The Bank of Zambia has informed stakeholders of Investrust Bank PLC's liquidation that the liquidation schedule is available for inspection. The schedule will be filed in the High Court of Zambia on 15 December 2025, allowing 21 days for objections to any proposed steps.
The Bank of England's Staff Working Paper No. 1,150 examines using embeddings from open-source large language models (LLMs) to estimate economic and financial variables. A simple linear model trained on embeddings can outperform text outputs for certain statistics. The study covers datasets from the US, UK, EU, and Germany, showing the effectiveness of the embedding-based approach, especially for less common statistics. It also discusses a transfer learning approach, noting that reasoning-tuned models do not consistently improve accuracy despite higher computational costs.
The Philippine Securities and Exchange Commission has issued a draft memorandum for public comment, proposing caps on interest rates and fees for lending companies to prevent predatory pricing on small loans. It sets a maximum nominal interest rate of 6% per month and an effective interest rate cap of 10% per month for loans up to PHP 20,000, with late payment penalties limited to 5% per month. The proposal includes a total cost cap of 100% of the borrowed amount and outlines escalating sanctions for non-compliance, including fines and potential suspension or revocation of licenses.
The World Federation of Exchanges issued a World Savings Day statement emphasizing that inflation can diminish the real value of cash savings and advocating for access to capital markets for long-term financial well-being. It urged public policy support for exchange growth and warned that barriers to capital markets can hinder growth for enterprises and investors.
The Croatian Financial Services Supervisory Agency reported Board Member Martina Verić’s participation in a World Savings Day round table, highlighting Hanfa's role in supporting market development beyond supervision. Discussions included capital market trends, digitalisation, and the Strategic Framework for the Development of the Capital Market in Croatia until 2030, with insights on shifting household financial assets and the impact of new technologies on savings and investment trends.
The Central Bank of Russia has cancelled the banking licence of LLC Drive Click Bank following its request for voluntary liquidation by its sole shareholder. Drive Click Bank, ranked 111th by assets in Russia, will have a liquidation commission appointed under Article 23 of the Federal Law ‘On Banks and Banking Activities’. The bank is part of the deposit insurance system.
Staff from the Issyk-Kul regional office of the National Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic delivered lectures to senior students at Z. Abdrahmanov secondary school on World Savings Day 2025. Topics included the importance of saving, the history of the Kyrgyz som, QR-code payments, and pyramid schemes.
The National Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic's Jalal-Abad regional office conducted outreach lectures for students during World Savings Day 2025. The sessions focused on the importance of saving, the development of the som, and the central bank's monetary policy and activities.
The National Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic's Osh regional office conducted guest lectures from 27 to 30 October 2025 for World Savings Day, engaging over 600 students and pupils. Topics included national currency development, QR code payments, credit, deposits, savings, and fraud prevention. Participating institutions were Osh Technological University and secondary schools in Nookat, Uzgen, and Kara-Suu districts.
The National Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic hosted the annual "World Savings Day" financial literacy campaign, featuring a financial fair and speaker sessions at the A. Osmonov National Library. The event, attended by government and financial sector representatives, focused on savings behaviour, deposit protection, and personal financial security, attracting around 400 participants.
Thailand's SEC reported a rise in suspicious-activity reports via its Investment Scam Hotline in September, urging public caution. The SEC highlighted social-media-driven scams involving stocks, mutual funds, and digital assets, warning against impersonations of financial entities. It coordinated with social media platforms to block fraudulent accounts and advised investors to use SEC resources for validation and reporting.
The Moroccan Capital Markets Authority approved CASH PLUS's IPO prospectus for a capital increase and secondary share sale up to MAD 750 million, listing on the Principal F market. The offering includes 2 million new shares and up to 1.8 million existing shares, priced at MAD 200 each. The prospectus covers the 2024 financial year and the first half of 2025, following approval by the company's extraordinary shareholders meeting on 17 October 2025.
The European Banking Federation (EBF) published a policy note asserting that the EU regulatory framework does not hinder banks from financing the defence industry. The note emphasizes banks' strategic importance to Europe's growth and security and suggests measures to enhance an investment-ready market, such as demand consolidation and clearer procurement signals. The EBF also seeks to engage in discussions on strengthening the European Defence Technological and Industrial Base.
The Financial Consumer Agency of Canada (FCAC) launched its Financial Literacy Month 2025 campaign themed “Talk Money” to encourage Canadians to discuss personal finances and reduce stigma. The initiative highlights evidence that discussing money can enhance financial confidence, referencing FCAC's report on young women's improved financial behaviours. FCAC also introduced a “$15 Stretch Challenge” on social media and provided tools and materials for libraries and community organizations.
The Bank of Albania's 2024 Annual Report, presented by Governor Gent Sejko, outlines a shift to a more accommodative monetary policy, including interest rate cuts and significant foreign-exchange purchases to stabilize the lek. It highlights supervisory and macroprudential measures, such as revised rules for non-bank financial institutions, a cap on consumer loan interest rates, and enhanced foreign-exchange bureau supervision. Additionally, Albania's entry into the Single Euro Payments Area and developments in payment systems and open banking are noted.
The Federal Reserve Board has authorized First Security Bank of Searcy, Arkansas to open a new branch at 4007 North Rodney Parham Road in Little Rock, Arkansas.
Moldova's National Commission for Financial Markets participated in an OSCE workshop in Helsinki focused on the regulation of crypto-asset service providers, emphasizing Finland’s approach. The event, attended by several Moldovan authorities, aimed to support Moldova's alignment with EU Regulation 2023/1114 on markets in crypto-assets. Discussions included legislative frameworks and supervisory mechanisms for the crypto market.
The National Commission for Financial Markets and European Commissioner Maria Luís Albuquerque discussed priorities for strengthening Moldova’s financial market, focusing on modernisation, supervision, and investment. Commission Chair Dumitru Budianschi highlighted EU support for legislative harmonisation and the approval of the National Strategy for Capital Market Development 2025–2030. Plans include establishing a new stock exchange with the Bucharest Stock Exchange by mid-2026.
The British Columbia Financial Services Authority (BCFSA) released its inaugural pay transparency report under the Pay Transparency Act, revealing a 14.44% mean and 19.05% median gender pay gap. The report attributes these gaps to the underrepresentation of women in senior roles and overrepresentation in lower-level positions. BCFSA plans to address these disparities through leadership development, inclusive hiring, and succession planning.
The Financial Supervisory Authority of Norway is consulting on draft regulations to extend the transitional period for authorisation under Article 63 of the Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation. The proposal would allow virtual currency exchange and custody service providers to operate until 30 June 2026, pending authorisation. The consultation aims to provide clarity on deadlines before the current period ends.
The Australian Prudential Regulation Authority will consult by the end of 2025 on amendments to CPS 230 Operational Risk Management, addressing challenges with non-traditional service providers. The amendments will clarify expectations for contract uplift and service level monitoring, with final changes expected by 1 July 2026.
The Financial Supervisory Authority of Norway published an inspection report on Statsautorisert revisor Olafsen AS, highlighting non-compliance with the Norwegian Auditor Act and ISA 220 in audit engagement acceptance and continuance. The firm lacked documented bases for accepting audits, especially with clients facing negative equity and going concern issues, and failed to withdraw from engagements as required. Olafsen AS acknowledged the findings, conducted a root-cause analysis, and updated its quality management documentation, with potential follow-up from Finanstilsynet.
The Jersey Financial Services Commission (JFSC) warned of a fraud involving an entity impersonating Hex Offshore Limited, a legitimate Jersey company. The impersonator falsely claims a Jersey address and misuses the JFSC-issued certificate. The JFSC advises contacting its Enforcement team and consulting the Jersey Fraud Prevention Forum for scam guidance.
Angola's Ministry of Finance said prior authorization has been granted for the first national reinsurer to operate locally, presenting it as the start of a new phase for the insurance market in 2025. The remarks also pointed to tougher prudential expectations for new entrants and cited market growth, with gross premiums reaching about AOA 264 billion through June 2025 and ceded reinsurance production rising 31% in 2024.
The China Securities Regulatory Commission (CSRC) released draft guidance for public consultation on regulating performance benchmarks for publicly offered securities investment funds. It aims to ensure benchmarks accurately represent fund style, constrain investment activities, and support performance assessment, while strengthening information disclosure and fund custodian oversight. Concurrently, the Asset Management Association of China issued operational rules detailing requirements for benchmark selection, disclosure, risk controls, and compliance management.
The China Securities Regulatory Commission's 15th Five-Year Plan prioritizes enhancing capital market inclusiveness, supporting tech-driven growth, and improving investor outcomes. Key measures include reforms for tech firm listings, expanding the STAR Market and ChiNext, and developing a layered bond market. Supervisory priorities focus on a comprehensive regulatory framework, enhanced risk monitoring, tougher enforcement against misconduct, and improving foreign participation and investor protection.
The China Securities Regulatory Commission (CSRC) held its 22nd International Advisory Council meeting in Beijing, focusing on innovation, inclusiveness, and openness to enhance capital market development. Discussions covered emerging technologies, system inclusiveness, high-standard opening, and risk management. Recommendations emphasized aligning investment and financing, enhancing market institutions, and deepening international regulatory cooperation.
China's Inter-ministerial Joint Meeting in Beijing, led by National Financial Regulatory Administration Director Li Yunze, addressed illegal financial activities via apps. The session emphasized coordinated enforcement and tasked the joint mechanism with enhancing cross-agency coordination. Local authorities were urged to pursue major cases and sustain efforts against illegal fundraising while improving prevention and enforcement mechanisms.
China's National Financial Regulatory Administration released draft Administrative Measures for Asset Management Trusts for public consultation, outlining a framework for trust companies' asset management business. The draft includes stricter controls on product management, risk management, and sales practices, and mandates transparency through expanded disclosure obligations. Final measures will be issued post-consultation feedback.
The China Banking and Insurance Regulatory Commission released a draft of the Asset Management Trust Management Measures, proposing a supervisory framework for trust companies' asset management business. It emphasizes private placement, prohibits principal or return guarantees, and mandates active management and adherence to market principles. It includes stringent requirements on investor qualifications, risk disclosures, and investment provisions, focusing on risk management and compliance.
The Argentina Securities Commission (CNV) reported its president, Roberto E. Silva, attended OECD meetings in Paris on corporate sustainability practices and governance. Discussions covered non-financial disclosure trends, sustainability standards, and capital markets development, emphasizing regulatory proportionality in Latin America. Silva highlighted CNV's collaboration with Argentina's government on OECD accession and international standards alignment.
The Swiss Financial Market Supervisory Authority (FINMA) updated sanctions after the Federal Council aligned with the EU's 18th sanctions package against Russia and additional measures against Belarus. Effective 30 October 2025, these changes focus on goods, financial, and energy restrictions, amending Switzerland’s Ordinance on Measures concerning Belarus. Financial intermediaries must implement prohibitions, freeze assets, and report to the State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO), while adhering to the Anti-Money Laundering Act.
The State Bank of Vietnam concluded a meeting with the IMF to review progress on an anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing project. Key developments include deploying a risk assessment toolkit for the banking sector and enhancing its methodology and IT integration. The project aligns with Vietnam's commitments to the Financial Action Task Force and will continue with further advisory work to strengthen the AML/CFT legal framework.
The State Bank of Vietnam’s Region 13 branch reported a cooperation agreement between Tay Ninh’s Department of Agriculture and Environment and local Agribank branches to support a loan programme for high-quality, low-emission rice under the “1 million hectare rice” initiative. Agribank branches will offer preferential credit packages, simplify lending procedures, and coordinate with provincial departments for borrower guidance and credit monitoring. As of 30 September 2025, the programme covered one enterprise and 10 farming households with loans totaling VND 34 billion at interest rates of 4.0%–4.2% per year.
The State Bank of Vietnam launched a VND 500 trillion credit programme for long-term loans in infrastructure and digital technology, with 21 commercial banks committing. Banks supported a 1.5 percentage point interest-rate reduction but noted issues like inconsistent project lists and unquantified credit demand. The programme targets strategic projects, with banks proposing measures to address funding and policy constraints.
The Securities and Exchange Board of India and the Investor Education and Protection Fund Authority will host the third "Niveshak Shivir" in Amritsar on 1 November 2025. The event aims to facilitate the transfer of unpaid dividends, assist with KYC and nomination updates, and resolve pending IEPFA claims. Participants include NSE, BSE, NSDL, CDSL, and several registrar and transfer agents.
The U.S. Department of the Treasury announced Under Secretary John K. Hurley will visit Europe and the Middle East to coordinate on the maximum pressure campaign against Iran and strengthen financial safeguards against terrorism. Discussions will include cooperation with Israel on Iran, U.S.-UAE collaboration on anti-money laundering, and Türkiye's role in countering sanctions evasion. The trip aims to support implementing and enforcing United Nations sanctions.
The European Insurance and Occupational Pensions Authority (EIOPA) issued a warning about scammers impersonating EIOPA to solicit payments or personal information. Fraudsters misuse EIOPA’s name and logo across various communication channels, often presenting urgent or suspicious offers. EIOPA clarified it never contacts individuals for payments or personal data and advised reporting such incidents to local authorities.
The National Bank of Moldova reported an unaudited net loss of MDL 1,794,343 thousand and a total comprehensive loss of MDL 1,688,057 thousand for the nine months ended 30 September 2025, contrasting with profits from the same period in 2024. Losses were driven by negative foreign-exchange differences and revaluation of precious metals totaling MDL 3,280,847 thousand. The bank provided an informational figure for profit available for distribution of MDL 925,092 thousand, noting adjustments for unrealised revaluation items.
The National Bank of Moldova reported a meeting between Governor Anca Dragu and European Commissioner Maria Luís Albuquerque, discussing Moldova's financial sector, macroeconomic situation, and EU integration efforts. Key topics included central bank governance, payments infrastructure modernization, and Moldova's accession to the Single Euro Payments Area (SEPA). The meeting also covered the EU Growth Plan and assessed Moldova's banking prudential framework against EU standards.
The National Bank of Moldova released its unaudited balance sheet as of 30 September 2025, showing total assets of MDL 119,146,137 thousand and liabilities of MDL 111,381,902 thousand. Foreign currency assets were MDL 105,213,977 thousand, with significant holdings in investment securities and cash. Total assets and liabilities decreased from the previous year-end, with capital and reserves at MDL 7,764,235 thousand.
The Central Bank of the Bahamas has issued a request for proposals for a Fast Payment System solution to enhance real-time payments. The system aims to ensure interoperability with existing domestic platforms and support participation by various financial institutions.
The Central Bank of the Bahamas seeks proposals for a vendor to design a Fast Payment System (FPS) for real-time domestic payments, interoperable with existing platforms and the SandDollar digital currency. The FPS must support ISO 20022 messaging, real-time settlement, and APIs, with targets including six-second processing times and 99.99% uptime. The Bank requires a commercial off-the-shelf solution used by at least one central bank in the past 18 months, with evaluation criteria heavily weighted towards technical aspects.
The ADGM Financial Services Regulatory Authority has updated its regulatory framework to align with international standards from the International Organization of Securities Commissions, following feedback on Consultation Paper No. 8 of 2025. The amendments enhance the FSRA's supervisory powers and are incorporated into the FSRA Regulations and Rules.
The ADGM Financial Services Regulatory Authority has finalized amendments to its regulatory framework for Regulated Activities involving Fiat-Referenced Tokens (FRTs), following industry consultation. The changes expand the scope of activities related to FRTs, introduce rules for Authorised Persons handling Client FRTs, and amend requirements for issuing FRTs. Further guidance will be issued, with the amendments effective from 1 January 2026.
The Central Bank of Nicaragua's September 2025 Indicators for the Banking and Finance System show double-digit year-on-year growth in public deposits and the loan portfolio, with signs of credit growth deceleration. Public deposits increased by 13.5% to NIO 266,388.0 million, while the credit portfolio rose 12.9% to NIO 226,420.1 million. Liquidity stood at 33.6%, and the system reported a return on equity of 13.5% and capital adequacy of 19.1%.
The Angola Capital Markets Commission and the Institute of Gaming Supervision signed a cooperation protocol to enhance coordination in regulatory, supervisory, and inspection mandates. It focuses on anti-money laundering, counter-terrorist financing, information sharing, staff training, and coordinated supervision. CMC board chairman Elmer Serrão highlighted the relevance of this cooperation in addressing supervisory challenges from digitalisation and online gaming.
The Bulgaria Financial Supervision Commission registered 2,825,952 ordinary shares by Weiser Technology AD for trading on a regulated market. It also made authorisation-related decisions, including entering Finance Ltd in the register of tied agents and acknowledging Alexander Anev's qualification as a broker. Additionally, the Commission requested further information from Karoll Capital Management EAD regarding a mutual fund permit.
The Central Bank of the Republic of Kosovo held a workshop to outline its regulatory framework for licensing crypto-asset service operators, aligned with the EU's Markets in Crypto-Assets principles. The framework includes criteria for licensing, prudential requirements, client transparency, and AML/CFT measures. Ongoing supervision and further regulatory developments are planned, with coordination from domestic authorities and the International Monetary Fund.
The Spanish Securities Commission (CNMV) released its second semiannual bulletin, featuring a Market Trends Report and research on Spanish venture capital and ESG controversies' impact on Ibex 35 shares. The report highlights strong equity market performance, with Spain’s Ibex 35 up 33.5%, and notes the growing significance of cryptoassets. Venture capital entities quadrupled from 2013 to 2024, while ESG controversies had limited impact on Ibex 35 returns.
The Central Bank of Nicaragua reported that the Banking and Financial System maintained a solid position in September 2025, supported by robust risk management, solvency, and liquidity. Public deposits and the credit portfolio showed double-digit year-on-year growth, although credit growth is decelerating. Key metrics include a 13.5% increase in public deposits, a 12.9% rise in the credit portfolio, and a liquidity ratio of 33.6%, with performing loans at 95.6% of loans.
The Angola Capital Markets Commission joined the launch of the TWINNING ENVOLVER+ project in Luanda, extending its partnership with the ENVOLVER initiative to support entrepreneurs and investments. The event featured presentations on the ENVOLVER pilot and TWINNING ENVOLVER+ phases, focusing on cooperation, innovation, and business capacity-building. The Commission's involvement aligns with initiatives like the EMERGENTES programme and the National Incubators Network.
The Spanish Securities Commission (CNMV) hosted Spain’s Action Plan against Financial Fraud monitoring committee, where 22 signatories agreed to enhance cooperation and information exchange. They approved creating a website for identifying and reporting scams and expanding communication and financial education initiatives for vulnerable groups. The CNMV also plans an investor survey to assess perceptions and exposure to financial fraud.
The Bank of Italy published the Proceedings of the Ninth Public Investors Conference, featuring peer-reviewed papers on portfolio allocation and risk management for central banks, sovereign wealth funds, and public pension plans. The publication includes contributions on sustainability and artificial intelligence, stemming from the conference held in September 2024 in Singapore.
Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) announced the Festival Ekonomi Keuangan Digital Indonesia and Indonesia Fintech Summit & Expo 2025, co-hosted with Bank Indonesia and the Coordinating Ministry for Economic Affairs, to accelerate digital economy transformation. The event emphasizes inclusive access, service efficiency, and public trust, focusing on data- and technology-based regulation. It includes seminars, an expo, and discussions on digital payments, literacy, and consumer protection, aiming to significantly boost the digital economy's GDP contribution by 2045.
The Australian Securities & Investments Commission (ASIC) has begun a preliminary investigation into the Clime Australian Income Fund to assess compliance with legal requirements for its target market determination and product disclosure statement. Clime Asset Management Pty Limited is under investigation, while Clime Capital Limited and Clime Investment Management Limited are not involved. ASIC emphasized that the investigation is in its early stages and does not imply any legal breaches or forthcoming proceedings.
The Australian Securities & Investments Commission (ASIC) announced that the Supreme Court of Western Australia sentenced Chris Marco to 14 years in prison for 43 fraud offences involving AUD 34,332,453, with parole eligibility after 12 years. This follows a four-year ASIC investigation into fraudulent activities between 2013 and 2018, where Marco deceitfully obtained over AUD 36.5 million from nine investors. The sentence, backdated to September 2025, is the highest in an ASIC criminal investigation.
The Reserve Bank of New Zealand hosted the 40th South Pacific Central Bank Governors meeting, focusing on banking innovation, payment services, and financial fraud responses. Discussions included an IMF briefing on regional challenges, updates on payment systems, and fiscal-monetary policy interactions, with the Central Bank of Timor-Leste set to host the next meeting in 2026.
ASIC has charged Recep Cevis with breaching directors’ duties and lodging a false document as sole director of Cevis Holding Pty Ltd and RC Engineering Consultancy Pty Ltd. Cevis allegedly entered purchase agreements for two Mercedes-Benz vehicles worth over AUD 250,000 each, despite the companies' impending liquidation and inability to repay the debt, and failed to disclose one vehicle in a lodged form. The case, prosecuted by the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, was first heard on 28 October 2025 and is set for a committal mention on 20 January 2026.
The Reserve Bank of New Zealand has initiated consultation on the first tranche of exposure drafts for regulatory standards under the Deposit Takers Act, including Liquidity, Depositor Compensation Scheme, Lending, and Incorporation outside New Zealand Standards, alongside a proposed Group Supervision Policy. The DTA Standards will take effect on 1 December 2028, replacing existing prudential legislation with a unified regulatory regime for all deposit takers.
Mozambique's Ministry of Finance announced that the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) has removed Mozambique from its grey list, following the completion of 26 measures in the FATF action plan. The delisting, acknowledged during a meeting between Finance Minister Carla Loveira and FATF President Elisa de Anda Madrazo, is expected to enhance access to financing and attract foreign direct investment.
FDIC Acting Chairman Travis Hill, in his Senate nomination statement, emphasized refocusing supervision on material financial risks, improving readiness to resolve large institutions, and adjusting the capital framework. Hill highlighted lessons from major bank failures, ongoing workforce culture remediation, and advocated for a tailored regulatory approach balancing risk-taking with banking system resilience.
The Saudi Arabia Capital Markets Authority has extended Al Rajhi Banking and Investment Company’s approval for the registration and public offering of debt instruments under a SAR 10 billion programme by three months. The Authority emphasized that this approval is not a recommendation to subscribe, but confirms compliance with legal requirements under the Capital Market Law and its Implementing Regulations.
The Central Bank of Uruguay's vice president, Ana Claudia de los Heros, outlined a five-year vision emphasizing regulation as a tool for innovation and stability. Key priorities include payment interoperability, cybersecurity, open finance, and financial inclusion. The upcoming 2026–2030 Strategic Plan will review the bank's institutional role and focus on enhancing interoperable public infrastructure.
The Central Bank of Uruguay has intervened in Compañía de Valores Pérez Marexiano Sociedad de Bolsa S.A., suspending its activities and replacing its statutory authorities. The BCU Board approved this measure on 29 October 2025, appointing Ana Chaves as intervenor with full corporate powers.
The Central Bank of Cyprus hosted Bruna Szego, President of the Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism Authority (AMLA), to enhance coordination with Cyprus’s authorities amid the EU's new anti-money laundering strategy. Discussions with senior officials and roundtables focused on the new approach's opportunities and challenges, AMLA's priorities, and supervision harmonisation. AMLA began operations on 1 July 2025 and aims to be fully operational by 1 January 2028, planning to directly supervise 40 financial entities by 2027.
The National Bank of Georgia reported Vice Governor Nino Jeladze's participation in a Tbilisi Finance Summit panel on innovation in financial services, focusing on central banks' roles in fostering competitiveness and technology adoption while ensuring stability. Discussions highlighted the future of financial infrastructure, regulatory roles in innovation, and technology integration challenges. Jeladze emphasized Georgia's evolving financial ecosystem and the National Bank's efforts to regulate fintech entrants.
The National Bank of Georgia's Vice Governor Ekaterine Galdava emphasized the importance of global cooperation in advancing payment-system interoperability at the Tbilisi Finance Summit. She highlighted Georgia's initiatives to upgrade the Real-Time Gross Settlement system and introduce instant payment systems. The panel also explored the role of open infrastructure and digital assets in facilitating cross-platform and cross-border transactions.
The People's Bank of China deputy governor Xuan Changneng met with Standard Chartered Group chairman Luo Ruisi and UBS Group chairman Dai Helong to discuss global economic and financial conditions. The meetings also covered financial-sector opening-up and bilateral financial cooperation.
The European Banking Authority (EBA) has advised the European Commission on a new AML/CFT framework, emphasizing a risk-based regime. The advice includes draft standards on risk assessment, customer due diligence, and breach classification. These instruments will be key to the EU AML/CFT system, with the EBA's mandate transferring to the Anti-Money Laundering Authority (AMLA) by 31 December 2025.
AUSTRAC issued Cryptolink an AUD 56,340 infringement notice and accepted a court-enforceable undertaking to address anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing deficiencies. Following AUSTRAC’s findings of reporting delays and inadequate risk assessments, Cryptolink must engage independent reviewers for compliance. AUSTRAC's efforts with crypto ATM operators continue, noting 85% of top user transactions were linked to scams and money mule activities. Further actions are anticipated if controls are not improved.
Guernsey's Ministry of Finance reported on the EU Ambassador to the UK's first official visit to the island, discussing financial services, the economy, and UK-EU "reset" negotiations. Ambassador Pedro Serrano met with local leaders to address economic collaboration, environmental initiatives, and cultural projects, emphasizing Guernsey's third-country status and its interests in the reset talks.
Greece’s Minister of National Economy and Finance, Kyriakos Pierrakakis, stressed the urgency for Europe to complete the Savings and Investments Union, including the Capital Markets and Banking Unions, supported by a coherent EU industrial strategy. He highlighted cross-border mergers and acquisitions, citing UniCredit, Credia, and Euronext, and warned against "national reservations" diluting outcomes, advocating for a unified market while addressing industrial policy and energy strategy in a geopolitically constrained environment.
Greece’s Minister of National Economy and Finance, Kyriakos Pierrakakis, prioritized competitiveness at Naftemporiki’s 4th Economic Conference, advocating for deeper European integration through the Capital Markets and Banking Unions. He noted Greece's fiscal and digital progress, gaps in productivity, exports, and investment, and announced domestic measures to address growth barriers. Pierrakakis referenced IMF estimates of "invisible tariffs" in the EU and outlined Greece's economic metrics, including projected public debt reduction and increased exports and investment.
The Hong Kong Securities and Futures Commission published the Chinese-language keynote speech "Creating a New Landscape for Beijing-Hong Kong Capital Market Collaboration" by Dr. Kelvin Wong at the Financial Street Forum 2025.
Peru's Superintendency of Banking, Insurance and Private Pension Funds Administrators (SBS) issued consumer guidance on saving, advising against habits that hinder financial buffer building. Key recommendations include budgeting, setting savings goals, using SBS-supervised institutions, and minimizing unnecessary expenses. Deposits in these institutions are insured by the Deposit Insurance Fund (FSD) up to the current coverage limit.
The International Financial Reporting Standards Foundation has expanded the International Sustainability Standards Board’s Jurisdictional Adopters Working Group and introduced a Jurisdictional Rationale Guide to aid ISSB Standards implementation. These initiatives support "passporting" arrangements for ISSB-compliant reports, enhancing cross-market acceptance and reducing costs. They address fragmentation risks as sustainability disclosure requirements grow, with ISSB Standards serving as a global baseline for about 40% of global capital markets.
The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) issued a scam alert about phishing scams linked to Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (Asia) Limited, highlighting fraudulent websites and phishing emails. The HKMA emphasized that banks will not send SMS or emails with embedded hyperlinks for transactions or request sensitive information. Affected individuals should contact their bank and report to the Hong Kong Police Force's Crime Wing Information Centre.
The Hong Kong Monetary Authority announced the conclusion of the Hong Kong Academy of Finance Financial Leaders Programme's field trip to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, aimed at enhancing understanding of Saudi Arabia’s financial market and fostering Hong Kong–Saudi collaboration. The delegation engaged with key Saudi financial institutions and discussed topics including fintech innovation, digitalisation, and sustainable finance.
The Portuguese Securities Commission (CMVM) released its 2024 Report on Venture Capital Activity, highlighting market growth and a shift in supervisory priorities due to the Asset Management Regime and CMVM Regulation No. 7/2023. By end-2024, venture capital alternative investment funds (AIFs) increased 23% to 348, with assets under management rising 11% to EUR 10.3 billion. Supervisory focus included governance, internal controls, conflict of interest prevention, greenwashing risk, and anti-money laundering procedures.
The IAIS newsletter highlights structural shifts in life insurance and the widening protection gap for natural catastrophe risks. It discusses increased allocations to alternative assets, asset-intensive reinsurance, and potential financial stability risks, alongside joint efforts with the World Bank on NatCat risk management. Upcoming events include the IAIS Annual Conference and webinars on policyholder protection and climate scenarios.
The Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC) launched an investor awareness campaign during World Investor Week 2025, focusing on risks in the digital financial environment, particularly related to Artificial Intelligence (AI). CySEC is preparing an Investor Guide on AI-powered investment tools, highlighting issues like manipulated outputs and lack of personalized advice. The campaign includes lectures, media participation, and a Smart Investor booklet, with materials on CySEC’s Financial Education Portal.
The Isle of Man Financial Services Authority issued a sanctions update, directing firms to new information from the Isle of Man Treasury regarding Russia and Global Irregular Migration and Trafficking in Persons sanctions regimes. Current sanctions notices are available on the Isle of Man Treasury’s website, with subscription options for ongoing notifications.
Kazakhstan's Financial Market Agency issued guidance on identifying and avoiding financial pyramid schemes, emphasizing their criminal nature. Indicators include high returns, aggressive advertising, recruitment bonuses, and lack of transparency or licensing. The agency warned of modern tactics using IT and social media to create credibility, with severe penalties under Criminal Code Article 217 for involvement.
The Agency for Regulation and Development of the Financial Market of Kazakhstan approved senior management appointments in the insurance sector, including executive body members, chief accountants, and an independent director. Appointments include A.M. Madieva, G.A. Shaukhymberdieva, V.S. Koksharov, B.A. Kozhrakov, and S.B. Shametova. The Agency clarified that qualified senior managers with existing consent can transfer within the sector without additional approval.
The Banking Regulation and Supervision Agency released its Banking Sector Monthly Bulletin for September 2025, detailing financial data submitted by institutions under the Banking Law and related regulations. This publication supports supervisory transparency and public information goals.
The Central Bank of the Republic of Uzbekistan hosted a Securitization Roundtable in Tashkent, focusing on new funding channels for Uzbekistan’s financial sector, including eurobond issuance and securitization. The event featured discussions on banking sector outlooks, case studies, and international best practices, with participation from leading Uzbek banks and global financial institutions.
The Thailand Office of Insurance Commission reported the successful InsurTech Summit 2025 in Bangkok, attracting over 300 participants. OIC Secretary-General Chuchart Pramulpol emphasized the agency's shift from regulation to collaboration, addressing challenges like climate risk and population ageing. The summit featured discussions on regulatory sandbox agility, AI governance, digital infrastructure, and business-matching activities.
The South Africa Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA) warned against Nasper Capital, falsely using Trade Nation Financial's FSP number 49846 for Bitcoin investments. Trade Nation Financial confirmed no ties to Nasper Capital, which isn't authorised to provide financial services in South Africa. The FSCA highlighted scam indicators and urged the public to verify authorisations and report suspicious activities.
The South Africa Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA) issued a warning against Mr Jacobus Hendrik Luttig and Vixheim Trading (Pty) Ltd for soliciting funds and offering trading services without authorization, promising unrealistic returns. The FSCA advises the public to verify the authorization status of financial service providers and be wary of red flags such as exaggerated returns and unsolicited offers.
The South Africa Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA) warned about impersonators using its name and Commissioner Unathi Kamlana's in connection with Duke Global Funding Limited. Impersonators falsely claimed transactions were flagged for breaching exchange rate thresholds and solicited fees, with one victim paying USD 24,622. The FSCA clarified it is not associated with Duke Global Funding Limited, does not request payments for international transactions, and is investigating the matter.
The Liechtenstein Financial Market Authority published its 2024 brochure on occupational pension provision, highlighting improved investment performance and higher coverage ratios in the second pillar of the pension system. The average investment return was 7.5%, with coverage ratios increasing to 113.1% and no fund below a 100% funding ratio. Total pension fund assets reached CHF 9.22 billion, representing approximately 123% of GDP.
The Brazilian Superintendence of Private Insurance (SUSEP) engaged with the National Confederation of Associations and Administrators of Mutualistic Property Protection and other industry entities to discuss feedback on Public Consultation No. 02/2025. This consultation pertains to a draft resolution by the National Council of Private Insurance aimed at setting standards for mutualistic property protection operations under Complementary Law No. 213/2025. SUSEP is reviewing contributions and conducting follow-up meetings to elaborate on specific suggestions.
The Brazilian Superintendence of Private Insurance (SUSEP) will participate in the seminar "Insurance and Ecological Transformation – towards COP 30" in São Paulo on 6 November. The event will explore insurance's role in ecological transition, covering topics such as Brazil’s Ecological Transformation Plan, green taxonomy, and the role of insurers as investors under Law No. 15.042 of 2024.
The Central Bank of Iraq's Total Quality Management Department received ISO 22301:2019 certification for its Business Continuity Management System, aligning with its 2024–2026 strategic plan to enhance institutional readiness and ensure continuity of operations.
The National Bank of the Republic of Tajikistan held a conference on the somoni and unveiled a commemorative TJS 100 note marking 25 years since the currency's introduction. The event reviewed the transition from the Tajik rouble to the somoni and highlighted the new note's cultural and historical features. The bank plans to enhance banknote design and security using modern technology.
The National Bank of the Republic of Tajikistan and an International Monetary Fund delegation reviewed progress under Tajikistan’s Policy Coordination Instrument, focusing on structural reforms in monetary policy, insurance, and digitisation. Key developments include improvements in insurance financial indicators, legislative refinements, and the introduction of a required-reserve averaging mechanism. The central bank also highlighted advancements in digital services and payments infrastructure, including national RTGS and QR-code platforms.
The National Bank of the Republic of Tajikistan released an explainer on the somoni, highlighting its role as an economic instrument and a symbol of Tajikistan's independence. The note traces the currency's evolution from the Russian ruble to the Tajik ruble in 1995, and finally to the somoni in 2000, emphasizing its cultural and statehood significance.
The Central Bank of the Philippines issued FAQs to aid in implementing BSP Circular No. 1218 on large value cash transactions, emphasizing enhanced due diligence (EDD) for transactions exceeding PHP 500,000. EDD applies to cash-only payouts above this threshold, requiring supporting documents and senior management approval. The FAQs address operational expectations for monitoring and aggregation of customer activity, confirming that the circular does not override existing regulations for non-bank financial institutions.
The Central Bank of the Philippines released updated Other Financial Corporations Survey data, revealing a 0.1% quarterly and 16.7% annual increase in domestic claims to PHP 10.7 trillion in Q2 2025. Liabilities rose to PHP 11.4 trillion, and net foreign assets increased to PHP 0.7 trillion. The data highlights shifts in investments, securities holdings, and loans, serving as a tool for the central bank's monetary and financial stability mandate.