International

White House AI Policy Recommendations

The White House has released its policy recommendations for federal AI regulation, emphasizing children's online safety, intellectual property, AI literacy, and preemption of state laws. The recommendations aim to establish a uniform national framework for AI development and use, fostering public trust and innovation.

US Senate Hearing Explores Section 230 Reforms

A US Senate hearing explored potential reforms to Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act, which provides liability protections for online platforms. Lawmakers and experts discussed the law's impact on the digital ecosystem and its applicability to emerging technologies like AI, with a general sentiment favoring amendments over full repeal.

ISDA Responds to FCA Consultation on Derivatives Transparency

ISDA has responded to the UK Financial Conduct Authority's (FCA) consultation CP26/8 regarding transparency requirements for financial instruments. The response supports a proposed change to MAR 11 to resolve a discrepancy between OTC derivatives in scope for public transparency and the permissible CFI codes.

WTO Global Trade Outlook and Statistics 2026

The WTO's Global Trade Outlook and Statistics 2026 report projects slower merchandise trade growth of 1.9% in 2026, influenced by AI investment and Middle East conflict impacts on energy and transport costs. Asia remains a key driver of trade, with specific growth projections for merchandise and services trade detailed.

WTO Members Launch MC14 Environmental Sustainability Package

79 WTO members participating in the Trade and Environmental Sustainability Structured Discussions (TESSD) unveiled a package of outcome documents ahead of the 14th Ministerial Conference (MC14). The package showcases progress over five years and outlines a shift towards priority areas and concrete actions post-MC14.

FATF Identifies High-Risk Jurisdictions for Enhanced Due Diligence

The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) has updated its list of high-risk jurisdictions subject to a call for action, requiring enhanced due diligence. This update impacts financial institutions globally by identifying countries with strategic deficiencies in their anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing regimes.

FATF High-Risk Jurisdictions List Update

The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) has updated its list of jurisdictions under increased monitoring, commonly known as the 'grey list', effective February 2026. This update signifies changes in the global effort to combat money laundering and terrorist financing by identifying countries requiring enhanced scrutiny.

FATF Report on Illicit Finance Risks of Stablecoins and Unhosted Wallets

The FATF has published a targeted report identifying illicit finance risks associated with stablecoins and unhosted wallets. The report aims to provide guidance to countries and the private sector on mitigating these risks in the virtual asset space.

FATF Evaluation of Eritrea's Anti-Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing Measures

The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) has published an evaluation of Eritrea's measures to combat money laundering and terrorist financing. This report assesses Eritrea's compliance with international standards and identifies areas for improvement in its anti-financial crime regime.

FATF Report on Offshore Virtual Asset Service Providers

The FATF has released a new report highlighting the illicit finance risks associated with offshore Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs). The report identifies key risks and provides recommendations for mitigating these risks to enhance the integrity of the global financial system.