The Central Bank of Iceland’s quarterly lending survey indicates broadly stable credit supply, with a marginal increase in mortgage availability. Banks expect household and corporate króna lending rates to rise because of a higher key interest rate and funding costs, while foreign currency corporate loan rates are projected to decline.
The Philippine Securities and Exchange Commission has proposed a risk-sensitive margin financing framework for broker-dealers, with detailed rules to be developed by the Philippine Stock Exchange. Transitional standards include PHP 150 million in broker-dealer capital, a 60% maximum credit ratio, a 30% maintenance margin and PHP 50,000 in minimum customer equity for new or increased financing. Margin calls would generally have to be met within three trading days.
The Financial Conduct Authority reported that EGR Wealth Limited entered administration on Aug. 24, 2026, with two Kroll representatives appointed as joint administrators. Customers should contact the administrators with questions and remain alert to scams.
The UK Financial Conduct Authority has banned two former Dolfin Financial executives and fined them a combined GBP 446,800 over a scheme that helped at least 99 clients bypass investor visa rules. It has also proposed banning Dolfin co-founder Roman Joukovski, who has referred the case to the Upper Tribunal. The scheme generated at least GBP 35.5 million in fees.
The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development has outlined policy actions to scale and better align public and private biodiversity finance. It calls for subsidy reform, stronger markets and investment conditions, credible data and disclosure, and improved governance. Private capital should complement, not replace, public funding for biodiversity outcomes that lack sufficient commercial returns.
The Seychelles Financial Services Authority has warned that WOO X Crypto Exchange has no legal or operational nexus to Seychelles. Its operator, WOOTECH Limited Corp., is not and has never been authorized under the Virtual Asset Service Providers Act, 2024.
The European Banking Authority has consulted on harmonized standards for institutions’ governance, assessment and management of operational risk. The proposals cover management accountability, independent oversight, data, reporting, validation and audit, with lighter requirements for institutions whose business indicator is below EUR 750 million. The final standards will be submitted to the European Commission for adoption.
European Central Bank survey data show workplace AI use doubled from 26% in 2024 to 52% in 2026. Users report median savings of three hours a week, although the estimated economy-wide efficiency gain is about 3.8% and varies widely by task. Training gaps, limited employer support, reliability concerns and lack of interest continue to constrain adoption.
The Securities & Exchange Commission of Zimbabwe published a national assessment rating Zimbabwe’s money laundering risk as medium, with estimated illicit proceeds of USD 6.15 billion from 2019 to 2023. Car dealers were rated high risk, while precious-metals dealers and real estate were medium high and the securities sector was medium low. The assessment calls for stronger risk-based supervision, enforcement and regulation of currently unregulated activities.
The Securities and Exchange Commission of Zimbabwe has published the country’s inaugural virtual asset risk assessment, rating overall money laundering, terrorist financing and proliferation financing risk as medium low. The report highlights higher exposure from non-custodial wallets, exchanges and informal peer-to-peer trading. It recommends licensing and supervisory rules, with a regulatory sandbox as an interim option.
The Central Bank of Eswatini is seeking original designs for a limited-edition E10 coin marking the country’s 60th independence anniversary on Sept. 6, 2028.
The Vietnam State Securities Commission has notified 20 individuals to pay a VND 1 million fee each to complete the securities practice certificate procedure. Certificates will be canceled if recipients do not complete collection formalities within one year of the notice.
Moldova's Parliament adopted a framework regulating cryptoasset issuance, public offerings and service providers, according to the National Commission for Financial Markets. The law introduces authorization, disclosure, prudential and market abuse rules, with supervision divided between the commission and the National Bank of Moldova. It will take effect six months after publication in the Official Gazette.
The National Bank of Moldova has issued MDL 100 and MDL 10 coins to mark 35 years since the proclamation of independence. The silver MDL 100 coin has a mintage of 1,300, while 250,000 of the commemorative MDL 10 circulation coin have been issued as legal tender.
The National Bank of Moldova has issued an MDL 100 silver commemorative coin marking 35 years since the country’s declaration of independence. The proof-quality coin has a mintage of 1,300 and features the declaration, national flag and musical notation from the national anthem.
The National Bank of Moldova has issued 250,000 bimetallic 10 leu coins commemorating the proclamation of independence in 1991. The coin includes a latent “RM” monogram and “BNM” microengraving.
The National Bank of Moldova has proposed broader prudential disclosures for credit institutions, covering capital, liquidity, major risk categories, ESG risks and cryptoassets. Most changes would apply from Dec. 31, 2027, with reporting frequency calibrated by institution type. Disclosures would be transmitted to the European Banking Authority for the European Single Access Point from Jan. 10, 2030.
The National Bank of Moldova has proposed EU-aligned changes to leverage ratio rules, including new or clarified exclusions from banks’ total exposure measure. The amendments also address public development banks, securitizations, netting and purchased credit derivatives. Most provisions would apply from Jan. 1, 2028, with EU membership-related rules deferred until Moldova’s accession treaty takes effect.
The National Securities and Stock Market Commission of Ukraine has explained that company profits do not automatically result in dividends, which require a corporate decision and confirmation of eligible shareholders. Payments are generally proportional to shareholdings and may pass through the depository system. Neither dividends nor share-price gains are guaranteed.
The Hong Kong Monetary Authority and the Hong Kong Association of Banks established a workstream to advance bank financing for Northern Metropolis public-private partnership projects. It will examine development models, risk mitigation and reference financing templates to improve project bankability.
The Central Bank of Jordan concluded a workshop on implementing open finance, regulating stablecoins and managing digital asset risks. Discussions covered institutional integration, cross-border payments, financial crime controls and blockchain analytics, with strategic collaborations and joint pilot projects expected to follow.
The Austrian Financial Market Authority has issued guidance on assessing device insurance offered at checkout. Consumers should compare coverage, exclusions, deductibles and total costs with existing protections and the device’s value, while checking cancellation and automatic renewal terms.
The Financial Supervisory Authority of Norway found broad weaknesses in Soknedal Sparebank’s governance, lending practices and credit monitoring, alongside elevated business and key-person risks. Deficiencies in large-exposure grouping, collateral valuation, forbearance and unlikely-to-pay identification may understate credit risk and IFRS 9 Stage 3 provisions. The authority expects stronger board oversight, credit controls and risk reporting.
Sveriges Riksbank Deputy Governor Göran Hjelm assessed the current policy rate as slightly expansionary and saw scope to continue supporting the Swedish economy. He nevertheless said escalation in the Middle East and associated price pressures warrant some probability of a rate increase over the year.
The Swedish Financial Supervisory Authority reported that median fees for major Swedish and global fund categories have fallen since 2023. However, fee gaps remain wide, reaching 1.45 percentage points among actively managed Swedish funds. A 1 percentage point difference could add nearly SEK 250,000 in costs over 30 years under the authority’s assumptions.
The Kyrgyz Republic Ministry of Finance has opened a competition for its personnel reserve for senior administrative auditor positions. Candidates need a higher education degree, an internal auditor certificate and the required public service or professional experience. Applications are accepted through Sept. 10, 2026.
The Central Bank of Brunei Darussalam will hold a financial literacy roadshow and talks from Sept. 2-4, 2026. The program will cover money management, financial products, consumer responsibilities, safe digital payments and scam prevention.
The National Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic suspended Nursultan Valyuta LLC’s exchange bureau license from August 25 through September 8, 2026, for regulatory violations.
The Bank of Thailand’s Monetary Policy Committee unanimously held the policy rate at 1.00%, deeming the accommodative stance appropriate for a weak and uneven recovery as inflation is expected to rise temporarily. It will monitor Middle East tensions, international trade barriers and inflation risks, alongside contracting small and medium-sized enterprise lending and vulnerable borrowers’ debt-servicing capacity.
The Bank of Guatemala’s Monetary Board unanimously held the monetary policy rate at 3.50%, judging upside inflation risks from fuel prices and potential El Niño effects to be contained. Headline inflation was 2.70% in July, below the 4.0% plus or minus 1 percentage point target, while 2026 gross domestic product growth is projected at 3.3%-5.3%.
The Australian Transaction Reports and Analysis Centre has identified scams impersonating the agency to obtain money or sensitive information. AUSTRAC does not unexpectedly demand payment or seek payment through cryptocurrencies or social media apps. Unexpected requests should be verified through official channels.
The Australian Securities and Investments Commission outlined a three-pillar strategy focused on responsiveness, earlier risk detection and stronger consequences. It will cut thematic review notices by 15%, accelerate 80% of routine licence applications and begin annual risk-based surveillance of managed investment schemes. ASIC has also commenced surveillance of audit conduct complaints across the Big Four firms.
Kazakhstan’s financial market regulator has outlined plans for an end-to-end digital insurance journey under its draft market development program through 2030. The framework would standardize electronic documents, expand the Unified Insurance Database and establish common rules for insurance marketplaces and data exchange.
Kazakhstan’s financial market regulator plans to expand insurance agents’ activities to all insurance classes and multiple insurers while strengthening brokers’ product-selection and claims-support roles. Previously unregulated compulsory motor insurance claims intermediaries would enter a register, disclose their fees and be barred from purchasing payment claims.
The Agency for Regulation and Development of the Financial Market of the Republic of Kazakhstan has proposed risk-based pricing for mandatory workplace accident insurance, with premiums reflecting employer-specific safety and claims records. A central actuary would set base rates and tariff ranges, while coverage could be divided between workplace injury benefits and longer-term protection for hazardous occupations. The plan responds to average market loss ratios of 55% by early 2026 and expected payments of KZT 285.7 billion on incurred claims.
The Bank of Korea reported that the average rate on new deposits rose 13 basis points to 3.21% in July 2026, while the rate on new loans fell 4 basis points to 4.27%. Corporate borrowing rates declined, but the household loan rate increased 14 basis points to 4.64%.
The Central Bank of the Philippines reported that 528 transaction accounts were opened at a Youth Financial Inclusion Initiative event attended by more than 1,000 students in Southern Leyte. The program combines account onboarding and financial literacy to expand young people’s access to formal financial services.
The Monetary Authority of Singapore and the Global Finance & Technology Network will hold the Singapore FinTech Festival 2026 from Nov. 18 to 20. The agenda will focus on technology, geoeconomics, capital, talent and policy, including AI-related opportunities and risks, changing financial networks and evolving governance frameworks.
The Bank of Korea reported that the Composite Business Sentiment Index rose 1.1 points to 99.6 in August, with the September outlook also at 99.6. Manufacturing sentiment remained above its long-term average, while non-manufacturing sentiment improved but stayed below it. The broader Economic Sentiment Index increased 1.5 points to 99.4.
South Korean corporate equity and debt issuance fell 1.9% in July to KRW 26.3420 trillion as lower debt issuance offset a surge in public equity offerings. Commercial paper and short-term bond issuance dropped 35.6% to KRW 175.1742 trillion, mainly reflecting a 46.3% fall in short-term bonds.
Thailand's Office of Insurance Commission reinforced sales-quality and disclosure expectations for life insurance across all channels. Industry associations will develop a consumer education series, while customers are advised to verify agent licenses, assess product suitability and pay premiums directly to insurers.
The Australian Securities and Investments Commission has set its 2026–27 priorities, combining stronger action on consumer harm and artificial intelligence risks with measures to reduce unnecessary regulatory burden. Its work will cover scams, debt collection, insurance intermediaries, buy now pay later, superannuation fee deductions and AI-related threats to consumers and markets.
The Central Bank of Ecuador inaugurated two renovated galleries at its Coin Museum in Quito. The updated exhibitions expand permanent displays of monetary and postal history, including a collection of more than 7,000 philatelic items and seven Spanish colonial gold coins.
The U.S. Department of Justice charged a Minnesota money transmitter employee with conspiring to launder at least USD 750,000 in drug proceeds for the CJNG cartel. He allegedly structured transfers below a USD 1,000 identification threshold and used fictitious senders, straw beneficiaries and forged receipts to evade anti-money laundering controls. The charge carries a maximum prison term of 20 years.
The Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas has named Kate Faucher senior advisor for energy programs. She will engage with industry leaders and assess how energy market developments affect the economy and inform monetary policy.
The Dominican Republic's Pensions Superintendency certified Alpha Puesto de Bolsa after 91% of its employees acquired the required knowledge of the pension system and complementary plans. SIPEN also encouraged employers making additional contributions to use Complementary Pension Accounts, which allow joint employer-employee funding without a tax charge and specified early withdrawals.
The National Credit Union Administration and six other federal agencies have rescinded 2022 guidance on special purpose credit programs under the Equal Credit Opportunity Act and Regulation B. Creditors should no longer rely on the statement, previous guidance or related issuances and must not make credit decisions based on protected characteristics.
HM Treasury reiterated that the UK will continue applying economic pressure on Iran with international partners, after imposing more than 240 sanctions since the government took office. The statement did not specify new measures but emphasized preventing abuse of the UK financial system and countering Iran’s nuclear and regional activities.
The Kuwait Capital Markets Authority renewed the Warba Islamic US Dollar Money Market Fund’s license for a renewable three-year term from Dec. 3, 2026.
Saudi Arabia's Capital Market Authority confirmed that Najm Almarzam Company for Investment has completed the requirements to begin securities advising activity.
Saudi Arabia's Capital Market Authority confirmed that Alternative Capital Company has completed the requirements to begin conducting securities arranging activity under its license approved on April 29, 2026.
The Federal Reserve Board released minutes of its July 20 and July 29, 2026, meetings on discount rates for depository institutions using the discount window.
Argentina Securities Commission President Roberto E. Silva reviewed the proposed framework for Labor Assistance Fund products structured as mutual funds or financial trusts. He described the funds as potential long-term investors that could broaden investment and financing alternatives.
The Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe reported that annual ZiG inflation fell to 2.9% in August 2026, its lowest single-digit outturn since 1980. Inflation remained below 5% during the first eight months of the year and averaged 4.0%, while domestic U.S. dollar inflation stood at 3.1% in August.
The Insurance and Private Pension Regulation and Supervision Agency of Türkiye will launch the centralized Alo 193 accident claims reporting service on September 1, 2026. The service is part of an action plan targeting organized groups that unlawfully obtain accident victims’ data and pressure them to grant claims-related powers of attorney.
The Central Bank of Paraguay’s Monetary Policy Committee unanimously held the monetary policy rate at 5.50%, maintaining a neutral stance amid favorable economic activity and low inflation. Headline inflation was 1.6% year on year in July, while expectations remained anchored at the 3.5% target and economic activity grew 5.6% in June.
The Insurance and Private Pension Regulation and Supervision Agency of Türkiye licensed MLB Global Insurance Brokerage Inc. to operate as a non-life insurance broker.
The maximum ruble deposit rate among Russia’s 10 largest household deposit-taking institutions rose slightly to 12.90% in the second 10 days of August, from 12.89% in the first 10 days.
The Central Bank of Russia reported that annual M2X growth slowed to 12.6% in July, while monthly growth was unchanged from June. Credit growth accelerated and remained the main source of money supply, as the positive contribution from fiscal operations declined.
The Financial System Supervisory Authority of Bolivia has completed stakeholder dialogue on the 2026–2031 National Financial Inclusion Strategy. The strategy will promote secure digital payments across all 336 municipalities, strengthen financial education and fraud protections, and adjust financial rules. It will be formalized through a Supreme Decree.
Peru’s rolling four-quarter current account surplus rose to 4.5% of GDP in the second quarter of 2026, marking three consecutive years of surplus. The quarterly surplus reached USD 2.625 billion, driven mainly by a wider goods trade surplus and higher secondary income.
The Brazilian Securities and Exchange Commission completed upgrades to more than 60 systems and its databases to support alphanumeric CNPJ identifiers, finishing two months early. The new identifiers will be introduced gradually during 2026, while some registrations may continue to use numbers only.
A Bank for International Settlements study finds that Colombia’s 2020 and 2024 reserve requirement reductions shifted large-value payment settlement later in the day. Delays were concentrated among higher-value payments and medium-sized and large institutions, while the new securities depository and greater use of intraday repos also reshaped settlement timing.
The Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City will hold its annual Jackson Hole symposium from Aug. 27-29, focusing on financial innovation, payments and policy. Discussions will cover the implications of digital and instant payments, cryptocurrencies and stablecoins for currency, banking, monetary policy implementation and global financial integration.
The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation reported that insured institutions’ second-quarter net income rose 12% from the previous quarter to USD 90.1 billion. Loan and deposit growth continued, asset quality improved and the Deposit Insurance Fund reserve ratio increased to 1.48%.
Maine and Mississippi have licensed the National Association of Insurance Commissioners’ State Based Systems, bringing its use to 37 U.S. jurisdictions. The platform supports insurance licensing, complaints and enforcement processes and integrates with the National Insurance Producer Registry.
The European Central Bank’s weekly balance sheet contracted by EUR 14.267 billion to EUR 5.913 trillion. Securities held for monetary policy purposes fell EUR 15.397 billion, while monetary policy-related liabilities to euro area credit institutions declined EUR 11.678 billion.
The European Banking Federation has urged the Financial Action Task Force to make its payment transparency guidance risk-based, proportionate and aligned with firms’ roles in the payment chain. Institutions should not be responsible for information they cannot reasonably obtain or face additional customer identification, verification or due diligence obligations.
The Federal Housing Finance Agency reported that U.S. house prices rose 2.1% year over year and 0.3% quarter over quarter in the second quarter of 2026. Prices increased annually in 46 states and the District of Columbia, while the June monthly index was unchanged from May.
The General Pension and Social Security Authority clarified that eligible UAE nationals may purchase a nominal service period to increase credited contributions and potentially raise pension and other insurance benefits. Applicants must already meet the minimum service requirement, be actively employed and pay the prescribed cost, subject to statutory limits.
The Agency for Regulation and Development of the Financial Market of the Republic of Kazakhstan approved Chen Xiao as deputy chair and member of Altyn Bank’s Management Board.
The Reserve Bank of India has applied NBFC-IFC large exposure limits to IDF-NBFCs subject to Upper Layer regulation. The amendment takes effect immediately.
The Reserve Bank of India has moved the eligibility cutoff for CRR and SLR exemptions on certain fresh non-resident deposits to August 31, 2026, from September 30, 2026. The change covers qualifying FCNR(B) and NRE term deposits, including renewals, and takes effect immediately.
The Reserve Bank of India has moved the end date for small finance banks’ CRR and SLR exemptions on qualifying fresh or renewed FCNR(B) and NRE term deposits to Aug. 31, 2026, from Sept. 30, 2026. The change takes effect immediately.
The State Bank of Pakistan will remain closed on August 26, 2026, for Eid Milad-un-Nabi.
The Bank of Cape Verde has launched a survey on payment habits to support implementation of the Instant and Inclusive Transfer System. It will assess the use of cash and digital payment methods, user preferences and the potential adoption of instant payments.
The Central Bank of Honduras is holding its inaugural Economic Perspectives conference on Aug. 25-26. Experts are discussing investment-grade experience, the regional outlook, monetary policy and central bank communication, productivity and development.
Angola's Ministry of Finance reported that the Sovereign Wealth Fund of Angola's total assets rose 18% to USD 4.716 billion in 2025. The liquid portfolio returned 14.65%, against a 5% strategic expectation, while alternative investments returned 42%.
Mexico's Ministry of Finance and Public Credit reported that five-year credit default swap spreads have fallen to 80 basis points for the sovereign and 222 basis points for Pemex. Pemex's debt reduction and rating upgrades preceded its return to the local capital market, where its February 2026 issuance attracted MXN 63.285 billion of demand and was twice subscribed.
The Central Bank of the UAE will host the annual UAE Banks’ Reception in Bangkok on Oct. 15, 2026, in collaboration with the Ministry of Finance and the UAE Banks Federation. More than 26 entities will participate, with the event focused on international partnerships and business opportunities for the UAE financial sector.
Hong Kong Interbank Clearing Limited warned of fraudulent websites offering fake buyer protection services for Faster Payment System transactions. The sites seek identity and bank account information and direct users to fraudsters posing as customer service staff.
The National Bank of Georgia published interactive updates on resident banks’ loans and deposits as of July 2026.
The Central Bank of Russia reported record quarterly net inflows of more than RUB 1 trillion into brokerage accounts in the second quarter of 2026, with qualified investors contributing nearly two-thirds. Total assets reached RUB 13.6 trillion, while investors shifted toward floating-rate securities and equities’ portfolio share fell to 20% because of negative revaluations.
The National Bank of Romania clarified that employees’ personal social media posts do not constitute official central bank positions. Only communications through institutional channels or statements by explicitly authorized representatives should be treated as official.
The Czech National Bank finds that ageing and low fertility may strengthen inflationary pressures in Czechia while lowering the neutral real interest rate. A decline in the working-age population could intensify labor shortages and wage pressures over the next 10 to 15 years. Ukrainian workers have increased labor supply since 2022, although their wage gap with non-Ukrainian employees persists.
The National Bank of Hungary cut its base rate by 25 basis points to 5.50%, effective 26 August 2026, and lowered its overnight deposit and collateralised loan rates to 4.50% and 6.50%, respectively.
The Italian Institute for Insurance Supervision ordered four websites offering unauthorized insurance services to be blocked, taking the total since November 2023 to 393. Implementation may take several days, and consumers should verify providers against IVASS' official lists.
The Financial Supervisory Authority of Norway reported lower aggregate profits and return on equity for Norwegian banks in the first half of 2026, driven mainly by lower net interest income and higher operating costs. Credit losses remained low and broadly unchanged, while nonperforming loans were stable.
The Swedish Financial Supervisory Authority has retained SEB, Handelsbanken, Swedbank and Nordea Hypotek as other systemically important institutions for 2026. Their 1% Common Equity Tier 1 capital buffers remain unchanged.
The Bank of Uganda held the Central Bank Rate at 9.75% as inflation remained below its 5% target. Core inflation is expected to average 4.0% to 4.5% over the next 12 months, while growth is projected at 7.0% to 7.5% in fiscal 2026-27.
INTERPOL reported 58 arrests and the identification of 263 suspects following a 22-country operation against West African organized crime groups. Authorities disrupted major romance, investment and money laundering schemes, including by blocking 257 South African bank accounts and identifying a 196-person Crime-as-a-Service network in Argentina. The operation also found increased sextortion targeting minors and greater outsourcing of criminal activities through the dark web.
The European Banking Authority is consulting on technical standards for investment firms subject to reclassification as credit institutions when total assets exceed EUR 30 billion. The proposals address asset calculations, threshold reporting and the factors authorities must consider when granting waivers that allow firms to retain investment firm authorization.
Taiwan life insurers’ new foreign currency-denominated policy premiums rose 43% year over year to TWD 286.592 billion at the end of June 2026, driven by growth in both investment-linked and traditional products.
The South Korea Financial Services Commission proposed expanding MyData to sole proprietors and allowing AI agents to execute specified financial rights on users’ behalf. The plan would also broaden available data, ease controlled sharing and combination, and introduce AI recordkeeping and explanation duties. Legislative work is planned from the second half of 2026, with eligible services potentially piloted before enactment.
The National Bank of Romania reported that broad money rose 0.7% in July and 7.6% year on year to RON 809.29 billion. Non-government credit declined 0.3% during the month, while government credit grew 2.4% and resident non-government deposits increased 0.5%.
The Czech Ministry of Finance has completed a measure adding 17 permanent employees to the authorities supervising occupational pension funds and insurance companies. The pension authority received 14 employees and the insurance authority received three.
The Central Bank of Cyprus reported relatively low payment fraud rates in the second half of 2025, with incidents concentrated in online card payments and cross-border transactions. Cyprus nevertheless had the euro area’s highest average value of fraudulent credit transfers, for which users continued to bear most losses.
The Central Bank of the Philippines directed authorized agent banks and affiliated foreign exchange corporations not to honor a lost registration document covering Kerry Group B.V.’s investment in Kerry Manufacturing (Philippines) Inc.
The Hong Kong Monetary Authority allotted HKD 89.596 billion of Exchange Fund Bills at average yields ranging from 2.77% to 3.02%. It also scheduled Sept. 1 tenders for HKD 83.682 billion of 91-day and 182-day bills.
The Hong Kong Monetary Authority has warned the public about fraudulent banking websites, login screens, phishing emails and other scams. Customers should not use transaction links sent by SMS or email or disclose passwords or one-time passwords, and affected individuals should contact their bank and the police.