The Dubai Financial Services Authority announced the appointment of Waleed Saeed Abdul Salam Al Awadhi as CEO of the Securities and Commodities Authority, effective 4 February 2025. Al Awadhi, previously DFSA's Chief Operating Officer, led its digital transformation and represented the DFSA at international standard setters.
The Angola Insurance Authority (ARSEG) released the final report from Public Consultation Process No. 01/2024, detailing its strategy for implementing International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) in the insurance sector.
The Angola Capital Markets Commission conducted a financial education lecture on capital market fundamentals and investment opportunities at Colégio São Francisco de Assis in Talatona. The session, part of the Commission's Financial Education Programme, engaged over 100 students and was led by António Van-Dúnem and Daniel Chipenda from the Commission’s Department of Studies, Strategy, Development and Communication.
The Belgium Financial Services and Markets Authority has suspended trading in Biosenic financial instruments on Euronext Brussels as of 20 February 2025 at 14:59 CET. This action is in accordance with Article 78 of the Law of 21 November 2017, pending a press release.
The Bank of Greece reported a widening current account deficit for December 2024, increasing by EUR 684.2 million year-on-year to EUR 3.6 billion, and a full-year 2024 deficit rise of EUR 1.2 billion to EUR 15.1 billion. December saw a narrowed goods deficit due to faster export growth, while the services surplus increased, led by travel. Portfolio flows in December showed a EUR 1.2 billion rise in non-residents' holdings of Greek bonds and Treasury bills, with reserve assets at EUR 14.6 billion.
The French Financial Markets Authority released updated data on the French money market funds market from 31 December 2022 to 31 December 2024. The update includes trends in outstanding amounts, asset maturity, liquidity buffers, performance, and portfolio allocation by issuer type.
The Spanish Securities Commission (CNMV) published findings from a 2024 supervisory review revealing significant weaknesses in money laundering risk analysis among prudentially supervised entities. The review highlighted inadequate risk assessments, unclear AML responsibilities, and insufficient consideration of national and supranational risk assessments. CNMV has communicated these issues to the entities and will incorporate them into future supervisory activities.
The Saudi Arabian Monetary Authority announced the approval of an official symbol for the Saudi riyal by King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud. Developed with input from various ministries and organizations, the symbol incorporates Arabic calligraphy and aims to standardize the representation of the riyal in financial transactions. Its introduction will be phased in with coordination among relevant entities.
The European Securities and Markets Authority issued three final reports with draft technical standards under the Central Securities Depositories Regulation Refit. These standards address supervisory information requirements for EU central securities depositories (CSDs), criteria for assessing when a CSD is of substantial importance in a host Member State, and notification requirements for third-country CSDs. The draft standards have been submitted to the European Commission for adoption.
The Ministry of Finance (Tanzania) urged community and microfinance groups in Mwanga District to register via the Wezesha Portal, emphasizing compliance with Bank of Tanzania laws and the Microfinance Services Act. The portal facilitates digital registration and links groups to economic empowerment opportunities, including government funds and low-interest loans. The Ministry aims to achieve 80% financial literacy nationwide by 2025/26.
The Rwanda Capital Markets Authority reported on advancements in green finance, emphasizing ESG Reporting Guidelines for the Rwanda Stock Exchange to align with international standards. It highlighted the launch of Green, Social, and Sustainability Bonds, validated by industry experts and aligned with ICMA and CBI standards, as well as Sustainability-Linked Bonds issued by the Rwanda Development Bank and a Green Bond by Prime Energy Plc.
The Central Bank of the UAE announced its AED 500 banknote won "Best New Banknote Issue for 2025" in the Europe, Middle East, and Africa region at the High Security Printing EMEA conference. The note features advanced security technologies, including a large surface-applied foil stripe, and is part of the third polymer series printed by Oumolat Security Printing. It entered circulation on 30 November 2023 and includes braille symbols for accessibility.
The Ukraine National Commission on Securities and Stock Market registered a corporate bond issue by FC ACTIVITIS LLC, organized by Investment Firm UNIVER CAPITAL LLC. Initial placement occurred on the PFTS Stock Exchange with delivery-versus-payment settlement, completing 155 transactions in one day. The issuer will deposit the global certificate under new procedures, enabling further sales on the organized market through UNIVER CAPITAL.
Ukraine National Commission on Securities and Stock Market Chairman Ruslan Magomedov urged the return of draft law No. 8111 on personal investment accounts at the FinYear conference. He announced a joint project with the Ministry of Digital Transformation, Diia City Invest, to expand investment opportunities and introduce new market instruments. Personal investment accounts aim to complement government bonds and channel long-term capital into the economy, while Diia City Invest will facilitate investment in Ukrainian startups with simplified venture fund registration.
Arsen Ilyin of the Ukraine National Commission on Securities and Stock Market highlighted grain exchange trading's potential to stabilize the agricultural sector amid wartime challenges. He emphasized benefits like transparent pricing, risk hedging, and enhanced market credibility, noting the Commission's efforts to introduce exchange instruments. The discussion included key agricultural stakeholders and focused on addressing logistics disruptions and maintaining foreign market access.
The Saudi Central Bank (SAMA) announced King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud's approval of a new symbol for the Saudi riyal, to be gradually adopted in financial and commercial transactions. The symbol, designed for consistent representation locally and internationally, incorporates Arabic calligraphy and was developed with input from various Saudi ministries and organizations. The phased implementation will be coordinated across relevant entities.
The Central Reserve Bank of Peru reported a 10.4% increase in Peru's terms of trade for 2024, driven by higher export prices. In December 2024, export prices rose 9.4% year on year, with significant increases in gold, zinc, coffee, natural gas, and non-traditional fisheries products, while import prices increased 0.3%. The terms-of-trade index rose to 125.5 in December from 115.1 a year earlier.
The Central Bank of Ireland released a speech by Governor Gabriel Makhlouf on 2025 macro-financial priorities, emphasizing strengthening Ireland's resilience amid geoeconomic fragmentation and uncertain inflation. Challenges include infrastructure deficits and fiscal risks from a narrow tax base, with corporation tax heavily reliant on foreign-owned firms. The Bank aims to simplify regulations and enable markets that support innovation and productivity while maintaining financial stability and protection.
At a regional investment meeting in Ouargla, the Algeria Market Authority highlighted the stock exchange's role in alternative financing, including through private equity companies. COSOB also presented its financial market one stop shop as a support mechanism for companies seeking to list.
The National Bank of Georgia published its February editions of the Current Macroeconomic Review and Financial Sector Review. These publications aim to provide data and economic analysis to the public.
The People's Bank of China held its 2025 macroprudential work conference, reviewing 2024 actions and setting priorities for strengthening macro-financial analysis and updating policy frameworks. Key focuses include enhancing real estate finance management, advancing cross-border renminbi use, and exploring expanded central bank roles in macroprudential functions. Efforts will also target developing offshore renminbi markets and leveraging currency swaps and clearing banks.
The People's Bank of China, led by Governor Pan Gongsheng, aims to boost financial support for the private sector by improving access to equity, bond, and loan financing. Measures include a moderately loose monetary policy, structural monetary policy tools, and supporting capital market stability through stock repurchase and shareholding increase relending facilities. The plan also focuses on expanding private enterprise bond financing, supporting technology innovation and green bonds, and enhancing credit for private SMEs.
The Bank of Italy released Deputy Director General Paolo Angelini's closing address for the fourth "Data Science in Central Banking" seminar in Rome. The event was organized by the Bank for International Settlements’ Irving Fisher Committee on Central Bank Statistics and the Bank of Italy.
The Bank of Italy released Governor Fabio Panetta's opening remarks titled "The future of Italian welfare between equity and development," presented in Rome at the Fondazione Sussidiarietà’s report event. The speech is accessible via livestream and in PDF and ePub formats.
The Bank of Italy, in collaboration with the European Central Bank and central banks of Canada, France, England, and Spain, is co-organising the sixth conference on “Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in Economics, Finance, and Central Banking.” Scheduled for 17 November 2025 in Paris, the event will explore topics such as diversity in central banks, demographic biases in financial decisions, and the impact of monetary policy on inequality.
The Bank of Italy released Deputy Governor Paolo Angelini's closing remarks from the 4th workshop on "Data Science in Central Banking," co-organized in Rome with the Irving Fisher Committee on Central Bank Statistics of the Bank for International Settlements.
The Bank of Italy has issued a call for papers for the 6th conference on “Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in Economics, Finance, and Central Banking”, co-organised with several major central banks. The conference, hosted by the Banque de France, will focus on diversity in central banks, demographic biases in financial decisions, and the impact of monetary policy on inequality and macroeconomic shocks.
Ireland's Department of Finance has launched the first National Financial Literacy Strategy, a five-year plan to enhance financial literacy and money management, especially for vulnerable groups. It includes three work streams: governance and delivery structures, guidance on initiative implementation, and fostering partnerships for areas like digital literacy and debt management. An Annual Action Plan will detail stakeholder actions.
The National Association of Insurance Commissioners has established the Risk-Based Capital (RBC) Model Governance Task Force to develop governance principles for updating RBC formulas and enhancing consistency. The task force will conduct a gap analysis, assess consistency, and establish processes for analyzing RBC changes, including integrating new risks and recalibrating formulas. An education and public messaging campaign on RBC's role in the U.S. insurance regulatory system is also planned.
The National Bank of Ukraine's Q4 2024 Banking Sector Review highlights growth in net hryvnia lending and increased investment in domestic government bonds, with the sector remaining profitable and well-capitalized despite a higher income tax charge. Banks' net assets rose 16.2% in 2024, driven by a significant increase in government bond holdings, while household lending surged 39.9% year-on-year in Q4. A resilience assessment in early 2025 may require banks to implement capitalization or restructuring programs based on the results.
The Bank of Portugal released updated 2024 general government financing statistics, showing EUR 3.1bn in financing versus EUR -10.6bn in 2023. The rest of the world financed EUR 7.2bn, mainly through debt securities, while general government financing of banks and other sectors totaled EUR 3.5bn and EUR 0.6bn, respectively. The statistical information note has been discontinued, but updates will continue monthly in the BPstat domain.
The Federal Financial Institutions Examination Council will update the Uniform Bank Performance Report Interest Rate Risk Analysis page as part of a multiyear review. The revisions are led by the Task Force on Surveillance Systems, with additional material published detailing the planned changes.
The Bank of the Lao reported on a courtesy visit by Liao Lin, Chairman of the Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (ICBC), focusing on oversight of ICBC's Vientiane branch and potential cooperation. ICBC outlined strategic directions in risk management, digitalisation, and sustainability. The Deputy Governor noted ICBC Vientiane's compliance with Lao regulations and its role in socio-economic development, including promoting kip-yuan trade.
Riksbank's First Deputy Governor Anna Breman discussed the impact of rising global trade barriers on Sweden's economy, noting potential negative effects on GDP growth due to export dependency. She highlighted the uncertain inflationary impact, influenced by tariff scope and countermeasures, and emphasized reforms to boost productivity and entrepreneurship as partial offsets. Breman confirmed the Riksbank's readiness to adjust the policy rate, cut by 1.75 percentage points, depending on future economic developments.
Sweden's Riksbank will participate in the G20 Finance Track in 2025, following an invitation from South Africa's G20 presidency. Governor Erik Thedéen and First Deputy Governor Anna Breman will attend the first meeting in Cape Town from 24-27 February, alongside Sweden's Minister for Finance Elisabeth Svantesson.
The Financial Services and the Treasury Bureau of Hong Kong reappointed Mr. Carlson Tong Ka-shing and Mr. Joseph Yam Chi-kwong, and appointed Ms. Ding Chen to the HKEX Board, effective from the 2025 AGM to the 2027 AGM, under section 77 of the Securities and Futures Ordinance. Ding Chen is noted for her financial services expertise. The board comprises up to six directors appointed by the Financial Secretary, six elected by shareholders, and the HKEX Chief Executive.
The Superintendency of Banking, Insurance and Private Pension Funds of Peru (SBS) released a draft regulation on actuarial aspects for benefit funds, including the Military and Police Pension Fund, to enhance technical risk management. The proposal introduces specific actuarial requirements for technical reserves and risk management, detailing responsibilities for boards, management, and actuarial professionals, and provides guidance on reserve calculation, risk indicators, and data quality.
The Agency for Regulation and Development of the Financial Market of Kazakhstan outlined its 2025 banking supervision priorities, emphasizing a risk-based approach through the Supervisory Review and Evaluation Process (SREP) and Asset Quality Reviews (AQRs). Key reforms include new risk management requirements for bank conglomerates, increased capital buffers for non-systemic banks, and measures to stimulate lending. The Agency also plans to introduce a new Banking Law and enhance anti-fraud measures.
Kazakhstan's Financial Market Agency issued guidance on using the bank ombudsman for loan disputes when settlements fail. The ombudsman offers free mediation with binding decisions on financial organizations, though borrowers can appeal to the agency if dissatisfied. The guidance outlines eligible disputes, exceptions, and necessary documentation for review.
The Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) is consulting on proposed adjustments to the treatment of Higher Education Loan Program (HELP) debt in home loan applications. The changes would exclude HELP debts from debt-to-income reporting and allow banks to exempt these debts from serviceability assessments if repayment is imminent. APRA aims to clarify expectations and ensure consistent practices, acknowledging that HELP repayments are income-based rather than debt size-driven.
The Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC) now allows prospectuses in English or Greek for securities offered or traded only in Cyprus. However, the prospectus summary must be in Greek and include essential investment information. This policy applies to entities offering securities or seeking admission to trading on a regulated market where Cyprus is the home or host member state.
The Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC) announced that Fortified Capital Ltd has initiated the dissolution and liquidation of AEQ CAPITAL MANAGEMENT RAIF V.C.I.C. PLC under the Alternative Investment Funds Law of 2018. The fund will remain on the RAIFs Registry with a notice of "under liquidation" until the process is complete. CySEC will remove the fund from the register once all necessary documents are submitted.
Reserve Bank of Australia Deputy Governor Andrew Hauser, in a Bloomberg Australia interview, discussed the Board's first rate cut in four years, emphasizing that policy remains restrictive and further evidence is needed for inflation to sustainably return to the 2–3% target band. Hauser noted that while markets anticipate more cuts, the Bank's central view is inflation will be slightly above target, with policy adjustments contingent on inflation and labour-market conditions.
The Hong Kong Monetary Authority issued an alert regarding a phishing message and fraudulent website linked to Alipay Financial Services (HK) Limited. The HKMA advises individuals who interacted with the site or message to contact the relevant stored value facility licensee and report to the Police or Anti-Deception Coordination Centre.
The Hong Kong Monetary Authority issued a public alert regarding phishing emails linked to DBS Bank (Hong Kong) Limited. Customers were reminded that banks do not send emails or SMS with embedded links for transactions or request sensitive information. Those affected were advised to contact the bank and report to the Hong Kong Police Force.
The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) issued an alert regarding phishing messages linked to Ant Bank (Hong Kong) Limited. The HKMA emphasized that banks will not send messages with embedded hyperlinks for transactions or request sensitive information via phone, email, or SMS. Individuals who responded to such messages should contact the bank and report to the Police.
Qatar Central Bank Governor Sheikh Bandar bin Mohammed bin Saoud Al Thani attended the 84th GCC Central Banks Governors' Committee meeting, the 19th Gulf Payments Company board meeting, and the 63rd Gulf Monetary Council board meeting in Kuwait, where various topics were discussed and decisions made.
The European Central Bank published a working paper on how alternative firm ownership and remuneration structures can mitigate macroeconomic distortions from market power by addressing "incentive leakage" from monopoly profits. Using a dynamic general equilibrium model, the study shows that tying capital to firms can close the monopoly gap and improve welfare beyond perfect competition, while tying labour closes part of the gap but remains below perfect competition. These findings do not represent the ECB's views.
The European Central Bank reported a EUR 7,944 million loss for 2024, mainly due to net interest expenses, and a EUR 32.6 billion reduction in its balance sheet to EUR 640.6 billion. This contraction was driven by a decline in securities held for monetary policy purposes, with significant reductions in both the asset purchase programme and pandemic emergency purchase programme holdings. From 1 January 2025, the deposit facility rate will be used for remuneration of TARGET balances and related claims, while supervisory fee income for 2024 was EUR 681 million.
The European Central Bank's Governing Council will expand the Eurosystem's initiative to settle transactions on distributed ledger technology (DLT) in central bank money using a two-track approach. In the short term, a platform for DLT-based settlements will be developed via an interoperability link with TARGET Services, while a more integrated long-term solution is explored. This initiative aims to support innovation in market infrastructures and contribute to an integrated European market for digital assets.
Frank Elderson discussed the ECB's integration of climate and nature-related risks into its mandates, affecting monetary policy and banking supervision. By 2025, banks with over EUR 26 trillion in assets must incorporate these risks and comply with new transition plans, with enforcement for non-compliance. Elderson emphasized exposure to nature loss and transition risks, stressing the need for better data and alignment with the Paris Agreement.
The European Central Bank reported a 2024 financial loss of EUR 7,944 million, mainly due to higher interest expenses on variable-rate liabilities, with no profit distribution to euro area national central banks. Net interest income was negative at EUR -6,983 million, and the ECB's balance sheet decreased by EUR 33 billion to EUR 641 billion. The ECB anticipates continued, albeit reduced, losses in the coming years and confirmed changes to the remuneration basis for certain intra-Eurosystem positions effective 1 January 2025.
The Arab Monetary Fund held the 21st virtual meeting of the Financial Stability Task Force, gathering officials from Arab central banks and monetary authorities, along with international bodies, to discuss systemic risk assessment and banking-sector resilience. The meeting aimed to enhance regional cooperation on financial stability and contribute to the task force’s Financial Stability Report.
The National Bank of the Republic of Tajikistan and Malaysia’s Ambassador discussed enhancing bilateral cooperation in banking and insurance, proposing closer ties between their banking systems. The central bank emphasized support for foreign participation in Tajikistan’s credit institutions and highlighted favorable conditions for establishing subsidiaries and branches. Discussions also covered Islamic banking, international standards, and developing the legal framework for takaful insurance.
The Central Bank of Jordan, via its Financial and Banking Sector Cyber Incident Response Team, conducted its first cyberattack simulation exercise with Immersive Labs to evaluate the readiness of Jordanian financial institutions. The exercise aimed to identify operational gaps and enhance cyber incident management, with plans for more frequent simulations and assessments throughout 2025.
The Bank of Spain and the Barcelona Supercomputing Center have partnered to collaborate on AI in finance. The focus includes research infrastructure, new programs, and experimentation frameworks, like a regulatory sandbox aligned with the EU's 2023 AI regulation. They will explore the ALIA language model and develop advanced AI models for data analysis and economic projections.
The Bank of Spain reported a rise in non-cash payments for the first half of 2024, with transactions reaching 8.669 billion, up 11.4% year on year, valued at EUR 6.1 trillion, up 5.4%. Card payments, comprising 64.2% of transactions, increased 13.3% to 5.562 billion, while transfers, accounting for 88.4% of total value, rose 15.5% to 1.416 billion transfers worth EUR 5.4 trillion. Payment infrastructure saw growth in cards and POS terminals, though ATM numbers declined.
The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) has issued guidelines for electronic submission of applications by external auditors for inclusion in the List of Selected External Auditors for BSP-Supervised Financial Institutions, as per Circular No. 1210. Applications must follow specific protocols, with a pre-evaluation screening by the supervising department. Required attachments include a Board of Accountancy accreditation certificate and, for new applications, audited financial statements of the applicant’s two largest clients.
The Brazilian Pension Funds Authority (PREVIC) announced its 2025 priorities, focusing on enhancing investment guidelines for closed pension funds (EFPC) and updating the sanctions regime. The agenda aims to diversify EFPC portfolios beyond government bonds and modernize the 20-year-old sanctions framework for better legal certainty and balanced enforcement. PREVIC also introduced supervisory changes, including EFPC segmentation by size and complexity and increased social participation in administrative proceedings.
In January 2025, the Romanian Financial Supervisory Authority (ASF) sanctioned non-bank financial entities for regulatory breaches. Actions included fines and restrictions on insurance brokers for distribution rule violations, and penalties on Perseus Fintech S.A. and Raiko Transilvania S.A. for not publishing financial reports. ASF also mandated corrective measures for BRD-Groupe Société Générale S.A. and NN Pensii Societate de Administrare due to operational deficiencies.
The Vietnam State Securities Commission has instructed individuals listed in an accompanying notice to pay a VND 1,000,000 fee for the re-issuance of securities practising certificates, as per Ministry of Finance Circular No. 25/2022/TT-BTC. Payments can be made via bank transfer or in person, with specific identification details required. Failure to collect the certificate within one year will result in cancellation.
The Vietnam State Securities Commission has instructed individuals to pay a VND 1,000,000 fee for the re-issuance of a securities practising certificate, as per the Ministry of Finance’s Circular 25/2022/TT-BTC. Payment can be made via bank transfer or in person, with necessary identification details included. Failure to complete the procedure within one year will result in certificate cancellation.
The BIS Committee on Payments and Market Infrastructures published a staff brief on interlinking fast payment systems to improve cross-border payments, highlighting FPS interlinking as a practical way to shorten transaction chains and reduce intermediaries. It stresses greater interoperability, including consistent ISO 20022 implementation and harmonised APIs, and notes CPMI’s 2025 focus on roadmap actions for users most affected by inefficient cross-border payments, with initiatives targeting regions furthest from G20 targets, especially sub-Saharan Africa.
The Italian Institute for Insurance Supervision (IVASS) released a statistical bulletin on health insurance from 2018–2023, noting growth in premiums and a concentrated market structure. In 2023, health insurance premiums reached EUR 7,425m, with sickness premiums rising by 10.9% and accident premiums by 2.4%. The top five insurers dominated the market, accounting for over 60% of premiums in both lines.
The Astana Financial Services Authority has enhanced digital post-registration services for Astana International Financial Centre entities by enabling online processes for share ownership and capital changes via the Digital Resident platform. Currency reporting under AIFC Currency Regulation Rules is now submitted through the Portal’s Reporting section. AFSA updated its guidance on registration and post-registration applications, including detailed instructions for online and paper submissions.
The Central Bank of the Republic of Azerbaijan, with the World Bank Group, has approved a Supervisory Technologies (SupTech) Roadmap under the Financial Sector Modernisation 3 project for 2024–2029. The roadmap aims to enhance risk-based supervision through technology and data, improving supervisory efficiency and financial institutions' compliance. It aligns with the central bank's strategy to deploy data-driven SupTech solutions and introduce a supervisory information system.
The Albania Financial Services Authority released the agenda for its Board meeting on 27 February 2025, detailing decisions on external audits, bond issuance documentation, and supervisory follow-ups on inspections. Key items include approving the audit firm for 2024 financial statements, registering Banka Credins' bond offering document, and reviewing inspections at banks and insurance brokers. The agenda also includes personnel appointments, licence renewals, and routine approvals.
The Guernsey Financial Services Commission issued a notice on amendments to the UK Global Human Rights Sanctions Regulations 2020 for EDEN LEVI, maintaining an asset freeze in Guernsey. Businesses must verify and freeze assets linked to designated persons and report to the Policy & Resources Committee, complying with section 14 of the Sanctions Law. Firms should also inform the Commission and submit a Handbook Rule 12.37 report detailing affected relationships or transactions.
The Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario (FSRA) stressed early retirement planning during its third annual Pension Awareness Day, noting 76% of Ontarians lack a retirement plan. A survey showed retirement saving is prioritized over vacations or new cars, yet many haven't calculated financial needs. FSRA highlighted workplace pensions as crucial, advising individuals to review pension statements and consider pension availability in job decisions.
The Prudential Regulation Authority (PRA) finalized its Approach to Policy, detailing prudential rule development under the UK framework amended by the Financial Services and Markets Act 2023. Applicable to all PRA-regulated firms, it emphasizes competitiveness and growth, confirming adherence to international standards with evidence-based UK deviations. The statement outlines stakeholder engagement and invites feedback on cost-benefit analysis, with reporting on the secondary objective's delivery planned within 12 and 24 months.
The Thailand SEC hosted a seminar on "Governance for Sustainability," emphasizing good corporate governance for listed companies to address challenges and create sustainable value. The SEC highlighted its 2017 Corporate Governance Code and alignment with revised G20/OECD Principles, focusing on risk and sustainability. Discussions included board responsibilities, leadership for sustainability, and integrating ESG into business processes.
The Thailand Securities and Exchange Commission urged bondholders of four Prime Road Power bond series to review information and exercise their rights at the electronic Bondholders’ Meeting on 25 February 2025. Agenda items include amendments to repayment conditions, maturity extensions, principal repayment schedules, interest rate increases, and early redemption options. Bondholders’ representatives must analyze the proposals' impacts and provide opinions to assist bondholders in making informed decisions.
FINTRAC is involved in an Ontario RCMP investigation charging two Toronto residents for using caller ID spoofing to defraud Canadians and launder proceeds. Linked to iSpoof.cc, they are among the top 50 global users. Search warrants uncovered electronic devices for further victim identification. Charges include fraud, unauthorized computer use, and possession of crime proceeds, with significant fraud activity reported in 2024.
The Bank of Namibia hosted a CEO Roundtable, "Setting the Scene and Driving Impact for 2025," with leaders from banks, non-banking financial institutions, and the Namibia Financial Institutions Supervisory Authority. Discussions covered climate risk, cybersecurity threats, and regulatory priorities, alongside the Bank's 2025–27 Strategic Plan and the World Bank's 2025 Country Partnership Framework for Namibia.
Senator Elizabeth Warren announced that the FDIC Inspector General will review the rescission of over 200 job offers to bank examiners by Acting Chairman Travis Hill. The review will assess potential threats to banking system stability from recent staffing changes. Warren expressed concerns that these cuts could undermine the reliability of federal deposit insurance and the FDIC's ability to maintain stability.
The Department of Finance Canada announced the first meeting of the Integrated Money Laundering Intelligence Partnership (IMLIP) to facilitate intelligence sharing between law enforcement and major banks on money laundering and organized crime, including fentanyl trafficking. The initiative involves the Royal Canadian Mounted Police and Chief Anti-Money Laundering Officers, supported by the Department of Finance and Public Safety Canada. Canada plans to leverage its 2025 G7 Presidency to highlight illicit finance threats and propose a G7 Finance Ministers call to action.
The Global Legal Entity Identifier Foundation announced that the China Financial Certification Authority (CFCA) is the first China-based qualified issuer in the verifiable Legal Entity Identifier (vLEI) ecosystem, enhancing digital authentication for organizations and representatives. Supported by the People’s Bank of China, this initiative aims to complement existing identity systems, reduce fraud risks, and strengthen compliance in sensitive transactions.
The Swedish Financial Supervisory Authority warns against Handelstorget and Skandova for offering securities trading to Swedish investors without proper authorisation. Neither firm is authorised to conduct financial activities in Sweden, nor recognised by any European Economic Area country. The authority advises consumers to check its warning list and verify firms' authorisation status before engaging in financial transactions.
HM Treasury announced the London Coalition on Sustainable Sovereign Debt, led by Chancellor Rachel Reeves, to enhance sustainable sovereign debt financing and private capital mobilisation in emerging markets. Co-chaired by Economic Secretary Emma Reynolds, the Coalition will focus on transparent debt restructuring and resilient borrowing. A memorandum of understanding was also signed with the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development for cooperation at its upcoming annual meeting in London.
The U.S. House Financial Services Committee leaders seek clarity from the FDIC on its regulatory approach to banks' digital asset activities to prevent "debanking" of digital asset firms. Their letter includes five recommendations, such as requiring public disclosure of supervisory guidance and prohibiting "reputational risk" as a supervisory factor. The committee also seeks information on which actions the FDIC can implement independently and which require congressional legislation.
The U.S. House Financial Services Committee seeks public feedback on its "Make Community Banking Great Again" principles and several bills discussed at a recent hearing on community banking. Key bills include the FAIR Exams Act (H.R. 940), LENDER Act (H.R. 941), Promoting New Bank Formation Act (H.R. 478), 1071 Repeal to Protect Small Business Lending Act (H.R. 976), Bank Loan Privacy Act, and Small Bank Holding Company Relief Act.
The Egypt Financial Regulatory Authority has extended the deadline for companies with listed securities or financial instruments to submit their financial statements for the period ending 31 December 2024. Under Board Decision No. 38 of 2025, the new filing deadline is 30 April 2025, moved from 31 March 2025. The decision will be published in the Official Gazette and on relevant websites, effective immediately.
The Finnish Financial Supervisory Authority (FIN-FSA) has issued a warning about fraudulent emails impersonating the FIN-FSA and its staff, targeting company executives. These emails use modified addresses to mimic genuine messages. Recipients are advised not to engage with these emails and to report them through alternative channels.
The Finnish Financial Supervisory Authority (FIN-FSA) will conduct a national stress-test for eight banks in early 2025, alongside the European Banking Authority's EU-wide test. This aims to evaluate banks' capital adequacy and resilience under adverse conditions, including severe geopolitical escalation and recession. The test will use a common framework based on the EBA methodology, with scenarios projecting GDP contraction, rising unemployment, and declining real estate values.
The Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions (OSFI) began a public consultation on draft revisions to its Capital Adequacy Requirements Guideline, proposing changes for small and medium-sized deposit-taking institutions. OSFI issued final guidelines on crypto-asset exposures, effective Q1 2026, and updated Guideline B-15 on Climate Risk Management. The revisions aim to clarify capital rules, aligning with the Basel Framework, while deferring increases to the Basel III standardized capital floor level.
The Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions (OSFI) released updates, including a consultation on revisions to the Capital Adequacy Requirements Guideline for 2026 and new guidance on crypto-asset exposures and climate-related disclosures. The crypto-asset guidelines set capital and liquidity requirements for banks and insurers, with Pillar 3 disclosures effective Q1 2026. OSFI also plans to consult on climate risk disclosures to align with Canadian Sustainability Standards.
The Norwegian Financial Supervisory Authority (Finanstilsynet) reported deficiencies in BDO AS's audit of a public interest entity's deferred tax asset and capital requirements note for 2023, citing insufficient professional scepticism and a breach of the Auditor Act. Finanstilsynet questioned the full recognition of the deferred tax asset, highlighting the need for convincing evidence due to recent losses and noted weaknesses in audit procedures. BDO later revised its 2024 going concern assessment after addressing these issues with the entity's leadership.
The Canadian Securities Administrators issued Coordinated Blanket Order 96-933, granting temporary exemptions from certain derivatives data reporting requirements for unique product identifiers on commodity derivatives. This order allows market participants in multiple provinces and territories to continue reporting under existing trade reporting rules after amendments take effect on July 25, 2025.
Moldova's National Commission for Financial Markets (CNPF) adopted decisions on capital market authorisation and supervision, including share capital restructurings for three issuers and a mandatory takeover offer by SA ASPA shareholders. CNPF registered capital increases for SA APA-CANAL LEOVA, SA CARINA, and SA TRIMEXPO, and ordered SRL ELVELENIX-COM to launch a takeover offer for SA ASPA. Additionally, CNPF warned Intermedia-Group SA for AML/CFT deficiencies and approved cooperation agreements with the National Bank of Moldova and the European Consumer Centre.
The Canadian Association of Pension Supervisory Authorities (CAPSA) urged eligible workers to join employer-sponsored registered pension plans early. CAPSA noted that workplace pension plans, overseen by its member regulators, aid in tax-deferred savings growth, yet 27% of eligible workers do not participate. The release emphasized the importance of member communication and education, urging plan administrators to provide clear communications and decision-support tools.
The Central Bank of Russia has expanded the range of bonds available to non-qualified investors without testing, now including corporate bonds with a credit rating of A+ or higher. This change excludes bonds secured by monetary claims, such as mortgage bonds. The bank describes these instruments as highly liquid with a default probability of no more than 1.3%, offering adequate credit risk protection for retail investors.
The British Columbia Financial Services Authority (BCFSA) urged pension plan members to use Pension Awareness Day to understand their workplace pensions and maximize contributions, especially with employer matching. BCFSA emphasized updating contact information and tracing unclaimed benefits, noting billions remain unclaimed in Canada. It highlighted that workplace pensions complement government programs and personal savings, and that BCFSA regulates over 600 pension plans in British Columbia.
The Bank of Canada warned of rising investment scams and false online articles referencing the Bank on social media. It clarified that the Bank does not provide financial advice, offer investment products, or engage in activities like accepting deposits or issuing cryptoassets. Consumers should verify information on the Bank's website, report suspicious activities, and enhance account security.
The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has established a Cyber and Emerging Technologies Unit within its Division of Enforcement to address technological developments and misconduct. Acting Chairman Mark T. Uyeda noted the formation of a crypto task force to create a regulatory framework for crypto assets. The SEC continues to focus on enforcement against fraud, including in AI and crypto, while maintaining investor protection and market access.
The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has established the Cyber and Emerging Technologies Unit (CETU) to address cyber-related misconduct and protect retail investors from fraud involving emerging technologies. Led by Laura D’Allaird, CETU replaces the Crypto Assets and Cyber Unit and will work with the SEC’s Crypto Task Force. The unit will focus on fraud involving AI, machine learning, social media, the dark web, hacking, blockchain, crypto assets, and cybersecurity compliance.
The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) released its February 2025 enforcement actions, including formal agreements with Dearborn FSB and Patriot Bank, N.A., prohibition orders against former bank personnel, and the termination of a cease-and-desist order against Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. The OCC's updated enforcement action search tool now allows searches by subject matter for actions issued since 2012.
The Central Bank of Nepal hosted the 6th Leaders Roundtable of the South Asia Region Financial Inclusion Initiative (SARFII) in Kathmandu, focusing on a five-year regional framework for sustainable and inclusive financial services. The meeting approved SARFII’s 2025 work plan and discussed amendments to the SARFII Charter and the Terms of Reference for the Expert Group on Financial Inclusion Policy. Governor Maha Prasad Adhikari emphasized digitalisation, consumer protection, and expanding services for SMEs, with pre-roundtable sessions addressing cyber resilience in digital payments.
The National Bank of Moldova reported that in January 2025, cumulative cash receipts at banks exceeded withdrawals by MDL 628.6 million. Total receipts increased by 4.7% year-on-year to MDL 14,029.4 million, driven by sales of consumer goods and deposits, while withdrawals rose by 5.8% to MDL 13,400.8 million, primarily due to higher ATM withdrawals and loans to individuals.
The National Bank of Moldova reported a 29.3% decrease in new loans for January 2025, totaling MDL 5,721.4 million, with 78.9% in Moldovan lei. The average nominal rate on new leu loans increased to 8.39%, while foreign-currency loan rates decreased to 5.57%.
The National Bank of Moldova reported a 38.6% decrease in newly attracted term deposits in January 2025, totaling MDL 3,714.9 million. The average nominal interest rate on MDL-denominated deposits increased to 3.67%, while foreign-currency deposit rates decreased to 1.55%. MDL deposits comprised 64.2% of the total, with significant declines in deposits from both individuals and legal entities.