The Federal Housing Finance Agency and Fannie Mae announced the dismissal of over 100 employees for unethical conduct, including fraud facilitation. Fannie Mae Board Chairman William J. Pulte emphasized a zero-tolerance policy towards fraud, while CEO Priscilla Almodovar highlighted ongoing efforts to uphold high ethical standards.
The Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC) issued a warning about nine websites not linked to any authorised investment service providers under Article 5 of Law 87(I)/2017. CySEC advises investors to verify the licensing status of firms on its website before engaging in investment activities.
The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) alerted about fraudulent websites and internet banking login screens linked to Shanghai Commercial Bank Limited. HKMA stressed banks won't send SMS or emails with embedded hyperlinks for transactions or request sensitive information via phone, email, or SMS. Customers who provided information or conducted transactions on these sites should contact the bank and report to the Hong Kong Police Force’s Crime Wing Information Centre.
The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) alerted about a fraudulent website and internet banking login screen reported by Chong Hing Bank Limited. The HKMA reminded the public that banks will not send SMS or emails with embedded hyperlinks for transactions or request sensitive information via phone, email, or SMS. Affected individuals should contact Chong Hing Bank and report to the Hong Kong Police Force’s Crime Wing Information Centre.
The Hong Kong Monetary Authority issued a public alert regarding fraudulent websites and internet banking login screens related to DBS Bank (Hong Kong) Limited. The HKMA emphasized that banks will not send SMS or emails with embedded hyperlinks for transactions or request sensitive information via phone, email, or SMS. Affected individuals should contact DBS Bank and report to the Police.
The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) alerted about fraudulent websites and internet banking login screens related to The Bank of East Asia, Limited. The HKMA reminded customers that banks will not send SMS or emails with embedded hyperlinks for transactions or request sensitive information via phone, email, or SMS. Customers who have shared personal information or conducted transactions on these sites should contact the bank and report to the Hong Kong Police Force.
The Hong Kong Monetary Authority and the banking sector have introduced measures to enhance SME access to financing, building on the "9+5" SME support measures from 2024. Participating banks will offer flexible credit reliefs and trade facility extensions, and explore financing aligned with Northern Metropolis development. The Mechanism and Taskforce will monitor global tariff disputes and maintain sector engagement.
Ceres has issued a guide for state and local governments to integrate climate resilience planning with climate risk disclosure in the municipal bond market. The guide, "Leading with Transparency," recommends using financial statements, bond issuance documents, and climate action reporting, based on the Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures framework. It addresses recent climate-related municipal bond defaults and forecasts a potential doubling of municipal debt issuance due to adaptation projects.
The Isle of Man Financial Services Authority announced that Insurance Corporation of the Channel Islands Limited has surrendered its permit to operate as a permitted insurer under section 22 of the Insurance Act 2008, effective 8 April.
The Bank for International Settlements released a working paper analyzing supervisory technology's impact on bank behavior using data from the Central Bank of Brazil. SupTech-driven scrutiny leads banks to correct credit risk reporting inconsistencies, reclassify more loans as non-performing, and increase provisions for expected loan losses by about 20%. While overall credit supply remains stable, credit to borrowers with arrears decreases by 3–5%, with higher loan rates and shorter maturities observed.
The Reserve Bank of India has withdrawn 20 regulatory circulars related to cheque operations, effective immediately, following a review by the Regulation Review Authority 2.0. This withdrawal affects all scheduled commercial and co-operative banks and covers areas such as temporary credit limits, MICR technology, customer service requirements, and controls on cheque fraud.
Qatar Central Bank Governor Sheikh Bandar bin Mohammed bin Saoud Al Thani and U.S. Ambassador to Qatar Timmy Davis discussed enhancing bilateral cooperation in the financial and banking sectors.
The Federal Reserve Bank of Boston appointed 11 new members to its three external advisory groups, enhancing representation from business and nonprofit sectors. These councils provide the Bank with insights on economic and community conditions in New England, covering areas such as employment, lending, and community development.
The Arab Monetary Fund's Director General, Dr. Fahad M. Alturki, met with Arab finance ministers to discuss strengthening AMF support for member countries, focusing on resolving arrears, digital transformation, and enhancing credit ratings. The meetings aimed to promote financial stability and support reform and development agendas across the region.
The Central Bank of San Marino's Managing Director, Andrea Vivoli, addressed evolving anti-money laundering (AML) challenges at a conference on regulatory cooperation between Italy and San Marino. Discussions emphasized updating supervisory measures and aligning with European and international standards, with a focus on the Central Bank's role in AML frameworks and crypto-asset regulation.
European Central Bank Executive Board member Piero Cipollone stressed the need for a digital euro to boost Europe's payment autonomy and reduce reliance on non-European providers. The digital euro is planned as a public-private partnership, universally accepted, free for basic use, privacy-protecting, with capped merchant charges. The project is on schedule, with a rulebook in development and ongoing work on holding-limit calibration and innovation partnership testing.
The National Bank of the Republic of Tajikistan has re-registered LLC Insurance Organization Mehnat's licence for insurance activities, invalidating the previous licence issued under a 22 September 2020 Board decision.
At the opening of a WAIFEM regional course in Monrovia, the Central Bank of Liberia reaffirmed support for the institute's capacity-building and human capital agenda across West Africa. Executive Governor Henry F. Saamoi linked that agenda to AfCFTA implementation and called for stronger policy coordination, financial integration, currency convertibility and cross-border payment systems to address weak intra-African trade.
Central Bank of Bosnia and Herzegovina Governor Jasmina Selimovic opened the 56th Technical Advisory Group conference in Sarajevo, emphasizing priorities for banknote processing and currency integrity. She highlighted the central bank's use of BPS-type machines for vault operations, alignment of KM banknotes with EU standards, ongoing withdrawal of older KM banknotes, and efforts to enhance security features for anti-counterfeiting protection.
The Bank of Spain's 2024 Supervision Report notes improved profitability, strong solvency in stress tests, a decline in 2025 Pillar 2 Requirements, and the first activation of the countercyclical capital buffer in Spain. It covers supervisory work involving over 900 professionals and 186 entities, with significant institutions seeing a 28% reduction in SREP requirements. Conduct supervision shifted to preventive measures, with an external assessment leading to a 2024–2025 action plan focusing on credit, liquidity, governance, and technology risks.
The Brazilian Pension Funds Authority (PREVIC) concluded a mediation process, resulting in an agreement to allocate 50% of Valia’s Plano Vale Mais special reserve to participants and beneficiaries. The reserve, valued at BRL 420.5 million in December 2023, will be distributed following a benefits-plan review. Valia will submit the plan revision proposal to PREVIC’s Licensing Directorate for consideration.
Vietnam’s Ministry of Finance and the Vietnam State Securities Commission are consulting on a draft circular to amend securities registration, depository, clearing, settlement, and disclosure requirements. The draft proposes changes to Circular 119/2020/TT-BTC and Circular 96/2020/TT-BTC, seeking feedback from various stakeholders.
The Vietnam State Securities Commission has mandated five individuals to pay a VND 1,000,000 licensing fee to finalize the issuance of securities practice certificates, as per Notice No. 17/TB-UBCK. Payment can be made via bank transfer or directly to the regulator. Failure to complete the procedure within one year will result in certificate cancellation.
Vietnam's State Securities Commission has updated the Ministry of Finance’s Circular 14/2025/TT-BTC, amending rules for securities registration, depository, clearing, and settlement, and guidance for the derivatives market. Key changes include eliminating personal paper documents once an electronic identification account is activated on the VNEID app and updating documentation requirements for securities registration and settlement. The circular also introduces new forms for derivatives, replacing Forms 01 and 02 from Circular 58/2021/TT-BTC.
The Brazil Securities Commission (CVM) fined Regen Serviços Fiduciários Ltda. BRL 255,000 for internal control weaknesses leading to incorrect liquidity information submissions. The enforcement action, initiated by the Superintendence for Institutional Investors Supervision, addressed breaches of CVM Instruction 558 and CVM Resolution 21. The CVM Board's unanimous decision allows for an appeal with suspensive effect to the Council of Appeals of the National Financial System.
The National Bank of Slovakia's Bank Board, led by Governor Peter Kažimír, approved the 'NBS Macroprudential Policy Strategy' at its sixth meeting of 2025. The strategy will be published on the bank's website.
The Canadian Association of Pension Supervisory Authorities reported on the Joint Forum of Financial Market Regulators' annual meeting in Calgary, focusing on AI systems and economic relations. Discussions included the Canadian Securities Administrators' Staff Notice and Consultation 11-348 on AI's role in capital markets and potential regulatory changes. The meeting also introduced new senior leaders from various Canadian financial regulatory bodies.
The Ontario Securities Commission reported on the Joint Forum of Financial Market Regulators' Annual Meeting in Calgary, focusing on cross-sector coordination among Canadian insurance, securities, and pension regulators. The meeting highlighted the Canadian Securities Administrators' Staff Notice and Consultation 11-348, addressing AI's role in capital markets and regulatory expectations. New senior leaders from Canadian regulatory bodies were introduced.
The Central Bank of the Republic of Azerbaijan has released an open banking user guide detailing interface standards for account servicing payment service providers (ASPSPs). The guide includes API structure, consent management, account information services, open data services, and technical requirements for third-party provider connectivity.
The Central Bank of the Republic of Azerbaijan met with Kazakhstan’s Agency for Regulation and Development of the Financial Market to discuss financial-sector priorities and potential bilateral cooperation. Central Bank Chairman Taleh Kazimov outlined the 2024–2026 Financial Sector Development Strategy, while Agency Chair Madina Abylkasymova shared Kazakhstan's strategies for financial stability and digitisation projects.
The Bank of Papua New Guinea released its March 2025 Economic Outlook, with the full report accessible in PDF format.
Securities Commission Malaysia opened the ASEAN Investment Conference 2025 and launched the ASEAN Simplified ESG Disclosure Guide for SMEs in Supply Chains to aid ESG reporting. The conference, themed “Connecting Capital, Unlocking Opportunities and Driving Sustainability,” gathered over 700 stakeholders and featured discussions on regional trade, sector growth, and financial integration. Malaysia’s Prime Minister delivered the keynote and engaged with global fund managers overseeing over USD 8 trillion in assets.
Poland's Ministry of Finance hosted an informal meeting of EU financial services attachés in Warsaw to enhance coordination on legislative projects. Discussions centered on reducing administrative barriers, simplifying rules, and strengthening consumer protection. The meeting also covered cyber resilience, the Saving and Investment Union, and Polish banking innovations.
Bank Negara Malaysia announced that the National Bank of Cambodia has joined the Regional Payment Connectivity initiative, expanding the group to nine ASEAN central bank signatories. Established in 2022, the initiative aims to enhance cross-border payment connectivity through QR code-based and fast payment modalities, promoting faster, cheaper, and more inclusive transactions. Benefits include improved market access for SMEs, enhanced trade facilitation, and better remittance flows.
Bank Negara Malaysia reported international reserves of USD117.5 billion as of 28 March 2025, sufficient to finance 4.9 months of imports and 0.9 times total short-term external debt. The reserves can also cover 5.7 months of retained imports using a previous measure. Short-term external debt primarily involves resident banks and multinational corporations, with obligations expected to be met from external assets.
Bank Negara Malaysia and the National Bank of Cambodia have launched phase 2 of their cross-border QR payment linkage, enhancing interoperability for travellers and merchants. This allows Malaysian travellers to pay Cambodian merchants via KHQR and Cambodian travellers to use the Bakong app with Malaysia’s DuitNow QR. Over seven million merchants are expected to benefit from instant payments through existing apps, with local partners like Maybank and Payments Network Malaysia involved.
The Bank of Zambia issued a public warning against the illegal mutilation of Zambian currency, highlighting severe penalties under the Bank of Zambia Act, 2022, including up to ten years of imprisonment. The warning follows media reports of banknotes being defaced, with the central bank urging the public to report such incidents.
The Philippine SEC issued Memorandum Circular No. 3, Series of 2025, mandating SEC Zuper Easy Registration Online (SEC ZERO) for corporate registration, transitioning to a fully online process. From 7 April 2025, domestic stock corporation applications, excluding lending and financing companies, must use SEC ZERO with eSECURE credentialing. Lending, financing, and foreign corporations will use eSPARC for three months before mandatory SEC ZERO adoption.
The Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario has initiated enforcement action against S.O.R.A. Real Estate & Insurance Ltd., operating as MIC Financial, and Roberto Gabriel Mammone for alleged breaches of Ontario’s mortgage brokerage requirements, including unauthorized mortgage dealings and fee payments, with proposed penalties totaling CAD 320,000. MIC Financial and Mammone have requested a hearing before the Financial Services Tribunal.
The Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario has launched its biennial stakeholder engagement survey to gather feedback on its performance and communication effectiveness. Conducted by Forum Research, the survey ensures confidentiality and reports results in aggregate.
The Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario (FSRA) has initiated enforcement action against Tracy Scimeca and Antonino (Nino) Scimeca, proposing administrative penalties totaling CAD 250,000 and a compliance order. Tracy Scimeca faces allegations of unauthorized mortgage dealings and providing false information, while Nino Scimeca is accused of facilitating dishonesty or fraud. Both have requested a hearing before the Financial Services Tribunal.
The Prudential Regulation Authority has proposed a new Matching Adjustment Investment Accelerator (MAIA) framework to enable UK insurers to invest in new assets more swiftly and claim Matching Adjustment benefits without prior approval. The framework includes exposure limits, amendments to the PRA Rulebook, and new reporting requirements. Implementation is expected in Q4 2025, with template changes starting 31 December 2026.
The Thailand Securities and Exchange Commission announced Cabinet approval of amendments to strengthen measures against cybercrime and digital asset mule accounts. The amendments require digital asset business operators to exchange information, screen transactions linked to cybercrimes, and establish a blacklist of individuals and wallet addresses. Penalties are introduced for mule account owners, and foreign digital asset exchanges are deterred from servicing local investors.
The Thailand Securities & Exchange Commission urged JCK International bondholders to review information and exercise their rights at an e-meeting on 11 April 2025 regarding proposed amendments to JCK217A and JCK221A bonds. Changes include extending maturities, increasing interest rates, and revising principal repayments. The SEC also mandates the bondholders’ representative to evaluate the implications of the amendments.
The Thailand Securities & Exchange Commission urges holders of four CHO bond series to review information and vote at a reconvened e-meeting on 10 April 2025, as Cho Thavee Public Company Limited seeks approval for waivers and amendments related to covenant breaches and revised repayment terms. The SEC requires bondholders’ representatives to analyze the benefits and impacts of approval or non-approval. Proposals include waiving default events, extending maturity, and adjusting interest rates.
The Bank of England's Prudential Regulation Authority is consulting on reforms to the Matching Adjustment (MA) application process by introducing a Matching Adjustment Investment Accelerator (MAIA) permission. This framework would enable insurers to gain immediate MA benefit recognition before full permission, facilitating quicker investments. Insurers with MAIA permission would have 24 months to submit a formal MA application for assets with new features.
Scott O’Malia, CEO of the International Swaps and Derivatives Association, testified to the US House Committee on Financial Services, stressing the need for regulatory calibration to support US Treasury market liquidity and resilience amid mandatory clearing. He warned that without adjustments, bank balance sheet capacity might be strained, affecting Treasury issuance absorption and client clearing, potentially disrupting the repurchase agreement market.
HM Treasury and India released a joint statement from the 13th Economic and Financial Dialogue, outlining a bilateral work programme on financial services, capital markets, payments, and sustainable finance. Key agreements include cooperation between the Financial Conduct Authority and the International Financial Services Centres Authority, enhancing equity capital markets connectivity, and expanding Masala Bond issuance. The statement reaffirms coordination on multilateral and sustainable finance issues, including cross-border payments and climate-related financial risks, and commits to extending tax cooperation and launching a new green finance workstream.
The Global Legal Entity Identifier Foundation (GLEIF) has designated Certizen Technology as a Qualified vLEI Issuer, enhancing the ecosystem for verifiable Legal Entity Identifiers (vLEI) to support secure digital identities and promote global interoperability, particularly in the Greater Bay Area.
The National Bank of Hungary has updated its interactive charts with 2023 business accounting data for domestic non-financial corporations. The data, based on individual company accounts, is categorized by company size and activity for the period 2016–2023.
The National Bank of Hungary and the Hungarian Banking Association agreed on a five-part package to simplify, enhance transparency, and reduce household banking costs. Measures include making basic accounts free until inflation is below 4% for three months, notifying customers of better account options, and facilitating online account cancellation. Additional initiatives involve a customer information campaign and using the MNB’s fee package calculator on bank websites.
The New Brunswick Financial and Consumer Services Commission reported on the Joint Forum of Financial Market Regulators’ annual meeting in Calgary, focusing on AI systems and the economic environment. Discussions included the Canadian Securities Administrators’ consultation on AI use in capital markets, aiming to clarify securities laws and gather feedback on AI's regulatory impact. The meeting also introduced new senior regulatory leaders and featured a keynote on global dynamics.
The State Bank of Vietnam (SBV) is assessing its banking-sector database systems to create a modern, integrated "banking industry common database." Supported by the World Bank and Switzerland’s SECO, with KPMG as the consultant, the project includes international benchmarking, surveys, and workshops to develop a data governance and sharing platform. SBV has urged internal units and credit institutions to prioritize resources and participation, with the World Bank invited for ongoing support in future phases.
The Quebec Autorité des marchés financiers reported on the Joint Forum of Financial Market Regulators’ annual meeting in Calgary, discussing collaboration and emerging issues among insurance, securities, pensions, and other financial services regulators. New senior leaders from Canadian regulatory bodies participated. The plenary session addressed the CSA Staff Notice and Consultation 11-348 on artificial intelligence in capital markets, seeking feedback on AI's role and regulatory implications.
The Egypt Financial Regulatory Authority outlined initiatives for the non-banking financial sector, including digital transformation, the voluntary carbon market, and insurance. Key developments include a regulatory sandbox for non-banking finance, a framework for participatory financing, and amendments to investment rules for private insurance funds. The authority also plans legislative changes to the Consumer Finance Law and Capital Market Law to facilitate private equity and venture capital funds.
The Central Bank of Chile has initiated a selection process to appoint a new full member and an alternate to the Technical Investment Council for a four-year term starting 1 June 2025, under the 2025 pension reform. Candidates must have significant experience in investment portfolio management and are subject to conflict-of-interest restrictions. Appointees are expected to act independently and not represent the Bank.
FDIC Acting Chairman Travis Hill outlined initiatives on de novo bank formation, digital assets, and insured depository institution resolution planning. Key points include potential adjustments to capital expectations for new banks, rescinding prior notification requirements for crypto activities, and revising resolution planning FAQs to focus on rapid marketing and short-term operations. Hill also mentioned reviewing regulatory asset thresholds and interagency work on capital reforms and supervisory actions.
The Norwegian Financial Supervisory Authority announced the Ministry of Finance's decisions on four appeal cases regarding PSD2 exemptions and e-money classification. The Ministry upheld Finanstilsynet's decisions in three cases, including Amfi Drift and Edenred, but overturned a decision concerning Facebook Payments International Limited. The Ministry found Facebook's service could qualify for exemption and instructed Finanstilsynet to set a new compliance deadline for Universal Presentkort.
At Finansnæringens dag 2025, Norwegian Financial Supervisory Authority Director General Per Mathis Kongsrud highlighted a challenging risk environment for the financial sector, despite banks' profitability. He addressed rapid technological changes, regulatory complexity, and economic crime, emphasizing the need for capital strength and governance. A joint sandbox initiative with the Norwegian Data Protection Authority to combat economic crime was also announced.
The Bank of Albania and the EBRD discussed Albania's economic developments, focusing on modernising payment infrastructure and regulatory innovations. Key topics included EBRD-supported projects on climate change regulatory infrastructure, supervisory framework alignment with the EU, and enhancing financial support for SMEs. The EBRD expressed readiness to expand collaboration, emphasizing support for greener, more digital Albanian businesses.
The Canadian Securities Administrators reported on the Joint Forum of Financial Market Regulators’ annual meeting in Calgary, focusing on artificial intelligence systems and the economic and geopolitical environment. The CSA’s Staff Notice and Consultation 11-348 aimed to clarify the application of Canadian securities laws to AI use and sought feedback on regulatory oversight adjustments. New senior leaders from various regulatory bodies participated, with keynote remarks addressing the global political context.
The Chile Financial Market Commission announced that Commissioner Augusto Iglesias Palau has become Deputy Chairman, succeeding Bernardita Piedrabuena, whose term ended on April 8. The Deputy Chairman role rotates every 18 months with no re-election, as per the Board’s Internal Operating Regulations. Iglesias, a CMF Commissioner since October 2020, will represent the CMF in the Chairperson’s absence and coordinate thematic committees.
Chile’s Financial Market Commission released its biannual update on motor vehicle repair times, showing a reduction in average repair time to 55 days in the second half of 2024 from 60 days in the first half. The report covers 80,664 claims and highlights variability in repair times by insurer and damage extent. The platform provides detailed comparisons by company, vehicle brand, model, and workshop.
The Canadian Investment Regulatory Organization (CIRO) is conducting in-person financial literacy workshops at Toronto Public Library branches throughout 2025. The program, aimed at beginners, newcomers, youth, and retirees, covers topics such as investing basics, budgeting, and fraud protection. Sessions are scheduled from April to November, with details available on the TPL website.
The Hellenic Capital Market Commission will eliminate the 2.4% stamp duty and digital transaction duty on fees and periodic contributions starting 1 December 2024. This adjustment, in accordance with Part B of Law 5135/2024, ensures payments are made at the stated amounts without additional charges.
The British Columbia Securities Commission granted the Canadian Investment Regulatory Organization's (CIRO) request for a hearing and review of a disciplinary decision involving Teymur Englesby and Cale Nishimura. The Commission found the original CIRO panel erred in law by not adequately considering the public interest and remitted the case for reconsideration. Englesby and Nishimura were investigated for failing to respond to warning signs of potentially suspicious activity in client accounts.
The British Columbia Financial Services Authority (BCFSA) has initiated a 90-day consultation on adopting four Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions (OSFI) guidelines for B.C. incorporated insurance companies. The draft guidance covers large insurance exposures, reinsurance practices, third-party risk management, and operational risk management. Feedback is requested on implementation challenges and timelines, with final guidelines expected in late summer 2025.
The Central Bank of Egypt hosted AFI CEO Alfred Hannig to discuss cooperation on financial inclusion, focusing on best practices and expertise exchange. The Central Bank attributed Egypt's financial inclusion rate increase to 74.8% by end-2024 to a supportive legislative environment and incentive initiatives. AFI is collaborating with the Central Bank to share Egypt's experience globally through peer-to-peer knowledge exchange.
U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission Acting Chairman Mark T. Uyeda, at the Annual Conference on Federal and State Securities Cooperation, called for reassessing the federal-state regulatory divide concerning mid-sized investment advisers and securities transactions. Uyeda questioned the current oversight allocation under the Dodd-Frank framework and highlighted inconsistencies in state requirements affecting secondary liquidity. He invited input from state regulators and the public on potential adjustments to federal preemption and adviser oversight.
The Bank of Thailand announced that the National Bank of Cambodia has joined the Regional Payment Connectivity initiative, bringing the total to nine signatories. This expansion was formalized through the fourth supplemental pages to the Memorandum of Understanding on Cooperation in Regional Payment Connectivity. Established in 2022, the initiative aims to enhance cross-border payments in ASEAN through faster, cheaper, and more inclusive methods, including QR-based payments.
The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) reported a major information security incident to Congress involving unauthorized access to OCC emails, as mandated by the Federal Information Security Modernization Act. Detected on 11 February 2025, the breach involved sensitive information about federally regulated financial institutions and was classified as a "major incident" after reviews. The OCC has engaged cybersecurity experts for investigation and is evaluating IT security policies, coordinating findings with the Department of the Treasury.
China's National Financial Regulatory Administration has adjusted the regulatory ratio framework for insurers' investments in equity-type assets, increasing allowable equity exposure. Changes include a 5 percentage point increase in the upper limit on equity-type asset allocations for certain solvency-adequacy tiers and a higher concentration ratio for venture capital fund investments. The regulator plans to further refine supervisory policies for insurance fund usage.
FINMA's 2024 Annual Report stresses stronger resilience for Swiss financial institutions in a stable market. Key activities included 111 on-site bank reviews, stress tests, and focus on cyber and outsourcing risks. FINMA highlighted 733 investigations and advocated for legislative changes to enhance supervisory powers.
The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has launched an official X account, @SEBI_updates, to disseminate regulatory communications. SEBI will post notifications on regulations, orders, circulars, and press releases on this platform and its website, urging stakeholders to follow for timely updates.
The Bank of Korea reported a February 2025 current account surplus of USD 7.18 billion and a rise in net assets in the financial account by USD 4.96 billion.
The National Bank of Denmark's lending survey for Q1 2025 reveals stable loan demand among business customers across 15 banks, attributed to subdued investment appetite amid geopolitical uncertainty. Larger banks with significant global trade exposure have made write-downs based on management estimates, noting that responses preceded the USA's new tariff plan announcement.
The Taiwan Financial Services Commission reported that the average non-performing loan (NPL) ratio for Taiwan's 38 domestic banks remained at 0.16% as of February 2025, despite a slight increase in NPL balances. Total outstanding loans rose by TWD 164 billion to TWD 42.76 trillion, while allowance coverage decreased to 835.23%. The FSC considers asset quality manageable and will continue mandating improvements in banks' asset quality and financial structure.
The Taiwan Financial Services Commission reported that the average non-performing loan (NPL) ratio for 38 domestic banks remained steady at 0.16% in February 2025. Total outstanding loans rose to TWD 42.76 trillion (USD 1,303 billion), with NPL balances increasing to TWD 69.19 billion (USD 2.11 billion). The FSC deemed asset quality manageable and will continue to mandate banks to enhance asset quality and financial structure.
EIOPA plans to simplify regulations and reduce administrative burdens to boost European competitiveness. Initiatives include revising Solvency II guidelines, reducing stress test frequency, and streamlining product disclosure requirements. EIOPA also aims to support the European Commission in simplifying sustainability reporting and seeks a stronger mandate for supervisory convergence and enforcement.
The Central Bank of Nicaragua reported a 3.4% year-on-year increase in the Monthly Index of Economic Activity (IMAE) for January 2025, with a 3.3% rise in the average annual variation. The seasonally adjusted series showed a 2.2% monthly decline but a 3.8% increase compared to January 2024. Notable growth was seen in hotels and restaurants, construction, and financial services, while fishing and aquaculture experienced significant declines.
The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) has released a consultation paper on the remaining Regulatory Technical Standards (RTS) for external reviewers under the European Green Bonds Regulation. The draft RTS outline requirements for reviewers' systems, compliance functions, and information controls to ensure robust reviews. ESMA seeks feedback from external reviewers and plans to finalize the RTS by December 2025.
The Hong Kong Insurance Authority has issued a public alert regarding phishing emails and fraudulent websites impersonating AIA International Limited to obtain personal or payment information. The emails originate from “contact@h-k-ala[.]site” and “info@hkala[.]site”, directing recipients to fraudulent sites. AIA has confirmed no connection to these emails or websites, and the issue has been reported to the Hong Kong Police Force.
The Insurance Supervision Agency of Montenegro released the application form for the professional exam necessary for insurance mediation or representation activities. Details on the exam date, time, and venue will be posted on the agency's website.
The Hong Kong Insurance Authority has issued a public alert regarding a phishing email and fraudulent website impersonating Manulife (International) Limited to obtain personal or payment information. The email originates from “info@manuiife-hk[.]site” and directs recipients to “manuiife-hk[.]site”. Manulife confirms no connection to these, and affected individuals are advised to contact Manulife and report to the Hong Kong Police Force.
The National Bank of Ukraine reported that international reserves reached USD 42,380.0 million as of 1 April 2025, a 5.6% increase from March. This rise was driven by substantial inflows from international partners and a decrease in net foreign exchange sales. The reserves cover 5.2 months of future imports.
The Spanish Securities Commission (CNMV) released its annual report on the supervision of 2023 Non-Financial Information Statements (EINF), highlighting disclosure improvement areas and future supervision priorities. The report reviewed 124 issuers, with 99 including an EINF and 85 providing EU environmental taxonomy information, leading to additional information requests from 17 entities. Key improvement areas include strategy description, materiality assessment, climate disclosures, and Article 8 of the EU Taxonomy Regulation.
The Australian Securities & Investments Commission (ASIC) secured Federal Court orders to wind up 95 companies due to false incorporation information and scam involvement, including online investment and romance baiting. The Court found a lack of confidence in management, with many linked to fraudulent websites and apps. ASIC is dismantling related scam operations, removing about 130 scam websites weekly, totaling over 10,000 sites, including fake investment platforms and cryptocurrency scams. Catherine Conneely and Thomas Birch of Cor Cordis are appointed as joint liquidators.
The Reserve Bank of New Zealand has opened applications for New Zealand-licensed non-bank deposit takers to access the Exchange Settlement Account System (ESAS) to meet liquidity requirements, following a comprehensive access review. The updated policy simplifies access criteria, with applications assessed individually, and plans to extend access to other non-bank entities in the third quarter of 2025.
The Dominican Republic's Pensions Superintendency (SIPEN) conducted a training session for over 50 employees of the General Directorate of Retirement and Pensions to enhance their social security knowledge. The workshop covered pension system operations, benefits, eligibility, and financial planning for retirement, and included technical Q&A and personalized consultations.
The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) fined Modefinance S.r.l. EUR 420,000 for breaching the Credit Rating Agencies Regulation by implying ESMA endorsement of its credit ratings. Between September 2018 and October 2021, Modefinance inaccurately claimed ESMA had "certified" or "validated" its models. ESMA deemed the breach negligent, considering both aggravating and mitigating factors in determining the penalty.
The UAE Central Bank's 2024 Annual Report details key developments, including measures to bolster banking resilience and the UAE's exit from the Financial Action Task Force's enhanced monitoring. It highlights a 3.9% real GDP growth in 2024, with a forecast of 4.7% for 2025, and significant increases in non-oil foreign trade and banking assets. The report also covers initiatives under the Financial Infrastructure Transformation programme, such as the domestic card scheme Jaywan, the Aani instant payment platform, and the launch of an Open Finance regulation.
The Ukraine National Commission on Securities and Stock Market, with the Cyber Police Department, is protecting investors from fraud by blocking suspect websites. They identified 424 dubious projects with warning signs like high return promises, lack of permits, aggressive marketing, and concealed ownership. The Cyber Police restricted access to prevent harm.
The Superintendency of Banks of Ecuador will accept digital and electronic document submissions 24/5, excluding holidays, starting 1 April 2025, eliminating the need for in-person filing. Submissions must be made through the authority’s digital window email channel with a valid electronic signature, while queries and complaints are handled separately.
Superintendent Roberto Romero von Buchwald of Ecuador's Superintendency of Banks attended the III Ibero-American Forum on Labour Formalisation, highlighting the financial system's role in inclusion and development. He advocated for regulatory adjustments to address labour-market dynamics and stressed attracting resources for productive credit and employment. Romero also participated in bilateral meetings to promote coordinated regional supervision focused on employment formalisation and financial inclusion.
The Andorran Financial Authority reported that Fitch Ratings has maintained Andorra's sovereign rating at A- with a stable outlook. Fitch cites 3.4% economic growth in 2024, driven by tourism, construction, and financial services, and highlights the banking sector's strength due to adequate capitalisation and liquidity. The Association Agreement with the European Union is seen as a potential driver for economic diversification and integration.
Monaco’s Ministry of Finance and Economy announced the unanimous adoption of the national strategy and 2025-2027 action plan by the Committee for Coordination and Monitoring of the National Strategy against money laundering, terrorist financing, and corruption. Chaired by Minister Pierre-André Chiappori, the meeting followed Monaco's submission of its first progress report to the Financial Action Task Force since being placed on the grey list. The committee emphasized sustaining efforts ahead of discussions with the International Cooperation Review Group.
The Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan has released a concept paper on modernising Waqf to align with contemporary socio-economic needs, proposing the establishment of "Waqf companies" and Shariah-compliant financial products. The paper highlights the need for a robust regulatory framework and suggests amendments to provincial Waqf laws and the Companies Act, 2017. Stakeholder consultation is planned before any regulatory actions.
The Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan has released a consultation paper proposing amendments to the regulatory framework for issuing bonus and right shares, aiming to significantly reduce processing times. Current timelines can extend up to 181 days for right issues, with potential reductions exceeding 50%. The paper also notes that the existing framework does not adequately incorporate digitalisation in Pakistan’s capital markets.
The Bank of Italy announced a project on AI use in Italian financial markets, launched by the European Commission’s SG Reform and the OECD under the EU’s Technical Support Instrument. The initiative, involving multiple Italian financial authorities, aims to analyze AI adoption opportunities and risks, providing guidance for safe implementation. The OECD will publish a final report by spring 2026, following research and stakeholder engagement.
The Bank of Italy released Deputy Director General Chiara Scotti's keynote speech, "Financial and Tax Regulation for the Digital Era: Charting the Path Forward," from a conference on tax and financial regulations in the digital environment. The event, co-organized with the Institute for Austrian and International Tax Law, took place in Rome on 7–8 April 2025. The speech and conference programme are available in English, including an ePub version.