Regxplora • Regulatory and Central Bank Updates • Page 322

2025-10-16South KoreaSouth Korea Financial Supervisory Service

South Korea Financial Supervisory Service reports September household loan growth slowed to KRW 1.1 trillion

South Korea's Financial Supervisory Service reported a KRW 1.1 trillion increase in household loans for September 2025, a significant slowdown from previous months. Mortgage loans rose by KRW 3.6 trillion, while other household loans decreased by KRW 2.4 trillion. The slowdown is attributed to tightened housing loan regulations, with further measures introduced in October and ongoing compliance inspections planned.

Data & statisticsFinancial and market indicatorsSupervisory data

2025-10-16South KoreaSouth Korea Financial Supervisory Service

South Korea Financial Supervisory Service reports foreign investors net bought KRW 6.07tn in stocks and KRW 0.79tn in bonds in September 2025

The South Korea Financial Supervisory Service reported foreign investors made net purchases of KRW 6.068 trillion in listed stocks and KRW 791 billion in bonds in September 2025. Cumulative foreign holdings reached KRW 1,014.6 trillion in stocks and KRW 308.3 trillion in bonds, with significant stock buying from Europe and notable bond purchases in Korean Treasury Bonds. Net bond purchases were concentrated in maturities of 1–5 years and over 5 years, while there was net selling in bonds under 1 year.

Data & statisticsBalance of payments and other external statistics

2025-10-16SingaporeMonetary Authority of Singapore

Monetary Authority of Singapore launches BLOOM initiative to enable multi-currency settlement using tokenised bank liabilities and well-regulated stablecoins

The Monetary Authority of Singapore has launched BLOOM to enhance settlement capabilities using tokenised bank liabilities and regulated stablecoins, building on Project Orchid's digital Singapore dollar work. BLOOM targets multi-currency, domestic, and cross-border wholesale payment and settlement use cases, involving participants like Circle, DBS, and Coinbase. MAS seeks further collaboration with banks, financial institutions, and regulatory bodies for trials and development.

Policy & regulationImplementation, projects & pilotsCBDCStablecoins

2025-10-16RwandaMinistry of Finance (Rwanda)

Rwanda's Ministry of Finance unveils the Financial Sector Development Strategy 2025–2030 with savings and inclusion targets

Rwanda's Ministry of Finance launched the Financial Sector Development Strategy 2025–2030 to boost the financial sector's role in economic transformation under Vision 2050 and the National Strategy for Transformation. The strategy aims to double the national savings rate to 25.9% of GDP by 2029, improve financial inclusion, and channel over 70% of private sector financing through the domestic financial system. It emphasizes digital technologies, regulatory frameworks, and public-private partnerships to support Rwanda's development as a regional financial hub.

Policy & regulationReform agendas & prioritiesMarket developmentFinancial inclusion

2025-10-16EuropeEuropean Council

European Council publishes Eurogroup letter setting priorities for the 23 October 2025 Euro Summit on fiscal coordination, the digital euro and Capital Markets Union delivery

The European Council released a letter from Eurogroup President Paschal Donohoe to Euro Summit President António Costa, summarizing the Eurogroup's recent work and outlining priorities for the upcoming Euro Summit. Key areas include resilient public finances, defence and security funding, the digital euro, the euro's international role, and Capital Markets Union progress. The report underscores Europe's economic resilience and Bulgaria's euro area enlargement as evidence of the euro's stability.

Policy & regulationReform agendas & prioritiesFinancial stability and systemic riskMarket development

2025-10-16UgandaUganda Capital Markets Authority

Uganda Capital Markets Authority and Uganda Securities Exchange host East Africa Capital Markets Conference and launch East African Exchanges 20 Share Index

The Uganda Capital Markets Authority and Uganda Securities Exchange hosted the East Africa Capital Markets Conference 2025, focusing on digital transformation and sustainable finance. The event launched the East African Exchanges 20 Share Index and highlighted initiatives like a regulatory sandbox and the Deal Flow Facility, facilitating potential deals over USD 30 million. The Uganda Securities Exchange also introduced the USE Easy portal and digital account opening, aligning with national growth priorities.

Policy & regulationCooperationClimate risk and sustainable finance

2025-10-16VietnamVietnam State Securities Commission

Vietnam State Securities Commission instructs listed applicants to pay VND 1,000,000 fee to complete securities practising certificate issuance

The Vietnam State Securities Commission has mandated individuals listed in an attached notice to pay a VND 1,000,000 fee for a securities practising certificate, as per the Ministry of Finance’s Circular 25/2022/TT-BTC. Payment can be made via bank transfer or in person. Failure to complete the procedure within one year will result in certificate cancellation.

Policy & regulationRules & requirementsLicensing and supervisory fees

2025-10-16VietnamVietnam State Securities Commission

Vietnam State Securities Commission holds southern briefing on amended Securities Law and new implementing rules

The Vietnam State Securities Commission (SSC), with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), held a conference in Ho Chi Minh City to discuss amendments to the Securities Law and implementing regulations. Key topics included changes in Law No. 56/2024/QH15, Government Decree No. 245/2025/ND-CP, and Ministry of Finance Circular No. 19/2025/TT-BTC, focusing on public company registration and IPO procedures. This event is part of a broader SSC outreach programme across Vietnam to enhance securities market effectiveness.

Policy & regulationGuidance & interpretationSecurities offerings and listings

2025-10-16GuernseyGuernsey Financial Services Commission

Guernsey Financial Services Commission amends Russia sanctions details for German Valentinovich Belous and reiterates asset-freeze obligations

The Guernsey Financial Services Commission announced an amendment to the UK sanctions list entry for German Valentinovich Belous, who remains subject to an asset freeze under The Russia (Sanctions) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019. Businesses must ensure accounts or relationships with the designated person are frozen and report findings to the States of Guernsey Policy & Resources Committee, complying with the Sanctions (Bailiwick of Guernsey) Law, 2018.

EnforcementSanctions & designationsSanctions list update

2025-10-16GuernseyGuernsey Financial Services Commission

Guernsey Financial Services Commission alerts firms to move to the UK Sanctions List as OFSI consolidated list updates cease on 28 January 2026

The Guernsey Financial Services Commission announced that updates to the Office of Financial Sanctions Implementation’s Consolidated List of Asset Freeze Targets will cease on 28 January 2026. Businesses must transition to the UK Sanctions List from the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, updating compliance systems accordingly. A UK Sanctions List search tool is available on GOV.UK, with enhancements like fuzzy logic searching anticipated.

Policy & regulationGuidance & interpretationSanctions list update

2025-10-16MalaysiaBank Negara Malaysia

Bank Negara Malaysia publishes First Half 2025 Financial Stability Review highlighting resilient borrowers and well-capitalised financial institutions

Bank Negara Malaysia released its Financial Stability Review for H1 2025, highlighting resilient financial institutions with strong capital positions and liquidity buffers, despite global volatility. The ringgit appreciated 6.1% against the USD, and household debt-to-GDP rose to 84.8%, while fraud risks shifted towards authorised scams. BNM plans to enhance oversight of cross-border payment arrangements amid expanding QR payment connectivity.

SupervisionRisk monitoring & watch points

2025-10-16MalaysiaBank Negara Malaysia

Bank Negara Malaysia launches roadmap to replace KLIBOR with MYOR and MYOR-i and end KLIBOR by 2029

Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) announced the transition from the Kuala Lumpur Interbank Offered Rate (KLIBOR) to the Malaysia Overnight Rate (MYOR) and Malaysia Islamic Overnight Rate (MYOR-i), with KLIBOR ceasing on 1 January 2029. A roadmap outlines milestones for firms to offer MYOR and MYOR-i products by 1 October 2026 and cease new KLIBOR trades by 1 July 2027. The transition will be coordinated with the Financial Markets Committee and includes a Transition Coordination Subcommittee.

Policy & regulationImplementation, projects & pilotsFinancial benchmarks

2025-10-16AzerbaijanCentral Bank of the Republic of Azerbaijan

Central Bank of the Republic of Azerbaijan reviews results of its special regulatory regime and outlines new fintech opportunities

The Central Bank of the Republic of Azerbaijan hosted an event in Baku to discuss the "Special regulatory regime," emphasizing its role in fintech adoption and digital banking ecosystem development. Linked to the 2024–2026 Financial Sector Development Strategy, the regime supports digital financial solutions and innovation. The event included international insights, firm experiences, and workshops for developing innovative product concepts.

Policy & regulationImplementation, projects & pilotsFintech and insurtech

2025-10-16ParaguayCentral Bank of Paraguay

Central Bank of Paraguay holds ninth economic and financial education fair in Caacupé for the first time outside Asunción

The Central Bank of Paraguay held its ninth Economic and Financial Education Fair in Caacupé, the first time the event has been staged outside Asunción. The program used five interactive stations to teach secondary students about the central bank, payments, saving, personal finance decisions and basic insurance concepts.

Financial literacy & educationFinancial literacy and education

2025-10-16GlobalGlobal Legal Entity Identifier Foundation

Global Legal Entity Identifier Foundation designates Shanghai Electronic Certification Authority as a Qualified vLEI Issuer in China

The Global Legal Entity Identifier Foundation announced Shanghai Electronic Certification Authority Co., Ltd. as the latest Qualified vLEI Issuer, enabling it to issue verifiable Legal Entity Identifiers to enhance digital trade security and transparency.

SupervisionAuthorisations & approvalsRegtech and suptech

2025-10-16PhilippinesPhilippine Securities and Exchange Commission

Philippine Securities and Exchange Commission issues cease and desist order halting Microdot Lending over undisclosed online lending platforms and unfair debt collection

The Philippine SEC issued a cease and desist order against Microdot Lending Corporation and its platforms for alleged unfair debt collection and non-disclosure. The order affects platforms like MF Cash and Credit Cash, citing breaches of SEC Memorandum Circular No. 19, Series of 2019, and violations of Republic Act No. 11765 and Republic Act No. 9474. The SEC highlighted multiple complaints and continued noncompliance.

EnforcementInvestigations & enforcement actionsLendingConsumer and investor protection

2025-10-16GlobalIOSCO

International Organization of Securities Commissions reviews implementation of its crypto and digital asset recommendations and calls for more consistent cross-border oversight

IOSCO's report evaluates the implementation of its 2023 Policy Recommendations for Crypto and Digital Asset Markets across 20 jurisdictions. It finds regulatory progress but highlights persistent risks to investor protection and market integrity, with uneven implementation and limited cross-border cooperation. IOSCO calls for enhanced monitoring, consistent implementation, and improved information sharing to address regulatory arbitrage and strengthen enforcement.

Policy & regulationPeer reviews and country evaluationsRegtech and suptechSupervision process and methodologies

2025-10-16KyrgyzstanNational Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic

National Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic and Swiss National Bank discuss reserve management and agree to deepen cooperation and coordinate IMF positions

The National Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic's Chair, Melis Turgunbaev, met with Swiss National Bank Chair, Martin Schlegel, to discuss macroeconomic policy coordination and monetary policy issues. They assessed economic conditions, global financial market prospects, and central banks' management of international reserves. Both emphasized cooperation within the IMF Swiss constituency and agreed to deepen bilateral cooperation through expert exchanges and joint events.

Policy & regulationCooperationCross-border cooperation

2025-10-16KyrgyzstanNational Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic

National Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic agrees with the Central Bank of Bahrain to deepen cooperation on Islamic banking and sharia-compliant monetary policy tools

The National Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic and the Central Bank of Bahrain discussed developing Islamic banking in Kyrgyzstan and expanding cooperation during the IMF and World Bank Group Annual Meetings. The Kyrgyz side emphasized establishing a robust framework for Islamic banking and introducing sharia-compliant monetary policy instruments. Both parties agreed to enhance cooperation through expert exchanges and capacity-building initiatives.

Policy & regulationCooperationCross-border cooperation

2025-10-16PolandCentral Bank of Poland

Central Bank of Poland publishes September 2025 core inflation indices with CPI at 2.9% y/y and core ex food and energy at 3.2% y/y

The Central Bank of Poland's September 2025 core inflation indicators show CPI inflation at 2.9% y/y and core inflation excluding food and energy at 3.2% y/y, both unchanged. Inflation excluding administered prices remained at 2.5% y/y, while inflation excluding volatile prices eased to 3.7% y/y, and the 15% trimmed mean fell to 2.9% y/y. The bank emphasized its four core indices' importance for analyzing inflation sources and persistence, highlighting the ex-food-and-energy measure's responsiveness to monetary policy.

Data & statisticsEconomic data and developments

2025-10-16United KingdomPrudential Regulation Authority

UK Prudential Regulation Authority publishes final low impact rule amendments to Solvency II and internal capital adequacy rules

The Prudential Regulation Authority issued LIAF02/25, finalizing minor amendments to the PRA Rulebook, including changes from LIAC01/25 and technical updates made without further consultation. Key updates involve the definition of "parent undertaking" in the Solvency II Firms Sector and the Internal Capital Adequacy Assessment Part. Additional amendments include a typographical correction in the External Audit Part and an updated cross-reference in the Securitisation Part.

Policy & regulationRules & requirementsPrudential risksRegulatory burden

2025-10-16RussiaCentral Bank of Russia

Central Bank of Russia reports 29% rise in business microloans from MFOs driven by marketplace sellers

The Central Bank of Russia reported a 29% increase in business microloans by microfinance organisations (MFOs) in H1 2025, driven by lending to marketplace sellers. Marketplace sellers accounted for 44% of these loans, which are typically short-term and quickly repaid. The report highlights a planned increase in the maximum business microloan amount from RUB 5 million to RUB 15 million, with 70% of the portfolio secured by collateral.

Data & statistics

2025-10-16GlobalISDA

International Swaps and Derivatives Association and Crisil Coalition Greenwich report highlights derivatives’ role in Japan’s asset management push and identifies barriers to wider use

Research by ISDA and Crisil Coalition Greenwich shows Japanese asset managers see derivatives as crucial for investment strategies and Japan's goal to become a global asset management hub, despite market and policy frictions. Constraints include uneven liquidity, low electronic execution, regulatory issues, and a lack of local expertise, with the Japanese Financial Services Agency implementing initiatives to enhance Japan's asset management sector.

ResearchMarket development

2025-10-16United StatesU.S. Senate Committee on Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs

U.S. Senate Committee on Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs ranking member presses Treasury for details on a proposed USD 20 billion Argentina private investment facility

Senator Elizabeth Warren questioned Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent about the Trump Administration's plan to facilitate an additional USD 20 billion in private investment in Argentina after a USD 20 billion currency swap with its Central Bank. Warren expressed concerns that the swap would benefit major fund managers and wealthy investors over American farmers and taxpayers, and raised issues about potential impacts on U.S. financial stability amid a government shutdown.

Other

2025-10-16CanadaFinancial Transactions and Reports Analysis Centre of Canada

Financial Transactions and Reports Analysis Centre of Canada imposes CAD 601,139.80 administrative monetary penalty on First Nations Bank of Canada for anti-money laundering compliance breaches

FINTRAC imposed a CAD 601,139.80 penalty on First Nations Bank of Canada for non-compliance with the Proceeds of Crime (Money Laundering) and Terrorist Financing Act. Violations included failure to submit suspicious transaction reports, inadequate compliance policies, and insufficient risk assessment and monitoring. FINTRAC noted issuing 23 violation notices totaling over CAD 25 million in 2024–25.

EnforcementInvestigations & enforcement actionsAML and CFT

2025-10-16ThailandThailand Securities & Exchange Commission

Thailand Securities and Exchange Commission urges STELLA shareholders to review and vote on 32.48% dilutive private placement to acquire WEH stake

The Thailand Securities and Exchange Commission advised Stella X Public Company Limited (STELLA) shareholders to scrutinize disclosures and vote on acquiring a 3.25% stake in Wind Energy Holding Co., Ltd. (WEH) using newly issued shares. The transaction, involving related parties, would dilute voting rights by 32.48%, with the independent financial advisor recommending against approval due to the private placement price being below fair value. STELLA's Board and Audit Committee acknowledged the price discrepancy but deemed the transaction reasonable under current circumstances.

SupervisionAlertsCorporate governance

2025-10-16MaltaCentral Bank of Malta

Central Bank of Malta dialogue finds slightly improved but uneven business conditions in Q3 2025

The Central Bank of Malta's latest business dialogue reveals improved but uneven business conditions across sectors in Q3 2025, with a net 27% of firms reporting expansion. Service-oriented firms led growth, while construction and real estate faced negative conditions. Despite reduced cost pressures, two-thirds of firms reported increases, and investment intentions rose, driven by capital expenditure and employment plans.

Data & statisticsEconomic data and developments

2025-10-16EuropeEuropean Banking Federation

European Banking Federation-backed C-ESG Risk Roundtable publishes roadmap to improve climate and environmental credit risk data and modelling

The C-ESG Risk Roundtable's seventh report on climate and environmental credit risk data and modelling outlines a roadmap to enhance banks' integration of these risks into credit frameworks. It includes seven findings and recommendations on data gathering and modelling impacts for provisioning and capital, based on a survey of EU banks. Developed with input from BNP Paribas, Rabobank, and 14 European banks, it aims to support consistent assessment of C&E-related credit risks across Europe.

Policy & regulationReform agendas & prioritiesClimate risk and sustainable finance

2025-10-16GlobalGlobal Legal Entity Identifier Foundation

Global Legal Entity Identifier Foundation designates Shanghai Electronic Certification Authority as China’s latest Qualified vLEI Issuer

The Global Legal Entity Identifier Foundation has designated the Shanghai Electronic Certification Authority Co., Ltd. as a Qualified vLEI Issuer, facilitating the use of verifiable Legal Entity Identifiers for trade digitalization in applications like e-invoices and e-bills of lading.

Policy & regulationImplementation, projects & pilotsRegtech and suptech

2025-10-16CanadaDepartment of Finance (Canada)

Department of Finance Canada commits 12 million for a new World Bank Forum for Crisis Resilience and 2 million for debt transparency work

Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne engaged with G7 and G20 finance ministers and central bank governors in Washington, D.C., focusing on Ukraine support, global growth challenges, and financial crime. Canada announced 12 million CAD to the World Bank Group for a Crisis Resilience Forum and 2 million CAD for debt transparency. Champagne co-chaired the G7 meeting, inviting Ukraine's Prime Minister to discuss Ukraine's needs, and participated in discussions on global imbalances, critical minerals, and inter-G7 trade.

Policy & regulationCooperationCross-border cooperation

2025-10-16GlobalGlobal Legal Entity Identifier Foundation

Global Legal Entity Identifier Foundation recognizes Shanghai Electronic Certification Authority as China’s latest Qualified vLEI Issuer

The Global Legal Entity Identifier Foundation has designated Shanghai Electronic Certification Authority Co., Ltd. as a Qualified vLEI Issuer, enhancing the verifiable Legal Entity Identifier ecosystem to support trade digitalization and improve security, trust, and transparency in applications like e-invoices and e-bills of lading.

Policy & regulationImplementation, projects & pilotsRegtech and suptech

2025-10-16FinlandFinanssivalvonta

Finland's Financial Supervisory Authority urges supervised entities to update screening and comply with reimposed EU sanctions against Iran

Finland's Financial Supervisory Authority (FIN-FSA) issued a supervision release urging entities to comply with the European Union's reimposed sanctions against Iran, including asset-freeze obligations. The EU reinstated these sanctions following a United Nations Security Council decision, targeting Iran's financial sector and the Central Bank of Iran. Entities are reminded to update their sanctions-screening lists to reflect these changes.

SupervisionAlertsSanctions list update

2025-10-16United StatesFederal Deposit Insurance Corporation

United States Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation joins Federal Reserve and OCC in rescinding climate-related financial risk management principles for institutions over USD 100 billion

The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, the Federal Reserve Board, and the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency have rescinded the Principles for Climate-Related Financial Risk Management for institutions with over USD 100 billion in assets. They deemed these principles unnecessary, as existing standards already require comprehensive risk management, and noted that dedicated climate-related principles could detract from managing other risks.

Policy & regulationRules & requirementsClimate risk and sustainable finance

2025-10-16ChileCentral Bank of Chile

Central Bank of Chile launches consultation on liquidity management rules for central counterparties with remuneration of cash guarantees in its RTGS accounts

The Central Bank of Chile is consulting on a proposed regulatory framework to enhance liquidity management by central counterparty entities (ECCs). The draft encourages ECC participants to meet guarantee obligations via cash deposits in the ECC’s Additional Settlement Account at the central bank, allowing remuneration on eligible cash balances. The framework aims to ensure financial neutrality of cash held at the central bank and improve fund mobilisation speed under stress.

Policy & regulationRules & requirementsLiquidity riskCCPs

2025-10-16United StatesFederal Reserve Board

Federal Reserve Board approves HPB Holdings acquisition of Community Bank in Oklahoma

The Federal Reserve Board has approved HPB Holdings, Inc.'s application to acquire Community Bank of Alva, Oklahoma.

SupervisionAuthorisations & approvalsLicence approval

2025-10-16United StatesFederal Reserve Board

Federal Reserve Board, Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation and Office of the Comptroller of the Currency withdraw interagency climate-related financial risk management principles for large institutions

The Federal Reserve Board, Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, and Office of the Comptroller of the Currency have withdrawn the interagency Principles for Climate-Related Financial Risk Management for Large Financial Institutions. The agencies concluded that existing safety and soundness standards sufficiently address risk management needs, including emerging risks. A notice of rescission will be published in the Federal Register.

Policy & regulationRules & requirementsClimate risk and sustainable finance

2025-10-16United StatesFederal Reserve Board

Federal Reserve Board Governor Michael Barr urges coordinated GENIUS Act rulemaking to strengthen stablecoin guardrails

Federal Reserve Board Governor Michael S. Barr, at the 2025 D.C. Fintech Week, stressed the need for strong supervisory and consumer protection under the GENIUS Act to leverage emerging payment technologies like stablecoins. He highlighted challenges like anti-money-laundering, financial stability risks, regulatory gaps, and suggested tokenized deposits as an alternative within the bank regulatory framework.

Policy & regulationGuidance & interpretationCross-border paymentsStablecoins

2025-10-16United StatesFederal Reserve Board

Federal Reserve Board to seek public comment on 2026 stress testing model changes and scenario design reforms

The Federal Reserve Board, via Vice Chair for Supervision Michelle W. Bowman, announced plans to seek public comment on reforms to its stress testing program, focusing on transparency. The proposal will detail supervisory models and seek feedback on changes for the 2026 stress test, including adjustments to revenue projections, credit loss models, and scenario design. The Board aims to incorporate public input on these changes before finalizing them.

Policy & regulationRules & requirementsStress testing

2025-10-16EgyptEgypt Financial Regulatory Authority

Egypt Financial Regulatory Authority promotes investor education and highlights fintech rules at World Investor Week 2025 opening

The Egypt Financial Regulatory Authority and the Egyptian Exchange joined World Investor Week 2025, focusing on investor protection via financial education and transparency. The FRA promoted tools like the iInvest platform and the "FRA Podcast – Know to Benefit," while EGX detailed educational initiatives with universities and youth programs. EGX plans a professional podcast series and educational content for pre-university students, plus a promotional event on listing benefits.

Financial literacy & educationFinancial literacy and educationConsumer and investor protection

2025-10-16MoldovaNational Commission for Financial Markets

National Commission for Financial Markets reports Moldovan Government approval to establish the Moldova International Stock Exchange

The National Commission for Financial Markets announced the approval of the "Moldova International Stock Exchange" JSC by the Government of the Republic of Moldova to enhance capital market development. The exchange will have an initial share capital of MDL 30 million, with a 20% state stake, and plans to launch next summer with technology modeled on the Bucharest Stock Exchange. This initiative is part of Moldova’s Capital Market Development Strategy 2025–2030.

Policy & regulationImplementation, projects & pilotsMarket development

2025-10-16ZimbabweSecurities & Exchange Commission of Zimbabwe

Securities & Exchange Commission of Zimbabwe appoints William Manhimanzi acting chairman and names Grace Berejena acting CEO as Anymore Taruvinga resigns

The Securities & Exchange Commission of Zimbabwe announced leadership changes, appointing William Biggie Manhimanzi as Vice Chairman and Acting Chairman of the Board, and Grace Berejena as Acting Chief Executive Officer from November 1, 2025. Anymore Taruvinga will resign as CEO effective October 31, 2025. Manhimanzi and Berejena bring extensive experience from the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe and the Commission, respectively.

Institutional developmentLeadership change & appointmentsLeadership change and appointments

2025-10-16CanadaBritish Columbia Financial Services Authority

British Columbia Financial Services Authority launches consultation on a new capital rule for B.C. credit unions

The British Columbia Financial Services Authority has launched a 60-day public consultation on a proposed Capital Rule for B.C. credit unions, part of its Capital Modernization Project. The proposal aims to align the provincial capital framework with international standards, enhancing the quality and quantity of regulatory capital to better reflect underlying risks.

Policy & regulationRules & requirementsCapital adequacy

2025-10-16NorwayNorwegian Finanstilsynet

Norwegian Finanstilsynet reports 6.51 million debt collection cases and NOK 129.3 billion under collection in first half of 2025

Norwegian Finanstilsynet reported a 0.8% increase in ongoing debt collection cases and a 15.3% rise in amounts collected in the first half of 2025 compared to the previous year. The total claims under collection remained stable at NOK 129.3 billion in nominal terms but decreased by 2.8% when adjusted for inflation.

Data & statisticsSupervisory data

2025-10-16NorwayNorwegian Finanstilsynet

Financial Supervisory Authority of Norway issues warning on crypto-asset risks and limited MiCA consumer protection

Norway's Financial Supervisory Authority (Finanstilsynet) warned about crypto-assets, citing high volatility, misleading information, and limited consumer protection. It advises caution with providers outside the EU or not covered by the Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation (MiCA) and highlights risks like price swings, liquidity issues, and fraud. Investors should verify provider authorisation and consult Finanstilsynet's list of unauthorised providers.

SupervisionAlertsConsumer and investor protectionUnlicensed or unauthorized activity

2025-10-16NorwayNorwegian Finanstilsynet

Norwegian Finanstilsynet finds no major ICT control deficiencies at Askim & Spydeberg Sparebank but requires improvements in patching logging and supplier oversight

Norwegian Finanstilsynet's ICT inspection of Askim & Spydeberg Sparebank found no material governance deficiencies but identified weaknesses in risk management and ICT routines, including security patching and supplier oversight. The report highlights insufficient follow-up on governance documents and expects improvements in operational controls and change management. The bank must submit board meeting minutes and share the inspection report with its auditor.

SupervisionReviews, inspections & stress testsIT managementOperational risk and resilience

2025-10-16MoldovaMinistry of Finance (Moldova)

Moldova's Ministry of Finance and National Commission for Financial Markets hold training sessions on tougher consumer financial protection rules ahead of 25 October 2025 start

Moldova's Ministry of Finance and the National Commission for Financial Markets conducted training for financial institutions on Law No. 189/2025, which mandates transparency in lending, clear cost communication, and enhanced consumer safeguards, expanding oversight to savings and loan associations and debt collection companies. The Ministry will continue collaborating with partners to ensure consistent regulation application.

Policy & regulationGuidance & interpretationConsumer and investor protection

2025-10-16AustraliaAustralian Prudential Regulation Authority

Australian Prudential Regulation Authority publishes 2025 ADI points of presence statistics showing 4.6% fall in bank branches

The Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) released its 2025 Points of Presence Statistics for authorised deposit-taking institutions, noting a continued decline in physical banking service channels, with a 4.6% drop in bank branches nationwide and a 1.9% decrease in regional areas, the latter being the smallest since the series began. APRA emphasized considering these statistics alongside the rise in digital banking and urged industry collaboration to enhance transparency.

Data & statisticsFinancial and market indicatorsSupervisory data

2025-10-16AustraliaAustralian Prudential Regulation Authority

Australian Prudential Regulation Authority sets superannuation priorities on Retirement Income Covenant delivery, cyber resilience and retirement reporting

The Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) outlined its supervisory priorities for superannuation as the industry transitions to the retirement phase, emphasizing faster progress on Retirement Income Covenant obligations, enhanced operational resilience and cyber controls, and improved transparency on retirement outcomes. APRA highlighted gaps in trustees' retirement income strategies, stressed robust information security controls, and announced upcoming consultations and reports, including a system stress test and annuity capital reforms.

SupervisionSupervision approach, priorities & toolkitOther

2025-10-16United StatesOffice of the Comptroller of the Currency

Office of the Comptroller of the Currency, Federal Reserve Board and Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation withdraw interagency climate-related financial risk management principles for large institutions

The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency, the Federal Reserve Board, and the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation have withdrawn the interagency Principles for Climate-Related Financial Risk Management for Large Financial Institutions, effective immediately. The regulators stated that existing safety and soundness standards suffice for managing risks, including emerging ones. A notice of rescission will be published in the Federal Register.

Policy & regulationGuidance & interpretationClimate risk and sustainable finance

2025-10-16United StatesOffice of the Comptroller of the Currency

Office of the Comptroller of the Currency enters formal agreement with First National Bank of Pasco and terminates formal agreements for three banks

The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency released its October 2025 enforcement actions, including a formal agreement with First National Bank of Pasco for unsafe practices and BSA/AML violations. Terminated agreements include those with B2 Bank National Association, California International Bank, and The National Iron Bank, addressing compliance and management issues. No enforcement actions were reported against institution-affiliated parties for the month.

EnforcementInvestigations & enforcement actionsAML and CFTCorporate governance

2025-10-16ChinaChina Securities Regulatory Commission

China Securities Regulatory Commission chair meets UK ambassador to discuss macro-financial conditions and capital market cooperation

China Securities Regulatory Commission Chair Wu Qing and UK Ambassador to China Peter Wilson discussed the international macroeconomic and financial situation in Beijing. They also explored ways to enhance practical cooperation between China and the UK in capital markets.

Policy & regulationCooperationCross-border cooperation

2025-10-16GlobalFinancial Stability Board

Financial Stability Board peer review finds significant gaps and inconsistencies in implementing global crypto-asset and stablecoin framework

The Financial Stability Board (FSB) released a peer review highlighting incomplete implementation of its 2023 global regulatory framework for crypto-asset activities, with gaps in stablecoin regulation posing financial stability risks. The review notes limited alignment with FSB recommendations and ongoing jurisdictional updates, especially concerning stablecoin arrangements and crypto-asset service providers. The International Organization of Securities Commissions (IOSCO) also published a complementary review, with a joint note summarizing both reports' findings.

Policy & regulationPeer reviews and country evaluationsStablecoinsSupervision process and methodologies

2025-10-16Cape VerdeBank of Cape Verde

Bank of Cape Verde hosts 19th human resources meeting for Portuguese-speaking central banks, Timor-Leste and Macau

The Bank of Cape Verde hosted the 19th Human Resources Meeting of Central Banks of Portuguese-Speaking Countries, Timor-Leste, and Macau, focusing on sharing best practices and discussing people management issues. The event aimed to strengthen institutional ties and enhance human capital development within the lusophone central banking community.

Institutional developmentCooperation & capacity buildingDomestic cooperation

2025-10-16Cape VerdeBank of Cape Verde

Bank of Cape Verde promotes consultation on payment services legal reforms including open banking through World Bank-backed workshop

The Bank of Cape Verde, in partnership with the World Bank, conducted a workshop on proposed changes to the legal framework for payment services, aiming to modernize regulations and incorporate Open Banking. The initiative seeks market input through a public consultation, addressing non-bank treatment and exemption regimes for payment service providers. The consultation involves amendments to Legislative Decrees No. 8/2018 and No. 9/2018.

Policy & regulationRules & requirementsOpen banking and finance

2025-10-16Cape VerdeBank of Cape Verde

Bank of Cape Verde hosts West African Monetary Agency leadership talks on ECOWAS convergence and the planned 2027 ECO rollout

The Bank of Cape Verde held meetings with the West African Monetary Agency (WAMA) delegation, led by Director-General Boima Kamara, to discuss regional monetary integration within the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the introduction of the ECO currency in 2027. Discussions included compliance with ECOWAS convergence criteria and Cape Verde's role in the monetary integration process.

Policy & regulationCooperationCross-border cooperation

2025-10-16Dominican RepublicPensions Superintendency (SIPEN)

Dominican Republic's Pensions Superintendency begins training cycle for the Here We Know About Pensions seal at General de Seguros

The Pensions Superintendency (SIPEN) initiated a training cycle at General de Seguros to support Dominican firms in the pensions sector and promote the "Here We Know About Pensions" seal. The programme, led by SIPEN's Director of Education and Pension Services and the Head of User Service, covered the individual capitalization system and the Social Security Law, reaching over 100 employees.

Financial literacy & educationCapacity building

2025-10-16South KoreaBank of Korea

Bank of Korea releases financial market trends data for September 2025

The Bank of Korea released its "Financial Market Trends in September 2025" update, including detailed statistics in the accompanying attachments.

Data & statisticsFinancial and market indicatorsMonetary data

2025-10-16South KoreaBank of Korea

Bank of Korea releases preliminary Q2 2025 flow of funds showing total-economy net lending of KRW 41.5 trillion

The Bank of Korea released preliminary flow of funds data for Q2 2025, showing net lending for the total economy at KRW 41.5 trillion, a decrease of KRW 18.5 trillion from the previous quarter.

Data & statisticsFinancial and market indicatorsMonetary data

2025-10-16Isle of ManThe Treasury (Isle of Man)

Isle of Man's The Treasury publicises amended UK Russia sanctions listing for German Valentinovich Belous

The Treasury of the Isle of Man amended a UK Sanctions List entry under the Russia sanctions regime, affecting German Valentinovich Belous (Ref RUS0846), who remains designated with an asset freeze and trust services sanctions. Belous is now classified as an "involved person" due to his role in the Russian financial services sector, replacing previous links to Novikombank and Russian Helicopters. Institutions must freeze assets immediately upon suspecting a match and report to the Financial Intelligence Unit.

Policy & regulationRules & requirementsSanctions list update

2025-10-16Isle of ManThe Treasury (Isle of Man)

Isle of Man Treasury publicises amendments to two UK Russia sanctions list entries while maintaining asset freezes

The Isle of Man Treasury announced amendments to two entries on the UK Sanctions List under the Russia sanctions regime, affecting Igor Yurievch Karasev and JSC Scientific Research Institute Soliton. Both remain designated with asset freezes and trust services sanctions. Institutions must freeze relevant assets, avoid transactions without exemptions, and report to the Financial Intelligence Unit.

Policy & regulationRules & requirementsSanctions list update

2025-10-16Cayman IslandsCayman Islands Monetary Authority

Cayman Islands Monetary Authority closes one-time directors’ amnesty scheme and warns arrears will attract full penalties and possible enforcement

The Cayman Islands Monetary Authority has closed its Non-Compliant Directors’ Amnesty Scheme as of 15 October 2025. Payments made after this date will not receive amnesty benefits and will incur full annual fees and penalties under the Directors Registration and Licensing Act, 2014. Directors with outstanding balances remain non-compliant and risk enforcement action until all dues are settled.

Policy & regulationImplementation, projects & pilotsOther

2025-10-16EuropeEuropean Insurance and Occupational Pensions Authority

European Insurance and Occupational Pensions Authority and fellow European Supervisory Authorities publish 2026 Joint Committee work programme centred on DORA oversight and consumer protection

The Joint Committee of the European Supervisory Authorities has released its 2026 Work Programme, emphasizing cross-sector supervisory cooperation. Key priorities include enhancing digital operational resilience, consumer protection, and risk identification affecting financial stability. The programme also focuses on the Oversight Framework for critical ICT providers, financial education, and monitoring securitisation market developments.

Policy & regulationCooperationOperational risk and resilienceConsumer and investor protection

2025-10-16EuropeEuropean Insurance and Occupational Pensions Authority

European Insurance and Occupational Pensions Authority updates risk-free interest rate term structure methodology for January 2026, reflecting DLT Assessment 2025 and Bulgaria’s euro adoption

The European Insurance and Occupational Pensions Authority has released updated technical documentation for deriving its risk-free interest rate term structures. Revisions are influenced by the 2025 Deep, Liquid and Transparent Assessment and Bulgaria's euro adoption from January 2026. Changes take effect from January 2026.

Policy & regulationGuidance & interpretationFinancial benchmarks