Financial Regulation

Federal Reserve Enforcement Actions Against Former Bank Employees

The Federal Reserve Board has issued consent prohibition orders against two former bank employees for embezzlement and misappropriation of customer funds. Cassandra Grayson, formerly of Equity Bank, and Sandra Adams, formerly of First State Bank of Dongola, are subject to these enforcement actions.

Federal Reserve Approves Home BancShares Merger with Mountain Commerce

The Federal Reserve Board has approved the application by Home BancShares to acquire Mountain Commerce Bancorp, Inc. This approval also allows Centennial Bank to merge with Mountain Commerce Bank and establish a branch at its current location.

ESMA Guidelines on UCITS and AIFs Liquidity Management Tools

The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) has issued new guidelines on liquidity management tools for UCITS and open-ended AIFs. These guidelines aim to enhance investor protection and market stability by providing a common framework for managing fund liquidity.

HMRC Directions on Electronic Communications for Tax

HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) has published directions regarding the use of electronic communications for tax regulations, specifically for returns made via the Self Assessment Online service. These directions clarify the methods and requirements for submitting tax information electronically.

VAT Import One Stop Shop Scheme: Screening Equality Impact Assessment

HM Revenue & Customs has published a Screening Equality Impact Assessment for the VAT Import One Stop Shop scheme for intermediaries. This assessment, published on March 12, 2026, details the consideration of equality impacts on groups with protected characteristics.

Consultation on Extending Uncertain Tax Treatment Regime

HM Revenue & Customs has launched a consultation proposing to extend the Uncertain Tax Treatment (UTT) regime. The proposal aims to capture more legal interpretation uncertainties across various taxes and apply to wealthy individuals and trusts with tax advantages over £5 million. The consultation closes on June 4, 2026.

HMRC Call for Evidence on Business Systems Integration

HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) has opened a call for evidence to gather views on how business systems integration can simplify record-keeping for businesses. The consultation closes on June 4, 2026, and aims to identify practical steps for government and industry.

Andrew Bailey Speech on Cross-Border Payments Reform Progress

Andrew Bailey, Chair of the Financial Stability Board, delivered a speech on March 12, 2026, discussing progress on the G20 Cross-border Payments Roadmap. He highlighted achievements and outlined remaining challenges, calling for continued commitment from public authorities and the private sector to improve global payment outcomes.

Bank of England Weekly Report Assets and Liabilities

The Bank of England published its weekly report on 12 March 2026, detailing assets and liabilities as of 11 March 2026. The report provides data on sterling and foreign currency assets and liabilities, including reserve balances and various operational holdings.

PRA Data Collection and Dialogue Speech

Vicky White of the PRA delivered a speech on March 12, 2026, discussing the importance of data in regulatory supervision and policymaking. The speech highlighted how data facilitates dialogue between the PRA and regulated banks, and outlined the goals of the Future Banking Data programme to reduce reporting costs while ensuring data quality.