FINMA Switzerland News

FINMA Orders MBaer Merchant Bank AG Liquidation Due to Money Laundering Controls

Switzerland's FINMA has ordered the liquidation of MBaer Merchant Bank AG due to serious, systematic shortcomings in anti-money laundering controls and enabling clients to circumvent asset freezes. This follows FINMA's withdrawal of the bank's license, which is now effective after the bank withdrew its appeal.

Updated Sanctions Notice for ISIL (Da'esh) / Al-Kaida

The Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO) has updated its sanctions database following a UN sanctions committee decision on February 27, 2026. The update concerns individuals, companies, and organizations linked to ISIL (Da'esh) and Al-Qaeda. This change is directly applicable in Switzerland.

Switzerland Updates Iran Sanctions List

The Swiss Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research (WBF) has updated annexes and the list of sanctioned individuals, companies, and organizations related to Iran. Financial intermediaries are required to implement prohibitions, freeze assets, and report affected business relationships.

Updated Sanctions List for Taliban

The Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO) has updated its sanctions list concerning individuals and entities linked to the Taliban, effective March 11, 2026. Financial intermediaries are required to implement the prohibitions, freeze assets, and report relevant business relationships to SECO.

FINMA Contacts Bank After US Names it Money Laundering Concern

FINMA is in contact with MBaer Merchant Bank AG and FinCEN after the US designated the bank as a primary money laundering concern. FinCEN is proposing measures under the USA PATRIOT Act, which are currently undergoing public consultation. FINMA has appointed an audit agent at the bank.