-
2026-02-23•Ghana•Bank of Ghana
Bank of Ghana Governor Dr. Johnson Pandit Asiama highlighted foreign exchange guidelines under the Foreign Exchange Act, 2006, aimed at streamlining market operations and enhancing transparency. The engagement with the UK-Ghana Chamber of Commerce clarified these directives and gathered feedback. Asiama linked the directives to broader policies, noting inflation reduction from 23.8% in December 2024 to 3.8% in January 2026 and improved financial conditions.
Policy & regulation Guidance & interpretation Other
-
2026-02-23•Mexico•CONDUSEF
Mexico's CONDUSEF reported MXN 68.5 million recovered for users in Chihuahua from 2025 complaints, with 46.1% favorable outcomes. Most complaints involved unrecognized transactions and possible fraud, with commercial banks accounting for 56.0%. CONDUSEF emphasized its free procedures and warned against intermediaries charging fees.
Supervision Risk monitoring & watch points Complaints and dispute resolution
-
2026-02-23•Bulgaria•Ministry of Finance (Bulgaria)
Bulgaria's Ministry of Finance outlined priorities for introducing the euro, emphasizing consumer protection and coordination with regulators to prevent speculative price increases. Finance Minister Georgi Klisurski described the transition as a gradual process aimed at building public confidence, with ongoing regulatory inspections to ensure compliance. Deputy ministers will join Coordination Centre meetings to expedite the process.
Policy & regulation Reform agendas & priorities Currency and cash management
-
2026-02-23•Slovenia•Slovenia Securities Market Agency
The Slovenia Securities Market Agency has outlined the timeline and key milestones for incorporating a real estate investment company and conducting a public offering and trading of its shares. This aligns interlinked procedures requiring sequential agency decisions. The company is a special form of alternative investment fund focused on real estate, managed by an authorised fund manager, and subject to capital markets and prospectus regulations.
Policy & regulation Guidance & interpretation Securities offerings and listings
-
2026-02-23•Slovenia•Slovenia Securities Market Agency
The Slovenia Securities Market Agency has set up a test reporting environment for entities offering individual investment accounts under the new Law on Individual Investment Accounts (ZINR). Providers must be authorized and entered into a new public register, with a production reporting environment launching on 27 February 2026. Eligible providers include Slovenian and EU investment firms, management companies, and certain banks.
Policy & regulation Implementation, projects & pilots Regulatory sandbox
-
2026-02-23•Moldova•National Bank of Moldova
The National Bank of Moldova released January 2026 statistics on the non-cash foreign exchange market, detailing banks' foreign currency transactions against the Moldovan leu (MDL). The report highlights significant spot transaction volumes, with interbank and intrabank markets showing substantial EUR and USD activity, while swap activity was minimal and no forward transactions occurred. Data is from banks' regulatory reports and converted to EUR using monthly average exchange rates.
Data & statistics Currency and cash management
-
2026-02-23•Moldova•National Bank of Moldova
The National Bank of Moldova disclosed its January 2026 foreign exchange market activity, reporting spot sales of EUR 2.0 million and swap purchases equivalent to EUR 9.363 million, with no forward transactions. Spot transactions impact the money supply, while swaps are reversible and do not affect long-term supply. Transactions are reported in euros using monthly average exchange rates, with swap volumes calculated as a daily weighted average.
Data & statistics Foreign exchange policy and markets
-
2026-02-23•Moldova•National Bank of Moldova
The National Bank of Moldova, with the International Finance Corporation and Ceres, held an online session on climate risk impacts on Moldova's insurance sector. Experts from the U.S., EU, and the region discussed how climate risks affect insurance markets and regulatory expectations, noting significant natural-disaster losses. This training is part of a broader capacity-building initiative under the IFC Sustainable Finance Project in Moldova.
Institutional development Cooperation & capacity building Climate risk and sustainable finance
-
2026-02-23•Isle of Man•Isle of Man Financial Services Authority
The Isle of Man Financial Services Authority will conduct a thematic review on compliance with countering the financing of terrorism, starting on-site inspections in April. The review will evaluate adherence to the Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism Code 2019 over 12–18 months, using existing data to minimize industry burden. The project aims to assess how entities manage terrorism financing and sanctions risks, while identifying best practices.
Supervision Reviews, inspections & stress tests
-
2026-02-23•Georgia•National Bank of Georgia
The National Bank of Georgia met with financial institutions to discuss accessing China's bond market for reserve diversification. It plans to allocate 5% of reserves to CNY-denominated instruments. The meeting highlighted the yuan's growing international role and referenced similar investments by Japan, Australia, Switzerland, and the European Central Bank.
Monetary policy Monetary policy framework & strategy Market development
-
2026-02-23•Netherlands•De Nederlandsche Bank
De Nederlandsche Bank published a speech by Olaf Sleijpen highlighting Europe's need to enhance resilience, economic growth, and stability, focusing on Ukraine's potential EU membership. Sleijpen emphasized DNB's contingency planning efforts and linked Europe's resilience agenda to challenges like climate risk and technological change. He advocated for Ukraine's EU membership, citing benefits such as increased defence capabilities and market expansion, while acknowledging the complexities of such enlargement.
Policy & regulation Reform agendas & priorities Cross-border cooperation
-
2026-02-23•Malta•Malta Financial Services Authority
The Malta Financial Services Authority, with the European Commission, OECD, and Malta’s Ministry for Finance, hosted a workshop on Maltese retail investors' financial literacy. The survey showed literacy above the OECD average, but uneven investment knowledge and participation due to fear of loss and limited income. The MFSA will use these findings to enhance consumer awareness and market participation.
Research Financial literacy and education
-
2026-02-23•Brazil•Brazilian Pension Funds Authority (PREVIC)
The Brazilian Pension Funds Authority (PREVIC) announced "Conexões PREVIC", a webinar series on changes to Resolution PREVIC 23/2023, as amended by Resolution PREVIC 26/2025. The five-part series will cover integrity, governance, supervision, ESG investments, and licensing procedures for closed pension entities. Sessions will stream on PREVIC’s YouTube channel, with questions addressed during presentations.
Policy & regulation Guidance & interpretation Other
-
2026-02-23•Europe•European Banking Authority
The European Banking Authority's follow-up peer review highlights improvements in EU authorities' ICT risk assessment within the Supervisory Review and Evaluation Process, attributed to the Digital Operational Resilience Act. Despite progress, the report calls for further investment to ensure consistent ICT risk supervision across the EU. It urges authorities to fully integrate ICT risk methodologies and enhance supervisory convergence and operational resilience.
Supervision Peer reviews and country evaluations Operational risk and resilience
-
2026-02-23•Hong Kong•Hong Kong Monetary Authority
The Hong Kong Monetary Authority issued a scam alert about fraudulent websites, phishing emails, and fake internet banking screens targeting Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (Asia) Limited customers. The HKMA emphasized that banks will not request sensitive information or direct customers to websites via embedded hyperlinks. Affected individuals should contact their bank and report to the Hong Kong Police Force's Crime Wing Information Centre.
Supervision Alerts Fraud and scams
-
2026-02-23•Europe•Single Resolution Board
The Single Resolution Board has released updated operational guidance for banks on separability and transferability, aligning with resolvability self-assessment requirements. The guidance simplifies sections, applies greater proportionality, and includes a manual for transfer playbooks to address execution risks. It aims to support banks in demonstrating expected capabilities without introducing new deliverables.
Policy & regulation Guidance & interpretation Recovery and resolution
-
2026-02-23•Italy•Italian Institute for Insurance Supervision (IVASS)
The Italian Institute for Insurance Supervision (IVASS) updated on the liquidation of FWU Life Insurance Lux S.A., noting that proof of claim submissions are being processed without automatic receipt acknowledgements. Creditors must register on the liquidator’s portal for updates and are advised to use Electronic Identity Cards for claims, as Italian paper IDs will be invalid from 3 August 2026. Further process details will be provided later.
Supervision Interventions Other
-
2026-02-23•Philippines•Philippine Securities and Exchange Commission
The Philippine SEC ordered Myloan Lending Investors, Inc. to stop coercive debt collection tactics and fined PHP 50,000 for a second SEC rules violation. The company breached SEC Memorandum Circular No. 18 (Series of 2019) and related regulations under Republic Act No. 11765. Further violations could lead to severe penalties, including suspension or revocation of the company's certificate of authority.
Enforcement Investigations & enforcement actions Consumer and investor protection
-
2026-02-23•Tajikistan•National Bank of the Republic of Tajikistan
The National Bank of the Republic of Tajikistan has licensed Babr Capital, a limited liability small deposit-taking credit organisation, to conduct banking operations in national and foreign currency. This authorization aligns with Tajikistan’s laws on the National Bank, microfinance organisations, and the licensing system.
Supervision Authorisations & approvals Other
-
2026-02-23•Uganda•Bank of Uganda
The Bank of Uganda extended the deadline for Regulated Financial Service Providers to update Know Your Customer practices and transact only with licensed Registered Societies or Savings and Credit Cooperative Societies (SACCOs) to 30 September 2026. This extension aims to facilitate further stakeholder engagement and allow eligible SACCOs, defined by specific savings and capital thresholds, more time to prepare licensing documentation. The Bank emphasized that stakeholder feedback may lead to changes in regulatory oversight.
Policy & regulation Rules & requirements Licensing framework and process
-
2026-02-23•Albania•Albania Financial Services Authority
The Albania Financial Services Authority and the Association of Life Insurance Companies, Pensions and Investment Funds discussed aligning Albania’s non-bank financial regulatory framework with EU standards. The focus was on transposing the EU acquis under Chapter 9 “Financial Services” to enhance risk management and consumer protection. The parties agreed to continue consultations to support regulatory harmonisation and effective supervision.
Policy & regulation International standards & recommendations Cross-border cooperation
-
2026-02-23•Pakistan•Securites & Exchange Commission of Pakistan
The Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan clarified that media reports misinterpreted its data on foreign companies ceasing operations, noting that the figure of 125 refers to cessations since 1977. Between 2022 and 2025, 19 foreign companies ceased operations, while 79 new ones were registered. As of February 2026, 1,157 foreign companies remain registered with the SECP.
Policy & regulation Guidance & interpretation Other
-
2026-02-23•Brazil•Brazil Securities Commission (CVM)
The Brazil Securities Commission (CVM) issued a market alert and suspended public offers of securities intermediation services by Trinota Markets (Global) Limited, Harindale LTD, and Oryx Finance Limited. These firms allegedly targeted Brazilian residents without CVM authorization, claiming regulation by foreign authorities. The suspension was formalized in Declaratory Act CVM 24,852.
Supervision Alerts Unlicensed or unauthorized activity
-
2026-02-23•Iraq•Central Bank of Iraq
The Central Bank of Iraq issued a public alert regarding multiple fraud schemes targeting citizens, urging caution to avoid deception. The schemes include selling non-circulating commemorative notes as high-value currency, marketing black-coated paper as genuine currency, exchanging worthless withdrawn banknotes for Iraqi currency, and passing off reproduced or toy notes as real.
Supervision Alerts Fraud and scams
-
2026-02-23•Global•Financial Stability Board
The Financial Stability Board has launched a thematic peer review on member jurisdictions’ implementation of public sector backstop funding mechanisms for firms in resolution, focusing on temporary, last-resort funding to support orderly resolution without systemic disruption or taxpayer losses. The review will assess progress on implementing Key Attribute 6 and related guiding principles for global systemically important banks, using a questionnaire and stakeholder feedback on cross-jurisdictional liquidity vulnerabilities, backstop design and safeguards against taxpayer losses and moral hazard.
Policy & regulation Peer reviews and country evaluations Recovery and resolution
-
2026-02-23•Croatia•Croatian Financial Services Supervisory Agency
Ante Žigman, President of the Croatian Financial Services Supervisory Agency's Board, participated in an EFRI Economic Forum panel on AI and digital transformation in the public sector. Žigman stressed that management and supervisory boards remain fully responsible for business decisions, even when AI tools provide recommendations. The panel examined AI's impact on public institutions, including governance, security, and ethical challenges.
Policy & regulation Guidance & interpretation Artificial intelligence
-
2026-02-23•United Arab Emirates•Central Bank of the UAE
The Central Bank of the United Arab Emirates has issued a guidance note on consumer protection and the responsible use of artificial intelligence and machine learning by licensed financial institutions. The note outlines principles for governance, fairness, transparency, human oversight, and data privacy, aligning with the UAE's national AI strategy. It aims to balance technological advancement with consumer protection and financial stability.
Policy & regulation Guidance & interpretation Artificial intelligence
-
2026-02-23•Ukraine•Ukraine National Commission on Securities and Stock Market
At the Kyiv International Cyber Resilience Forum 2026, the Ukraine National Commission on Securities and Stock Market outlined legislative priorities for crypto-asset regulation, cyber resilience, and digital market infrastructure. Amendments to the draft law on virtual assets are expected by March 2026, with a separate draft law for the Digital Operational Resilience Act (DORA) planned for summer 2026. The Commission aims to submit a draft law on Digital Ledger Technology by end-2026 to facilitate trading in securities and virtual assets.
Policy & regulation Reform agendas & priorities Fintech and insurtech Blockchain and distributed ledger technology
-
2026-02-23•Vietnam•Vietnam State Securities Commission
The Vietnam State Securities Commission has instructed Tôn Thị Mai Vân to pay a VND 1,000,000 fee for the reissuance of a securities practice certificate, 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 the cancellation of the reissued certificate.
Supervision Authorisations & approvals Licensing and supervisory fees
-
2026-02-23•Israel•Bank of Israel
Bank of Israel’s Monetary Committee on 23 February 2026 kept the policy rate at 4.00 %, pausing after 50 bp of cuts since November, as inflation eased to 1.8 %—mid-range of its 1–3 % target—while growth and employment remained strong but Iran-related geopolitical risks intensified. The committee said future policy will hinge on inflation, economic conditions, geopolitical developments and fiscal factors.
Monetary policy Policy rate decisions Monetary policy decisions and developments
-
2026-02-23•Portugal•Bank of Portugal
The Bank of Portugal reported that non-financial sector debt rose by EUR 28.9bn in 2025 to EUR 851.3bn, though its GDP share fell by 6.2 percentage points to 277.9% due to GDP growth. Public sector debt increased by EUR 11.7bn, driven by non-resident investment in Portuguese debt securities, while private sector debt rose by EUR 17.2bn, primarily from household borrowing for housing.
Data & statistics Financial and market indicators Supervisory data
-
2026-02-23•Europe•Single Resolution Board
The Single Resolution Board will hold a technical meeting on 3 March 2026 to discuss its draft Operational Guidance for Business Reorganisation Plan Analysis Reports and a quantitative template, both under public consultation. The guidance consolidates existing requirements and aligns with Principle 7.3 of the SRB’s Expectations for Banks. The meeting aims to clarify report preparation for bail-in implementation and will be via conference call.
Policy & regulation Guidance & interpretation Recovery and resolution
-
2026-02-23•Egypt•Central Bank of Egypt
The Central Bank of Egypt reported that remittances from Egyptians abroad reached a record USD 41.5 billion in 2025, a 40.5% increase from USD 29.6 billion in 2024. In the first half of fiscal year 2025/2026, remittances rose 29.6% year-on-year to USD 22.1 billion. December 2025 saw a record monthly remittance of USD 4.0 billion, up 24.0% from December 2024.
Data & statistics Balance of payments and other external statistics
-
2026-02-23•Philippines•Philippines Insurance Commission
The Philippine Insurance Commission reported a 21.04% increase in pre-need industry net worth to PHP 33.87 billion in 2025, while net income rose 54.40% to PHP 7.96 billion. The sector held a PHP 16.03 billion surplus over required reserves, and plan sales increased 28.02% to 895,679.
Data & statistics Activity and performance reporting Capital adequacy Asset quality
-
2026-02-23•Brazil•Central Bank of Brazil
The Central Bank of Brazil has launched a new webpage for the Central Bank Economic Activity Index (IBC-Br), enhancing accessibility with visual and explanatory content. The page includes the latest IBC-Br data for December 2025 and features sectoral breakdowns and simplified explanations. Previously, IBC-Br data were available through the Time Series Management System and Excel spreadsheets.
Data & statistics Economic data and developments
-
2026-02-23•Vietnam•State Bank of Vietnam
The State Bank of Vietnam reported on a Government Standing Committee meeting led by Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, detailing post-Tet macroeconomic tasks. The central bank is to manage monetary policy proactively, coordinate with fiscal policies, support macro stability, control inflation, and monitor the gold market. Broader measures include strict spending discipline, full public investment disbursement, and a focused fiscal stance by the Ministry of Finance.
Policy & regulation Guidance & interpretation Monetary policy decisions and developments
-
2026-02-23•Vietnam•State Bank of Vietnam
Governor Nguyen Thi Hong of the State Bank of Vietnam reviewed the banking sector's performance and set 2026 expectations, emphasizing macroeconomic stability, inflation control, and currency market stability. She outlined 2026 as the start of the 2026–2030 socio-economic development plan, targeting double-digit growth and macro stability. She instructed SBV units and state banks to implement tasks from her 2026 directive, focusing on strengthening the legal framework and digital transformation in banking.
Policy & regulation Reform agendas & priorities Monetary policy decisions and developments
-
2026-02-23•Vietnam•State Bank of Vietnam
The State Bank of Vietnam (SBV) outlined its 2026 expectations during Lunar New Year visits to major credit institutions, emphasizing market stability, inflation control, risk management, technology adoption, and sustainable finance. SBV leaders urged BIDV and Agribank to enhance governance and innovation, with Agribank preparing for Basel III standards. Co-opBank and Vietnam Deposit Insurance were directed to implement SBV directives and prepare for deposit insurance law amendments effective May 2026.
Supervision Supervision approach, priorities & toolkit Leadership change and appointments
-
2026-02-23•Taiwan•Central Bank of Taiwan
The Central Bank of Taiwan released its monthly overview of renminbi (RMB) business, detailing activities by authorised domestic and offshore banking units. As of January 2026, RMB deposits totaled RMB 110.41 billion, with RMB 22.70 billion in discounts and loans, and RMB 182.63 billion in remittances for December 2025. The Taipei Branch of the Bank of China processed RMB 423 billion in settlements in January 2026.
Data & statistics Financial and market indicators
-
2026-02-23•Egypt•Central Bank of Egypt
The Central Bank of Egypt's Governor met with the Minister of Higher Education to enhance cooperation between the banking sector and educational institutions, focusing on the "Future Scholars Fund" initiative. This supports high-achieving, socially eligible students with full scholarships, funded through contributions to Account No. 7070 in Egyptian banks. The first phase has already provided scholarships to 1,953 students.
Policy & regulation Cooperation Domestic cooperation
-
2026-02-23•Egypt•Central Bank of Egypt
The Central Bank of Egypt reported that remittances from Egyptians abroad surged by 40.5% to USD 41.5 billion in 2025. In the first half of fiscal year 2025/2026, inflows increased by 29.6% to USD 22.1 billion. December 2025 saw a record-high monthly remittance of USD 4.0 billion, up 24.0% from December 2024.
Data & statistics Balance of payments and other external statistics
-
2026-02-23•South Korea•South Korea Financial Services Commission
The South Korea Financial Services Commission announced measures to reform mutual savings banks, shifting focus from real estate to a balanced, real economy-oriented model. Key reforms include regulatory changes to support SME and MME lending, adjustments to credit supply practices, and enhanced governance and soundness standards. The FSC plans to implement these changes through legislative updates and ongoing industry engagement.
Policy & regulation Rules & requirements SME financing
-
2026-02-23•Malaysia•Malaysia Securities Commission
The Malaysia Securities Commission has filed criminal charges against AUF MBZ Consortium PLT founder Datuk Wira Mahadi bin Badrul Zaman for alleged unlicensed capital market activity, and against two directors for alleged abetment. Mahadi faces charges under the Capital Markets and Services Act 2007 for activities between June 2021 and February 2024, while the directors are charged with abetment. All accused have claimed trial, with bail set at RM50,000 each, and face potential fines or imprisonment if convicted.
Enforcement Investigations & enforcement actions Unlicensed or unauthorized activity
-
2026-02-23•United States•U.S. Securities & Exchange Commission
SEC Chairman Paul S. Atkins outlined an agenda to boost IPOs and address the decline in U.S.-listed public companies, emphasizing his personal views. His strategy includes re-anchoring disclosures in materiality, refocusing shareholder meetings, and creating litigation alternatives to deter frivolous claims. Atkins supported the INVEST Act and the Empowering Main Street in America Act, highlighting proposals for IPO flexibility, modernizing investor definitions, and expanding retirement account investment options.
Policy & regulation Reform agendas & priorities Securities offerings and listings
-
2026-02-23•United States•Federal Reserve Board
The Federal Reserve Board proposed removing "reputation risk" from bank supervision and reinforcing a policy against penalizing banks for serving lawful customers. This aims to focus on material financial risks and improve clarity, emphasizing that discrimination based on political views, religious beliefs, or lawful business activities is unlawful. The change does not affect expectations for robust bank risk management and compliance with laws.
Policy & regulation Rules & requirements Supervision process and methodologies
-
2026-02-23•United States•Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas
The Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas released the third edition of “At the Heart of Texas,” detailing economic profiles of Texas' largest metropolitan areas from 2016 to 2023. The report highlights industry growth, the impact of the artificial intelligence boom on data center expansion, and varying growth drivers and constraints across metros, including migration, sector diversification, and energy sector recovery. Key themes include Dallas' expanding finance and e-commerce clusters, Houston's slower rebound, and Austin's growth from business relocations and tech services.
Research Economic data and developments
-
2026-02-22•Dominican Republic•Central Bank of the Dominican Republic
The Central Bank of the Dominican Republic reported a net increase of 133,915 workers in 2025, driven predominantly by formal employment, which constituted 98.5% of job creation. The average employment rate reached 62.9%, with a participation rate of 66.2%, while the informality rate decreased to 54.1%. In the last quarter of 2025, total employment rose by 2.3% year-on-year, with significant job growth among women and an unemployment rate of 5.0%.
Data & statistics Economic data and developments
-
2026-02-22•Global•Financial Action Task Force
The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) released its Annual Report 2024-2025, detailing efforts under the Mexican Presidency of Elisa de Anda Madrazo. Key initiatives include addressing online child sexual exploitation, terrorist financing, and proliferation financing, alongside evaluations of nearly 200 countries' counter-illicit finance systems. The report also updates payment transparency requirements and efforts to integrate more individuals into the formal financial sector.
Policy & regulation Peer reviews and country evaluations AML and CFT
-
2026-02-22•Oman•Central Bank of Oman
The Central Bank of Oman has introduced regulations for buy now, pay later (BNPL) services, establishing a supervisory framework for disciplined and transparent operations. The rules mandate licensing, capital adequacy, disclosure standards, risk management, and consumer protection for licensed institutions.
Policy & regulation Rules & requirements BNPL
-
2026-02-22•Libya•Central Bank of Libya
The Central Bank of Libya invited commercial banks to subscribe to Issue No. 5-2026 of unrestricted Mudaraba deposit certificates, following the procedures and controls used in earlier issuances and the tenors and maturity dates in the subscription announcement.
Monetary policy Monetary policy instruments & operations Other
-
2026-02-22•Middle East•Middle East and North Africa Financial Action Task Force (MENAFATF)
MENAFATF and the UN Office of Counter-Terrorism held a webinar on countering virtual assets misuse for terrorism financing. It focused on applying international standards in MENA and discussed the Algeria Guiding Principles. An online survey was introduced for MENAFATF members to share experiences for a forthcoming handbook addendum.
Policy & regulation Guidance & interpretation AML and CFT
-
2026-02-22•Egypt•Egypt Financial Regulatory Authority
The Egypt Financial Regulatory Authority mandates factoring companies to verify invoices through its electronic system to prevent duplicate financing. The digital platform, launched with eFinance, allows electronic invoice queries and verification, connecting to the Ministry of Finance and the Egyptian Tax Authority. Decision No. 51 of 2026 also requires factoring agreements to include a clause for publicising security rights in the Movable Collateral Registry.
Policy & regulation Rules & requirements Supervision process and methodologies
-
2026-02-22•Vietnam•State Bank of Vietnam
Governor Nguyen Thi Hong of the State Bank of Vietnam attended high-level meetings in Washington, D.C., discussing a Joint Declaration on Currency with the US Treasury. The delegation also met with US President Donald Trump, who pledged to remove Vietnam from the strategic export control list and recognized Vietnam's efforts to balance trade relations.
Policy & regulation Cooperation Monetary policy decisions and developments
-
2026-02-22•Palestine•Palestine Capital Market Authority
The Palestine Capital Market Authority met with the EU4B project, the European Union, and financial leasing companies to enhance leasing sector funding and support SMEs. Discussions included accessing diverse funding sources and expanding asset financing for sector sustainability. The Authority reviewed sector development, highlighting registered contracts, investments, and experiences with Italian funding initiatives.
Policy & regulation Cooperation Other
-
2026-02-22•Kuwait•Central Bank of Kuwait
The Central Bank of Kuwait has launched the seventh cycle of the Certified Sharia Auditor programme under its Kafa’a initiative to enhance Sharia supervisory governance in Islamic banks. Delivered by the Institute of Banking Studies, this mandatory programme aligns with the Bank's 2016 governance instructions and aims to build capacity in Sharia-compliant financial institutions by addressing the demand for qualified Sharia audit specialists.
Policy & regulation Implementation, projects & pilots Auditing
-
2026-02-21•Peru•Central Bank of Peru
The Central Bank of Peru reported a 6.9% year-on-year increase in the formal wage bill in December 2025, driven by a 4.1% rise in formal employment. The private-sector wage bill grew 6.1%, with notable gains in services and commerce sectors.
Data & statistics Economic data and developments
-
2026-02-21•Tanzania•Tanzania Insurance Regulatory Authority
The Tanzania Insurance Regulatory Authority (TIRA) convened with health insurance schemes in Zanzibar to emphasize the legal requirement for health facilities to be registered. Concerns were raised about higher service costs charged by health facilities compared to the National Health Insurance Fund, with suggestions for a one-stop registration centre to streamline licensing processes.
Policy & regulation Guidance & interpretation Licensing and supervisory fees
-
2026-02-21•Philippines•Philippine Securities and Exchange Commission
The Philippine Securities and Exchange Commission issued SEC Memorandum Circular No. 10, Series of 2026, detailing compliance guidelines for one person corporations (OPCs), including reportorial requirements and penalties. OPCs must appoint key officers and submit a Form of Appointment within 20 days of incorporation, with penalties for non-compliance. The circular mandates audited financial statements for OPCs with assets or liabilities over PHP 3 million and introduces a bond posting requirement for OPCs where the single stockholder is also the treasurer.
Policy & regulation Rules & requirements Compliance
-
2026-02-21•Pakistan•Securites & Exchange Commission of Pakistan
The Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) announced that the Government of Punjab has waived stamp duty on property transfers from mergers and schemes of arrangement approved by courts or the SECP under the Companies Act, 2017. This follows a Lahore High Court judgment clarifying that provincial notification or legislation is needed for such exemptions, which the Punjab government has now issued. The waiver resolves conflicts between federal company law and provincial stamp duty regulations.
Policy & regulation Rules & requirements Corporate governance
-
2026-02-20•Global•Egmont Group
The Egmont Group Secretariat seeks proposals for an independent external security audit of its IT system to assess compliance with security, confidentiality, and access-control requirements. The audit will include penetration testing, technical configuration assessments, and threat risk analysis, focusing on identity management, encryption, and compliance with standards like NIST and ISO/IEC 27001. Deliverables must include documented findings and a proposed Plan of Action, with the final report due within three weeks of project initiation.
Institutional development Procurement Cyber resilience IT management
-
2026-02-20•Global•Institute of International Bankers
The Institute of International Bankers (IIB) submitted a comment letter to the Federal Reserve Board advocating for increased transparency in stress testing and changes to capital planning. The IIB recommends refining model calibration and risk sensitivity to better reflect the business models of international financial institutions in the U.S. It also suggests incorporating transfer pricing into pre-provision net revenue and revising the global market shock threshold to exclude firms in Category III and below.
Policy & regulation Other Stress testing Prudential risks
-
2026-02-20•Italy•Bank of Italy
The Bank of Italy announced a reorganization of its branches' institutional functions, effective 23 February, altering the allocation of responsibilities for supervised intermediaries. The new model assigns supervisory duties, including prudential and anti-money laundering supervision, either to branches or Head Office departments on a case-by-case basis. Updates on branch responsibilities, including customer protection supervision, will follow.
Institutional development Mandate & organizational structure Organizational structure
-
2026-02-20•Italy•Bank of Italy
The Bank of Italy has initiated a public consultation on the review of the Systemic Risk Buffer (SyRB), a macroprudential measure set at 1% of domestic exposures weighted for credit and counterparty risk. The SyRB was introduced in 2024, and the consultation document outlines the rationale for the review.
Policy & regulation Rules & requirements Capital adequacy Financial stability and systemic risk
-
2026-02-20•Nicaragua•Central Bank of Nicaragua
The Central Bank of Nicaragua reported a 4.1% growth in the December 2025 Monthly Index of Economic Activity (IMAE) compared to December 2024, with a cumulative annual increase of 4.8%. Seasonally adjusted, the IMAE rose 0.8% from the previous month and 3.1% year on year. Significant annual growth was observed in trade, livestock, and hotels and restaurants, while declines occurred in mining, public administration, and forestry.
Data & statistics Economic data and developments
-
2026-02-20•Cyprus•Central Bank of Cyprus
The Central Bank of Cyprus launched "The CBC Blog" to enhance awareness of economic and central bank topics through articles by Bank executives. It will cover the economy, financial stability, and monetary policy. The inaugural post, "Inflation and Inflation in Cyprus: Recent Trends and Dynamics," is by Dimitris Kapatais, Maria Mithillou, and Maria Papageorgiou, with views solely those of the authors.
Financial literacy & education Activity and performance reporting
-
2026-02-20•Germany•BaFin
Germany's Federal Financial Supervisory Authority (BaFin) has released a draft circular for consultation detailing its administrative practice in takeover law to enhance transparency and address recurring questions. The circular consolidates existing materials and clarifies BaFin's interpretation of section 35(3) of the German Securities Acquisition and Takeover Act, without imposing new requirements.
Policy & regulation Guidance & interpretation Other
-
2026-02-20•Europe•European Central Bank
The European Central Bank (ECB) confirmed that Executive Board remuneration components are publicly disclosed, with plans to enhance accessibility by adding more details in the Annual Accounts 2025. President Christine Lagarde clarified that remuneration levels align with major central banks and have only seen general salary adjustments since 1998. Lagarde also noted her remuneration from the Bank for International Settlements is not included in ECB accounts as it is not paid by the ECB.
Policy & regulation Guidance & interpretation Corporate governance
-
2026-02-20•Kyrgyzstan•National Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic
The National Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic's Issyk-Kul regional department fined a credit union KGS 55,000 for breaching Kyrgyz Republic legislation and National Bank regulations.
Enforcement Investigations & enforcement actions Compliance
-
2026-02-20•Kyrgyzstan•National Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic
The National Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic conducted meetings in Austria and the Czech Republic, supported by the World Bank, to discuss the Supervisory Review and Evaluation Process (SREP) methodology. Discussions with local central banks and financial institutions focused on internal oversight, supervisory assessments, and SREP implementation, including stress testing and macroprudential regulation.
Supervision Cooperation Supervision process and methodologies Cross-border cooperation
-
2026-02-20•Kyrgyzstan•National Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic
The National Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic has extended its temporary permission for commercial banks to export old cash US dollars, including worn banknotes and those issued before 2006, until 1 September 2026. Banks can exchange these for cash or non-cash USD.
Policy & regulation Rules & requirements Currency and cash management
-
2026-02-20•Kyrgyzstan•National Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic
The National Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic has extended the suspension of its 2022 resolution on transactions with the Kazakh tenge until 15 September 2026. This extension, affecting commercial banks, exchange bureaus, and microfinance and microcredit companies, was enacted through amendments to the 2025 board resolution.
Policy & regulation Rules & requirements Currency and cash management
-
2026-02-20•Kyrgyzstan•National Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic
The National Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic has amended its 2013 rules on setting official foreign currency rates against the Kyrgyz som, removing the Bulgarian lev from the list of currencies for which it determines official rates weekly.
Policy & regulation Rules & requirements Foreign exchange policy and markets
-
2026-02-20•Dominican Republic•Pensions Superintendency (SIPEN)
The Dominican Republic's Pensions Superintendency (SIPEN) has trained over 600 employees of the General Directorate of Customs on the Dominican Pension System as part of its mass education programme. The initiative, led by Larissa Llibre, aims to qualify organisations for the “Here We Know About Pensions” seal, requiring 70% staff completion of SIPEN training.
Financial literacy & education Capacity building
-
2026-02-20•Japan•Japan Financial Services Agency
The Japan Financial Services Agency finalized revisions to its Comprehensive Supervisory Guidelines, aligning them with the Regional Financial Capacity Enhancement Plan. Updates focus on promoting M&A support, business succession, non-guaranteed loans, digitalisation, and recruitment services for small and medium-sized regional financial institutions. The revisions, effective 1 April 2026, include comparison tables for various financial entities.
Policy & regulation Rules & requirements Supervision process and methodologies
-
2026-02-20•Japan•Japan Financial Services Agency
The Japan Financial Services Agency has amended corporate and securities disclosure ordinances, mandating sustainability disclosures per SSBJ Standards and expanded human capital requirements. Companies on the Tokyo Stock Exchange Prime Market with a market capitalization of at least JPY 1 trillion must include sustainability information in securities reports. The amendments streamline disclosures and introduce a safe-harbour approach for certain Scope 3 emissions information.
Policy & regulation Rules & requirements Disclosures
-
2026-02-20•Japan•Japan Financial Services Agency
The Japan Financial Services Agency has updated its guidance on "pre-general meeting disclosure" to encourage listed companies to file securities reports well in advance of shareholder meetings. The update includes practical guidance, a consultation desk, and tools to track market practices, such as lists of companies filing reports early and examples of good disclosure practices.
Policy & regulation Guidance & interpretation Regulatory reporting
-
2026-02-20•Japan•Japan Financial Services Agency
The Japan Financial Services Agency published documents detailing its response to the policy-by-policy budgeting in the fiscal year 8 government budget proposal.
Policy & regulation Guidance & interpretation Other
-
2026-02-20•Europe•European Securities and Markets Authority
The European Securities and Markets Authority issued a supervisory briefing on counterparties' compliance with the representativeness obligation under the active account requirement (AAR). It aims to enhance supervisory convergence and includes guidance on identifying relevant derivative subcategories and reporting trades cleared at EU central counterparties. Counterparties are expected to adhere to this guidance to fulfill their regulatory obligations.
Policy & regulation Guidance & interpretation Supervision process and methodologies
-
2026-02-20•Montenegro•Montenegro Capital Market Authority
The Montenegro Capital Market Authority has released draft amendments to the rulebook on reporting requirements for open-ended investment funds with a public offering, initiating a public consultation. The draft, adopted at the authority's 171st session, outlines content and submission deadlines for monthly, semi-annual, and annual reports.
Policy & regulation Rules & requirements Regulatory reporting
-
2026-02-20•Indonesia•OJK
The Indonesia Financial Services Authority (OJK) fined social media influencer BVN and three parties for share price manipulation. BVN was fined IDR 5.35 billion for manipulating shares of PT Agro Yasa Lestari Tbk, PT MD Pictures Tbk, and PT Bintang Samudera Mandiri Lines Tbk during 2021–2022. PT Dana Mitra Kencana and individuals UPT and MLN were fined for similar activities involving PT Impack Pratama Industri Tbk shares in 2016, with fines totaling IDR 2.1 billion and IDR 1.8 billion each.
Enforcement Investigations & enforcement actions Market abuse
-
2026-02-20•Mexico•Mexico Comision Nacional Bancaria y de Valores (CNBV)
Mexico's National Banking and Securities Commission (CNBV) reported a December 2025 Índice de Capitalización (ICAP) of 20.17% for the commercial banking sector, with all institutions in early warning category I. The Basic Capital Ratio was 18.16% and the Core Capital Ratio was 16.85%, meeting Basel III standards for systemic risk capital surcharge.
Data & statistics Capital adequacy
-
2026-02-20•Uzbekistan•Central Bank of the Republic of Uzbekistan
The Central Bank of the Republic of Uzbekistan, in collaboration with the Ministry of Justice and the Notary Chamber, will implement a new procedure mandating non-cash sales of property and motor vehicles through notarisation starting 1 April 2026. This initiative, based on Presidential Decree No. PF–246, aims to promote cashless payments and reduce the shadow economy. Discussions focused on public communication, implementation proposals, and infrastructure development with commercial banks.
Policy & regulation Implementation, projects & pilots Payments and payment systems
-
2026-02-20•Australia•Australian Securities & Investments Commission
The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) released its Reporting and Audit Update Issue 3, highlighting developments in sustainability and financial reporting, including new educational modules and an online lodgement form for sustainability reports. ASIC issued infringement notices to 12 large proprietary companies for late FY24 financial report lodgements and plans further surveillance in 2026. Legislative amendments extend modified liability settings and assurance requirements to voluntary sustainability reports, with updates to Regulatory Guides 280 and 26 forthcoming.
Policy & regulation Guidance & interpretation Regulatory reporting Supervisory data
-
2026-02-20•Europe•European Central Bank
European Central Bank President Christine Lagarde emphasized sustaining the international legal and economic order through pragmatic reform. She highlighted updating rules to maintain legitimacy amid shifting economic power and warned against trade fragmentation risks, which could significantly reduce global output. Lagarde advocated for World Trade Organization reform and highlighted bilateral and regional agreements' role in enhancing cooperation.
Policy & regulation International standards & recommendations Other
-
2026-02-20•Global•International Monetary Fund
The IMF's end-of-mission statement on Honduras noted robust growth, controlled inflation, and stable reserves. Discussions with authorities focused on strengthening monetary and exchange rate policies, improving public sector efficiency, and implementing energy-sector reforms. The IMF stressed the importance of passing and implementing the Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism framework before the 2026 Financial Action Task Force evaluation.
Policy & regulation Guidance & interpretation Other
-
2026-02-20•Global•International Monetary Fund
The International Monetary Fund's report on Bhutan's fintech regulatory sandbox recommends reforms to enhance strategic direction, governance, resourcing, and risk oversight. It identified issues like unclear objectives, fragmented governance, and resource constraints. Suggested actions include aligning the sandbox with the Royal Monetary Authority of Bhutan's priorities and improving governance and capacity-building.
Policy & regulation Reform agendas & priorities Fintech and insurtech
-
2026-02-20•Peru•Central Bank of Peru
The Central Bank of Peru reported a 4.1% year-on-year increase in national formal employment for December 2025, marking 21 months of consecutive growth. Electronic payroll data showed 249,000 new formal jobs, with private-sector employment rising 5.4% and significant contributions from services, agriculture, and commerce. Sectoral growth rates were led by mining at 10.9%, followed by agriculture, construction, services, and manufacturing.
Data & statistics Economic data and developments
-
2026-02-20•Nigeria•Ministry of Finance (Nigeria)
Nigeria's Finance Minister, Wale Edun, proposed shifting from external borrowing to a growth model driven by domestic reforms, private capital, and diversified financing, targeting 7% growth and a 30% investment-to-GDP ratio. The plan includes attracting private capital via public-private partnerships, tax reforms to raise the tax-to-GDP ratio to 18%, and advocating for global financial architecture reforms. Central Bank Governor Olayemi Cardoso stressed the need for digital cross-border payment system reforms and improved regulatory frameworks.
Policy & regulation Reform agendas & priorities Economic data and developments Financial stability and systemic risk
-
2026-02-20•Rwanda•Rwanda Capital Markets Authority
The Rwanda Capital Markets Authority met with licensed investment managers to prioritize strengthening the asset management industry and capital market. Discussions focused on investment management practices, market conduct, and regulatory improvements to enhance service quality and investor protection. The authority emphasized structured engagement and the role of professional asset management in mobilizing savings and diversifying investments.
Supervision Supervision approach, priorities & toolkit Supervision process and methodologies
-
2026-02-20•Europe•European Financial Reporting Advisory Group
EFRAG submitted a position paper on the Greenhouse Gas Protocol's Scope 2 Guidance consultation, supporting improved comparability and accuracy but criticizing complexity and insufficient user benefits. EFRAG calls for simpler proposals, a thorough cost-benefit analysis, and piloting revised guidance before full implementation. It also recommends longer consultation periods, concrete draft amendments, and alignment across standards to avoid inconsistencies.
Policy & regulation International standards & recommendations Climate risk and sustainable finance
-
2026-02-20•United Kingdom•Financial Conduct Authority
The Financial Conduct Authority announced that seven social media influencers were sentenced at Southwark Crown Court for promoting an unauthorised foreign exchange trading scheme. Fines and costs were imposed on five individuals, while two received conditional or absolute discharges. The FCA highlighted the influencers' significant Instagram following and referenced its guidance on financial promotions on social media.
Enforcement Investigations & enforcement actions Unlicensed or unauthorized activity
-
2026-02-20•Canada•British Columbia Securities Commission
The British Columbia Securities Commission imposed a CAD 12,000 penalty on Fulcra Asset Management Inc. for failing to comply with auditor change notification requirements. Fulcra breached three sections of National Instrument 31-103, marking its third late filing despite prior warnings. No investor harm or financial risks were identified.
Enforcement Investigations & enforcement actions Auditing
-
2026-02-20•Philippines•Central Bank of the Philippines
The Central Bank of the Philippines has signed information-sharing agreements with the National Bureau of Investigation, the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center, and the Securities and Exchange Commission. These agreements facilitate the lawful exchange of confidential financial account information to support investigations into scams, aligning with the Anti-Financial Account Scamming Act and BSP Circular 1214, and include safeguards for bank secrecy and data privacy.
Policy & regulation Cooperation Cross-border cooperation AML and CFT
-
2026-02-20•Costa Rica•Superintendencia General de Seguros de Costa Rica
The Chamber of Industries of Costa Rica opposes legislative initiatives for the total or accelerated liquidation of assets in the Régimen Obligatorio de Pensiones Complementarias (ROPC), arguing it would undermine the pension system's sustainability and affect retirees. The chamber emphasizes the ROPC's role as a pension complement and highlights that 76.5% of contributions come from employers. It criticizes the exclusion of the business sector from discussions on potential ROPC liquidation.
Policy & regulation Other
-
2026-02-20•United Kingdom•Financial Conduct Authority
The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) announced an update on a global initiative against unlawful financial influencers, involving nine regulators to tackle illegal financial promotions on social media. In the UK, the FCA made three arrests, initiated criminal proceedings against three individuals, and issued 50 warning alerts expected to lead to over 650 takedown requests. The FCA did not disclose the identities of those arrested or involved in proceedings.
Enforcement Investigations & enforcement actions Fraud and scams
-
2026-02-20•Trinidad & Tobago•Ministry of Finance (Trinidad & Tobago)
Trinidad and Tobago’s Ministry of Finance announced that Liquor Licence Holders must file Amusement Gaming Tax Returns online via the Inland Revenue Division’s e-Tax Logged In Service from 1 April 2026. Paper-based returns will no longer be accepted for 2026, and outstanding returns for prior periods must be submitted manually. Licence Holders need a ttconnect ID to register for e-Tax services, requiring specific identification and documentation.
Policy & regulation Rules & requirements Licence approval
-
2026-02-20•Laos•Bank of the Lao
The Bank of the Lao’s Monetary Policy Committee approved a 0.5 percentage point cut in the 7-day kip base interest rate to 8% and endorsed future measures, including foreign exchange management and economic support. Inflation is projected to remain around 5%, prompting coordinated monetary and exchange rate policy using a managed market mechanism. Supporting measures include strengthening foreign currency management, improving the foreign exchange cash-flow management system, and advancing commodity price management initiatives.
Monetary policy Policy rate decisions Other
-
2026-02-20•Moldova•National Commission for Financial Markets
Moldova's National Commission for Financial Markets (CNPF) published decisions on capital markets, consumer protection, and supervision, including a draft law on central securities depositories to align with European standards and reopened consultation on motor accident settlements. The bill aims to transpose Regulation (EU) No 909/2014, introducing settlement discipline tools and strengthening risk management. Additionally, CNPF approved the voluntary pension fund ARAGONN and addressed compliance issues with FINANCECASA SRL and IM CIA TRANSELIT SA.
Policy & regulation Rules & requirements Consumer and investor protection
-
2026-02-20•Moldova•National Bank of Moldova
The National Bank of Moldova released January 2026 statistics on the domestic cash foreign exchange market, reporting a total turnover of EUR 350.4 million. The euro dominated with EUR 257.5 million, while the US dollar accounted for EUR 49.7 million. Overall turnover decreased by 23.2% from the previous month and 7.3% year-on-year.
Data & statistics Foreign exchange policy and markets
-
2026-02-20•Moldova•National Bank of Moldova
The National Bank of Moldova's January 2026 data on licensed banks shows MDL 55.37bn in foreign-currency assets and MDL 55.16bn in liabilities. Key assets include foreign-currency cash and placements (MDL 19.36bn) and lending (MDL 19.01bn), while liabilities are dominated by clients' current accounts (MDL 27.52bn). The system reported MDL 319.95m in long open FX positions and MDL 104.69m in short positions, with significant exposures in EUR and USD.
Data & statistics Balance of payments and other external statistics