Banking & Finance

Junior mineral exploration company pays $30,000 to BCSC

Junior mineral exploration company pays $30,000 to BCSC

Director Fined $1 Million for Crypto Trading Platform Fraud

The BC Securities Commission (BCSC) announced that Michael Ongun Gokturk, director of three defunct crypto companies, has agreed to pay $1 million for fraud related to their trading platform. Gokturk is also permanently banned from participating in B.C.'s investment market.

CIRO Guidance on Digital Asset Custody for Crypto-Asset Trading Platforms

The Canadian Investment Regulatory Organization (CIRO) has issued new guidance on digital asset custody for Crypto-Asset Trading Platforms (CTPs). The framework establishes clear expectations for Dealer Members operating CTPs, addressing technological, operational, and legal risks associated with digital assets. It enhances existing custody and segregation requirements to protect investors.

CIRO Seeks New Members for Investor Advisory Panel

The Canadian Investment Regulatory Organization (CIRO) is seeking applications for its Investor Advisory Panel (IAP). The panel advises CIRO on regulatory policy and initiatives. Applications are due by March 31, 2026.

CIRO Annual Compliance Report 2026 for Dealers

The Canadian Investment Regulatory Organization (CIRO) has released its 2026 Annual Compliance Report. The report highlights emerging compliance challenges for dealers, including cybersecurity, crypto asset trading platforms, and the use of AI, and provides guidance on addressing these issues to enhance investor protection.

CIRO Guidance Expands Decision-Making Supports for OEO Dealers

The Canadian Investment Regulatory Organization (CIRO) has published new guidance allowing Order Execution Only (OEO) dealers to expand decision-making supports offered to clients. This aims to empower DIY investors with better educational resources and tools while maintaining investor protection.

Canada Approves Financial Services Platform Test Using Blockchain

Canadian securities regulators (OSC, AMF, CIRO) have approved an experimental financial services platform test, Project Samara, involving RBC, TD Securities, and the Bank of Canada. The project will evaluate the use of distributed ledger technology for bond issuance, trading, and settlement using digital Canadian dollars.

Financial Ombudsman Service Sets Case Resolution Targets

The UK Financial Ombudsman Service has published its plans and budget for the 2026/27 financial year, setting a target to resolve 245,000 cases. The service is consulting on these ambitious targets, which include resolving over 80% of cases within six months.

Financial Ombudsman Service Warns Students About Financial Pitfalls

The UK's Financial Ombudsman Service has issued a warning to university students about common financial pitfalls as they return to education. The notice aims to raise awareness of potential financial issues and inform students about the services available to help resolve disputes with financial providers.

Financial Ombudsman Service Sees Lowest Complaint Levels in Two Years

The UK's Financial Ombudsman Service (FOS) reported a significant decrease in new cases, with complaint volumes returning to levels seen in 2023/24. The period between October and December 2025 saw 47,300 complaints, down from 68,400 in the same quarter the previous year. This reduction is attributed to factors including the FCA's complaint handling pause for motor finance cases.