Trade & Export

SEC Exempts Foreign Private Issuers Directors Officers From Section 16 Reporting

The SEC issued an order exempting directors and officers of certain foreign private issuers from Section 16(a) reporting obligations, effective March 5, 2026. This action provides relief to individuals in qualifying jurisdictions with substantially similar reporting requirements, as clarified by subsequent FAQs.

Canada Eases Syria Sanctions on Imports, Exports, Investments, Services

The Government of Canada has eased significant sanctions against Syria, removing restrictions on imports, exports, investments, and financial services. Twenty-four entities and one individual were delisted, including major financial institutions, to facilitate economic recovery and investment.

Insurance and Supply Chain Disruptions During Conflict

Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman LLP published guidance on navigating insurance coverage for supply chain disruptions during conflict, specifically referencing the Iran War. The article highlights potential coverage gaps in business interruption policies and advises businesses to proactively build records and review policy wordings.

Global Antitrust Fines Reached $7.7 Billion in 2025

A&O Shearman's March 2026 report indicates global antitrust fines rose to $7.7 billion in 2025, the highest since 2021. While the total number of infringement decisions decreased, the report highlights a strategic shift by regulators towards more efficient enforcement, focusing on key sectors and utilizing "soft" tools alongside targeted "hard" fines for deterrence and precedent-setting.

Antitrust Enforcement Fines Regional Snapshots 2025

This document provides a visual breakdown of antitrust enforcement fines across Europe, APAC, and the Americas for 2025. It highlights regional differences in enforcement priorities and the types of conduct most commonly penalized by competition authorities, noting significant financial figures for Europe.

Regulatory Scrutiny of Procedural Compliance and Penalties in 2025

In 2025, regulators in the EU, China, and the US increased enforcement of procedural non-compliance. The European Commission fined Eurofield approximately USD194,000 for incomplete information, and the Italian AGCM fined Ryanair USD1.47 million for similar issues. These actions highlight a growing trend of penalties for procedural missteps.

Global Antitrust Enforcement Report Analysis

A&O Shearman has published a global antitrust enforcement report analyzing trends across over 30 jurisdictions. The report highlights a significant increase in cartel fines, reaching USD3.3 billion in 2025, and increased scrutiny of digital markets and investigative powers.

Global Regulation Diverging, Impacting Companies

A recent analysis suggests global regulation is moving towards divergence rather than convergence, creating new risks and strategic friction for multinational companies. This trend impacts areas like sustainability, AI, data protection, and antitrust, increasing compliance burdens and providing new leverage for activist investors.

Australia Inbound M&A Volume Highest in Decade

Australia experienced its highest inbound M&A volume in over a decade during 2025, with 445 deals announced by overseas bidders. The total inbound deal value reached US$45.8 billion, a 47 percent increase from the previous year, driven by strong activity in the energy, mining, and utilities sectors.

Proposed Rule on Section 5949 NDAA Chip Supply Chain Ban

The FAR Council has issued a proposed rule to implement Section 5949 of the NDAA, clarifying prohibitions on certain Chinese semiconductor products and services in federal procurements. The rule aims to enhance supply chain security for government contractors and applies broadly to all federal acquisitions.