International

FSB Enhances Cross-Border Payments Through Public-Private Partnership

The Financial Stability Board (FSB) has launched a new implementation phase to enhance cross-border payments, focusing on public-private partnerships. The FSB will request members to develop action plans, and industry bodies like the IIF and Swift are outlining initiatives to support these goals.

FSB Reports Nonbank Financial Intermediation Grew to $256.8 Trillion in 2024

The Financial Stability Board (FSB) reported that nonbank financial intermediation (NBFI) grew by 9.4% in 2024, reaching $256.8 trillion. The report highlights growth across various subsectors and notes limitations in data availability for private credit.

WTO Members Review SPS Trade Concerns and Transparency Challenges

WTO members reviewed a record 76 sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) trade concerns, including issues related to food additives, animal diseases, and pesticide residues. The Committee on SPS Measures also discussed challenges and potential solutions for improving the transparency of SPS requirements and notifications.

Uzbekistan Commits to WTO Accession in 2026

Uzbekistan has reaffirmed its commitment to accede to the World Trade Organization (WTO) by the end of 2026. The Working Party on the Accession of Uzbekistan met on March 9, 2026, to discuss progress, with members commending the country's reforms and nearing conclusion of bilateral market access negotiations.

WTO Technical Assistance Programmes Launch

The WTO launched its 2026 technical assistance programmes, the French Irish Mission Programme (FIMiP) and the Netherlands Talent Programme (NTP). These programmes will provide training to 34 government officials from developing and least-developed WTO members over ten months.

WTO DG Updates Members on 14th Ministerial Conference Preparations

The WTO Director-General provided an update on final preparations for the 14th Ministerial Conference (MC14) in Yaound?, Cameroon, scheduled for March 26-29, 2026. Members are nearing agreement on texts for ministerial consideration, including discussions on WTO reform.

WTO Young Trade Leaders Programme Applications Open for 2026

The World Trade Organization (WTO) has opened applications for its 2026 Young Trade Leaders Programme. This initiative aims to engage young individuals interested in international trade, offering them training and networking opportunities.

Global FX Derivatives Market Overview: Size, Structure and Uses

The International Swaps and Derivatives Association (ISDA) has published an overview of the global FX derivatives market, reporting $6.6 trillion in average daily turnover as of April 2025. The report highlights growth in forwards and options and details the market's structure, uses, and geographic concentration.

BIS Appoints Hélène Rey as Economic Adviser and Department Head

The Bank for International Settlements (BIS) announced the appointment of Hélène Rey as its new Economic Adviser and Head of the Monetary and Economic Department. Ms Rey will serve a five-year term starting September 2026, succeeding Hyun Song Shin.

NJ Scrap Tire Act Privacy Concerns

New Jersey's Scrap Tire Act, effective January 20, 2026, mandates electronic tracking of scrap tires, potentially conflicting with existing privacy laws. Businesses face criminal liability if tracking violates employee privacy statutes, creating a compliance paradox.