The Bank of Italy released a speech by Managing Director Gian Luca Trequattrini on "Banking consolidation: competition, stability and innovation," presented at the Italian Antitrust Association conference in Rome. The speech text is available in Italian.
The Reserve Bank of India amended its Non-Banking Financial Companies – Miscellaneous Directions to establish a private placement framework for the National Urban Co-operative Finance and Development Corporation Limited (NUCFDC). This allows NUCFDC to offer equity shares privately to over 200 persons annually, subject to conditions including a board-approved resource planning policy and restrictions on loan activities. The directions are effective immediately and will remain until March 31, 2029, unless altered by the Reserve Bank.
The Croatian National Bank hosted a visit by Single Resolution Board members to discuss the Croatian banking system's situation and resolution issues. The visit included meetings with leading Croatian banks' management board presidents.
The Japan Financial Services Agency released materials for the 69th Financial Trouble Liaison and Coordination Council, focusing on the implementation of complaint-handling and dispute-resolution processes by designated institutions. The documents include data on consultations, complaints, and disputes, as well as trends and efforts to improve user satisfaction.
The Belgium Financial Services and Markets Authority has suspended trading in EKOPAK NV financial instruments on Euronext Brussels at the company's request. Trading was halted on 26 February 2026 at 14:36 CET and will remain suspended until a press release is issued.
The National Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic has fined a group of Kyrgyz citizens KGS 17,500 each. The individuals were identified by initials in the official notice.
The National Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic suspended the exchange bureau licences of BelNur LLC and Arsen Exchange LLC from 24 to 28 February 2026. The suspension was due to violations of Kyrgyz legislation and National Bank regulations.
The National Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic conducted a financial literacy lecture at A. Abdykerimov secondary school in Naryn district, focusing on savings, money management, and financial fraud. The session also included guidance on using the Tunduk application for managing loan self-bans.
The French Financial Markets Authority (AMF) released a supervisory synthesis on investment service providers' integration of clients' sustainability preferences under MiFID II and revised ESMA guidelines. The review of five providers revealed significant deficiencies, despite efforts to address sustainability preferences. The AMF identified good practices, like mandatory adviser training, and poor practices, such as inadequate final assessments and unclear criteria for client profiling.
Japan Financial Services Agency ordered Wilco Holdings Co., Ltd. to pay a JPY 27 million administrative surcharge due to false statements in securities reports, as recommended by the Securities and Exchange Surveillance Commission. The order follows trial proceedings and a draft decision under the Financial Instruments and Exchange Act.
The Japan Financial Services Agency has ordered an overseas-resident individual investor to pay a JPY 2,810,000 surcharge for market manipulation involving an unlisted share of Daheiyo Metals Co., Ltd. This decision follows a recommendation from the Securities and Exchange Surveillance Commission and was adjudicated by a three-judge panel under Article 185-6 of the Financial Instruments and Exchange Act.
The Bank of Japan's working paper analyzes how supply constraints affect Japan's inflation, noting tighter labor and material supplies elevate inflation through persistent cost channels and nonlinear effects. Ongoing constraints and accommodative financial conditions have raised inflation expectations, with further labor tightening potentially intensifying future pressures. Technological progress and improved labor mobility are suggested to alleviate these constraints.
The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) issued a supervisory briefing to harmonize algorithmic trading supervision under MiFID II across the EU. It provides National Competent Authorities with tools and expectations for supervising firms, addressing pre-trade controls, governance, testing frameworks, and AI-related risks. As a nonbinding tool, it complements existing requirements and may be updated as market and technological developments evolve.
The Central Bank of the Republic of Kosovo released January 2026 commercial banking statistics, showing total assets at EUR 9.61 billion, a 1.05% decrease from December. Gross loans were EUR 6.65 billion, and customer deposits stood at EUR 7.75 billion, both slightly declined. New loans issued amounted to EUR 173.48 million with a 6.90% interest rate, while new deposits totaled EUR 181.66 million at a 3.46% interest rate, resulting in a loan-to-deposit ratio of 85.90%.
The Central Bank of Cyprus reported a net decrease of EUR 851.2 million in total deposits for January 2026, reducing the outstanding stock to EUR 56.9 billion, with the annual rate of change easing to 5.3%. Total loans increased by EUR 76.4 million to EUR 26.9 billion, with the annual rate of change rising to 11.2%. Notably, deposits from Cyprus residents fell by EUR 767.7 million, while loans to residents increased by EUR 124.2 million.
The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission will hold a roundtable on March 4 to discuss private market valuations and "responsible retailization" as retail investor access to alternative investments increases. The event will explore the migration of private-market asset classes into publicly offered vehicles and fund governance issues related to retail investor exposure. SEC Division of Investment Management officials will moderate, with industry and professional services panelists.
The Bank of England's Court of Directors approved the Business Case for the Monetary Policy Transformation Programme and governance actions, including senior staffing appointments. The Court received a positive National Audit Office review of the RTGS Renewal Programme, highlighting effective management and partnership with Accenture. Updates were also provided on UK retail payments infrastructure priorities and the establishment of a Retail Payments Infrastructure Board.
The Bank of England has disclosed previously redacted extracts from its 2023 Court of Directors minutes, detailing governance on technology transformation, major change programmes, staff culture, remuneration, and finances. This includes approvals for the Cloud Programme, Personal Financial Transactions policy, technology investment budgeting, finance systems modernisation, and Ernst & Young's appointment as external auditor.
The Japan Financial Services Agency released a Q&A summary from Finance Minister Katayama's press conference, addressing US trade measures and the Japan–US agreement. Katayama highlighted Japan's monitoring of US tariff developments and the implementation of strategic investment initiatives under the agreement. He also discussed plans for a new fiscal framework to manage debt and secure resources for crisis-management investments.
The Japan Financial Services Agency released an English summary of Finance Minister Katayama’s post-Cabinet press conference, highlighting the Cabinet's decision to submit the FY8 budget proposal to the National Diet and the Prime Minister's call for cross-party cooperation. The minister refrained from commenting on the timing of enactment, emphasizing the need for cooperation to avoid disruptions. He addressed market-conduct cases, noting the unacceptability of recurring scandals and the Oversight Committee's efforts to enhance laws and regulations.
The Spanish Securities Commission (CNMV) will allow deferral of post-trade publication for certain Spanish sovereign debt transactions until the end of the trading day, under Article 11(3) of the Markets in Financial Instruments Regulation (MiFIR). This applies to Category 1 trades in liquid bonds as per EU regulations. The decision, effective 4 May 2026, aligns with the European Sovereign Debt Markets subcommittee and other national authorities.
The European Securities and Markets Authority has initiated a consultation on draft Regulatory Technical Standards for post-trade risk reduction services to qualify for an exemption from the European Market Infrastructure Regulation 3 clearing obligation for over-the-counter derivatives. The standards address transparency, algorithm safeguards, execution, controls, and monitoring for PTRR services, focusing on compression, portfolio rebalancing, and basis risk optimisation, aiming to prevent circumvention of the clearing obligation while aligning with existing market practices.
The Bank of Italy has issued a warning about fraudulent online content using the name and image of Governor Fabio Panetta, including AI-generated "deepfake" media. The central bank emphasized that this material is fabricated and has filed a complaint with judicial authorities. The public is advised to rely on official channels for authentic communications and to disregard suspicious messages.
The Dubai Financial Services Authority has amended the DFSA Rulebook to align with federal anti-money laundering legislation, effective 2 March 2026. Changes are made through the Anti-Money Laundering, Counter-Terrorist Financing and Sanctions Module (AML) Rule-Making Instrument No. 435 and the Glossary Module (GLO) Rule-Making Instrument No. 436. Detailed amendments are in the notice appendices, with updated modules available on the DFSA website.
The European Central Bank released provisional year-end data for the Eurosystem’s consolidated balance sheet as of 31 December 2025, showing total assets and liabilities of EUR 6,293,325 million, down from EUR 6,420,536 million at end-2024. Key changes include a rise in gold and gold receivables to EUR 1,274,398 million and a decline in securities of euro area residents to EUR 4,063,958 million. The final consolidated balance sheet will be published in June.
The European Central Bank released its Annual Accounts for 2025.
Mexico’s Ministry of Finance and Public Credit, via its Financial Intelligence Unit, signed an MoU with the U.S. IRS Criminal Investigation to enhance financial intelligence exchange. The agreement aims to improve detection and analysis of financial flows related to transnational crimes, particularly illicit arms trafficking, while aligning with FATF standards.
The European Central Bank's Working Paper examines how bond funds transmit monetary policy through a market-based risk-taking channel, using data from over 5,000 bond funds in the U.S. and euro area. It finds that accommodative monetary policy by the Federal Reserve and ECB leads bond funds to adopt riskier portfolios, with a stronger effect from the Fed and more pronounced for unconventional policy. The analysis uses shadow rates and instrumental-variable methods, noting a significant impact on credit quality, particularly for longer-duration portfolios.
The State Bank of Pakistan has instructed all commercial banks, including National Bank of Pakistan branches involved in customs collection, to open on 28 February 2026 to facilitate government duty and tax payments. Banks must also ensure continuous availability of digital platforms for online payments and support Special Clearing for government transactions by NIFT.
The Belgium Financial Services and Markets Authority has suspended trading of WHAT’S COOKING GROUP's financial instruments (ISIN BE0003573814) on Euronext Brussels starting 26 February 2026 at 08:30 CET, pending a press release.
The Australian Securities & Investments Commission (ASIC) has cancelled Private Wealth Pty Ltd’s Australian financial services licence following payments by the Compensation Scheme of Last Resort for unpaid Australian Financial Complaints Authority determinations. The cancellation, triggered by mandatory rules, requires Private Wealth to maintain AFCA membership until 5 February 2027 to allow for complaint lodgement.
Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) announced initiatives to enhance banks' climate risk management and sustainable finance, including the Indonesia–UK Strategic Partnership Working Group on Climate Financing. OJK released the Climate Risk and Banking Resilience Assessment, developed with the Australian government and Prospera, and the Indonesia Banking Sustainability Maturity Report 2025. The Indonesia Climate Banking Forum aims to coordinate authorities and the financial industry for sustainable policy direction.
The National Bank of Denmark reported that Danish private customers' net interest expenses before tax rose to DKK 65.4 billion in 2025, an increase of DKK 1.8 billion from 2024. This rise was due to a larger drop in interest earned on deposits compared to the decline in interest paid on loans. The average interest rate on deposits fell by 0.69 percentage points, while loan rates decreased by 0.31 percentage points, with the net interest burden increasing as debt grew slightly more than deposits.
The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) announced a review of financial advice licensees using lead generation services, warning of potential enforcement actions for inappropriate superannuation switching practices. ASIC's update highlighted findings from its Review of SMSF establishment advice, revealing compliance failures in 62 out of 100 retail client files, and emphasized the need for improved complaint reporting and outsourcing governance. ASIC urged licensees to enhance breach reporting controls and risk management to fulfill their obligations.
The International Monetary Fund published a "Cabo Verde: Selected Issues" paper analyzing the country's monetary policy setting and transmission, focusing on the central bank policy rate and its impact on long-term interest rates and the financial services sector. The 39-page study employs econometric analysis to explore interest rate policy and the monetary transmission mechanism.
The International Monetary Fund released the 2025 Article IV consultation materials for Cabo Verde, highlighting strong growth and stable macroeconomic conditions amid climate risks and global uncertainties. Economic growth is projected at 5.2% in 2025, with stable inflation around 2% and adequate international reserves. The report also notes upcoming legislative and presidential elections in 2026.
The Central Bank of the Republic of Kosovo reported January 2026 financial statistics for non-bank financial institutions, including other financial intermediaries, insurance companies, and pension funds. Other financial intermediaries' assets rose to EUR 755.97m, with gross loans at EUR 557.81m, while insurance companies' assets increased to EUR 363.87m. Pension fund assets reached EUR 3.86bn, primarily in shares and equity securities.
The Central Bank of Iraq has achieved a milestone in reforming commercial and Islamic banks, with all banks submitting documents for review under three tracks: independent operation, merger, or market exit. Additionally, the Central Bank launched an initiative to enhance private banks' capacity for international trade by allowing eligible banks to resume cross-border transactions and issue documentary credits in multiple foreign currencies.
The Seychelles Financial Services Authority has terminated the accreditation of Mr. Matthew Sai Leung Choi as the representative of NAGM(S) Limited, effective 23 January 2026, under section 4(1)(m) of the Financial Services Authority Act, 2013.
Senate Banking Committee Chairman Tim Scott praised progress in ending debanking and removing "reputation risk" from federal supervision during a regulatory oversight hearing. He advocated for balanced regulation, emphasizing capital requirements reflecting real-world risk and modernizing thresholds. Scott highlighted priorities like supporting mortgage lending, updating prudential tailoring categories, and advancing the GENIUS Act for digital assets and stablecoins.
Senate Banking Committee Ranking Member Elizabeth Warren has initiated an inquiry into affordability, seeking details from President Donald Trump on strategies to reduce household costs and from Amazon on pricing decisions related to tariffs. Warren's letter to the President highlights inflation trends and requests explanations on cost-lowering policies and recent inflation drivers. The Amazon inquiry focuses on the impact of tariffs on pricing, potential price gouging, and the handling of tariff refunds.
The U.S. Senate Committee on Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs held a hearing where Elizabeth Warren requested an unredacted copy of World Liberty Financial's bank charter application from OCC Comptroller Jonathan Gould. Warren raised concerns about a UAE entity's 49% stake in WLF and compliance with OCC disclosure rules for principal shareholders. Gould stated he would review the request and consider providing the application to the Committee in camera.
House Financial Services Committee Chairman French Hill praised Senate Majority Leader John Thune's filing of cloture on the Housing for the 21st Century Act, emphasizing the need for Senate-House collaboration to pass a bipartisan housing bill. The House approved the bill on February 9, 2026, following its introduction by Hill and others after hearings on housing supply constraints.
The Central Bank of Costa Rica has introduced a new Dynamic Financial Conditions Index (ICFD) to replace the existing Financial Conditions Index (ICF) in its publications. The ICFD, which includes 24 financial variables, uses a dynamic factor method to better capture persistence and reduce short-term volatility. Historical data from January 2000 will be available on the central bank's website, with the ICFD showing a correlation between declines and increased GDP growth and inflation.
The Algeria Market Authority has registered Crédit Populaire d’Algérie and Tell Markets as stock exchange promoters under COSOB Regulation 23-04.
The European Banking Authority (EBA) will start EU-level central validation of the ISDA Standard Initial Margin Model (SIMM) on 1 March 2026, as required by the amended European Market Infrastructure Regulation. The EBA's Decision details the operational framework, including onboarding procedures, governance, and cooperation with competent authorities and ISDA. Counterparties will be contacted for staged onboarding, with SIMM validation applications expected to begin in August 2026 and the first validation decision anticipated in Q4 2026.
Peru's Superintendency of the Securities Market (SMV) released its 2026–2028 Digital Government Plan, outlining its institutional digital strategy. The plan is being shared internally and through external channels, including SMV social media and the Gob.pe platform.
The Bank of Lithuania's January 2026 data shows a significant monthly decline in household deposits, while lending to households and non-financial corporations increased. Interest rates on new term deposits decreased for both households and corporates, with household loan rates slightly down and corporate borrowing rates rising. Transaction-adjusted deposits fell by EUR 263.1 million, driven by household and corporate declines, while loans rose by EUR 259.3 million, with notable increases in house purchase and consumption lending.
The Luxembourg CSSF updated on MiFIR transaction reporting, noting fewer supervised entities and stressing accurate reporting's importance. It received over 23 million annual reports from 2023 to 2025, emphasizing data quality monitoring and corrective measures. ESMA decided against proposing MiFIR reporting changes but seeks evidence to simplify financial transaction reporting.
The Thailand Office of Insurance Commission (OIC) briefed insurers on preparing Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) and Own Risk and Solvency Assessment (ORSA) reports under its 2025 regulatory framework. Insurers must submit annual ERM/ORSA and semi-annual risk status reports, focusing on capital adequacy and risk management. The framework aims to enhance risk policy-setting, risk appetite, and risk culture, with assessments under normal and crisis conditions.
Comptroller Jonathan V. Gould outlined the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency's priorities to the U.S. Senate, focusing on risk-based supervision and addressing alleged debanking. The agenda includes reproposing the Basel III capital rule, potential Community Reinvestment Act changes, BSA/AML modernization, and supporting bank charter applications and AI technology use. The OCC is reviewing large banks' activities under President Trump's Executive Order on Fair Banking and has proposed removing reputation risk from supervision.
The Portuguese Insurance Regulator (ASF) shared remarks by President Gabriel Bernardino at the 11th National Congress of Insurance Agents and Brokers, outlining ASF's strategic priorities in insurance intermediation regulation and supervision. The speech emphasized addressing protection gaps in Portuguese society, particularly in retirement provision and natural catastrophe protection, highlighting insurance intermediaries' role in mitigating these gaps.
Dr. Kevin Greenidge of the Central Bank of Barbados presented at the Barbados Police Service's Annual Grand Conference, highlighting the link between national security and economic performance. He emphasized that professional policing boosts confidence, investment, productivity, and growth, proposing an evidence-based framework for modern policing aligned with stability, fairness, and opportunity.
The Central Bank of Slovenia hosted an event on "Stablecoins and their impact on financial stability," engaging stakeholders from public and private sectors. Discussions focused on stablecoins' effects on users, financial institutions, and businesses, alongside regulatory frameworks and security issues. The event also addressed broader innovations in payments and digital finance, including tokenised central bank money and private cryptoassets.
The Securities Commission of the Republic of Serbia has signed the international Administrative arrangement for personal data transfer between European Economic Area (EEA) and non-EEA authorities. This arrangement aims to ensure lawful and secure data transfers in line with EU data protection standards for capital market supervision. The International Organization of Securities Commissions (IOSCO) lists the signatories on its website.
The National Bank of Serbia announced that NIS Petrol a.d. is offering a RSD 5 per litre discount on fuel purchases at NIS Petrol and Gazprom stations when paid via the "IPS show" method in a bank's mobile app. The discount applies to various payment methods, including standard and self-service checkouts, and the Drive.Go app. Merchants accepting instant payments benefit from reduced fees.
Türkiye's Insurance and Private Pension Regulation and Supervision Agency issued a circular for premium discounts on compulsory motor third-party liability insurance for individuals in the National Disability Data System. Discounts vary by premium step and exclude taxis, minibuses, and buses. Eligibility is verified through identity matching or a disability ID card, with implementation overseen by the Insurance Information and Monitoring Center.
The Central Bank of Russia's January 2026 update reports a seasonal slowdown in corporate credit and continued growth in household lending, with a typical January drawdown in household deposits. Banking-sector profit increased to RUB 394 billion, though overall financial performance was reduced by a negative revaluation of securities. Corporate lending contracted by 0.4%, while outstanding mortgages and consumer loans grew by 0.9%.
Ukraine’s National Commission on Securities and Stock Market, supported by the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development and Ernst & Young, has developed a concept for a draft Law on Financial Market Infrastructure. The initiative aims to align Ukraine's capital markets infrastructure with EU norms, proposing a unified legislative framework and a pilot mode for distributed ledger technology. The concept will soon be open for public discussion.
The Zimbabwe Insurance and Pensions Commission has launched a monthly podcast series, IPEC Forum, to enhance public understanding of insurance and pensions. The series will cover regulatory developments, consumer protection, and industry trends, featuring Commissioner Dr. Grace Muradzikwa and other experts. The inaugural episode will premiere on 27 February, discussing regulatory priorities and reforms.
The Malta Financial Services Authority hosted the MFSA Insurance Conference 2026, focusing on insurance-sector regulatory changes and launching a consultation paper on Solvency II and the Insurance Recovery and Resolution Directive (IRRD). Senior MFSA officials, including Head of Insurance and Pensions Supervision Ray Schembri, emphasized the consultation as a key tool for industry input. Contributions from European authorities addressed cross-border supervision, simplification, proportionality, and passporting for insurers in Europe.
Comptroller Jonathan V. Gould outlined the OCC's priorities to the U.S. Senate, focusing on risk-based oversight, addressing alleged debanking, and regulatory reform. The OCC is reviewing large national banks' activities and investigating debanking complaints, with a proposed rule to remove "reputation risk" from supervision. The agenda includes Basel III capital rulemaking, Community Reinvestment Act improvements, BSA/AML modernization, and innovation through the GENIUS Act for payment stablecoins.
The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) outlined priorities for UK wholesale markets, emphasizing market integrity enforcement and rule changes to reduce friction. Key actions include increased prosecutions for market abuse, a GBP 27.7m fine on Citigroup for operational failures, and reforms in commodities markets, fixed income, and derivatives. The FCA is also consulting on an equities consolidated tape, T+1 settlement, and digital asset regulation, with plans to release a crypto framework in summer 2026.
FINMA updated its sanctions notification for Sudan after changes to Switzerland’s ordinance and UN designations. The State Secretariat for Economic Affairs updated the SESAM database, requiring financial intermediaries to implement prohibitions, freeze assets, and report affected relationships. Additional clarifications are mandated under the Anti-Money Laundering Act, with reports filed if suspicions persist.
The Swiss Financial Market Supervisory Authority (FINMA) appointed an audit agent to monitor MBaer Merchant Bank AG after the US Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) designated the bank as a primary money laundering concern. FINMA's enforcement ruling is not legally binding due to a pending appeal, and FinCEN is consulting on measures under Section 311 of the USA PATRIOT Act to restrict US banks from maintaining accounts for MBaer.
The Swiss Financial Market Supervisory Authority (FINMA) updated Switzerland's sanctions on Russia and Belarus, aligning with the EU's 19th sanctions package. New measures include a ban on crypto services to Russian entities and restrictions on rouble-backed cryptoassets, alongside expanded trade and financial prohibitions. FINMA emphasized compliance with asset freezes and reporting obligations to the State Secretariat for Economic Affairs.
The French Financial Markets Authority (AMF) released a SPOT supervision summary on how investment service providers incorporate clients' sustainability preferences. This aligns with the AMF's "Impact 2027" strategic priorities and supports Europe-wide supervisory actions by the European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA).
The Central Bank of Colombia released a document on Bre-B, the interoperable instant payments system. Since its October 2025 launch, Bre-B has achieved extensive institutional coverage and transaction volume, enhancing user experience and competition. The strategy emphasizes broad adoption, security, and scaling for new business use cases to drive further payment digitization.
The Central Bank of The Gambia’s Monetary Policy Committee cut the Monetary Policy Rate by 200 bp to 14 %, extending total easing to 300 bp since September, after inflation fell to 6.4 % in January and growth remained robust. The required-reserve ratio stays at 13 %, the standing deposit rate at 5 %, and the standing lending rate declines to 15 %, with the committee reiterating a data-driven stance.
The Central Bank of Bosnia and Herzegovina and the Agency for Statistics of Bosnia and Herzegovina signed a Memorandum of Cooperation to enhance government finance statistics. This aims to improve data quality and align Bosnia and Herzegovina’s statistical system with European Union standards. The collaboration supports the country's economic dialogue with the European Commission and Eurostat.
New York State Department of Financial Services Acting Superintendent Kaitlin Asrow highlighted DFS's priorities on affordability, innovation, and stability during a legislative hearing on Governor Hochul’s fiscal year 2027 Executive Budget. Key proposals include enhancing insurance affordability, digital safety governance, and student loan borrower protections, alongside DFS operational upgrades like expanded DFS Connect functionality and new Buy Now, Pay Later regulations. Additional initiatives focus on expanding banking services, improving health insurance access, and incorporating climate data into insurance filings.
Senator Elizabeth Warren criticized U.S. banking regulators for not investigating executives potentially linked to Jeffrey Epstein's crimes, urging them to announce an investigation by March 12, 2026. She referenced legal standards under 12 U.S.C. § 1818 for potential removal or penalties and highlighted the Department of Justice's document release as grounds for further scrutiny. Warren also called for congressional hearings on the matter.
Senate Banking Committee Ranking Member Elizabeth Warren has requested documents from the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency, the FDIC, and Erebor Bank founder Palmer Luckey about the rapid approval of Erebor Bank’s national charter and deposit insurance. Concerns exist about political influence, with Warren warning that if granted as a political favor, the charter may need termination. Warren's inquiry follows reports that Erebor's investors, including Trump administration donors, expected expedited approval through political connections.
The National Bank of Bulgaria, Deutsche Bundesbank, the European Commission, and other European central banks have launched the third phase of an EU-funded programme for Western Balkans EU candidate countries. This three-year programme, financed by IPA III, aims to enhance institutional capacity by improving policy tools and supporting international and European standards adoption. Activities include regional training on AML/CFT, cyber risks, database management, digital transformation, and AI, along with targeted bilateral initiatives.
The World Federation of Exchanges released a guide for issuers on accessing transition finance, focusing on debt offerings and emerging equity options. It provides guidance on suitable instruments for various business models and outlines steps to enhance eligibility, such as developing strategic transition plans and adhering to global standards. A webinar featuring Nasdaq and the UK Transition Finance Council will be held on 9 March 2026 to discuss the guide.
The International Association of Insurance Supervisors released the final Application Paper on operational resilience, detailing steps for insurers and supervisors to apply Insurance Core Principles. The IAIS announced three new signatories to its Multilateral Memorandum of Understanding, now totaling 90, and published member-only tools on AI governance and supervisory technology. Upcoming initiatives include webinars and an analytical report on insurance outsourcing to third parties.
The Bank for International Settlements' Committee on Payments and Market Infrastructures (CPMI) released an updated report on harmonised ISO 20022 data requirements for cross-border payments, advancing the G20 roadmap. The update refines guidance to enhance consistent implementation, reduce fragmentation, and improve interoperability. A joint panel will support maintenance and global adoption of these requirements until at least the end of 2027.
The Financial and Consumer Services Commission of New Brunswick announced a free webinar series for Fraud Prevention Month to help residents identify AI-enabled fraud, following reports of over CAD 6.2 million lost to investment scams in 2025. The sessions will cover scam operations and warning signs, with additional resources including online guides and an email alert subscription for fraud notices. The Commission noted that only five per cent of fraud is reported, according to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.
The Croatian National Bank hosted a visit by Single Resolution Board members to discuss developments and resolution matters in the Croatian banking system. The program, led by Vicegovernor Michael Faulend and Lidija Pranjic, included meetings with management of leading Croatian banks under SRB's remit, focusing on system risks and resolution issues.
FDIC Chairman Travis Hill testified on streamlining supervision and focusing on material financial risks, including reviewing "unsafe or unsound practice" definitions and establishing an independent Office of Supervisory Appeals. Key changes include raising the continuous examination threshold to USD 30 billion, modifying capital requirements, and proposing a payment stablecoin issuance framework. The FDIC is also reforming Bank Secrecy Act AML/CFT obligations with other agencies.
The U.S. Treasury’s Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) proposed cutting off MBaer Merchant Bank AG’s access to the U.S. financial system due to alleged support for illicit actors linked to Russia and Iran. FinCEN identified MBaer as a primary money laundering concern, proposing "special measure five" under section 311 of the USA PATRIOT Act. The bank is accused of facilitating over USD 100 million in illicit finance, including activities linked to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.
Saudi Arabia’s Capital Markets Authority approved Dinar Investment Company’s public offering of the Dinar US Equity Fund. The regulator emphasized the importance of reviewing the fund's terms and conditions due to potential high risks and clarified that its approval confirms compliance with legal requirements, not a subscription recommendation.
The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) mandates all SEBI-regulated entities and their agents to disclose their registered name and registration number on securities market-related content posted on social media. This requirement, effective May 1, 2026, aims to help investors identify content from SEBI-regulated sources.
The Central Bank of San Marino has alerted the Judicial Authority about a fraudulent website, bdtitano.com, falsely promoting banking services under the name "Banca del Titano." Banca del Titano is not registered or authorised to conduct banking activities in San Marino. The central bank advises savers to verify the authorisation of entities offering financial services by consulting the Register of Authorised Persons.
The National Bank of Moldova is drafting an Executive Committee decision to implement EU cross-border payment regulations, aligning with Moldova's EU accession commitments for 2025–2029. This initiative supports the application of Regulation (EU) 2021/1230 upon accession.
Deputy Governor Constantin Schendra of the National Bank of Moldova highlighted the importance of financial education for a sustainable business environment at the “Business Smart Education” conference. Attended by financial, academic, and business representatives from Romania and Moldova, the event discussed bank lending to small and medium-sized enterprises, tailored credit policies, and diversified financing solutions. The National Bank of Moldova reaffirmed its commitment to supporting entrepreneurship through a stable financial ecosystem.
The Bank of Greece reported Q4 2025 statistics for supervised insurance corporations, noting a 0.9% increase in total assets to EUR 22,064 million and a rise in total insurance technical reserves to EUR 16,056 million. Deposits grew to EUR 558 million, while debt securities holdings decreased, reducing their asset share to 48.2%. Investment fund shares increased to EUR 7,373 million, and life technical reserves rose to EUR 12,529 million, 78.0% of total reserves.
The Bank of Greece reported a slowdown in annual growth rates for bank credit and deposits in January 2026, with a shift to net monthly outflows. Total credit to the domestic economy grew 4.9% year on year, while total deposits grew 5.3%; however, on a monthly net flow basis, total credit fell by EUR 2,460 million and total deposits by EUR 4,845 million. The private sector drove the credit contraction, with corporate credit growth slowing and a decline in corporate deposits.
The Central Bank of Luxembourg has joined Phase III of the European System of Central Banks' capacity-building programme for Western Balkans central banks, funded by the EU's Instrument for Pre-Accession Assistance. Coordinated by Deutsche Bundesbank, the three-year initiative focuses on institutional capacity strengthening, covering AML/CFT, cybersecurity, and digital transformation. Luxembourg's experts will contribute to nine training seminars and participate in bilateral measures with the Bank of Albania and the Central Bank of Kosovo.
The National Bank of Georgia has launched Georgian Government Bond Indices, now available on Bloomberg L.P. and Intercontinental Exchange's index portal. These indices offer benchmarks for monitoring Georgian government bond performance and support fund benchmarking and index-based product structuring. Seven indices, including the ICE Georgia Government Index and maturity-segmented indices, were developed following an IMF recommendation.
The Central Bank of Russia and the Federal Antimonopoly Service reminded credit institutions that borrowers can choose or change insurers during a loan term without bank influence. Banks must notify clients within seven business days if a policy is acceptable and simplify insurer accreditation, accepting those with credit ratings up to A-. If refusal leads to a higher interest rate, borrowers can submit another policy to potentially restore the original rate.
The Ukraine National Commission on Securities and Stock Market (NSSMC) has formalized an order to monitor the professional suitability of key individuals in capital and commodity markets, excluding banks. This measure establishes the operating framework for the Commission for the Control of Professional Suitability, detailing interview procedures and assessment topics.
The Ukraine National Commission on Securities and Stock Market met with investment firms, banks, and pension funds to discuss reviving the municipal bond market and introducing personal investment accounts. A pilot project for municipal bond issuance in large cities is under consideration, with market participants interested in alternatives to government bonds and the "combat capital" concept. Key stakeholders, including TAS+, Privatbank, and ICU, agreed to collaborate on practical implementation.
The National Bank of Ukraine has extended the FX settlement deadline for certain export transactions from 180 to 270 days, effective 28 February 2026. This change, applicable to exports of agricultural and specialised machinery, aims to support exports and the machine-building sector while maintaining foreign currency inflows. The amendment follows government proposals and consultations with the Ministry of Economy, Environment and Agriculture.
The Central Bank of Ireland's Regulatory & Supervisory Outlook 2026 highlights high operational, asset valuation, and market risks, with reduced inflation and interest rate risks. It emphasizes supervisory priorities like operational and cyber resilience, consumer protection, and technological adaptation, aiming to enhance regulatory efficiency through an integrated supervisory approach and improved gatekeeping processes.
Angola's Ministry of Finance highlighted the Insurance Mediation and Brokerage Law as a key component of financial-sector reform, aiming to enhance professional standards and consumer protection. Insurance penetration is currently at 0.6% of GDP, with significant growth potential. ARSEG’s chair emphasized the need for sustained reform implementation, focusing on ethics, transparency, and responsible innovation.
The Brazilian Pension Funds Authority (PREVIC) has introduced a new protocol for licensing requests, integrating the Entity and Plan Registry and the National Registry of Directors into the CADPREVIC system. From 1 March, four licensing applications must be filed exclusively through the Govbr portal, with the "Acesso" system managing credential access. Existing requests filed through SEI will continue to be processed without duplication in Govbr.
The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) issued a scam alert about fraudulent websites, fake internet banking login screens, and phishing emails affecting banks like The Bank of East Asia and OCBC Bank (Hong Kong). The HKMA stressed that banks won't send messages with transaction links or request sensitive information via phone, email, or SMS. Affected individuals should contact their bank and report to the Hong Kong Police Force's Crime Wing Information Centre.
The European Banking Federation and sector representatives urge the European Commission to address financial regulation's impact on real estate lending, linking it to EU housing affordability issues. They warn that evolving prudential requirements, including CRR3 and the output floor, could increase capital requirements for low-risk residential real estate and limit banks' lending capacity. The letter calls for preserving and extending transitional provisions under Article 465(5) of the Capital Requirements Regulation.
The European Banking Authority (EBA) opposed the European Commission's proposed amendments to draft Regulatory Technical Standards under the Capital Requirements Regulation. The EBA argues that increasing the maximum eligible risk weight from 20% to 30% and removing the requirement for a completion guarantee mandated by Member State law would weaken prudential safeguards and reduce legal certainty. The Commission's notification on 9 January 2026 triggered the EBA's obligation to respond under Article 10(1) of Regulation (EU) No 1093/2010.