The Philippines Insurance Commission and five public institutions have agreed to establish a shared cyber defense solution for the insurance cluster. Land Bank will lead procurement, while joint technical and oversight bodies will set requirements, oversee implementation and monitor cyber threats.
At Financial Education Week 2026 in Lisbon, the Portuguese Insurance Regulator (ASF) emphasized integrating financial literacy into compulsory education and improving assessment methods. ASF President Gabriel Bernardino advocated for foundational skills in mandatory subjects. The event featured key figures, including the Governor of the Bank of Portugal and the President of the Portuguese Securities Market Commission, and concluded with announcing the Todos Contam contest winners.
The Norwegian Financial Supervisory Authority reviewed Borregaard ASA's financial reporting, focusing on the impairment test of its investment in Alginor ASA in the 2024 annual report. It found non-compliance with IAS 28 and IAS 36 due to the inclusion of cash flows from undecided project phases, prompting a remeasurement showing the recoverable amount exceeded the carrying amount. The authority noted Borregaard's subsequent impairment loss of NOK 225 million in its fourth quarter 2025 interim report and will address remaining issues later.
Latvia's Ministry of Finance and Latvijas Banka have drafted amendments to the Deposit Guarantee Law to revise bank and credit union contributions. Key changes include eliminating the initial payment for new institutions, setting a target fund level of 3% of covered deposits, and capping regular contributions at 0.05% of the average covered deposit balance. The Ministry anticipates reaching the 3% target by 2027, potentially reducing annual contributions to approximately EUR 9 million.
The National Bank of Moldova and the IMF discussed a new three-year, non-financing programme focused on macroeconomic stability and structural reforms. It aims to strengthen monetary policy, implement the 2025 Financial Sector Assessment Program recommendations, and align Moldova’s financial framework with EU standards. Coordination with Moldova’s 2025–2027 Growth Plan was also addressed to ensure reform alignment and avoid overlaps.
The Securities and Exchange Board of India has revised the Core Settlement Guarantee Fund coverage framework for clearing corporations in the commodity derivatives segment. The updated framework requires stress-testing for credit exposure based on the default of at least three clearing members, replacing the previous two-member default requirement. SEBI may grant exemptions or relaxations based on market conditions and risk management adequacy.
The Italian Institute for Insurance Supervision (IVASS) issued a warning regarding a counterfeit insurance policy falsely attributed to SIAT Società Italiana Assicurazioni e Riassicurazioni per Azioni. IVASS advised customers to verify the legitimacy of insurance offers and ensure they are dealing with authorised insurers and intermediaries by consulting IVASS’s online resources.
The IMF Executive Board completed the 2026 Post-Financing Assessment for the Republic of Congo, noting intensified fiscal, external, and debt vulnerabilities amid fiscal slippage and liquidity tensions. Economic growth was 2.1% in 2024 and an estimated 2.4% in 2025, with a widened current account deficit and increased fiscal pressures. The Board emphasized the need for stronger budget discipline, fiscal consolidation, structural reforms, and enhanced governance to address significant repayment risks.
The Central Bank of Honduras announced an increase in net international reserves by USD 498.7 million from 27 January to 13 March 2026, reaching USD 10,804.5 million. This rise improved the import coverage from 6.2 to 6.51 months.
The Central Bank of the Philippines issued a circular to Authorized Agent Banks and their foreign exchange subsidiaries about lost Bangko Sentral Registration Documents (BSRDs) for inward foreign direct investments. Documents involving LG Electronics, Inc. and its investee firms should not be honored for foreign exchange transactions, aligning with Section 38 of the Manual of Regulations on Foreign Exchange Transactions.
The Vietnam State Securities Commission's Technology and Digital Transformation Department is seeking cost quotations from companies for a software upgrade project to enhance fee and charge management.
People's Bank of China Vice Governor Lu Lei participated in the Inter-American Development Bank Group's annual meeting in Paraguay, discussing reform progress and the economic situation in Latin America. He also met with Inter-American Development Bank President Ilan Goldfajn to explore strengthening bilateral cooperation.
The Thailand Office of Insurance Commission launched the "Restaurants with Insurance Protection" initiative to promote embedded insurance, enhancing safety standards and consumer confidence in the restaurant sector. The programme integrates insurance into business activities, with adoption covering property and third-party liability among over 320,000 restaurant operators. Notably, more than 20 restaurants in Bangkok and major tourist destinations have prioritized comprehensive coverage.
The Central Bank of the Philippines reported a 3.5% year-on-year increase in overseas Filipino cash remittances, reaching USD 3.02 billion in January 2026. Personal remittances also rose by 3.5% to USD 3.36 billion. The United States was the top source of cash remittances, though the central bank noted limitations in remittance-by-source data due to routing through correspondent banks and money couriers.
The Malaysia Securities Commission hosted an engagement day where the Malaysia Co-Investment Fund unveiled new programmes to support micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises through equity crowdfunding and peer-to-peer platforms. Initiatives include a Silver Economy Scheme for MSMEs in care-tech and healthcare, a VC/PE Profit-Sharing Incentive, and an expanded Food Security Scheme for agri-tech startups. MyCIF has facilitated over MYR 7.7 billion in funding for MSMEs since 2019.
The Central Bank of Colombia's new Ensayos Sobre Política Económica article highlights persistent gender gaps in Colombia, particularly in the labour market, despite advances in education and regulation for women. The study suggests that reducing these disparities could enhance employment, productivity, and economic growth, while alleviating fiscal pressures related to population ageing and social protection sustainability.
The Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) announced a staged consultation on reforms to banks' capital and liquidity settings, aligning liquidity requirements with international standards and enhancing risk sensitivity. The package includes a new Pillar 2 liquidity framework for large banks and a risk-sensitive framework for smaller banks, with expected cost savings. APRA plans targeted amendments to the capital framework and a simplified approach to market risk, aiming for overall cost neutrality for the industry.
ASIC is consulting on remaking two sunsetting legislative instruments for exchange-traded warrants, proposing a five-year extension with minor amendments. The instruments exempt certain warrants from margin lending obligations and disclosure requirements. Proposed changes include adopting market-neutral language, simplifying definitions, and rewording exemptions for clarity.
The Australian Securities & Investments Commission (ASIC) released Moneysmart research on Gen Z financial behaviors, highlighting reliance on social media and AI for financial information. The study found significant trust in these platforms, with 56% trusting social media and 64% trusting AI, and noted high exposure to cryptocurrency promotion. ASIC urged young Australians to verify financial information to mitigate riskier decisions.
The Australian Securities and Investments Commission announced that the New South Wales Supreme Court ordered Macquarie Securities (Australia) Limited to pay an AUD 35 million penalty for misreporting short sales due to systems failures. The Court found Macquarie lacked adequate risk management and supervisory systems, leading to misleading conduct. Macquarie must engage an independent expert to review its reporting systems and pay ASIC's costs.
The Australian Securities & Investments Commission has revamped its Moneysmart website to enhance consumer education, marking 15 years of operation. The redesign aims to improve accessibility and engagement, focusing on how younger Australians learn and make financial decisions. Moneysmart offers updated content on budgeting, saving, debt management, and investment risks, serving as a reliable alternative to social media for financial info.
The Central Bank of the Dominican Republic reported remittances of USD 1,870.4 million for January–February 2026, marking a 1.0% year-on-year increase. February inflows were USD 887.6 million, impacted by challenging international conditions and weaker-than-expected US economic performance, which accounted for 83.4% of remittances. The bank maintained its 2026 outlook for 3.5% remittance growth, projecting USD 12,200 million in remittances and foreign direct investment over USD 5,000 million.
The Central Bank of Bahrain’s Board of Directors approved the audited financial statements for 2025 and reviewed key activities and financial-sector developments through February 2026. Supervisory measures have been strengthened to ensure continuity of financial services amid regional developments. Monetary indicators showed increases in money supply, private deposits, and loans, while point-of-sale activity declined in January 2026.
The Central Bank of Libya has begun implementing House of Representatives instructions to cancel a tax on certain goods and to resume foreign currency sales for all purposes. It is preparing the required procedures and system changes so foreign currency can be provided at the official exchange rate within monthly revenue limits, while also continuing efforts to maintain cash liquidity across Libya.
The Central Bank of the United Arab Emirates issued a silver commemorative coin for Emirati Children's Day, with a nominal value of AED 15. The coin features the theme "The Right to Identity and National Culture" and an illustration of a fort, with 2,000 coins produced. Details on the release date and purchase mechanism will be announced later.
The Thailand Securities and Exchange Commission has filed a criminal complaint with the Economic Crime Suppression Division against IBS Intensive Co., Ltd. and its director, Mr. Kridtapon Petkeawna, for allegedly operating derivatives and digital asset fund management businesses without licences. The SEC alleges that since May 2021 the firm solicited public investments in gold futures and digital assets, including via Facebook, in breach of the Derivatives Act and the Emergency Decree on Digital Asset Businesses, and will cooperate with law enforcement.
Indonesia’s Financial Services Authority (OJK) reported the completion of a banking crime case involving PT BPR Duta Niaga Pontianak, with final convictions by the Pontianak District Court as of 6 February 2026. Two debtors and senior bank officials, including the President Director and Operations Director, received prison sentences of up to four years and fines of up to IDR 600,000,000 for falsifying bank records and obtaining non-compliant credit facilities. OJK reiterated that debtors proven to have committed banking offences can face criminal sanctions and urged borrowers to act honestly and transparently.
The Oman Financial Services Authority approved a regulation for actuarial services firms, establishing a framework for those serving insurance and Takaful companies. It mandates founders and at least one actuary hold a Fellowship qualification from specified bodies, subject to FSA approval, and formalizes supervisory powers including inspections and penalties. Existing firms have a one-year grace period to comply.
Indonesia’s Financial Services Authority (OJK) issued an enforcement update highlighting criminal sanctions for bank borrowers involved in banking crimes, referencing the PT BPR Duta Niaga Pontianak case. The Pontianak District Court convicted borrowers and bank officials for falsifying bank records, with sentences ranging from one to four years' imprisonment and fines up to IDR 600 million.
The U.S. House Committee on Financial Services supports President Trump's executive order to remove regulatory barriers to affordable home construction, aligning with bipartisan housing efforts. The committee chairs plan to collaborate on codifying the order's reforms in a housing bill to reduce costs and increase supply.
The Bank of Tanzania plans to establish Tanzania Credit Guarantee PLC to manage credit guarantees, separating these from regulatory functions for better efficiency. A meeting on 12 March 2026, led by Deputy Governor Dr Yamungu Kayandabila, included stakeholders like the Tanzania Insurance Regulatory Authority. The central bank currently oversees the Export and SME Credit Guarantee Schemes, supporting lending for projects lacking collateral.
The Egypt Financial Regulatory Authority granted Lumin Soft preliminary approval to join its fintech regulatory sandbox, marking it as the third company to do so. The initiative aims to create a digital pathway for verifying non-Egyptians' identities using NFC-enabled electronic passports, facilitating access to non-bank financial services. Lumin Soft will conduct live tests of its model, integrating with Azimut Investments Egypt's platform under FRA oversight.
The China Banking and Insurance Regulatory Commission has launched the 2026 “3·15” financial consumer rights protection campaign to enhance consumer protection awareness and risk prevention. The initiative addresses disorderly online financial marketing and promotes the use of digital tools to meet diverse financial needs, aiming to foster a clean and orderly financial market environment.
The Central Bank of the Republic of Kosovo and the Kosovo Tax Administration discussed enhancing inter-institutional cooperation, focusing on financial supervision, transparency, and integrity. Key topics included financial transaction regulation, data sharing, digitalisation, and financial inclusion. Both parties agreed to continue coordinated efforts and consider a cooperation memorandum to formalize collaboration.
The Central Bank of Mexico's Directorate General of Payment Systems and Market Infrastructures has launched its 2026 Internal Summer Researchers Programme for PhD students to research payment systems and financial market infrastructures. Participants may receive up to USD 6,900 before tax, including travel and performance-based incentives, for a research period of up to 60 days. The programme requires in-person participation with limited remote work options and involves a contract for professional services with the central bank.
The Central Bank of Montenegro held a working breakfast with media representatives to discuss implementing the new Law on Consumer Credits. Vice Governor Gordana Kalezic highlighted measures to enhance consumer protection, increase credit product transparency, and strengthen trust in the financial system. The discussion emphasized informing citizens about their financial rights and obligations and the role of institutions in fostering a fairer financial system.
The National Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic updated the licenses of Open Joint Stock Company 'Aiyl Bank' to reflect its name change to Open Joint-Stock Company 'ABank' (ABank OJSC). The updated naming is specified in the state language, the official language, and English.
The National Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic's Issyk-Kul Regional Department conducted guest lectures at I. Biybosunov Karakol Pedagogical College on financial literacy topics, including loan application self-prohibition and QR code payments.
The National Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic suspended the licenses of Prestige Money A LLC and Kamchy Capital LLC for regulatory violations, effective from 13 March 2026. Additionally, an individual was fined KGS 17,500 for unauthorized cash foreign exchange transactions in the Chui region.
The National Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic has amended its temporary export permission, permitting Kyrgyz commercial banks to export non-obsolete cash US dollars until 1 October 2026.
The Angola Insurance Authority (ARSEG) released its complaint management report for H2 2025, noting 331 complaints with a 74% resolution rate. Insurers accounted for 312 complaints and pension fund management companies for 19, marking a 13% decrease from the previous period. Key issues included delays in claims settlement, non-payment of indemnities, poor communication, and non-compliance with complaint-handling rules.
The Japan Financial Services Agency has released draft amendments to the Enforcement Regulations of the Banking Act and related supervisory guidelines for public comment. Key proposals include expanding investment targets for investment companies, allowing crossover investments in venture businesses, and adding M&A brokerage to permitted activities. The draft also addresses income dependence regulations for leasing companies and clarifies loan trading rules.
The National Bank of Ukraine reported low demand and fully satisfied bids in its recent foreign currency cash supply transactions, confirming no shortage of foreign-exchange cash. The NBU offered USD 100 million and EUR 50 million, with only one bank bidding USD 30 million and EUR 20 million. These measures, adopted after the illegal seizure of Oschadbank vehicles in Hungary, do not impact Ukraine’s international reserves.
The Japan Securities and Exchange Surveillance Commission recommended administrative action against Yamabiko Investment Advisors Co., Ltd. for unregistered investment advisory activities and governance failures. The firm, controlled by Akira Yamada, was involved in unauthorized advisory services and concealed regulatory breaches. The recommendation suggests supervisory measures, including a potential business improvement order.
The Brazilian Superintendence of Private Insurance (SUSEP) participated in the 18th Insurance and Pensions Law Congress, discussing Brazil's new Insurance Contract Law and its impacts. SUSEP highlighted the ongoing regulatory implementation of Law No. 15.040/2024 as a high-priority topic in its 2026 Regulation Plan. Directors engaged in panels on life insurance adaptation, regulation and claims settlement, and large-risk insurance.
The Financial Markets Standards Board appointed Joanna Bonnett as a Non-Executive Director, effective 1 March 2026. Bonnett brings 25 years of experience in finance, treasury, risk, and sustainability, currently serving as Group Treasurer and Global Head of Insurance at Straumann AG. Her governance experience includes roles with the Association of Corporate Treasurers and contributions to financial regulation initiatives.
The Central Bank of Cyprus released detailed interest rate data for deposits and loans for each credit institution for January 2026. Additional related information is available on its website.
The Bank of Cape Verde’s Behavioural Supervision Office announced activities for the 14th Global Money Week from 16 to 28 March 2026, focusing on financial awareness for youth. The programme, themed “Smart money talks,” will expand to Chã das Caldeiras, Brava, and inland Santiago, emphasizing practical financial skills and fraud protection. Collaborating with the Cabo Verde Stock Exchange and others, the initiative aligns with the Bank's conduct-supervision role.
The Japan Financial Services Agency concluded FinTech Demonstration Experiment Hub Project No. 9, confirming that verifiable credentials (VCs) can achieve technical interoperability for identity verification across multiple issuers and verifiers. However, governance, wallet security, and legal positioning remain significant challenges for real-world deployment. The pilot, involving Mitsubishi UFJ Trust and Banking Corporation, highlighted issues such as rules for issuers, wallet operations, and the legal limitations under Japanese law.
The Japan Financial Services Agency released results from FinTech Demonstration Experiment Hub Project No. 10, testing Automated Market Maker (AMM) services with KYC-verified wallets to mitigate ML/FT risks. The experiment confirmed the effectiveness of controls like blocking transactions with invalid KYC tokens. The FSA noted that AMMs using imitation tokens do not fall under Japan's crypto-asset exchange framework, but decentralized exchange protocols might, warranting further examination.
Peru's Superintendency of Banking, Insurance and Pension Funds Administrators announced the 2026 World Savings Week, celebrating a decade of financial education linked to the OECD's global initiative. The event, from 16 to 22 March, focuses on engaging young people with topics like savings, credit, and digital financial risks. It features over 1,000 activities nationwide, including a "Savings Run" and financial education fair in Miraflores.
The Angola Capital Markets Commission has suspended the registration of Petrofund – Sociedade de Capital de Risco, S.A. for 60 business days due to deficiencies in operational, technological, human capital, and financial capacities. This decision, effective from 10 February 2026, was made under Article 13 of Regulation No. 2/19 and Article 40 of the Legal Regime for Collective Investment Undertakings.
SUSEP has approved new bylaws to enhance governance and reallocate responsibilities, effective 1 April 2026. The restructuring aligns with Decree No. 12,801, introducing new coordination-general units and redistributing core functions, including splitting the former Coordination-General for Special Regimes into three units. Additionally, SUSEP established separate units for conduct monitoring and inspections, and created a prudential and accounting regulation unit.
The Brazil Securities Commission (CVM) has released its 2026 Inspection and Supervisory Technical Meetings Plan to enhance risk-based supervision and increase its physical presence with capital markets participants. Prepared by the Strategic Risk Supervision Superintendence, the plan follows guidelines from the Governance and Risk Management Committee and aligns with CVM Resolution 53. Approved in November 2025, this inaugural plan will apply for one year, with future plans to be biennial.
The Committee on Economic and Monetary Affairs will conduct a public hearing on 19 March 2026 to evaluate the impact of neobanks on the Banking Union. Experts will provide insights on potential effects and policy strategies.
The Bank of Italy's research paper details enhancements to its credit assessment system for Italian non-financial firms, focusing on the "expert assessment" overlay. Incorporating analysts' judgments, including climate-related risk and sector analysis, improves rating quality, increasing the AUROC by about 2 percentage points. The expert overlay also maintains ICAS performance during macroeconomic stress.
Ireland’s Department of Finance published a Credit Union Stabilisation Fund process note and FAQ, and repaid EUR 10 million from the Credit Institutions’ Resolution Fund (CIRF) to the Exchequer, ending Exchequer funding of the CIRF. Developed with the Central Bank of Ireland, the documents outline the fund’s purpose, access criteria, and funding conditions. A nil levy for the sector’s contributions to the resolution and stabilisation funds applies from 1 October 2025 to 30 September 2029, subject to compliance with specified conditions.
The Ghana National Insurance Commission reported on the 4th Africa Network of Insurers Associations Annual General Meeting in Accra, focusing on strengthening Africa’s insurance sector and increasing market penetration. Commissioner Dr. Abiba Zakariah highlighted challenges like reliance on foreign reinsurers and low market penetration of about 3% compared to the global average of 7.4%. Emphasis was placed on strong regulatory frameworks, innovation, and building public confidence through financial literacy.
The European Parliament Committee on Economic and Monetary Affairs will hold an exchange of views on 18 March 2026 with the Chairs of the IFRS Foundation, IASB, and ISSB. This session is part of the EU's scrutiny of the endorsement process for International Financial Reporting Standards. The ISSB, established in 2021, focuses on developing international sustainability reporting standards.
The Financial Action Task Force of Latin America (GAFILAT), in collaboration with the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund, conducted an Evaluators Training Course in Washington D.C. to prepare experts for the fifth round of mutual evaluations. The course, attended by 46 participants from 17 countries and three international organisations, focused on the mutual evaluation process, risk analysis, and assessing AML/CFT/CPF frameworks.
The Bank of Japan released the Regular Derivatives Market Statistics for positions as of end-December 2025, along with an updated long-term time-series dataset. The data, available since June 1998, can be accessed through the BOJ Time-Series Data Search and is aggregated by the Bank for International Settlements for global publication.
ASIC has disqualified Vincenzo Frank Tesoriero from managing corporations for five years due to his role in the failure of 20 companies. ASIC cited improper conduct, including fraudulent receipt of AUD 2,105,015, misuse of company funds for personal mortgage payments, and failure to maintain adequate records. Tesoriero may seek a review of the decision by the Administrative Review Tribunal.
Bolivia's Ministry of Economy and Public Finance, with the Central Bank, confirmed Serie B banknotes in BOB 10, BOB 20, and BOB 50 as valid legal tender, offering optional exchange for Serie A notes. This follows recovery operations after a theft in a recent air accident, with stolen notes identified and invalidated. The exchange starts 16 March at financial institutions and Central Bank offices, ensuring immediate replacement for acceptance issues.
The New Brunswick Financial and Consumer Services Commission published a decision by the former Financial and Consumer Services Tribunal, finding John Albert McKellar and 668054 N.B. LTD. in violation of New Brunswick’s Real Estate Agents Act and Securities Act. The decision is available on the Commission’s website, with related decisions accessible through the Regulator Decisions database. As of June 2023, the Tribunal's functions have transferred to the New Brunswick Energy and Utilities Board.
The Ombudsman for Banking Services and Investments (OBSI) released its 2025 Annual Report, marking its first year as the sole external complaints body for all Canadian banks. The report highlights a significant rise in demand, with inquiries and complaints nearly doubling due to banking fraud and service-related issues. OBSI identified three systemic issues for regulators and noted that its recommendations are non-binding, with over 1,300 complaints resulting in CAD 5.8 million in compensation.
The Commodity Futures Trading Commission announced a default judgment against Safety Capital Management Inc. and GNS Capital Inc. for retail forex fraud, imposing USD 835,058 in restitution and civil monetary penalties of USD 1,441,143 and USD 186,102, respectively. The judgment permanently enjoins the companies from further violations of the Commodity Exchange Act and CFTC regulations. The case involved exploitation of Korean-language speakers in Queens, with related criminal convictions for John H. Won and Tae Hung Kang.
The Middle East and North Africa Financial Action Task Force reaffirmed its commitment to collaborate with member countries and international partners to combat money laundering, terrorist financing, and proliferation financing. The statement emphasizes strengthening international cooperation and regional coordination to protect financial systems and address illicit financial flows. Joint actions are highlighted as crucial for enhancing financial transparency and regional stability.
S&P Global Ratings downgraded Botswana’s long-term foreign and local currency sovereign ratings from BBB to BBB-, and short-term debt ratings from A-2 to A-3, maintaining a negative outlook. The downgrade reflects expectations of prolonged subdued global demand for diamonds, impacting fiscal revenue and export earnings. Despite a strong institutional framework and net external asset position, Botswana's diamond-dependent economy remains a constraint, with potential for outlook revision contingent on improved growth and diversification efforts.
MENAFATF reaffirmed its commitment to collaborate with member countries and international partners to enhance readiness for mutual evaluations and promote standards against money laundering and terrorist financing. The statement emphasizes strengthening frameworks for cooperation to protect financial systems and address illicit financial flows. MENAFATF highlighted the importance of joint action in advancing financial transparency and regional stability.
The Central Bank of Chile and the Deutsche Bundesbank have signed a memorandum of understanding to enhance technical cooperation. The agreement, signed in Santiago, includes joint training, technical advice, seminars, and specialist visits to support mutual learning and capacity-building in central banking.
The Barbados Financial Services Commission has issued a notice of payout to members and other interested parties of Progressive Co-operative Credit Union Limited, which has been placed into liquidation, and will manage the distribution of its assets. The Commission confirmed that the credit union’s registration was cancelled effective 12 December 2024 under the Financial Services Commission Act, with liquidation proceeding under section 152(d) of the Co-operative Societies Act, Cap. 378A.
The Luxembourg Ministry of Finance reported on Finance Minister Gilles Roth’s participation in Eurogroup and ECOFIN meetings in Brussels, where ministers discussed Banking Union developments, geoeconomic risks and financing for innovative companies. Luxembourg backed the regulatory package on integration and supervision of European markets and competitiveness, while opposing extra administrative burdens, costs and centralized supervision. The Council approved access for the European Public Prosecutor’s Office and the European Anti-Fraud Office to EU-level VAT information. ECOFIN also reviewed economic implications of the war in Ukraine and recent G20 and IMF meetings, and Roth held bilateral talks with the European Commissioner for Taxation on the proposed tobacco taxation directive.
The Federal Reserve Board executed consent prohibition orders against Cassandra Grayson and Sandra Adams, former employees of Equity Bank and First State Bank of Dongola, respectively. Grayson was charged with embezzlement of bank funds, while Adams faced allegations of misappropriating customer funds.
The National Bank of Moldova is preparing an Executive Committee decision to amend the Instruction on reporting by non-bank credit organisations, focusing on ownership transparency. This initiative follows amendments to Article 23(4)(b) of Law No. 1/2018, introduced by Law No. 229/2025, and aims to update Annex 10 of the Instruction and clarify report completion.
The National Bank of Moldova reported on Governor Anca Dragu's meeting with Romanian Parliament members to enhance dialogue on Moldova’s EU integration and review alignment with EU standards. Discussions included Moldova's accession to the Single Euro Payments Area (SEPA) and pursuit of European Banking Authority recognition of prudential equivalence. Romania's support, including technical assistance, was emphasized, with both parties committed to ongoing financial-sector reforms.
The Bulgarian National Bank announced the election of Ms. Karina Karaivanova-Ganozova as Deputy Governor in charge of the Issue Department for a six-year term by the National Assembly.
The Bulgarian National Bank (BNB) received an award for its role in curbing the informal economy through its management of Bulgaria's euro introduction. The award highlights the euro area's support for financial transparency and stricter regulatory standards. Governor Dimitar Radev emphasized the BNB's efforts to enhance trust and transparency, including a public campaign on euro security features.
The Argentina Securities Commission (CNV) sanctioned Daniel A. Casanovas y Asociados S.A. for disposing of clients’ negotiable securities without consent. The enforcement includes a fine based on the benefit obtained, disqualification of directors, and a market operation ban for the firm and its directors. The CNV emphasized that such actions violate core principles of custody and client instruction execution.
The Central Bank of Russia's 2025 Q4 review shows a 2% quarterly increase in bank loans to developers, reaching RUB 10.2 trillion, driven by large-scale escrow account releases. Escrow inflows rose 46% from Q3 and 58% year-on-year to RUB 2 trillion, with full-year inflows at RUB 5.5 trillion, partly due to anticipated changes in the Family Mortgage programme. Escrow funds covered 69% of developers' debt, while the average interest rate on developer loans was 10.2%, lower than the 16.0% for corporate loans.
The Central Bank of Russia issued guidance to financial market participants, recommending board-level procedures for monitoring consumer protection. Firms are advised to establish a consumer protection committee to oversee professional conduct and propose improvements to employee incentive schemes. The committee chair should meet standards akin to an independent director under the Corporate Governance Code.
The Central Bank of Russia reported an average maximum interest rate of 13.87% for Russian rouble household deposits from the top 10 credit institutions for early March 2026. Rates varied by maturity, with 13.31% for up to 90 days and 11.73% for over one year. The data excludes special-category deposits and is based on publicly available information.
The National Bank of the Republic of Tajikistan reported the results of a foreign exchange intervention via a US dollar sale auction, clearing at a weighted-average rate of 9.6125 Tajik somoni per US dollar. The auction involved 11 participants with order sizes between USD 1,000,000 and USD 15,000,000.
Kazakhstan's Financial Market Agency warned of deepfakes in cyberattacks and fraud. The notice outlines scenarios like impersonation for bank access and fraudulent credit, highlighting rushed requests and secrecy demands. It emphasizes two-factor authentication and biometrics in remote financial services to enhance cybersecurity.
The China Securities Regulatory Commission, chaired by Wu Qing, held a meeting to align its work with President Xi Jinping’s directives and the 15th Five-Year Plan, focusing on risk prevention, supervision, and capital market development. Initiatives include enhancing market-stabilisation mechanisms, advancing STAR Market and ChiNext reforms, and improving governance and value of listed companies. Enforcement will target financial fraud, market manipulation, and insider trading, while strengthening the regulatory framework and investor protection.
The China Securities Regulatory Commission (CSRC) has consolidated and revised standards for securities investment fund reports into a single rule, effective 1 May 2026, to enhance transparency and unitholder protection. The new standard integrates overlapping disclosure items, introduces differentiated requirements, and aligns with international practices. The fund industry association will develop XBRL templates based on the standard.
The Central Bank of the Republic of China released preliminary end-February 2026 monetary and financing statistics, noting total social financing outstanding at CNY 451.4 trillion, up 8.2% year on year. Broad money (M2) reached CNY 349.22 trillion, a 9% increase, with CNY loans to the real economy at CNY 274.15 trillion, representing 60.7% of total social financing. The report highlights adjustments, including expanded coverage of non-deposit-taking financial institutions and a revised M1 definition.
At the Bank for International Settlements governors meeting in Basel, central bank governors discussed the global economic and financial situation, the Middle East conflict's potential impact, and AI use in the Asia-Pacific banking sector. People's Bank of China Deputy Governor Xuan Changneng engaged with representatives from central banks and international organizations on mutual interests.
The Central Commission for Discipline Inspection and National Supervisory Commission, with Hubei authorities, concluded an investigation into Liu Wei, a former inspector at the National Financial Regulatory Administration, resulting in his expulsion from the Communist Party and dismissal from public office. Liu was found guilty of disciplinary violations, including securing benefits for others and accepting bribes. The Xiangyang Municipal Supervisory Commission has referred the criminal case to prosecutors.
The China Banking and Insurance Regulatory Commission conducted supervisory talks with five platforms, including Fenqile and Qifu Jietiao, regarding their internet loan-assistance activities. The platforms were instructed to standardize marketing, disclose loan terms clearly, adhere to personal information protection, conduct lawful debt collection, and enhance complaint handling.
The China Banking and Insurance Regulatory Commission, Ministry of Finance, and Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs issued a joint notice to enhance pig insurance, focusing on underwriting accuracy, product sustainability, and market conduct oversight. The notice mandates online "insurance-disposal linkage," end-to-end data connectivity, improved product supply, and premium rate adjustments. It emphasizes faster claims processing and stricter penalties for non-compliance, including potential cancellation of insurance qualifications.
The Central Bank of the Philippines reported a USD 5.7 billion balance of payments deficit (1.2% of GDP) for 2025, reversing a USD 609 million surplus (0.1% of GDP) in 2024. The deficit was due to reduced financial account inflows amid tighter global conditions, despite a narrowing current account deficit from improved trade and strong services receipts. Financial account net inflows declined as residents increased investments in foreign debt securities, while foreign direct investments and bank loans moderated.
The Central Bank of the Philippines has been named "Reserve Manager" for 2026 by Central Banking, recognizing its modernization of reserves management. Improvements include strategic asset allocation upgrades, active risk management, diversification, and enhanced guidelines for responsible investing. The bank's gross international reserves stood at USD 112.7 billion at end-February 2026, covering 7.5 months of imports and 4.2 times short-term external debt.
The Central Bank of the Philippines reported a 1.0% decline in outstanding external debt to USD 147.65 billion at the end of December 2025, with improved debt manageability indicators. The decline was due to net sales of debt securities and valuation adjustments, partially offset by new borrowings. External debt as a percentage of GDP decreased to 30.3%, while the debt service ratio improved to 8.3% from 11.5% a year earlier.
The German Bundesbank's monthly statistics reveal a significant increase in bond market activity in January 2026, with gross issuance reaching EUR 156.2bn. The stock of domestic debt securities rose by EUR 49.5bn, while foreign securities outstanding in Germany increased by EUR 29.0bn. Net issuance was driven by the public sector and domestic credit institutions, with non-residents being the main buyers of German debt securities.
The Federal Reserve Board executed consent prohibition orders against two former bank employees for alleged misconduct involving funds. Cassandra Grayson of Equity Bank, Kansas, was implicated in embezzling bank funds, while Sandra Adams of First State Bank, Illinois, was involved in misappropriating customer funds.
The Ukraine National Commission on Securities and Stock Market outlined its digital financial reporting strategy, emphasizing integrating International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) into XBRL. This approach, coordinated with national bodies, aims to enhance data comparability and facilitate large-scale analysis for investment and regulatory purposes. XBRL filing is mandatory for entities using IFRS, with the IFRS taxonomy providing a comprehensive data structure.
The Ukraine National Commission on Securities and Stock Market has unveiled a concept for the draft Law of Ukraine “On Financial Markets Infrastructure” to modernize capital markets infrastructure in line with European models. The framework addresses settlement systems, clearing infrastructure, central securities depository roles, and risk management mechanisms, aligning with EU law. Market participants are invited to provide feedback before the Commission finalizes the draft.
Dutch Authority for the Financial Markets chair Laura van Geest warns against regulatory reductions causing unstable "pendulum" lawmaking. She cites the rollback of EU sustainability reporting rules as crisis-driven, poor-quality regulation. Van Geest calls for tighter regulation of non-bank financial institutions to address risk migration and suggests considering Sweden's institutional approach in EU negotiations.
The South African Reserve Bank’s Financial Surveillance Department has revoked Forex World (Pty) Limited’s status as an Authorised Dealer in foreign exchange with limited authority. Forex World will be removed from relevant sections of the Currency and Exchanges Manual and associated guideline documents. This action is in accordance with the Exchange Control Regulations under Government Notice No. R.1111.
France's Financial Markets Authority (AMF) has requested Euronext to extend the suspension of RAPID NUTRITION shares due to suspected market abuse linked to a "pump-and-dump" scheme. The suspension, initially from 19 February to 13 March 2026, may be extended to 10 April 2026 for further analysis. The AMF advises investors to remain cautious and submit any relevant evidence of aggressive sales tactics.