Circular 136/2025/TT-BTC on securities investment fund management. This consolidation was authenticated by the Minister of Finance on 16 March 2026.
Policy & regulation Guidance & interpretation Other
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2026-03-18•Brazil•Central Bank of Brazil
The Central Bank of Brazil published its monthly update on foreign exchange flow, detailing data on contracted foreign exchange transactions and banks' positions in the spot market.
Data & statistics Foreign exchange policy and markets
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2026-03-18•Portugal•Portuguese Insurance Regulator (ASF)
Portugal’s National Council of Financial Supervisors and the Ministry of Education published the 2026–2030 strategic plan for the National Financial Education Plan, prioritizing financial literacy for children and young people. The strategy includes developing materials and training programs for teachers and students, focusing on integrating financial literacy into the curriculum. Additionally, the plan addresses adult education and aims to enhance the operational efficiency of the National Financial Education Plan.
Financial literacy & education Financial literacy and education
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2026-03-18•United Arab Emirates•Central Bank of the UAE
The Central Bank of the United Arab Emirates kept the Base Rate on its Overnight Deposit Facility at 3.65 %, matching the US Federal Reserve’s steady stance and extending the hold that followed three 25 bp cuts between September and December 2025. It also left the standing credit facility rate 50 bp above the Base Rate, preserving the corridor for overnight market rates and offering no further data or guidance.
Monetary policy Policy rate decisions Monetary policy decisions and developments
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2026-03-18•Congo•Congo Insurance Regulation and Control Authority
Congo Insurance Regulation and Control Authority Director General Alain Kaninda emphasized the mandatory nature of insurance under the Insurance Code in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. He also highlighted the strategic significance of the memorandum of understanding signed with the Chinese insurance regulator, NFRA, in May 2025.
Policy & regulation Cooperation Other
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2026-03-18•Global•Financial Action Task Force
The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) participated in the UN Office on Drugs and Crime and INTERPOL Global Fraud Summit, highlighting the growing threat of technologically enabled fraud. FATF hosted a side event on using its Anti-Money Laundering Toolkit to combat fraud, featuring discussions on transaction freezing, beneficial ownership transparency, virtual asset tracing, and public-private information sharing.
Policy & regulation Cooperation Fraud and scams AML and CFT
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2026-03-18•United Kingdom•Bank of England
The Bank of England has finalized its IOREP rules for financial market infrastructures, standardizing the reporting of significant operational incidents and third-party arrangements to boost resilience. Applicable to UK central counterparties, securities depositories, payment operators, and service providers, reporting via Financial Conduct Authority platforms starts 18 March 2027. The Bank is consulting on revoking duplicative reporting for central counterparties, aligning with IOREP.
Policy & regulation Rules & requirements Operational risk and resilience Outsourcing and third-party risk management
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2026-03-18•Peru•Central Bank of Peru
The Central Bank of Peru reported a 3.9% year-on-year increase in nationwide formal employment for January 2026, marking 22 consecutive months of growth. Private-sector formal employment rose by 5.3%, with significant job creation in services, agriculture, and commerce. Electronic payroll records indicated 4.536 million private formal jobs, up from 4.307 million the previous year.
Data & statistics Economic data and developments
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2026-03-18•Global•Egmont Group
At the Global Fraud Summit in Vienna, Egmont Group leaders highlighted the pivotal role of Financial Intelligence Units (FIUs) in combating sophisticated, borderless fraud. They stressed the importance of international information sharing, public-private partnerships, and technology in enhancing operational disruption. The Group also contributed to INTERPOL’s Global Financial Fraud Threat Assessment, emphasizing FIU cooperation with law enforcement to improve detection and disrupt illicit flows.
Policy & regulation Cooperation AML and CFT Cross-border cooperation
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2026-03-18•Qatar•Qatar Central Bank
Qatar Central Bank’s Monetary Policy Committee kept the stance unchanged in March, holding the QCB Deposit Rate at 3.85%, Lending Rate at 4.35% and Repo Rate at 4.10%. The committee has remained on hold since three successive 25 bp cuts between September and December 2025 lowered each rate by a cumulative 75 bp and offered no further guidance.
Monetary policy Policy rate decisions Monetary policy decisions and developments
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2026-03-18•Albania•Bank of Albania
The Bank of Albania and World Bank executives discussed enhancing collaboration on financial stability and sector development, focusing on projects under the World Bank’s Development Policy Lending program for 2026–2027. Governor Gent Sejko emphasized monetary policy guided by economic data, price stability, and fiscal policy considerations. Discussions included financial stability progress, EU standards alignment, and payment-system modernization after Albania’s SEPA membership.
Policy & regulation Cooperation Other
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2026-03-18•Argentina•Argentina Superintendency of Insurance
The Argentina Superintendency of Insurance has revised Article 50 of the General Insurance Activity Regulation to enhance supervision of voluntary insurer liquidations, ensuring obligations to policyholders and affected third parties are met. This update, under Law No 20.091, strengthens oversight by allowing the Superintendency to intervene in liquidation processes if necessary.
Policy & regulation Rules & requirements Recovery and resolution
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2026-03-18•United States•Federal Reserve Board
FOMC on 18 March 2026 kept the federal funds target range at 3.50-3.75 percent, citing solid growth, still-elevated inflation and heightened uncertainty. This second straight pause after three 25 bp cuts in late 2025 passed 10-1, with Stephen I. Miran voting for a further 25 bp reduction.
Monetary policy Policy rate decisions Monetary policy decisions and developments
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2026-03-18•United States•Office of the Comptroller of the Currency
The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency issued an Order of Prohibition against Tabitha McCallister for unauthorized withdrawals at Old National Bank, totaling over USD 19,000. Additionally, the OCC terminated four enforcement actions against various banks, including Heritage Bank and 1st National Bank, upon meeting requirements or due to changed circumstances.
Enforcement Investigations & enforcement actions Other
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2026-03-18•Europe•European Central Bank - Banking Supervision
The European Central Bank Banking Supervision's 2025 Annual Report emphasizes risk-based, efficient supervision amid geopolitical uncertainty, focusing on banks' resilience to shocks. Key indicators for significant institutions remain solid, with a Common Equity Tier 1 ratio of around 16% and a non-performing loan ratio of around 2%. The ECB is streamlining supervision by reducing stress test data templates and supervisory reporting, and standardizing processes for capital decisions and assessments.
Supervision Supervision approach, priorities & toolkit Capital adequacy Asset quality Financial stability and systemic risk
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2026-03-18•Sweden•Finansinspektionen
The Swedish Financial Supervisory Authority summarized a 10 March roundtable on underwriting guarantees, gathering market views on current functions and future expectations. The meeting responded to the Law (2026:56) on penalties for unlawful financial activity, criminalizing unlicensed financial business since 1 March 2026. Participants included industry associations, trading venues, the Swedish Bar Association, and various investment firms and banks.
Policy & regulation Guidance & interpretation Securities offerings and listings
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2026-03-18•Kenya•Central Bank of Kenya
Kenya’s National Treasury, in collaboration with the Central Bank of Kenya and the Capital Markets Authority, has released draft Virtual Asset Service Providers Regulations, 2026, to implement the Virtual Asset Service Providers Act, 2025. The regulations aim to establish a legal framework for licensing and regulating virtual asset service providers in Kenya. A public participation process has been initiated to gather feedback.
Policy & regulation Rules & requirements Licensing framework and process
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2026-03-18•Ukraine•Ukraine National Commission on Securities and Stock Market
The Ukraine National Commission on Securities and Stock Market, with the International Monetary Fund, is considering corporate governance reforms, including a supervisory board for strategy, budget, and composition oversight. The reforms aim to enhance transparency and competitive selection per international standards, starting with a governance reform concept and legislative amendments.
Policy & regulation Reform agendas & priorities Corporate governance
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2026-03-18•Ukraine•Ukraine National Commission on Securities and Stock Market
The Ukraine National Commission on Securities and Stock Market released a digest detailing key decisions on rulemaking, supervisory measures, and approvals in capital markets. Highlights include coordination with government drafts, special permits for securities operations, inspections, asset-blocking sanctions, and registration of financial instruments. The Commission also approved financial improvement plans, closed proceedings, and confirmed senior appointments at market participants.
Supervision Authorisations & approvals Other
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2026-03-18•Ireland•Central Bank of Ireland
The Central Bank of Ireland released Deputy Governor Colm Kincaid’s statement to the Joint Oireachtas Committee on non-bank entities in the Irish residential mortgage market and consumer protection requirements. Updated figures show banks hold 85.1% of the principal dwelling house mortgage market, with non-bank lenders and servicing firms holding 5.3% and 9.6%, respectively. The Bank's revised Consumer Protection Code, effective 24 March, includes enhanced borrower disclosures and regulations on mortgage arrears.
Policy & regulation Rules & requirements Lending Consumer and investor protection
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2026-03-18•Global•World Federation of Exchanges
The World Federation of Exchanges (WFE) is concerned about the Basel Committee on Banking Supervision's review of prudential standards for banks' cryptoasset exposures, which may constrain tokenisation growth in regulated markets. The WFE advocates for technology neutrality and consistent treatment of assets with similar risk profiles, regardless of form, and calls for a clearer definition of cryptoassets. It also seeks clarification on custody-related capital requirements to prevent deterring banks from offering custody services.
Policy & regulation International standards & recommendations Prudential risks Tokenization
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2026-03-18•Zimbabwe•Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe
The Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ) provided an interim update on its education campaign for the upgraded Big5ZiG banknote series, set to launch on 7 April 2026. The campaign has reached 75% of districts, addressing concerns about the currency's backing and circulation. Existing notes will remain legal tender, and RBZ plans to increase physical note availability to meet demand and inflation objectives.
Financial literacy & education Other
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2026-03-18•Liechtenstein•Liechtenstein Financial Market Authority
The Liechtenstein Financial Market Authority has authorized Celsion Bank AG, Vaduz to offer specified crypto-asset services under the EU Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation (MiCAR) effective 13 March 2026. The authorization includes safekeeping, administration, exchange, and transfer services for crypto-assets.
Supervision Authorisations & approvals Licence approval
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2026-03-18•United States•U.S. Financial Services Committee
The U.S. House Financial Services Committee held a hearing on amending Title V of the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act to modernize the financial data privacy framework. Discussions emphasized a uniform nationwide baseline to reduce compliance costs and facilitate market entry, maintaining a technology-neutral, principles-based approach. Proposals included extending privacy duties to nonbank firms and introducing consumer rights to access personal information, with enforcement by federal and state agencies.
Policy & regulation Reform agendas & priorities Data protection
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2026-03-18•United States•U.S. Financial Services Committee
The U.S. House Financial Services Committee’s Subcommittee on National Security, Illicit Finance, and International Financial Institutions held an oversight hearing on the Export-Import Bank of the United States (EXIM) for its December 2026 reauthorization. Subcommittee Chairman Warren Davidson emphasized a strategic role for EXIM, stronger accountability, and competition with China as key to EXIM’s mission. He supported reauthorizing the China and Transformational Exports Program and urged coordination with international allies.
Policy & regulation Reform agendas & priorities Other
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2026-03-18•Canada•Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario
The Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario has submitted its Eligible Financial Contracts Rule to the Minister of Finance for approval. The Rule aims to clarify contract qualifications for Ontario credit unions during resolution and align with federal regulations, enhancing consistency for counterparties across jurisdictions.
Policy & regulation Rules & requirements Recovery and resolution
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2026-03-18•United States•Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation
FDIC Chairman Travis Hill updated the agency's supervisory and regulatory initiatives at the American Bankers Association Washington Summit. Key areas include joint proposals on supervisory practices, revisions to capital and liquidity rules, and new approaches to anti-money laundering and payment stablecoin regulations. Hill also highlighted upcoming proposals on CAMELS ratings, risk-based capital, and resolution planning, with consultations on stablecoin deposit insurance and tokenized deposits expected.
Supervision Supervision approach, priorities & toolkit Other
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2026-03-18•Canada•Bank of Canada
The Bank of Canada on 18 Mar 2026 kept the overnight rate at 2.25 %, with the bank rate at 2.50 % and deposit rate at 2.20 %, maintaining its 30 bp corridor. The pause reflects weaker domestic growth, higher unemployment and widening external risks despite energy-driven inflation pressures, and the Governing Council reiterated its readiness to adjust policy if the outlook shifts.
Monetary policy Policy rate decisions Monetary policy decisions and developments
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2026-03-18•Estonia•Finantsinspektsioon
Estonia's Finantsinspektsioon has launched a digital portal to streamline financial sector licence applications and significant participation notifications, enhancing transparency and communication. It covers creditors, fund managers, and crypto-asset service providers. A second phase in late 2026 will introduce fit and proper assessments for managers, with potential AI integration.
Policy & regulation Implementation, projects & pilots Licensing framework and process
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2026-03-18•Vietnam•Vietnam State Securities Commission
The Vietnam State Securities Commission announced its 2026 plan for the securities practising certificate examination, detailing the timetable, locations, eligibility, and exam format. Four exam rounds are scheduled in Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, and Da Nang, with a computer-based multiple-choice format covering securities law and professional knowledge. Candidates must meet eligibility under the Securities Law, submit a registration dossier, and pay fees, with further guidance published online.
Policy & regulation Implementation, projects & pilots Licence approval
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2026-03-18•Isle of Man•Isle of Man Financial Services Authority
The Isle of Man Financial Services Authority announced updates to the Russia and Afghanistan sanctions regimes, as issued by the Isle of Man Treasury, Customs and Immigration Division. The notice refers to recent government news releases and directs to the Treasury division’s Sanctions and Export Control webpage for detailed information. Subscription options for ongoing alerts, including an RSS feed and email services, are also highlighted.
Policy & regulation Guidance & interpretation Sanctions list update
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2026-03-18•Guernsey•Guernsey Financial Services Commission
The Guernsey Financial Services Commission released slides from presentations on its thematic review of conflicts of interest in the investment and fiduciary sectors. The review emphasized the need for firms to actively manage and mitigate conflicts to ensure fair outcomes. The presentations also offered examples of controls and areas for improvement in firms' policies and procedures.
Supervision Reviews, inspections & stress tests Corporate governance
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2026-03-18•Greece•Bank of Greece
The Bank of Greece reported a EUR 604 million increase in loans serviced by domestic Credit Servicing Firms, reaching EUR 80,020 million by Q4 2025. Corporate loans rose to EUR 28,176 million, with growth in loans to non-financial corporations and SMEs. Loans to individuals and private non-profit institutions decreased, while consumer loans increased and housing loans declined.
Data & statistics Financial and market indicators Supervisory data
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2026-03-18•Europe•European Central Bank - Banking Supervision
The European Central Bank Banking Supervision released its Supervisory Banking Statistics for Q4 2025, detailing key financial metrics for 111 significant institutions. Total assets reached EUR 27,744.77 billion with a net profit of EUR 187,783.22 million. Capital and liquidity ratios remained robust, including a Common Equity Tier 1 ratio of 16.18% and a liquidity coverage ratio of 158.60%. Asset quality indicators showed a non-performing loans ratio of 2.18% and stage 2 loans at 9.33% of total loans.
Data & statistics Financial and market indicators Supervisory data
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2026-03-18•Europe•European Central Bank - Banking Supervision
The European Central Bank Banking Supervision's 2025 Annual Report highlights that banks remain well-capitalised, liquid, and profitable, with reforms for more risk-based and efficient supervision. It outlines 2026-28 priorities, including resilience to geopolitical and macro-financial shocks and compliance with the Digital Operational Resilience Act. Key developments include a 16.1% Common Equity Tier 1 ratio, improved stress test results, and streamlined supervisory processes, with enforcement actions totaling EUR 8.77 million in penalties.
Supervision Supervision approach, priorities & toolkit Supervision process and methodologies
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2026-03-18•Spain•Spanish Securities Commission (CNMV)
The Spanish Securities Commission (CNMV) awarded the 2025 Antonio Moreno Espejo Journalism Prize to the television report "Esto es una estafa" for its insights into financial scams. The report, broadcast on Salvados on La Sexta, was praised for its novel data and accessible format, aiding investors in fraud identification. The award, chaired by CNMV President Carlos San Basilio, includes a EUR 15,000 prize.
Financial literacy & education Fraud and scams
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2026-03-18•Vietnam•State Bank of Vietnam
The State Bank of Vietnam and the International Finance Corporation (IFC) reviewed their partnership and discussed future cooperation on infrastructure, digital transformation, green growth, and capital market development. Deputy Governor Nguyen Ngoc Canh highlighted Vietnam as a major recipient of IFC support, with over USD 1 billion mobilized annually for long-term projects. IFC representatives outlined their investment portfolio and potential collaboration areas with the central bank.
Policy & regulation Cooperation Other
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2026-03-18•Hong Kong•Hong Kong Securities & Futures Commission
The Hong Kong Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) reviewed The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited's (SEHK) 2024 listing regulation, focusing on internal control reviews and late auditor resignations. The SFC recommended SEHK enhance vetting of internal controls, update market guidance, require shareholder approval for auditor resignations, and promote early discussions on audit fees. Further scrutiny of audit committees' management of financial reporting and audit processes was also advised.
Supervision Reviews, inspections & stress tests Corporate governance
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2026-03-18•Hong Kong•Hong Kong Monetary Authority
The Hong Kong Monetary Authority issued a scam alert regarding fraudulent websites, fake internet banking login screens, and phishing messages linked to several banks, including The Bank of East Asia and Ant Bank (Hong Kong). The HKMA emphasized that banks will not send SMS or emails with links for transactions or request sensitive information. Affected individuals are advised to contact their bank and report to the Hong Kong Police Force.
Supervision Alerts Fraud and scams
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2026-03-18•Europe•European Fund and Asset Management Association
The European Fund and Asset Management Association and the Association for Financial Markets in Europe urge EU policymakers to enhance equity markets by fostering competition and innovation. They support the European Commission’s Market Integration and Supervision Package reforms, advocating for expedited implementation and deeper integration for unified EU liquidity. Key priorities include enforcing Reasonable Commercial Basis rules, improving post-trade integration, and simplifying regulations to address market data and settlement inefficiencies.
Policy & regulation Reform agendas & priorities Market development
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2026-03-18•Europe•European Central Bank - Banking Supervision
The European Central Bank Banking Supervision released Q4 2025 supervisory statistics for significant institutions, noting higher aggregate capital ratios and improved asset quality, but a slight decline in profitability. The Common Equity Tier 1 ratio increased to 16.18%, while the non-performing loans ratio decreased to 2.18%. The liquidity coverage ratio rose to 158.60%, with a loans-to-deposits ratio of 100.49%.
Data & statistics Capital adequacy Asset quality Liquidity risk
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2026-03-18•Brunei Darussalam•Central Bank of Brunei Darussalam
The Central Bank of Brunei Darussalam (BDCB) has updated its Alert List to include Qawenna and Central Bank of Barnai, entities not licensed or regulated by BDCB. The list aims to caution the public against unlicensed financial services, emphasizing that dealings with such entities lack BDCB's regulatory protections. BDCB continues to monitor unlicensed activities and encourages public reporting of suspicious financial conduct.
Supervision Alerts Other
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2026-03-18•Armenia•Central Bank of Armenia
The Central Bank of Armenia has launched a "Statistical Overview" page on its website, offering graphical views of key economic and financial indicators. This new resource, updated weekly, includes data on exchange rates, economic activity, inflation, financial markets, and the banking system.
Data & statistics Financial and market indicators Supervisory data
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2026-03-18•Armenia•Central Bank of Armenia
The Central Bank of Armenia hosted an Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development delegation for a benchmarking exercise on Armenia's economic and financial sectors. The assessment covers banking, non-bank financial institutions, capital markets, corporate governance, and financial literacy. Discussions aimed to clarify issues and align the analysis with national priorities for tailored policy recommendations.
Policy & regulation Peer reviews and country evaluations Supervision process and methodologies Financial and market indicators
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2026-03-18•Uzbekistan•Central Bank of the Republic of Uzbekistan
The Central Bank of the Republic of Uzbekistan left its policy rate at 14%, maintaining the level set by the March-2025 50 bp hike, saying February headline inflation at 7.3%, rising core (6.3%), strong demand and external price risks justify continued tightness to reach the 5% medium-term target. It sees credit growth normalising but warns geopolitical and supply-chain shocks could lift energy and food prices and stands ready to tighten further if needed.
Monetary policy Policy rate decisions Monetary policy decisions and developments
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2026-03-18•United Kingdom•HM Treasury
HM Treasury announced reforms to broaden access to credit unions in Great Britain by easing "common bond" membership rules. The cap for locality-based credit unions will increase from three million to 10 million potential members, expanding eligibility to include students, more relatives, and household members. These changes align with the government's Financial Inclusion Strategy to enhance access to financial services.
Policy & regulation Rules & requirements Financial inclusion
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2026-03-18•United Kingdom•Financial Conduct Authority
The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has confirmed final rules and guidance for incident and third-party reporting, enhancing clarity and consistency for firms. The framework, aligned with the Prudential Regulation Authority and the Bank of England, introduces a single reporting portal and removes duplicative reporting for certain entities. It includes clearer thresholds, definitions, and responsibilities, with examples to aid compliance.
Policy & regulation Rules & requirements Operational risk and resilience
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2026-03-18•Iceland•Central Bank of Iceland
Central Bank of Iceland’s Monetary Policy Committee increased the seven-day term deposit rate by 25 bp to 7.50 % on 18 Mar 2026, partly undoing last year’s easing after headline inflation stuck at 5.2 % and expectations rose. Overnight loan, seven-day collateralised loan and current-account rates were lifted to 9.25 %, 8.25 % and 7.25 % respectively, and the MPC signalled readiness to tighten further if wage deals, levies and commodity-price pressures keep inflation above target.
Monetary policy Policy rate decisions Monetary policy decisions and developments
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2026-03-18•United Kingdom•Prudential Regulation Authority
The Prudential Regulation Authority (PRA), with the Financial Conduct Authority and the Bank of England, has finalized its policy on standardized reporting for operational incidents and material third-party arrangements. Effective March 2027, UK financial institutions must report incidents via FCA Connect and submit annual MTP registers, excluding certain credit unions and third-country branches. The rules aim to streamline data collection, reduce firm burden, and enhance supervisory consistency.
Policy & regulation Rules & requirements Operational risk and resilience Outsourcing and third-party risk management
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2026-03-18•Ukraine•Ukraine National Commission on Securities and Stock Market
The Ukraine National Commission on Securities and Stock Market joined an International IDEA dialogue on regulating virtual assets in political financing, presenting a draft bill addressing transparency risks. Key measures include implementing the Travel Rule, requiring reporting by virtual asset service providers, and restricting market access for entities with Russian ties. The dialogue reviewed international practices and identified regulatory gaps, with recommendations forthcoming to enhance transparency in political financing.
Policy & regulation Rules & requirements Regulatory reporting
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2026-03-18•Canada•Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario
The Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario (FSRA) has revoked the mortgage brokerage licence of Concierge Mortgage Group Inc. and taken enforcement action against former brokers Margaret Green and Kathy Locke. Green's licence was suspended due to unsuitability, with no contest from her side. FSRA has proposed suspending Locke's licence on similar grounds, with an interim suspension in place pending a Tribunal hearing.
Enforcement Investigations & enforcement actions Unlicensed or unauthorized activity
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2026-03-18•Denmark•Danish Finanstilsynet
The Danish Financial Supervisory Authority's 2025 review of Danish banks and mortgage credit institutions using the internal ratings-based (IRB) approach reveals non-compliance with European requirements, including EBA guidelines. Key issues include governance weaknesses, data quality, and challenges in integrating ESG-related credit risks. The Authority emphasizes the need for improved processes and data management in IRB modelling.
Supervision Reviews, inspections & stress tests Capital adequacy Supervision process and methodologies
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2026-03-18•Bahrain•Central Bank of Bahrain
The Central Bank of Bahrain left its overnight deposit rate unchanged at 4.25 % on 18 Mar 2026, saying the pause, in place since January after 75 bp of easing in late 2025, supports monetary and financial stability amid global market developments. The statement gave no information on liquidity, inflation or growth and offered no forward guidance beyond continued monitoring of international conditions.
Monetary policy Policy rate decisions Monetary policy decisions and developments
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2026-03-18•Sweden•Finansinspektionen
The Swedish Financial Supervisory Authority stressed the need for financial firms to ensure accuracy in sustainability statements to prevent greenwashing. It found issues with funds claiming to exclude weapons but investing in such companies and announced a review of funds with sustainability-related names. The authority is working with European regulators to ensure sustainability claims are fair, substantiated, and current amid evolving regulations.
Policy & regulation Guidance & interpretation Disclosures Climate risk and sustainable finance
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2026-03-18•Norway•Norwegian Finanstilsynet
The Financial Supervisory Authority of Norway reported on NRP Project Finance AS, highlighting inadequate disclosure of its tied-agent relationship with NRP Capital Advisory AS. Customer documentation failed to clearly identify this arrangement, contrary to section 10-22 of the Securities Trading Act. NRP Project Finance plans to enhance transparency through direct customer outreach and updates to agreements and website information.
Supervision Reviews, inspections & stress tests Client asset custody and safekeeping
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2026-03-18•Norway•Norwegian Finanstilsynet
The Financial Supervisory Authority of Norway imposed an administrative fine of NOK 80,000 on Global Lineup AS for extensive breaches of the Auditor Act. The firm failed to perform necessary procedures and exercise professional scepticism in audit engagements, resulting in an inadequate basis for accepting audits.
Enforcement Investigations & enforcement actions Auditing
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2026-03-18•Kazakhstan•Agency for Regulation and Development of the Financial Market of the Republic of Kazakhstan
The Agency for Regulation and Development of the Financial Market of Kazakhstan issued guidance on safe mobile banking, highlighting increased cyber risks and fraud targeting user errors. Recommendations include using strong passwords, enabling two-factor authentication, and securing devices. Users are reminded that bank staff will never request verification codes or passwords and should report suspicious activity immediately.
Policy & regulation Guidance & interpretation Cyber resilience
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2026-03-18•Vietnam•Vietnam State Securities Commission
The Vietnam State Securities Commission has mandated four individuals to pay a VND 1,000,000 fee for reissuing securities practising certificates, as per the Ministry of Finance’s Circular 25/2022/TT-BTC. Payment can be made via bank transfer or directly at the Commission. Failure to complete the procedure within one year will result in certificate cancellation.
Policy & regulation Rules & requirements Licensing and supervisory fees
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2026-03-18•Thailand•Thailand Office of Insurance Commission
The Thailand Office of Insurance Commission supports the Ministry of Commerce's project to manage rising healthcare costs by discussing outpatient coverage with insurers. Medicines and medical supplies account for over 30% of treatment costs, rising up to 25% annually, prompting policyholders to choose high coverage limits. The Office noted that reducing outpatient limits can significantly lower premiums, with examples for individual and group health insurance plans.
Policy & regulation Cooperation Other
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2026-03-18•Australia•Australian Securities & Investments Commission
The Australian Securities & Investments Commission (ASIC) secured a High Court ruling allowing Justice Derrington to determine penalties against Sunshine Loans for National Credit Act violations. Sunshine Loans' appeal for recusal due to alleged bias was dismissed, affirming the judge's role in the penalty phase. The case involves over 670,000 contracts with unlawful fees, resulting in approximately AUD 300,000 in payments.
Enforcement Investigations & enforcement actions Lending
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2026-03-18•San Marino•Central Bank of San Marino
The Central Bank of the Republic of San Marino warned about fraudulent social media posts using an artificially generated image and name of its President, Catia Tomasetti, to solicit investments. The Bank emphasized that no investment solicitations are made by its representatives and urged the public to verify information through official channels and report suspicious activities. Complaints are being filed to protect savers and maintain financial system integrity.
Supervision Alerts Fraud and scams Artificial intelligence
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2026-03-18•Moldova•National Bank of Moldova
The National Bank of Moldova highlighted its Global Money Week programme, featuring mentoring sessions on personal budgeting led by Romanian expert Irina Chițu. The workshops focused on practical budgeting skills, including cost-cutting, expense renegotiation, and goal-based saving. The programme, part of a global initiative, concludes with public tours of the bank's exhibition hall.
Financial literacy & education Financial literacy and education
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2026-03-18•United Kingdom•UK Parliament
The UK Parliament’s Joint Committee on the National Security Strategy urges amendments to the Representation of the People Bill, including a moratorium on cryptocurrency political donations until firm rules are established. The report recommends tighter donor eligibility, a central Political Finance Enforcement Unit, and safeguards and penalties to protect political finance integrity. These amendments are proposed for consideration during the Bill’s Committee Stage in the House of Commons.
Policy & regulation Rules & requirements Foreign exchange policy and markets
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2026-03-18•South Korea•South Korea Financial Supervisory Service
South Korea's Financial Supervisory Service (FSS) released its 2026 inspection plan, focusing on financial consumer protection and market stability. It emphasizes scrutiny of internal controls, corporate governance, and digital transaction reliability, targeting high-risk areas and unfair practices affecting vulnerable consumers. The FSS will also assess virtual asset service providers to enhance IT safety and internal controls for Phase 2 of the Act on the Protection of Virtual Asset Users.
Supervision Supervision approach, priorities & toolkit Consumer and investor protection
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2026-03-18•Argentina•Argentina Securities Commission (CNV)
Argentina Securities Commission president Roberto E. Silva spoke at the Merge São Paulo conference on Latin American regulatory convergence and Argentina's framework for Virtual Asset Service Providers and tokenization. He highlighted Argentina's capital markets modernization, focusing on a new regulatory framework for predictability and transparency. Silva also participated in a closed-door Private Regulatory Roundtable with regulators and industry participants.
Policy & regulation Guidance & interpretation Fintech and insurtech Blockchain and distributed ledger technology
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2026-03-18•Egypt•Egypt Financial Regulatory Authority
The Egypt Financial Regulatory Authority has extended the deadlines for Egyptian Exchange-listed companies to submit periodic financial statements. For the period ended 31 December 2025, the new deadline is 30 April 2026, and for the period ended 31 March 2025, it is 31 May 2026.
Policy & regulation Rules & requirements Accounting and financial reporting
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2026-03-18•Philippines•Central Bank of the Philippines
The Central Bank of the Philippines mandates BSP Supervised Financial Institutions to submit the Weekly Reserves Report and the Report on Trust and Other Fiduciary Accounts via the Prudential Reporting Innovation and Monitoring Engine in XML format, with a signed Control Prooflist in PDF. These new requirements, part of amendments to reserve-requirement reporting, include specific submission deadlines based on institution type and replace previous report names. A parallel run begins immediately, with live submissions starting for the reference week ending 02 July 2026.
Policy & regulation Rules & requirements Regulatory reporting
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2026-03-18•Kuwait•Central Bank of Kuwait
The Central Bank of Kuwait announced that Standard and Poor’s has affirmed Kuwait’s sovereign credit rating at AA- with a stable outlook.
Other Credit ratings