The Bermuda Monetary Authority warned that Blockchain Deposit Insurance Corp (BDIC) is not licensed or registered for regulated activities in Bermuda. BDIC is absent from the Registrar of Companies’ register, posing increased risks due to unregulated entities making false claims. BDIC is now on the Authority’s warning list of unauthorised firms and individuals.
The Central Bank of the Republic of China reported on implementing 736 policy suggestions from the 2024 National People’s Congress and Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference, focusing on technology finance and payment services. Key actions include a CNY 500bn relending facility for technology innovation, issuance of science and technology innovation notes, and enhanced payment services in 17 cities. The bank plans to refine its engagement processes for the 2025 sessions.
Deputy Governor Xuan Changneng of the People's Bank of China participated in the Bank for International Settlements governors meeting in Cape Town. Central bank governors discussed the international economic and financial situation, monetary policy responses, and the impact of shifting financial conditions on monetary policy amid diverging global economic trends.
Deputy Governor Xuan Changneng of the People's Bank of China attended the G20 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors meeting in Cape Town, focusing on global economic outlook, financial reform, and sustainable finance. The meeting emphasized macroeconomic policy coordination and support for a strong, quota-based International Monetary Fund. Xuan highlighted China's financial reforms, cross-border payments progress, and committed to advancing the G20 Sustainable Finance Working Group's 2025 programme.
The National Credit Union Administration (NCUA) will stop public reporting of individual credit unions' overdraft and NSF fee income, collecting this data through supervisory examinations starting March 31, 2025. Aggregated data will be published once examination system updates are complete. NCUA Chairman Kyle S. Hauptman emphasized focusing on financial inclusion, reducing barriers for new credit unions, and easing regulatory burdens on smaller institutions.
The National Association of Insurance Commissioners released preliminary 2024 market share reports for life/fraternal and property/casualty insurers, detailing direct written premiums and market share rankings. With over 83% of insurers reporting, life insurance premiums total USD 179.97 billion, while property and casualty premiums total USD 974.97 billion. The top 10 life insurers hold 47.20% market share, and the top 10 property and casualty companies hold 51.40%, with private passenger auto as the largest line.
Norway's Ministry of Finance will implement changes to bank capital requirements on 1 April 2025, aligning with the amended EU Capital Requirements Regulation (CRR3). CRR3 introduces a new standardised approach for credit risk, reducing capital requirements for certain exposures, such as low loan-to-value mortgages, primarily benefiting smaller banks. The EEA Joint Committee's decision to incorporate CRR3 into the EEA Agreement will also take effect on the same date, following the lifting of Liechtenstein’s reservation.
The Luxembourg Commission de Surveillance du Secteur Financier (CSSF) issued a warning to supervised entities regarding a malspam campaign that installs Remote Management and Monitoring tools, potentially leading to fraudulent Multiline transactions. Firms are urged to review and implement recommendations from the Computer Incident Center Luxembourg's technical report.
The National Bank of Ukraine's 2024 oversight report reveals a strong preference for cashless payments, with 94.6% of card transactions by number and 64.5% by value being cashless, despite wartime disruptions. The report highlights significant growth in the payments ecosystem, including a 10.5% increase in payment terminals and a 15% rise in issued payment cards, with contactless technology supporting 95% of retail cashless transactions.
The Bank of Portugal reported that Maastricht public debt increased by EUR 3.6 billion in January 2025, reaching EUR 274.3 billion. This rise was primarily due to a EUR 3.1 billion increase in long-term debt securities and a EUR 0.4 billion rise in savings certificates. Public administrations’ deposit assets increased slightly to EUR 13.4 billion, resulting in a net public debt increase of EUR 3.5 billion to EUR 260.9 billion.
The Bank of the Lao has launched the Capital Flow Management System export module to track cross-border foreign currency flows in real time and reconcile export values with foreign exchange proceeds. Developed with two ministries, the CMS centralizes datasets on imports, exports, investment, and currency flows, using a three-tier architecture aligned with ISO 27001. It connects to the Ministry of Finance’s ASYCUDA system, the Ministry of Industry and Commerce database, and 38 commercial banks.
The Financial Conduct Authority has banned former Credit Suisse managing directors Andrew Pearse and Surjan Singh from the UK financial services industry for lacking integrity, following their US convictions related to corrupt loans to Mozambique. Pearse and Singh pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit money laundering, with Pearse admitting to accepting over USD 45m and Singh USD 5.7m in unlawful kickbacks. The bans are linked to the FCA's previous action against Credit Suisse, which included a GBP 145m fine and a USD 475m global settlement for due diligence failings on Mozambique loans.
The Gibraltar Financial Services Commission released its Annual Regulatory Fees for the 2025/2026 financial year.
Peru's Superintendency of Banking, Insurance and Pension Funds (SBS) announced that companies providing transport and custody of cash and valuables are now included in the anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing (AML/CFT) reporting regime. These firms, under Legislative Decree No. 1213, must report to the Financial Intelligence Unit of Peru (UIF-Perú) and implement AML/CFT prevention systems in accordance with Financial Action Task Force (FATF) recommendations.
Peru's Superintendency of Banking, Insurance and Private Pension Funds has approved a new regulation on managing credit-related foreign exchange risk, replacing the 2005 framework. The regulation introduces a standardized methodology for identifying exposure and mandates sensitivity analysis under currency depreciation scenarios. It aligns with Basel III by removing specific provisioning requirements but maintains capital requirements for USD-denominated credit exposures.
The Agency for Regulation and Development of the Financial Market of the Republic of Kazakhstan reissued Bereke Bank Joint Stock Company’s banking licence following a legal name change. This update is pursuant to Deputy Chair Order No. B-44 of 27 February 2025.
The Hong Kong Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) secured disqualification orders against three former executive directors of Tech Pro Technology Development Limited for breaching duties related to a joint venture. Li Wing Sang and Liu Xinsheng were disqualified for seven years, while Chiu Chi Hong received a four-year disqualification. The SFC found they failed to supervise the joint venture, resulting in misappropriation of over RMB300 million and loss of Tech Pro's investment value.
The Bank of France’s Yvelines branch, in collaboration with local banking and employment authorities, announced a public event for the 2025 Financial Education Week focusing on budgeting, financial scams, and crypto-assets. Supported by the French Banking Federation, the event will feature information stands and round tables to provide practical tools for financial decision-making.
The Austrian Financial Market Authority's quarterly report highlights that natural catastrophe losses and inflation impacted Austrian insurers' 2024 performance, with a 6.7% decline in ordinary activities to EUR 1.64 billion despite a 5.5% rise in premium income to EUR 23.15 billion. Health insurance premiums increased by 10.7%, while non-life and accident insurance rose by 5.9%. The sector's solvency ratio remained robust at 293% year-end 2024.
The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) alerted the public about fraudulent websites and internet banking login screens linked to China Construction Bank (Asia) Corporation Limited. The HKMA stressed that banks won't send SMS or emails with embedded hyperlinks for transactions or request sensitive information via phone, email, or SMS. Customers who shared personal information or conducted transactions on these sites should contact the bank and report to the Police.
The Hong Kong Monetary Authority issued an alert regarding a fraudulent website linked to Bank of Communications (Hong Kong) Limited. Customers are reminded that banks do not send SMS or emails with embedded links for transactions or sensitive information requests. Those affected should contact the bank and report to the Police.
The Hong Kong Monetary Authority issued an alert regarding fraudulent websites, internet banking login screens, and social media accounts linked to Nanyang Commercial Bank, Limited. Customers are reminded 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 the bank and report to the Police.
The Hong Kong Monetary Authority announced a new service schedule for its Coin Collection Programme's "Coin Carts" from 24 March to 1 June 2025. The programme, which has collected 1,017 million coins since 2014, offers free coin exchange services across Hong Kong's 18 districts. The HKMA will regularly update the schedule to ensure public awareness.
The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) alerted about a fraudulent website and internet banking login screen reported by Shanghai Commercial 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. Individuals who interacted with the fraudulent site should contact the bank and report to the Hong Kong Police Force’s Crime Wing Information Centre.
The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) will host the second Hong Kong Green Week from 8 to 12 September, themed “Forging a Sustainable Future Together.” The event will feature the Climate Business Forum: Asia Pacific 2025, co-hosted with the International Finance Corporation, focusing on low-carbon, resilient, and inclusive growth. The HKMA will also coordinate additional conferences, roundtables, workshops, and networking events.
The Isle of Man Financial Services Authority has initiated Phase 3 of its sanctions thematic project to evaluate firms' compliance with AML/CFT regulations. This phase will expand beyond banks and money transmission services to include other sectors, aligning with the Authority’s 2025/26 supervisory engagement plan. The AML/CFT Supervision Division will lead the project, assessing adherence to the Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism Code 2019.
Turkey's Banking Regulation and Supervision Agency released its Banking Sector Monthly Bulletin for January 2025, detailing financial data submitted by institutions under the Banking Law. This publication supports transparency and public information as part of the agency's supervisory role.
The Thailand Office of Insurance Commission (OIC) released guidance for non-life insurers on managing reinsurance risks, setting minimum standards aligned with existing requirements. Insurers must address a wide range of risks, establish governance and reporting frameworks, and ensure robust reinsurance policies. The guidance mandates regular monitoring and board review, with annual reporting to the OIC.
The National Bank of the Republic of Tajikistan is selling standardized gold bars to manage cash circulation, support the domestic precious metals market, and diversify household savings. Manufactured by Switzerland's Metallor Technologies SA, these bars meet the London Bullion Market Association's London Good Delivery standard. Prices are set daily in Tajik somoni based on the London market's morning fixing, with transactions available at the central bank's headquarters, regional branches, and commercial banks.
The New York State Department of Financial Services (DFS) reported over USD 245.3 million in recoveries and restitution for New Yorkers in 2024, with USD 228 million returned by DFS itself. Key consumer protection measures in Governor Kathy Hochul’s FY26 Executive Budget include oversight of Buy Now, Pay Later providers and regulations to curb unfair overdraft fees. Additional proposals address unclaimed funds, retail return policies, online price disclosures, and subscription cancellations.
The Central Bank of Morocco warns about false online content claiming to provide information on a fictitious Bank Al-Maghrib investment platform, using the bank's identity and the Governor's image. The content, resembling a press article and distributed via a fake news website link, falsely promises profits and appears to use artificial intelligence. Bank Al-Maghrib asserts the information is entirely false and may take action to protect its image and rights.
Governor Jorgovanka Tabaković of the National Bank of Serbia addressed the 32nd Kopaonik Business Forum, discussing 2024 inflation developments, monetary easing, and macroeconomic projections. Inflation returned to the target range in May 2024, with the benchmark interest rate cut by 75 basis points to 5.75% amid food commodity price pressures and elevated personal services price growth. The bank projects gradual disinflation and GDP growth of 4.5% in 2025, citing risks like geopolitical tensions and climate-related disruptions.
The National Bank of Serbia's Q4 2024 report shows accelerated growth in domestic bank lending to the non-monetary sector, with household loans up 10.4% and corporate loans up 4.8%. Interest rates on new dinar loans fell to 10.3% for households and 7.2% for businesses, while euro-indexed rates declined to 5.8% and 5.9%. The report highlights extended temporary interest-rate limits on housing loans through 2025 and new capital adequacy rules requiring reductions if foreign-currency lending exceeds thresholds.
The Central Bank of the Republic of Azerbaijan has granted "Baku Pay" LLC an indefinite licence to operate as an electronic money institution under the Law on Payment Services and Payment Systems. The decision was made by the Central Bank’s Board on 15 January 2025. The Central Bank is also evaluating other payment-services licence applications.
The Albania Financial Services Authority reported that net assets in Albania's collective investment undertakings market reached ALL 61.36 billion (EUR 625 million) by end-2024, a 22.02% increase from the previous year. The market, comprising six AMF-licensed management companies and 18 investment funds, saw a 17.39% rise in investors to 37,786. Albanian government securities dominated portfolios, accounting for 79.24% of investments.
The Securities and Exchange Regulator of Cambodia, in collaboration with Asian Development Bank experts, has initiated a project to review and develop its digital asset regulatory framework. The project was launched in a virtual meeting led by SERC Director General Sou Socheat and Deputy Director General Vin Pheakdey.
The Guernsey Financial Services Commission announced the removal of Francois Edouard Mauron from the United Kingdom's Russia financial sanctions regime, lifting his asset freeze, transport sanctions, and travel ban. The consolidated list has been updated accordingly. UK sanctions regulations are implemented in Guernsey under the 2020 Brexit Regulations.
The Guernsey Financial Services Commission updated the sanctions notice for Mangue Teodoro Nguema Obiang under the UK Global Anti-Corruption Sanctions Regulations 2021. Businesses must freeze assets linked to designated persons and report findings to the States of Guernsey Policy & Resources Committee. Firms must notify the GFSC of affected relationships and comply with reporting obligations under the Sanctions (Bailiwick of Guernsey) Law, 2018.
The Guernsey Financial Services Commission (GFSC) issued a Russia sanctions notice correcting the entry for OJSC Keremet Bank, confirming its asset freeze and trust services sanctions. The notice emphasizes compliance with UK sanctions regimes implemented in Guernsey, requiring businesses to freeze relevant funds and report findings to the States of Guernsey Policy & Resources Committee and the GFSC.
The Philippine Securities and Exchange Commission issued a cease and desist order against Fernando Joquico Santos for operating an unregistered lending business without the necessary certificate of authority. The order mandates stopping all lending activities, including online promotions, until proper incorporation and approvals are obtained. This action follows a request from the Office of the City Prosecutor of San Juan City and cites violations of the Lending Company Regulation Act of 2007.
The Thailand SEC has urged Prime Road Power Public Company Limited’s PRIME253B bondholders to review information and exercise their rights at a reconvened e-meeting on 5 March 2025. Bondholders will vote on extending the bond’s maturity by one year, revising principal repayment terms, and increasing the interest rate. The SEC also mandated the bondholders’ representative to provide an analysis of the proposals' benefits and shortcomings.
The Moroccan Capital Markets Authority approved the prospectus for a mandatory takeover bid on EQDOM shares by Saham Finances, Société Générale Marocaine de Banques, and Investima. The offer involves 364,112 shares at MAD 1,045 each, totaling up to MAD 380,497,040. The prospectus will be published in a legal announcements newspaper and available at EQDOM’s headquarters and online.
The Moroccan Capital Market Authority released its February 2025 disclosure on stock buyback programmes and liquidity contracts for listed companies. Maroc Telecom's programme, running until January 2026, allows for up to 10,165,623 shares with specific price limits, reporting February transactions of 214,253 shares purchased and 240,100 sold. BCP's programme, ending October 2025, permits up to 1,500,000 shares with defined price thresholds.
Governor Nguyễn Thị Hồng of the State Bank of Vietnam chaired the Asian Consultative Council Governors’ meeting at the Bank for International Settlements in Cape Town, focusing on regional macro-financial developments and policy issues. The delegation also participated in the BIS Global Economy Meeting and held bilateral discussions with several central banks on monetary policy and banking sector cooperation.
Sweden's Finansinspektionen (FI) has reminded financial institutions to submit their anti-money laundering reports, based on the 31 December 2024 balance sheet date, via the Reporting Portal by 31 March 2025.
The Egypt Financial Regulatory Authority approved new rules for the Settlement Guarantee Fund managed by Misr for Central Clearing, Depository and Registry to reduce counterparty risk in securities settlement. The fund is restructured to align with global central counterparty models, incorporating a "waterfall" approach to potentially increase resources by up to 650% of members' subscription amounts. A seven-member management committee will oversee the fund, with appointments subject to the Authority's approval.
Finland's Financial Supervisory Authority (FIN-FSA) released its 2024 stakeholder survey results, showing 89% of respondents have at least a fairly high level of trust in the authority. However, only one third are very familiar with FIN-FSA’s activities, highlighting a need for increased awareness. The survey, conducted by Aula Research Oy, involved 244 respondents and 50 telephone interviews.
The Central Bank of Chile reported a 2.5% year-on-year growth in January's Monthly Economic Activity Indicator (Imacec), driven by trade and manufacturing, with a 0.4% increase from the previous month. Non-mining Imacec rose 2.9% annually, while goods production grew 2.3% despite a decline in mining. The bank will publish the 2024 GDP estimate and revisions for 2022 and 2023 on March 18, alongside updates to the Imacec series.
The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) proposes to rescind the 2024 Statement of Policy on Bank Merger Transactions and reinstate the previous policy due to increased uncertainty in the merger application process. This interim measure precedes a broader reevaluation of the FDIC's bank merger review process. Public comments are invited on the proposal, with further revisions anticipated.
The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) has extended the compliance date to 1 March 2026 for displaying the FDIC official digital sign on certain insured depository institutions’ digital channels and ATMs. This extension addresses implementation concerns and potential consumer confusion by allowing time for proposed regulatory revisions. The delay affects amendments in 12 CFR 328.5 and 12 CFR 328.4, while other amendments remain due by 1 May 2025.
The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) has postponed the compliance date for sections 328.4 and 328.5 of its Sign and Advertising Rule, affecting insured depository institutions' digital signage and ATM provisions, to 1 March 2026. The delay allows the FDIC to address implementation questions and potential consumer confusion. All other provisions will take effect on 1 May 2025.
The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) Board approved a proposal to rescind the 2024 Statement of Policy on Bank Merger Transactions and temporarily reinstate the previous merger policy. This move aims to reduce uncertainty in the merger application process while the FDIC reevaluates its bank merger review procedures.
The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) withdrew proposed rules on brokered deposits, corporate governance and risk management standards, and Change in Bank Control Act filing procedures, also rescinding a rule on incentive-based compensation arrangements. The FDIC no longer plans to issue final rules for these proposals, affecting all FDIC-insured institutions. Future actions will adhere to the Administrative Procedure Act.
The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation's Board has withdrawn proposed rules on brokered deposits, corporate governance, the Change in Bank Control Act, and incentive-based compensation. These proposals included significant changes to deposits, governance expectations, and acquisition notice requirements. Future actions will adhere to the Administrative Procedure Act.
The Chile Financial Market Commission has established the Information Systems Manual for Funds (ISMF), detailing the submission requirements for fund managers under Law No. 20,712. The regulation introduces seven periodic regulatory files, covering various financial aspects, and updates General Rule No. 365 with new instructions for internal rulebook deposits.
The Central Bank of Russia has expanded its Lombard List to include three regional government bond issues and various exchange-traded bonds from Russian corporates and state-related entities. The additions feature bonds from the Novosibirsk Region, Republic of Bashkortostan, Republic of Sakha (Yakutia), and companies such as DOM.RF, Mobile TeleSystems, MegaFon, and others.
The Central Bank of Russia's February 2025 monitoring showed a decline in maximum interest rates on ruble deposits at the top 10 credit institutions, decreasing from 21.44% to 20.85%. Average maximum deposit rates were 19.11% for up to 90 days, 20.12% for 91–180 days, 20.41% for 181 days to one year, and 18.72% for over one year. The sample included major banks like Sberbank and VTB Bank, excluding special-category and variable-rate deposits.
The National Commission for Financial Markets announced that JLC SA shareholders in Chisinau can require the company to buy back their shares following significant additional share issues. The buyback price will be based on the net asset value per share, calculated as MDL 357.47 as of 31 December 2023, due to the absence of a market price. Shareholders must submit requests within three months after the increased share capital is registered with the Public Services Agency.
The Federal Reserve Board's FEDS Note examines how money market mutual funds (MMFs) shifted cash between the overnight reverse repurchase (ON RRP) facility and private overnight, Treasury-collateralized repo during balance sheet runoff. MMFs moved out of ON RRP with minimal rate premiums, causing a decline in ON RRP take-up from over USD 2 trillion to USD 198 billion by November 2024. Modest rate spreads have been sufficient for ON RRP outflows, with factors like private repo capacity and MMF counterparty limits also influencing the pace.
The Federal Reserve Board's FEDS Notes analysis shows that SNAP emergency allotments during the pandemic mainly boosted food-at-home spending, with an average marginal propensity to consume (MPC) of 0.5. Using household receipt data from March 2020 to February 2023, the study found SNAP recipients spent about USD 150 more on food, especially on meat, fresh produce, and frozen products, with minimal impact on other spending categories.
The Canadian Bankers Association has launched updated fraud prevention resources as part of its "Your Bank Will Never Ask" initiative during Fraud Prevention Month. These resources help Canadians recognize scams, including AI-generated fraud, by highlighting requests banks won't make and providing educational content. The initiative is linked to the national Fraud Prevention Month campaign with support from the Canadian Anti-Fraud Center, the Competition Bureau, and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police.
The Canada Deposit Insurance Corporation (CDIC) announced the amalgamation of Canadian Western Bank (CWB) and National Bank of Canada (NBC) effective March 1, 2025, with CWB deposits migrating to NBC. Canadian Western Trust and Valiant Trust, now NBC subsidiaries, remain CDIC members with separate deposit protection. CDIC coverage for pre-amalgamation deposits at CWB continues for two years or until maturity, while new deposits at NBC post-amalgamation are insured based on combined pre-amalgamation balances.
The British Columbia Financial Services Authority (BCFSA) launched a "Search Before You Sign" campaign for Fraud Prevention Month, urging consumers to verify the credentials of financial services professionals and institutions. The initiative aims to reduce fraud risk by encouraging due diligence through BCFSA's online resources, ensuring engagement with licensed and authorized entities.
The SEC's Division of Corporation Finance has expanded accommodations for issuers seeking nonpublic staff review of draft registration statements, enhancing access to the confidential review process for public offerings. The changes allow more registration statement forms to be submitted as drafts and permit reporting companies to use the process regardless of the time since their initial public offering. Issuers can also start the review process earlier by omitting certain underwriter disclosures from initial drafts.
The U.S. SEC's Crypto Task Force will host roundtables, branded as the “Spring Sprint Toward Crypto Clarity,” starting March 21, focusing on crypto asset regulation. The inaugural session on “Defining Security Status” will be public and live-streamed. Led by Commissioner Hester M. Peirce, the task force aims to clarify regulatory lines, facilitate registration, and enhance disclosure frameworks.
The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission has announced the members of its Crypto Task Force, which will advise on crypto-related matters. The task force includes staff from the Acting Chairman’s office and various divisions, with Richard Gabbert as Chief of Staff and Michael Selig as Chief Counsel.
The Malta Financial Services Authority has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Andorran Financial Authority to enhance cooperation in supervising the insurance sector. The agreement includes mutual supervisory assistance, information exchange, and technical support to bolster financial system stability.
The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency released Community Reinvestment Act performance evaluations for 26 institutions, including national banks and federal savings associations, for February 2025. The evaluations rated institutions on their ability to meet community credit needs while maintaining safe operations, with several receiving "outstanding" ratings, such as Wells Fargo Bank and Capital One.
The Bank of Cape Verde released a Privacy Management and Personal Data Protection Policy to enhance transparency regarding its data usage and protection practices. The policy underscores the Bank's commitment to comply with personal data protection laws, processing only necessary data for its public interest functions.
The Canadian Bankers Association has released updated resources under the “Your Bank Will Never Ask” campaign to help Canadians identify and avoid scams, including AI-generated fraud, as part of the national Fraud Prevention Month initiative.
The National Bank of Kazakhstan will introduce a 2% sectoral countercyclical capital buffer for individual lending, effective 1 February 2026, as a mandatory requirement for second-tier banks. This measure aims to mitigate risk in the dominant lending segment while maintaining financial stability. The Financial Stability Council also approved plans for a Sustainable Asset Quality Review and supervisory stress test in 2025.
The Pensions Regulator has released a data strategy to enhance pension scheme data quality and standardisation, aiming to improve saver outcomes and market efficiency. The strategy addresses non-digital data issues, proposes clearer data standards, and plans for an internal data marketplace linked to the National Data Library. Additionally, TPR will establish a working group and an AI Advisory Council to promote responsible innovation and technology in the sector.
The Eastern Caribbean Central Bank's policy document outlines data protection and privacy legislation for the Eastern Caribbean Currency Union, emphasizing a harmonized regional approach aligned with international standards. It proposes a regional Data Protection Authority and includes legislative elements like transparency, accountability, and privacy-by-design principles, detailing obligations for data controllers and processors and enforcement mechanisms for lawful and secure data handling.
The Saudi Arabia Capital Markets Authority approved the public offering of Al-Watani Sukuk Fund by Watani Wealth Management Company, clarifying that this approval is not a subscription recommendation but confirms compliance with legal requirements. Investors are advised to review the fund's terms, strategy, and risks thoroughly and consult the fund manager for clarification.
The Insurance Supervision Agency of Montenegro participated in the 23rd CESEE ISI meeting in Budapest, hosted by the Hungarian central bank. Discussions included the Own Risk and Solvency Assessment process, the prudent person principle, crypto assets, and challenges in implementing IFRS 17. The meeting aimed to exchange views on supervisory topics and enhance bilateral cooperation with regional peers.
The Tanzania Insurance Regulatory Authority participated in the International Women’s Day exhibition in Arusha to educate women and the public on insurance, address inquiries, and log complaints for follow-up. TIRA focused on public education, pathways to market participation, and promoting various insurance covers. The authority also guided stakeholders on insurance claims procedures and recorded cases for regulatory follow-up.
The People's Bank of China and regulatory bodies outlined a strategy to boost financial support for private enterprises, focusing on increasing financing for private and small firms. Priorities include a moderately loose monetary policy, equal treatment of firms regardless of ownership, and improved credit supply to private and micro enterprises. The plan emphasizes strengthening bond markets, product innovation, and supporting diverse financing channels for private firms.
The Thailand Office of Insurance Commission (OIC) has launched the Open Insurance project, a data-exchange system to enhance transparency and security in the insurance sector. The initiative aims to reduce costs, improve service accuracy, align products with consumer needs, and support fraud prevention and supervision. The project was introduced with participation from key industry associations and over 200 stakeholders.
The Central Bank of Iraq is extending its renewable energy soft loan initiative to local brick factories, increasing the loan ceiling to IQD 500 million per plant to facilitate the switch from black oil to liquefied gas. Additionally, it will support the Environmental Protection and Improvement Fund with IQD 1 billion to combat air pollution, in coordination with the Ministry of Environment.
The Central Bank of Bahrain has issued a Conventional Wholesale Bank license to Mena Industrial Bank B.S.C. (c) for operations in Bahrain. The bank will offer wholesale banking and trade finance services to corporations, government entities, and high-net-worth individuals locally and regionally.
The Securities and Exchange Regulator of Cambodia's Director General Sou Socheat and Deputy General Director Dr. Vin Pheakdey attended the Securities Investors Association of Cambodia Annual Conference in Phnom Penh. The event highlighted SIAC's 2024 achievements and outlined 2025 priorities, focusing on expanding securities trading training and enhancing member representation through collaboration with SERC and other authorities.
The China Securities Regulatory Commission, with financial authorities, held a symposium to boost financial support for private enterprises by expanding financing through bank credit, bond, and capital markets. Priorities include accommodative monetary policy, equal treatment of firms, and advancing credit enhancement for SMEs. The meeting also stressed policy standardization in supply chain finance and innovation in bond market products.
China's National Financial Regulatory Administration, with key financial authorities, held a symposium to boost financial support for private enterprises, urging increased credit supply and diversified financing channels. The focus was on accommodative monetary policies, improving credit mechanisms for small businesses, and strengthening bond and capital market measures. The meeting highlighted inter-agency coordination to address financing access and cost issues for private firms.
The Qatar Financial Centre's Web Summit Qatar 2025 attracted over 1,600 companies and launched the QFC Metaverse, a digital platform aimed at fostering a cross-border financial and fintech hub. Incentives for firms included waived fees and tax benefits. MoUs were signed with German Mittelstand for SME support and Qatar National Bank for banking innovation and fintech development.
The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) will legally challenge an ACB Court order that permitted a miscellaneous application implicating SEBI's former chairperson and other officials in alleged irregularities from 1994. SEBI criticized the court for proceeding without notifying SEBI or allowing it to present facts, and highlighted the applicant's history of frivolous litigation.
The Palestine Monetary Authority (PMA) and the Palestine Stock Exchange (PSE) discussed enhancing cooperation to bolster financial stability and economic development. Key topics included the PSE's role in fostering investment, improving investor confidence, and enhancing e-payment systems to support digital transformation and efficient trading. The meeting also explored new mechanisms to revitalize the financial market.
The Palestine Monetary Authority and the European Union held the fourth Working Group meeting on SME financing under the EU-Palestine Investment Platform, focusing on enhancing SMEs' access to finance. A cooperation agreement was signed with the European Investment Bank to provide technical assistance and develop new financial instruments. The meeting, attended by various stakeholders, addressed financing challenges, revitalisation of commercial activities, and innovative financing models.
Palestine Monetary Authority Governor Yahya Shunnar and Ooredoo Palestine CEO Samer Fares discussed enhancing cooperation between banking and telecommunications to support digital transformation and electronic financial services. They emphasized leveraging telecommunications infrastructure to expand digital financial services and promote financial inclusion, highlighting the importance of public-private collaboration for developing digital payment solutions.
The French Financial Markets Authority's 2023 report highlights a rebound in assets under management to EUR 4,970bn and record operating revenues of EUR 21.6bn, despite a 7.5% decline in aggregate operating profit due to rising expenses. Employment increased by 8.6%, driven by entrepreneurial firms, while control and risk management resources expanded significantly. Additionally, 27 firms reported an own-funds shortfall, whereas 506 firms maintained a capital buffer of at least 30% above requirements.
The French Financial Markets Authority (AMF) outlined its corporate social responsibility strategy, emphasizing sustainable finance as a strategic priority integrated into regulatory and operational practices. The AMF highlighted internal policies, including a women-men equality index of 98/100, and initiatives on skills development, work-life balance, and environmental measures. It also discussed its role in public financial education within the national strategy led by the Banque de France.
France's Financial Markets Authority approved the operating rules for the DBX multilateral trading facility managed by DealerBox Technologies S.A.S.
South Africa's National Credit Regulator issued Circular 01 of 2025, summarizing National Consumer Tribunal judgments in debt counselling and payment distribution, leading to registration cancellations, suspensions, fines, and remedial orders. CollectNet PDA (Pty) Ltd faced registration cancellation, a ZAR 100,000 fine, and was ordered to cooperate with the NCR. Additional judgments involved debt counsellors with penalties including registration cancellations, suspensions, fines, audits, and consumer refunds.
South Africa’s National Credit Regulator (NCR) warned against misleading "debt review removal" services charging prohibited upfront fees, violating the National Credit Act. The NCR noted complaints of fees up to ZAR 10,000 for undelivered services and emphasized compliance with section 126A(3) of the Act, prohibiting payment before service completion. Non-compliant providers face enforcement action, and consumers are urged to report violations.
The Tanzania Insurance Regulatory Authority (TIRA) stressed insuring government assets to mitigate disaster losses, as noted by Insurance Commissioner Dr. Baghayo Saqware in Geita Region. Geita Regional Administrative Secretary Mohamed Gombati urged government employees to engage in the insurance sector. TIRA's Director of Insurance Market Supervision, Christopher Mapunda, stated the authority will expand insurance education to enhance uptake and understanding.
The Tanzania Insurance Regulatory Authority, led by Insurance Commissioner Dr. Baghayo Saqware, urged Geita Region officials to insure government assets and large public projects to mitigate disaster-related financial losses. This initiative, part of a broader outreach, aims to enhance insurance education and uptake, including opportunities for public servants as insurance agents. The program aligns with TIRA's mandate to expand insurance coverage and understanding across regions.
Malta's Ministry for Finance & Employment supports revising and increasing Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA) licence fees to enhance supervisory functions, aligning with an International Monetary Fund recommendation. The reform targets sectors with specific risks and aims to maintain Malta's competitiveness, with fees partially covering resource needs without surpassing those in other jurisdictions. The MFSA engaged industry stakeholders, who largely agreed on the necessity of the reform.
The Bank for International Settlements published a paper on the AI supply chain, highlighting concentration in hardware and cloud infrastructure dominated by Nvidia and major cloud providers. It discusses implications for consumer choice, innovation, and financial stability, noting potential "winner takes all" dynamics in AI applications and foundation models. The paper also references inquiries by competition authorities and outlines policy options like data-sharing measures and multi-cloud strategies.
The Bank for International Settlements released a working paper introducing new indicators for stress in US Treasury, foreign exchange, and money markets, finding that machine learning, particularly random forests, outperforms traditional models in forecasting tail risks. Tree-based models achieve significantly lower quantile loss in FX and money markets, with key drivers including funding liquidity and investor overextension. The market condition indicators are now available for researchers.
The Bank for International Settlements published BIS Papers No 153, examining the role of fast payment systems (FPS) in enhancing financial inclusion in Latin America and the Caribbean. The study, using World Bank data, links FPS availability to increased borrowing and saving at financial institutions, though not robustly to account ownership. It also highlights implementation challenges such as cybersecurity, fraud, and interoperability.
The Bank for International Settlements' paper suggests long-term real interest rates align with central banks' policy rates due to limited effects on output and inflation. A Finitely-Lived Agent New Keynesian model shows short-term rate increases are contractionary, while longer-term changes affect asset valuations. Evidence from the US, euro area, and UK supports these findings, showing consumption aligns with interest-rate-adjusted wealth and unemployment responds more to short-term rate shocks.