The Bank of Korea published its International Investment Position statistics for Q2 2025, detailing the net international investment position, external assets, and external debt.
The Central Bank of Taiwan reported a Q2 2025 current account surplus of USD 36.23 billion, with a USD 13.07 billion year-on-year increase driven by a rise in the goods trade surplus. The financial account saw a net asset increase of USD 18.53 billion, with notable movements in direct and portfolio investments. Reserve assets increased by USD 16.00 billion.
The National Bank of Moldova reported that from January to July 2025, cash withdrawals from bank cash desks exceeded receipts by MDL 3,426.0 million. Cash receipts increased by 5.3% year-on-year to MDL 103,130.8 million, while withdrawals rose by 5.8% to MDL 106,556.8 million. Notable changes included a 4.5% increase in receipts from consumer goods sales and an 18.2% rise in cash credited to individuals' accounts.
The National Bank of Moldova reported July 2025 statistics showing new loans of MDL 7,014.6 million, a 0.9% increase from June. MDL-denominated loans comprised 76% of new lending, with an average nominal rate increase to 9.35%, while foreign-currency loan rates decreased to 5.13%. Household borrowing rose 4.3% to MDL 2,604.9 million, primarily for consumption, as mortgage rates increased to 8.25%, and legal-entity credit demand fell 0.9%.
The National Bank of Moldova reported a total of MDL 3,843.2 million in newly attracted term deposits for July 2025, marking an 11.6% increase from June. Deposits in Moldovan lei comprised 72.0% of the total, with an average nominal rate increase to 4.81%, while foreign-currency deposits saw a rate decrease to 1.32%. Household deposits rose significantly by 17.8%, whereas corporate lei deposits fell by 15.3%.
The Isle of Man Treasury has added eight entries to the UK Consolidated List under the Russia sanctions regime, effective via the Sanctions (Implementation of UK Sanctions) Regulations 2024. These individuals and entities face asset freezes and trust services sanctions. Relevant parties must freeze assets, verify against the UK Sanctions List, and report any breaches or blocked transactions to the Financial Intelligence Unit.
The Central Bank of the UAE has revoked Malik Exchange's licence, removed it from the Register, and imposed a financial penalty of AED 2 million for breaches of anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing regulations. This enforcement action follows examinations revealing non-compliance with the UAE's AML/CFT framework under Article 14 of Federal Decree Law No. 20 of 2018.
The Saudi Arabia Capital Markets Authority (CMA) has revoked Edraj Capital Company's licence for arranging and advising in securities due to non-compliance with fit and proper requirements. The CMA advises against engaging with Edraj Capital to safeguard market integrity and protect investors from illegal financial practices.
The Central Bank of Colombia announced that CREZCAMOS S.A. Compañía de Financiamiento has been authorized as a new participant in CENIT, as per External Circular Letter DSP-0176.
The Central Bank of Montenegro held a workshop for banking representatives on instant payments, preparing to introduce a TIPS Clone system based on the European Target Instant Payment Settlement model. The system aims to facilitate 24/7/365 real-time payments from July 2026. This initiative is part of the central bank's broader effort to modernize the financial sector and integrate Montenegro into the European financial ecosystem.
The Angola Capital Markets Commission has approved the registration of MOON CAPITAL ANGOLA – Women Empowerment Fund, a closed-end venture capital fund offered by private subscription. The fund aims to promote gender equality through investments in equity, debt instruments, and guarantees, aligning with the United Nations Women’s Empowerment Principles.
The Bank of Israel released an updated statistical series on expected inflation, showing one-year inflation expectations of 1.6% from the capital market, 1.9% from professional forecasts, and 2.1% from internal interest rates and inflation contracts. The report details the methodology for deriving these expectations, noting potential biases in market-based measures and highlighting greater-than-usual biases in January 2024.
Mexico's National Banking and Securities Commission (CNBV) reported the multiple banking sector's capitalisation index (ICAP) at 20.00% as of end-June 2025. The Basic Capital Coefficient was 17.91%, and the Fundamental Capital Coefficient was 16.58%.
Panama’s Superintendency of the Securities Market has extended the consultation period for stakeholders to provide input on the comprehensive review of the Securities Market Law. This extension is part of a broader initiative to update and modernize the regulatory framework.
The Belgium Financial Services and Markets Authority has suspended trading in Crescent's financial instruments on Euronext Brussels, effective 19 August 2025 at 09:00 CET. The suspension applies to instruments with ISIN BE0003836534 and will continue until a press release is issued.
The Ukraine National Commission on Securities and Stock Market advanced rulemaking initiatives and supervisory decisions, including senior appointments at market participants and approvals of securities offerings. Key actions involved amending resolutions, endorsing a draft letter for OECD accession, and approving draft laws on seals and sustainable development reporting. Authorisations included appointments at several LLCs, bond issue registrations, and share issue approvals for various entities.
De Nederlandsche Bank reported a significant rise in Dutch households' direct investments in defence companies, increasing from EUR 87 million in January 2023 to EUR 832 million by Q2 2025. Share price gains accounted for 56% of this increase, with Rheinmetall comprising 63% of the exposure. Direct investments in defence companies represent about 1.3% of households' direct listed equity portfolio, while total securities holdings rose to EUR 193.9 billion in Q2 2025.
The Angola Insurance Authority (ARSEG) and Angola's General Labour Inspectorate (IGT) signed a cooperation protocol to enhance worker protection and compliance with laws on Accidents at Work and Occupational Diseases. ARSEG emphasized SATDP as a key tool for employer accountability and worker protection, while IGT focused on safeguarding employee rights. The partnership aims to bolster workplace safety and improve legislative application.
Mexico’s Ministry of Finance announced agreements to transfer significant operations of CIBanco and Intercam Banco after temporary interventions by the National Banking and Securities Commission. CIBanco's trust division will move to Banco Multiva, while Kapital Bank will acquire substantial operations of Intercam Grupo Financiero. These transactions aim to protect depositors' rights and ensure service continuity, pending regulatory approval.
The Bank of Italy released updated Balance of Payments and International Investment Position statistics for June 2025.
Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) and the Task Force for the Eradication of Illegal Financial Activities (Satgas PASTI) have launched a National Campaign to combat scams and illegal financial activities, emphasizing public awareness and enforcement. Supported by the Indonesia AntiScam Center (IASC), which has processed 225,281 scam reports and blocked 72,145 accounts, victim losses total IDR 4.6 trillion. Key workstreams include prevention, accelerated report handling, law-enforcement coordination, and international collaboration.
Indonesia’s Financial Services Authority (OJK) hosted the Risk and Governance Summit 2025 in Jakarta, emphasizing Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC) for financial stability and sustainable growth. OJK Chair Mahendra Siregar stressed cross-sector integration and responsive regulation amid rising digitalization and risks like cybercrime. The summit featured expert panels and launched an Innovation Paper Competition, drawing significant participation from students and professionals.
The Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) and the Pakistan Business Council (PBC) agreed to enhance cooperation through quarterly meetings to strengthen Pakistan’s corporate sector and capital markets. SECP highlighted reforms like digitalized company incorporation, transparency measures, and new frameworks for capital markets, while discussions also covered sustainability and inclusion initiatives. PBC emphasized keeping corporate social responsibility voluntary and aligned with ESG principles.
The Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) and the Pakistan Mercantile Exchange (PMEX) discussed PMEX's strategic plan for developing the commodities futures market. Key topics included enhancing regulatory frameworks, governance, and transparency, as well as promoting agricultural commodity futures trading and broader market participation. The use of Electronic Warehouse Receipts was also highlighted to improve market efficiency.
The Australian Securities & Investments Commission (ASIC) urges life insurers to improve product design, sales, retention, and complaints handling. A review from July 2021 to June 2024 found deficiencies, including doubled dispute rates since 2018. Recommendations include using customer feedback, enhancing quality assurance, linking sales remuneration to compliance, and treating complaints as business intelligence. ASIC may investigate or act based on insurers' responses.
The People's Bank of China raised its relending quota for agriculture and small businesses by CNY 100 billion to support flood-control, disaster-relief, and reconstruction in affected regions. The initiative targets increased lending to micro and small enterprises, self-employed businesses, and agricultural entities in areas like Beijing, Hebei, and Shandong. The central bank will ensure provincial branches use the quota to align financing with flood-relief and reconstruction needs.
The National Bank of Ukraine has expanded the list of benchmark domestic government debt securities that banks can use to meet up to 60% of their reserve requirements, adding a new Ministry of Finance bond effective 20 August 2025. This measure aims to support banks' participation in Ministry of Finance auctions and state budget financing. The updated list, comprising 18 issues, was approved by NBU Board Decision No. 283.
The Bank of Portugal released updated balance of payments and international investment position statistics through June 2025, showing an external surplus of EUR 2.265 billion, down EUR 1.976 billion from the same period in 2024. The net international investment position was -58.7% of GDP at end-June 2025, with net external debt declining to 43.3% of GDP, the lowest since December 2004. The surplus decline was driven by a wider goods deficit and lower secondary income surplus, partially offset by an increased services surplus.
The Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) announced the election of J. Bradford Eichler as Large Firm Governor and Erin Baskett as Small Firm Governor on its Board of Governors. Eichler and Baskett will fill seats vacated by Penny Pennington and Linde Murphy, respectively. FINRA's Board consists of 22 members, with a majority designated for public members, 10 for industry members, and one for FINRA’s CEO.
The Bank of the Lao held its second Management Council meeting for 2025, chaired by Governor Bounkham Vorachit, to review progress and set priorities for the year. The meeting emphasized achieving monetary targets, strengthening the banking system, and modernizing the payments system. All agenda items were approved.
The Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA) expelled six members for insolvency or non-payment and plans to expel two more for losing authorization, with specific dates set for Next Generation Advice Pty Ltd and Bluebird Private Equity Pty Ltd. Expelled members required to maintain AFCA membership for legal compliance are advised to seek reinstatement by addressing the issues that led to their expulsion.
The Agency for Regulation and Development of the Financial Market of the Republic of Kazakhstan has integrated its financial literacy project, Fingramota.kz, into the Egov.kz e-government platforms. This integration aims to enhance access to information on debt restructuring, financial fraud protection, and investment opportunities, supporting state policy on financial literacy and responsible finance management.
The Thailand Office of Insurance Commission held an "Insurance Alert" seminar in Ratchaburi to boost insurance literacy among SMEs and the public, focusing on risk management and fraud prevention. The agenda covered insurance principles for SMEs and fraud patterns, emphasizing aligning insurance products with local economic conditions. This initiative is part of an annual program started after the 2011 floods, now extending outreach to educational institutions.
The National Bank of the Republic of Tajikistan's chairman, Firdavs Tolibzoda, held a virtual meeting with Moody’s Investors Service analysts to discuss Tajikistan’s upcoming sovereign credit rating review. Discussions included economic trends, financial system resilience, and measures for financial stability and structural reforms. Tolibzoda expressed hopes that these factors will positively influence the next rating review.
The National Bank of the Republic of Tajikistan has re-registered and issued a new banking operations licence to the microcredit deposit organisation “Doro Moliya” following its name change from “Doro Pay.” The previous licence, which allowed operations in both national and foreign currencies, has been withdrawn. This action complies with Tajikistan’s laws on the National Bank, microfinance organisations, and the licensing system.
The Bank of Spain released updated supervisory statistics for Q1 2025, showing strengthened regulatory capital and improved asset quality among credit institutions. Key metrics include a Common Equity Tier 1 ratio of 13.66%, a leverage ratio of 5.72%, and a liquidity coverage ratio of 171.33%, all indicating robust financial health. The non-performing loan ratio decreased to 2.86%, while the annualised return on equity rose to 14.43%.
The Central Bank of Curaçao and Sint Maarten (CBCS) has launched a survey of the construction sector in Curaçao and Sint Maarten to enhance its economic analysis, with findings to be included in the CBCS Economic Bulletin. Developed with local Chambers of Commerce, the survey aims to gather data on business performance, economic conditions, and future expectations, building on a previous manufacturing sector survey for comparative analysis.
The Central Bank of the Philippines issued a warning about fraudulent documents falsely appearing to be from the bank or its officials. These documents may feature the BSP logo and forged signatures, aiming to deceive recipients into providing money or personal information. The bank advises vigilance and verification of financial communications, urging the public to report suspicious activity through official channels.
The Central Bank of the Philippines is committed to combating financial crimes and enhancing AML/CTPF supervision after the EU removed the Philippines from its high-risk third countries list. The EU's decision was based on improved effectiveness in the Philippines' AML regime and resolution of FATF-identified deficiencies. Governor Eli M. Remolona noted ongoing efforts to further strengthen the country's capacity to meet global standards.
The Central Bank of the Philippines reported a balance of payments deficit of USD 167 million in July 2025, reversing a USD 62 million surplus from July 2024, due to the national government drawing down foreign currency deposits to service external debt. The cumulative deficit for January to July 2025 reached USD 5.8 billion, driven by a trade in goods deficit, despite net inflows from remittances, government borrowings, and portfolio investments. Gross international reserves declined to USD 105.4 billion by end-July 2025, covering 7.2 months of imports and 3.4 times short-term external debt.
The Central Bank of the Philippines issued a warning about fraudulent documents falsely appearing to be from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) or its officials. These documents may misuse the BSP logo and forged signatures to deceive recipients for financial gain or personal information. The public is urged to verify communications and report suspicious activity through official BSP channels.
The National Bank of Serbia's July survey shows rising short-term inflation expectations among financial sector respondents and economic representatives, while medium-term expectations remain stable. The financial sector's one-year-ahead expectations increased to 3.8% in July, and economic representatives' short-term expectations rose to 6.0%. The central bank noted that one-year-ahead expectations have stayed within its target range for over 18 months.
The Brazil Securities Commission (CVM) issued a statement on the constitutional amendment proposal PEC 65, urging comprehensive debate with authorities to avoid institutional silos and reduced legal certainty. The CVM emphasized coordination, referencing international frameworks and Brazil's Committee for Regulation and Supervision of Financial, Capital, Insurance, Pension and Capitalisation Markets (Coremec). It endorsed strengthening coordination mechanisms and expressed readiness to engage with Congress, regulators, and market participants.
The Albania Financial Services Authority released the agenda for its Board meeting on 26 August 2025, covering supervisory, market-approval, and governance items. Key topics include an inspection at Raiffeisen Invest sh.a., a draft decision on Banka Kombëtare Tregtare sh.a.'s bond issuance, and updates on internal audits. The Board will also consider replacing the depositary for ABI Invest sh.a.'s funds and approving insurance agent activities.
The Central Bank of Paraguay highlighted Moody’s decision to keep Paraguay’s sovereign rating at Baa3 with a stable outlook, maintaining investment grade status. Moody’s cited inflation within target, a 6% policy rate, aligned medium-term inflation expectations and a well-capitalized banking sector. It also pointed to economic diversification, solid GDP growth and positive results under International Monetary Fund-backed programs.
The Global Financial Markets Association and Joint Trades urged the Basel Committee to pause the Cryptoasset Exposures Standard (SCO60) and conduct a targeted redesign consultation. They argue SCO60's capital treatment is overly conservative and misaligned with actual risks, hindering innovation. A companion report highlights the need for regulatory updates due to the evolving cryptoasset market and identifies six priority areas for development.
The Croatian Financial Services Supervisory Agency's latest statistics show increases in assets for second and third pillar pension funds, higher Zagreb Stock Exchange market capitalisation, and growth in UCITS net assets. By end-July 2025, mandatory pension funds had 2.37 million members, with net assets rising 2.2% to EUR 25.2 billion. Insurance premiums collected by 14 companies reached EUR 1.2 billion in the first seven months of 2025, while the Zagreb Stock Exchange saw a 3.5% rise in market capitalisation to EUR 56.4 billion.
The Prudential Regulation Authority and the Bank of England summarized a roundtable with international banks on Future Banking Data, emphasizing cost-effective, proportionate long-term reporting. Participants supported reforming the regulatory reporting framework but noted issues with frequent changes, ambiguous guidance, and unclear data definitions. Discussions covered shifting to granular datasets, reducing costs via improved submission systems, and ensuring proportionality, especially for smaller firms.
The Thailand Securities and Exchange Commission announced an electronic Bondholders’ Meeting for Prime Road Power Public Company Limited on 22 August 2025, focusing on waiving events of default for missed payments on 31 July 2025 for the PRIME253B, PRIME253A, PRIME25DA, and PRIME25DB bond series. Bondholders will vote on waivers, rescheduling payments, extending maturities, increasing interest rates, and providing additional collateral. The SEC urges bondholders to review implications and engage with representatives before voting.
The U.S. Senate Committee on Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs released remarks from Chairman Tim Scott at the Wyoming Blockchain Symposium, highlighting plans for U.S. digital asset legislation. Scott aims to advance digital asset market structure legislation through the Senate Banking Committee in September, coordinating with the Trump administration to establish clearer regulatory frameworks.
The State Bank of Pakistan has launched PRISM+, a Real-Time Interbank Settlement Mechanism Plus system, to modernize payment infrastructure. PRISM+ uses the ISO 20022 messaging standard, enhancing financial messaging, interoperability, and transparency, while adding liquidity management tools and integrating with the Central Securities Depository. It aims to improve capacity and efficiency, supported by cybersecurity, anti-money laundering, and fraud management frameworks, with backing from the World Bank Group.
The National Commission of Banks and Insurance of Honduras has updated supervisory reporting requirements for Public Social Security Pension Institutes, mandating submissions within 15 business days post-reporting period starting September 2025. Monthly, semiannual, and annual reports must be submitted electronically, covering financial and demographic data. The measure repeals previous conflicting resolutions and is effective immediately.
The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) has proposed amendments to its regulations on official signs and advertisements for insured depository institutions' digital channels and ATMs. The changes aim to address operational and consumer confusion by adjusting signage requirements, including flexibility in digital sign design and specific display rules for digital channels and ATMs. The proposal seeks to enhance consumer understanding of FDIC insurance coverage.
The Central Bank of Chile has launched an official WhatsApp channel named “Banco Central de Chile” to enhance the dissemination of its information, including policy reports and statistics. This initiative complements the bank's existing presence on Instagram, LinkedIn, and X, aiming to improve content accessibility.
The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation Board of Directors approved a proposed rulemaking to amend regulations on the display of the FDIC official digital sign and non-deposit signage. The proposal aims to simplify how banks present these notices on digital channels, including websites, mobile applications, and ATMs. The amendments would revise 2023 requirements to focus signage display on screens and pages most relevant to consumers.
Federal Reserve Board Vice Chair for Supervision Michelle W. Bowman emphasized a tailored supervisory framework for blockchain activities, highlighting tokenization's benefits and the GENIUS Act's role in stablecoins. The speech noted removing "reputational risk" from examination programs and reintegrating "novel supervision" into standard processes. Continued interagency work on stablecoin regulation and updates to supervisory materials were discussed, inviting industry engagement on using emerging technologies to combat fraud.
The Federal Reserve Board issued a consent prohibition order against Markel O’Neal Calhoun, a former Regions Bank employee, due to embezzlement of bank funds.
The Chile Financial Market Commission is consulting on proposed amendments to General Rule No. 16 and General Rule No. 182, updating registration and authorisation processes for securities intermediaries and commodity exchange brokers in line with the Fintech Act (Law No. 21,521). The amendments aim to revise procedures for enrolling in registries and authorising intermediation services. A Regulatory Report detailing the proposal and its impact is available.
The British Columbia Financial Services Authority (BCFSA) issued a consumer alert regarding unlicensed rental property management by Radoslava Stoycheva and Victoria Royal Vacations Inc. in Greater Victoria. Stoycheva, under an accepted undertaking, must cease all unlicensed real estate activities, with potential penalties for breaches. BCFSA is gathering information on prior activities and advises property owners to verify managers' licensing.
The British Columbia Financial Services Authority (BCFSA) issued a consumer alert regarding alleged unlicensed real estate activity by Radoslava Stoycheva and Victoria Royal Vacations Inc. in the Greater Victoria Region. BCFSA accepted an undertaking requiring them to cease real estate services unless permitted under the Real Estate Services Act, with potential penalties for breaches reaching up to CAD 500,000.
The Bank of Thailand's quarterly assessment reports a resilient banking sector with strong capital, loan loss provisions, and liquidity. Loan growth contracted by -0.9% year-on-year in Q2 2025, with large corporate lending expanding while SME and consumer lending declined. Gross non-performing loans rose slightly to THB 554.9bn, but the NPL ratio remained stable at 2.91%, and profitability improved despite higher provisioning expenses and reduced net interest income.
Deputy Governor Pham Tien Dung of the State Bank of Vietnam emphasized enhancing the legal framework and promoting innovation, digital technology, and green finance at the Saigon Marina International Financial Centre inauguration. The centre aims to support Vietnam's development as an international financial hub, aligning with National Assembly Resolution 222/2025/QH15, which includes plans for a Fintech sandbox and international derivatives exchanges.
The State Bank of Vietnam (SBV) engaged with DZ Bank in Hanoi to discuss expanding SBV's reserve management into international green government bonds, focusing on German sovereign green bonds. The meeting aligned with Vietnam’s National Green Growth Strategy and COP26 commitments, with DZ Bank sharing expertise on sustainable investments. SBV aims to develop a cooperation plan with DZ Bank for specialist training and information exchange.
The Argentina Securities Commission (CNV) and the Financial Information Unit (UIF) discussed enhancing cooperation on anti-money laundering (AML) regulation for capital markets and CNV-supervised entities. The agenda includes collaboration on AML prevention laws, regulation of the Registry of Virtual Asset Service Providers, and joint educational initiatives for market stakeholders on AML, terrorist financing, and proliferation financing.
The Argentina Securities Commission's president, Roberto E. Silva, addressed a CFA Society Argentina event, highlighting the CNV's efforts to modernize the regulatory framework and simplify processes while focusing on investor protection. The session was part of a networking series for CFA-designated professionals and other market participants.
FinCEN extended its orders prohibiting fund transmittals involving three Mexico-based financial institutions until 20 October 2025. The measures target CIBanco, Intercam Banco, and Vector Casa de Bolsa due to money laundering concerns linked to opioid trafficking. The extension acknowledges Mexico's efforts to address these concerns, including temporary management to ensure compliance and prevent illicit finance.
FinCEN extended the deadline to October 20, 2025, for orders prohibiting fund transmittals involving three Mexico-based financial institutions: CIBanco, Intercam, and Vector. These institutions were identified as primary money laundering concerns related to illicit opioid trafficking under the Fentanyl Sanctions Act and the FEND Off Fentanyl Act. The extension is linked to Mexico's efforts to address these concerns, including assuming temporary management of the institutions to enhance regulatory compliance.
Switzerland's Federal Department of Finance announced that the Financial Innovation Desk (FIND) will transfer to the State Secretariat for International Finance (SIF) on 1 September 2025, after a two-year pilot phase. The new SIF unit will continue supporting financial-sector innovation, retaining services like the FIND Map and SwissHacks fintech hackathon, and integrating parts of the FIND website. Stakeholder networking will persist under SIF leadership.
The Bank of Korea's Q2 2025 data reveals a KRW 24.6 trillion increase in total household credit, reaching KRW 1,952.8 trillion by end-June. This includes KRW 1,832.6 trillion in household loans and KRW 120.2 trillion in merchandise credits.
The Central Bank of Argentina revised the reporting schedule for the Survey of External Assets and Liabilities (RAyPE), dividing filers into two groups. Companies with external assets and liabilities below USD 10 million will report annually, while larger firms will continue quarterly submissions under simplified requirements. This change, affecting over 24,000 companies, aligns with Argentina’s broader administrative simplification efforts and will be implemented in January 2026.
The National Bank of Denmark released a working paper on estimating and correcting occupational miscoding in US survey data to reduce measurement error in occupational mobility. The study finds that correcting miscoding significantly lowers estimated mobility rates and strengthens the empirical link between mobility and task distance. It also introduces a miscoding-based distance measure to predict occupational transitions and wage losses.
The Central Bank of Mongolia and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) discussed Mongolia's macroeconomic outlook and potential cooperation aligned with national development priorities. Inflation was reported at 8.1% as of July 2025, within the central bank's target range. Talks emphasized economic recovery and collaboration in sectors beyond mining, including small and medium-sized enterprises and agriculture.
The Trinidad and Tobago Securities and Exchange Commission (TTSEC) issued a public notice to assist investors in identifying unregistered individuals or entities. The notice, part of TTSEC's investor education efforts, includes a list of those not registered with the Commission.
The Central Bank of The Bahamas released its semi-annual assessment of retail fees by domestic commercial banks, noting increased deposit-account costs and varied pricing. CIBC Caribbean Limited and Fidelity Bank (Bahamas) Ltd were the lowest-cost providers for various customer profiles, while Scotiabank Bahamas Limited was generally the most expensive. The report also mentions ongoing reviews to enhance digital financial inclusion and improve transparency in credit facility management.
The ADGM Financial Services Regulatory Authority has finalized amendments to its prudential framework for Category 3B, 3C, and 4 Authorised Persons. Key changes include revised capital requirements for Category 4 firms, updated reporting requirements for Category 3B and 3C firms, and amended professional indemnity insurance requirements across all categories. These amendments are effective immediately, except for the minimum standards for professional indemnity insurance cover, which apply from 1 January 2026.
The Central Bank of Uruguay (BCU) participated in the "Uruguay and the OECD" strategic dialogue, where BCU President Guillermo Tolosa emphasized the benefits of closer cooperation with the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development. He highlighted that such collaboration could advance reforms in central bank governance, strengthen financial education, and expand financing opportunities for small and medium-sized enterprises.
The Hong Kong Insurance Authority has launched the AI Cohort Programme to promote responsible AI adoption in the insurance sector, aligning regulatory and developmental goals. Seven insurers will establish centres of excellence and nurture AI talent, while technology providers presented solutions at the launch event.
The Central Bank of Montenegro has amended its payment system rules to extend weekday processing until 8:00 pm, ensuring same-day credit for late-day payments. RTGS payments over EUR 1,000 and DNS payments up to EUR 1,000 will be credited immediately under the new schedule. The modernization plan includes weekend operations starting 20 October 2025 and aims for 24/7/365 real-time payments by July 2026.
The European Banking Authority has published final draft Regulatory Technical Standards (RTS) detailing the allocation of off-balance sheet items to Capital Requirements Regulation (CRR) buckets for credit conversion factors under the standardised approach to credit risk. The RTS introduce criteria for items not mapped to CRR buckets, focusing on conversion probability factors and constraints on unconditionally cancellable commitments. Developed under Article 111(8) of Regulation (EU) No 575/2013, the RTS have been submitted to the European Commission.
The Central Bank of the Dominican Republic hosted Dominican Republic Ambassador to Spain Tony Raful and Dominican-Spanish students recognized in the Dominican Embassy in Spain’s School Merit Awards. Governor Héctor Valdez Albizu emphasized the central bank's role in macroeconomic and financial stability, including its inflation-targeting framework and support for the financial system.
The Tanzania Insurance Regulatory Authority (TIRA) held a briefing in Dar es Salaam to update on insurance sector developments from 2021 to 2024 and promote media cooperation to enhance public insurance awareness. Coordinated with the Treasury Registrar’s Office, Commissioner Dr. Baghayo Saqware urged journalists to disseminate accurate insurance information. TIRA plans to continue programs for journalists to support this collaboration.
The Tanzania Insurance Regulatory Authority released a statement and the Insurance Commissioner's speech detailing the insurance market's performance and sector achievements from 2021 to 2024.
The Central Bank of Latvia released a working paper analyzing the economic impact of slower adjustments in commercial bank deposit rates to monetary policy changes using a New-Keynesian model. The study finds that slower rate adjustments increase macroeconomic volatility and affect bank net interest income, consumption, output, and investment dynamics. A tax on interest income from deposit rates below the policy rate amplifies short- and medium-term costs but enhances long-term economic dynamics.
The Central Bank of Cyprus released updated data on non-performing loans (NPLs) in the banking sector as of 31 May 2025, with the NPL ratio steady at 5.9%. The non-performing exposure (NPE) coverage ratio increased to 61.0% from 60.7%. Total restructured loans were EUR 1.3 billion, with EUR 0.7 billion still classified as NPEs.
The Central Reserve Bank of Peru reported a 4.7% year-on-year increase in national formal employment for June 2025, adding 272,000 jobs compared to June 2024. Private-sector formal employment rose 6.3% to 4.331 million jobs, with significant contributions from services, agriculture, and commerce. The real formal wage bill increased by 6.2%, while the private-sector wage bill grew 8.7%, driven by gains in services and commerce.
The Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan and the Pakistan Banks Association held a workshop in Karachi to boost banks' involvement in capital markets, launching the Capital Market Development Fund and Agahi Portal. The event focused on bank-capital market integration strategies, including Ijarah Sukuk issuance via the Pakistan Stock Exchange and a T+1 settlement cycle. Discussions covered banks' roles in leveraged products and digital banking, with the Finance Minister proposing a Capital Market Development Council to include key stakeholders.
The Australian Securities & Investments Commission (ASIC) has banned financial adviser Andrew Rankin for four years for failing to act in clients' best interests and providing inappropriate advice while with Next Generation Advice Pty Ltd. Rankin advised clients to establish self-managed superannuation funds (SMSFs) and invest in speculative and illiquid funds without properly assessing client needs and product suitability. ASIC found misleading projections and conflicts of interest in his advice. The ban is effective from 14 August 2025, with Rankin having the right to appeal. ASIC's investigation into related matters continues.
The Central Bank of the Republic of China and the Bank of Thailand have extended and amended their Renminbi–Thai baht bilateral local-currency swap agreement to CNY 70 billion (THB 370 billion) for five years. The agreement, approved by the State Council, may be extended by mutual consent. Discussions also included the global economic outlook and China–Thailand financial cooperation.
The National Bank of Ukraine's Q2 2025 Banking Sector Review highlights continued bank asset growth, driven by a 9.5% increase in net UAH lending to businesses, particularly in the SME segment. The review notes a decline in subsidised corporate lending and an improvement in corporate portfolio quality, with the non-performing loan ratio decreasing to 27.0%. Despite a rise in liabilities and net interest margin, Q2 profit fell 2.1% due to higher expenses, and one small bank risks breaching the upcoming leverage ratio requirement.
The Luxembourg Commission de Surveillance du Secteur Financier (CSSF) reviewed first-year CSRD-style sustainability reporting, noting broad voluntary uptake and improved accessibility but uneven quality in double materiality assessments and disclosure gaps. Analysis of 19 reports showed 60% of issuers used full European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS), with 63% receiving limited assurance. The CSSF highlights challenges in linking material topics to impacts, risks, and opportunities, and notes ongoing EU discussions on potential amendments to the CSRD and ESRS.
The Barbados Financial Services Commission has taken enforcement action against Equity Insurance Company Ltd, appointing a Manager to assume day-to-day control and initiating a process that could lead to licence revocation if remediation is inadequate. The action follows examinations that found significant weaknesses in Equity’s systems, controls, governance and non-compliance with earlier directives. Existing policies remain valid, claims and customer service will continue, renewals are permitted at the discretion of the company and policyholders, and no new business will be written.
Greece's Ministry of National Economy and Finance reported a provisional state budget surplus of EUR 2.188bn for January to July 2025, surpassing the target deficit of EUR 1.961bn. The primary surplus reached EUR 7.959bn, exceeding the target by EUR 4.36bn. Timing effects, including delayed payments and tax revenues, contributed to the overperformance, with net revenues at EUR 42.858bn and expenditures at EUR 40.671bn.
The Hong Kong Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) has banned Zhu Hong, a substantial shareholder and former manager at Kylin International (HK) Co., Limited, from regulated activities for 12 months and fined her HKD 400,000 for fund management failures. Zhu inadequately managed Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorist Financing duties. The SFC's action is linked to an ongoing disciplinary case against another related entity.
The Austrian National Bank (OeNB) announced a special exhibition at its Money Museum to commemorate 100 years since the schilling became Austria's official currency. The exhibition, titled “Es war einmal ... der Schilling”, explores the currency's history, including its reintroduction in 1945 and replacement by the euro. Despite the schilling's discontinuation in 2002, ATS 6.8 billion remains in circulation and can be exchanged for euros at OeNB.
The Ukraine National Commission on Securities and Stock Market announced that the National Depository of Ukraine has published a detailed procedure for depository institutions and the Central Depository on returning blocked assets to clients of LLC Freedom Finance Ukraine, implementing the Commission’s 25 July 2025 decision. The procedure sets out the workflow for returning securities and cash, with the Commission continuing to work with the National Depository of Ukraine, banks and other parties to resolve the situation.
The International Association of Deposit Insurers announced new leadership for its Fintech and Resolution Technical Committees, appointing Ms Sabihah Mohamed and Mr Oktawiusz Szubart as chairs. The update highlighted recent member publications, including reports from the Hong Kong Deposit Protection Board and the Savings Deposit Insurance Fund of Türkiye, and outlined upcoming digitalisation webinars and the 24th IADI Annual Conference and AGM in November 2025.
The Hong Kong Monetary Authority issued a scam alert about fraudulent websites, fake banking login screens, and phishing emails targeting customers of banks like The Bank of East Asia and HSBC. The alert stresses that banks won't send SMS or emails with hyperlinks for transactions or request sensitive information like passwords via phone, email, or SMS. Customers who shared personal information should contact their bank and report to the Hong Kong Police Force’s Crime Wing Information Centre.
Thailand’s Office of Insurance Commission and the ASEAN Insurance Training & Research Institute held a regional workshop in Bangkok on enterprise risk management and operational resilience for insurance supervisors from 10 countries. The workshop aimed to enhance practical ERM application, risk-based capital adequacy, and operational resilience against systemic risks. Over 30 participants from ASEAN and beyond attended, with discussions tied to the OIC’s ERM-ORSA framework.
The Thailand Office of Insurance Commission conducted an outreach in Surat Thani to promote insurance for managing tourism-related risks, emphasizing "five boat safety checks" for passenger boat operators. The initiative involved local business groups and insurance stakeholders to enhance access and develop region-specific products. A panel on risk management through insurance for safer tourism was convened, highlighting Surat Thani's 2024 tourism revenue of THB 92,154 million.
Mexico's National Commission for the Protection and Defense of Users of Financial Services (CONDUSEF) reported a 4.1% increase in complaints in Morelos from January to July 2025, totaling 2,821 cases. The most common issues involved credit and debit cards, with unrecognized purchases and electronic transfers prevalent. Multiple banking was the primary sector for complaints, with a significant portion related to older adults and potential fraud.