Humanitarian Assistance Exception Notification for Petroleum Products
The UK's Office of Financial Sanctions Implementation (OFSI) has released guidance and a notification form for 'relevant persons' to report the use of a humanitarian assistance exception related to petroleum products for Syria. This exception, under the Syria (Sanctions) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019, requires notification by the end of the calendar year in which activities take place.
USTR Launches Section 301 Investigations on Forced Labor Imports
The Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) has initiated Section 301 investigations into 60 major trading partners to determine if they are effectively banning imports of goods produced with forced labor. The USTR is seeking public comment and will hold hearings on the matter.
US Drafts AI Chip Export Controls
The US is reportedly drafting new export control regulations for AI chips, which would implement a tiered licensing system based on computing power. These draft rules aim to position the US as a gatekeeper for the global AI industry and could impose significant pre-clearance requirements for high-volume exports.
SFC Bans Andy Lau Ka Ho for Life
The Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) has banned Andy Lau Ka Ho from the industry for life following findings of misconduct. This action stems from his involvement in the IPO of a company where he acted as a sponsor.
SFC Enforcement: Retail Trader Sentenced for False Trading
The Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) announced that a retail trader has been sentenced in a false trading case. This action highlights the SFC's commitment to maintaining market integrity and deterring manipulative trading practices.
SFC Obtains Compensation and Disqualification Orders
The Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) has successfully obtained compensation and disqualification orders against individuals involved in misconduct. These orders aim to protect investors and maintain market integrity by holding wrongdoers accountable.
AUSTRAC CEO Speech on Gambling Financial Crime Risks
AUSTRAC CEO Brendan Thomas delivered a speech on March 12, 2026, addressing the significant financial crime risks within Australia's gambling sector. The speech highlighted the evolving threats of money laundering and terrorism financing, emphasizing the need for robust Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Counter-Terrorism Financing (CTF) controls.
AUSTRAC Operation Taipan: Money Laundering Investigation Analysis
AUSTRAC has published an analysis of Operation Taipan, a significant money laundering investigation that led to the dismantling of a criminal syndicate depositing $62 million through ATMs. The operation highlighted the effectiveness of the Fintel Alliance public-private partnership in combating financial crime.
AUSTRAC Releases AML/CTF Program Starter Kits for Small Businesses
AUSTRAC has released Anti-Money Laundering/Counter-Terrorism Financing (AML/CTF) program starter kits to assist small businesses in newly regulated sectors. These kits provide practical tools and step-by-step guidance to help businesses meet their compliance obligations under the AML/CTF Act, which will take effect from July 1.
AUSTRAC Guidance on Compulsory Examination Powers
AUSTRAC has published new guidance on its compulsory examination powers, introduced by the Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing Amendment Act 2024. The guidance clarifies the scope and application of these powers, which require individuals to attend examinations and provide documents.
AUSTRAC CEO Speech on Money Laundering and Legal Profession's Role
AUSTRAC CEO Brendan Thomas delivered a speech on March 12, 2026, detailing the mechanics and harm of money laundering. The speech emphasized the legal profession's role in preventing these activities, which cost Australia over $80 billion annually.
Sanctions Decision 2024-02 against Banque Delubac et Cie
The French Prudential Supervision and Resolution Authority (ACPR) has issued Sanctions Decision 2024-02 against Banque Delubac et Cie. The decision pertains to violations related to the fight against money laundering, terrorist financing, and asset freezing.
Sanctions Decision Against BRED Credit Institution AML/CFT
The French Prudential Supervision and Resolution Authority (ACPR) issued a sanctions decision against BRED credit institution for violations related to Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorist Financing (AML/CFT). The decision, dated June 27, 2024, outlines specific penalties and requirements for the institution.
Sanctions Decision Against Tunisian Foreign Bank
The French Prudential Supervision and Resolution Authority (ACPR) issued a sanctions decision against Tunisian Foreign Bank on October 9, 2024. The decision, number 2023-02, pertains to internal controls and risk management deficiencies.
ACPR Fines CARCO €500,000 for Information and Anti-Dormancy Violations
The French Prudential Supervision and Resolution Authority (ACPR) has fined CARCO, an insurance institution, €500,000 and issued a reprimand. The decision addresses violations related to informing policyholders, combating dormant accounts, and relations with the supervisor.
Banque Chaabi du Maroc Sanction Decision
The French Prudential Supervision and Resolution Authority (ACPR) has issued a sanction decision against Banque Chaabi du Maroc. The decision, dated November 7, 2025, concerns internal controls and measures against money laundering and terrorist financing.
FINTRAC Imposes $148,912 Penalty on Century 21 Heritage Group Ltd
FINTRAC has imposed an administrative monetary penalty of $148,912.50 on Century 21 Heritage Group Ltd. for failing to submit a suspicious transaction report. This action highlights the agency's commitment to enforcing anti-money laundering and anti-terrorist financing regulations.
FINTRAC Advisory on Financial Transactions with FATF High-Risk Countries
FINTRAC has issued an advisory regarding financial transactions with countries identified by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF). Reporting entities must treat transactions with the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK), Iran, and Myanmar as high-risk and apply enhanced due diligence measures.
Project Fletcher Fraud Investigation: Eight Arrests, Five Suspects Sought
Durham Regional Police Service announced eight arrests in Project Fletcher, a fraud investigation involving over $3 million defrauded from a Durham Region business. Five suspects remain at large. The investigation uncovered extensive money laundering activities over approximately 15 years.
FINTRAC Imposes Penalty on Manor Windsor Realty Ltd.
FINTRAC has imposed an administrative monetary penalty of $107,250 on Manor Windsor Realty Ltd. The real estate brokerage was found to be non-compliant with several provisions of the Proceeds of Crime (Money Laundering) and Terrorist Financing Act.
Canada Beneficial Ownership Requirements Guidance
FINTRAC has released a video explaining beneficial ownership requirements in Canada, crucial for combating money laundering and terrorist financing. The guidance is relevant to all reporting entities except title insurers.
UK Sanctions List Search Tool
The UK government has launched a search tool for its Sanctions List, which details designated individuals, entities, and ships subject to UK sanctions. This tool aims to assist users in identifying sanctioned parties and understanding their obligations.
HKMA Exchange Fund Analytical Accounts - Feb 2026
The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) released the analytical accounts of the Exchange Fund for February 2026. The report details foreign assets, monetary base, claims on the private sector, and foreign liabilities as per IMF SDDS standards.
HKMA Alerts Public to Bank Scam Alerts
The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) has alerted the public to recent scam alerts issued by several banks. These alerts detail fraudulent websites, phishing attempts, and fraudulent mobile applications targeting bank customers. The HKMA reminds the public of security protocols and advises those affected to contact their banks and the police.
HKMA Releases Anti-Fraud AI Music Video
The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) released an AI-generated anti-fraud music video titled "Confronting Lachachu" on March 13, 2026. This initiative aims to educate the public on fraud prevention and has received international recognition for its innovative approach.
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.
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.
Entity Exclusions and Debarment Record Details
This notice provides details on entity exclusions and debarment records maintained by the US government. It serves as a public record for entities that have been debarred or excluded from participating in federal contracts or programs.
Entity Exclusions and Debarments for Contractors
This notice from the US Federal Government provides information regarding entity exclusions and debarments for specific contractors. It serves as a public record of entities that are restricted from receiving federal contracts.
Entity Exclusions and Debarments Search
The SAM.gov website now provides a direct link to search for entity exclusions and debarments. This allows users to view specific companies that have been excluded or debarred from federal contracts and other programs.
Security Council Sanctions Committee Update
The UN Security Council Sanctions Committee provided an update on its sanctions list on March 10, 2026. This notice details amendments and additions to the list of individuals and entities subject to sanctions under Resolution 1988.
Security Council Removes Entry from Sanctions List
The UN Security Council's 1518 Sanctions Committee has removed one entry from its sanctions list. This action follows a review of listed individuals or entities subject to sanctions measures.
FinCEN Advisory: Chinese Money Laundering Networks Used by Mexican Criminal Groups
FinCEN issued an advisory on January 13, 2026, detailing how transnational criminal organizations based in Mexico are using Chinese money laundering networks to launder illicit proceeds. The advisory highlights specific typologies and red flags for financial institutions to identify and report suspicious activity.
FinCEN Advisory on Chinese Money Laundering Networks
FinCEN issued an advisory detailing the use of Chinese money laundering networks by Mexico-based transnational criminal organizations to launder illicit proceeds. The advisory highlights typologies and red flags to assist financial institutions in identifying and reporting suspicious activity.
FinCEN Alert on Cross-Border Transfers Involving Illegal Aliens and Cartels
The Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) issued an alert urging Money Services Businesses (MSBs) to be vigilant in detecting and reporting suspicious activity related to cross-border funds transfers involving individuals without legal status in the U.S. This alert is part of efforts to prevent the exploitation of the U.S. financial system by illegal aliens and criminal organizations.
FinCEN Alert: $300M Fraud in Minnesota Nutrition Programs
FinCEN issued an alert regarding at least $300 million in fraud targeting Federal child nutrition programs in Minnesota. Financial institutions are urged to identify and report suspicious activity related to these fraud rings, referencing a specific key term in their Suspicious Activity Reports.
FinCEN Whistleblower Program Bulletin on Fraud-Related AML and Sanctions Violations
FinCEN has issued a bulletin highlighting its whistleblower program, encouraging tips on violations of the Bank Secrecy Act (BSA) and sanctions programs, particularly those involving fraud. The bulletin details types of fraud schemes and reporting expectations for financial institutions.
FFIEC Publishes 2024 Mortgage Lending Data
The Federal Financial Institutions Examination Council (FFIEC) has published the 2024 data on mortgage lending transactions reported under the Home Mortgage Disclosure Act (HMDA). The data includes information from 4,908 U.S. financial institutions and is available through various datasets and tools.
Changes to Uniform Bank Performance Report Peer Group Definitions
The Federal Financial Institutions Examination Council (FFIEC) announced changes to the Uniform Bank Performance Report (UBPR) commercial bank peer group definitions, effective shortly after February 26, 2026. These updates are part of an ongoing review of commercial bank peer groups initiated in 2025.
UBPR Liquidity Pages Content Changes
The Federal Financial Institutions Examination Council (FFIEC) is updating the content of the Uniform Bank Performance Report's (UBPR) Liquidity & Funding and Liquidity & Investment Portfolio pages. These changes are scheduled to take effect on or shortly after February 17, 2026, as part of an ongoing review of UBPR content.
FFIEC UBPR Interest Rate Risk Analysis Page Split
The Federal Financial Institutions Examination Council (FFIEC) is splitting the Interest Rate Risk Analysis page of the Uniform Bank Performance Report (UBPR) into two pages (9 and 9A) on or shortly after March 2, 2026. This change aims to improve readability following updates made in February 2025.
Federal Agencies Release 2024 Small Business and Farm Lending Data
The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, Federal Reserve Board, and Office of the Comptroller of the Currency have released 2024 data on small business, small farm, and community development lending. This annual disclosure is required by Community Reinvestment Act regulations.
OCC Enforcement Actions Search Tool
The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) provides a search tool for its enforcement actions, penalties, and orders. An update in January 2025 added subject matter filtering for actions issued since 2012.
OCC Enforcement Action Types
The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) has published a guide detailing the types of formal enforcement actions it can take against supervised financial institutions and their affiliated parties. The document outlines various actions including Capital Directives, Cease & Desist Orders, and Civil Money Penalties.
OCC Announces Enforcement Actions Terminations
The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) announced the termination of five formal agreements with banks in February 2026. These terminations indicate that the banks have met compliance requirements or that the terms of the agreements are no longer relevant.
OCC Announces Enforcement Actions for January 2026
The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) announced its January 2026 enforcement actions, including an order of prohibition against an individual for embezzlement and falsifying records. The OCC also released orders terminating previous enforcement actions against several banks.
OCC Announces Enforcement Action Terminations
The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) announced the termination of several enforcement actions in December 2025. These terminations occur when banks demonstrate compliance with all articles of an enforcement action or when specific conditions are met.
Rescission of Fair Housing Home Loan Data System Rule
The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) has issued a final rule rescinding 12 CFR 27, the 'Fair Housing Home Loan Data System' regulation. This action removes regulatory burden for national banks without impacting the OCC's fair housing supervisory activities.
Community Bank Licensing Amendments Final Rule
The OCC issued a final rule amending community bank licensing requirements. The rule simplifies licensing for national banks and federal savings associations with less than $30 billion in assets, providing them access to expedited filing procedures. This aims to reduce regulatory burden for these institutions.
Interagency FAQs on Tokenized Securities Regulatory Capital
The OCC, Federal Reserve, and FDIC have issued FAQs clarifying the regulatory capital treatment of tokenized securities. The guidance states that the technology used for issuance and transaction does not alter capital treatment, and eligible tokenized securities conferring identical legal rights to their non-tokenized counterparts should be treated the same for capital purposes.
NCUA Removes Reputation Risk from Banking Guidance
The National Credit Union Administration (NCUA) has removed reputation risk from its examination and supervisory guidance, effective September 25, 2025, in accordance with Executive Order 14331. This change directs NCUA employees to no longer base supervisory concerns on reputation risk when examining federally insured credit unions.
NCUA Removes Disparate Impact References from Guidance
The NCUA has removed references to disparate impact liability from its Fair Lending Guide and other issuances, consistent with Executive Order 14281. Examiners will no longer request or review information related to a credit union's disparate impact risk.
Federal Credit Union Operating Fees Decrease for 2026
The NCUA announced that federal credit union operating fees will decrease by an average of 24.65% in 2026 due to budget reductions and repurposed funds. The exemption threshold for these fees has also been increased. Invoices will be issued in March 2026, with payment due by April 17, 2026.
NCUA Extends 18% Loan Interest Rate Ceiling for Federal Credit Unions
The National Credit Union Administration (NCUA) has extended the temporary 18% interest rate ceiling for loans made by federal credit unions. This extension, approved by the NCUA Board, will now last through September 10, 2027, providing continued flexibility for consumer lending.
NCUA 2026 Supervisory Priorities
The National Credit Union Administration (NCUA) has released its supervisory priorities for 2026, focusing on areas posing the highest risk to credit union members and the Share Insurance Fund. Key areas include balance sheet management, particularly lending practices, due to recent declines in loan performance and rising delinquency rates.
FinCEN Special Measures Imposed on Financial Institutions
The Federal Reserve issued SR 25-3 to inform supervised financial institutions about special measures imposed by FinCEN under the USA PATRIOT Act and other acts. These measures create legal obligations for institutions dealing with entities designated as primary money laundering concerns.
FAQs on Suspicious Activity Reporting for Bank Holding Companies
The Federal Reserve, along with other financial regulators, has issued Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) to clarify Suspicious Activity Reporting (SAR) requirements for financial institutions. These FAQs aim to assist institutions with their compliance obligations under the Bank Secrecy Act and do not alter existing regulations.
Federal Reserve Statement on Regulation O and FDIC Reporting for Investment Funds
The Federal Reserve issued a statement clarifying its enforcement discretion regarding Regulation O and FDIC reporting for certain investment funds. This guidance applies to banks and their principal shareholders, specifically asset managers, and provides temporary relief from certain credit extension restrictions.
OFAC Issues Russia-related General License 134 on Crude Oil
The Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) has issued Russia-related General License 134, authorizing the delivery and sale of crude oil and petroleum products of Russian Federation origin loaded on vessels as of March 12, 2026. This license provides specific exceptions to sanctions for certain oil transactions.
ISO 20022 Becomes Standard for Cross-Border Payments
As of November 22, 2025, ISO 20022 is the mandatory standard for cross-border payments, replacing the MT message format. This change aims to enhance efficiency, data richness, and compliance for financial institutions worldwide, supporting G20 goals for international payments.
ISO 20022 Payments Standard Deadline Approaching
SWIFT has issued a notice reminding financial institutions that the ISO 20022 standard for cross-border payments will become mandatory on November 22, 2025, ending the coexistence period with older MT formats. Institutions must complete their migration and testing to avoid disruptions and potential charges.
ISO 20022: AI for Structured Postal Data Transition
SWIFT is providing an open-source AI solution to help financial institutions transition from unstructured to structured postal data for ISO 20022 payment messages. This is a mandatory change required by November 2026 to avoid message rejection and ensure data integrity for AML efforts.
Basel Committee Analysis of Synthetic Risk Transfers
The Basel Committee on Banking Supervision has published a report analyzing Synthetic Risk Transfer (SRT) transactions, which allow banks to transfer credit risk to counterparties. The report notes the rapid growth of SRT markets, with protected assets averaging 1.1% of total bank assets globally.
Non-Maturity Deposit Stability and Depositor Outflows Literature Review
The Bank for International Settlements (BIS) published a working paper reviewing literature on non-maturity deposit stability and depositor outflows. The paper examines whether recent banking turmoil indicates changes in deposit behavior due to technological, competitive, or regulatory shifts, concluding that while changes may have affected stability, traditional factors remain significant drivers.
Basel Committee Newsletter on Supervisory Effectiveness and Risks
The Basel Committee on Banking Supervision has released a newsletter discussing efforts to strengthen supervisory effectiveness following the 2023 banking turmoil. It shares information on supervisory practices related to liquidity risk, interest rate risk in the banking book, and business model analysis, intended for supervisors' day-to-day activities.
BCBS 239 Principles for Risk Data Aggregation and Reporting
The Basel Committee on Banking Supervision (BCBS) published a newsletter on January 6, 2026, summarizing key themes and challenges in implementing the BCBS 239 principles for risk data aggregation and reporting. The newsletter highlights the ongoing importance of these principles for banks, particularly systemically important banks (SIBs), and discusses evolving implementation practices.
Basel Committee Consolidates Banking Guidelines and Sound Practices
The Basel Committee on Banking Supervision has launched a new website section consolidating its banking guidelines and sound practices. This initiative aims to improve accessibility for banks and supervisors. A consultative document is open for feedback until June 26, 2026.
FATF Plenary: Asset Recovery Guidance Approved
The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) Plenary has approved new guidance on asset recovery, aimed at depriving criminals of their illicit gains. This guidance provides updated recommendations and best practices for member countries to enhance their efforts in tracing, freezing, and confiscating criminal assets.
FATF Plenary Outcomes: Fraud Prevention, New Publications, Monitoring
The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) has published the outcomes of its February 2026 Plenary meeting. Key initiatives include enhanced efforts to combat fraudsters, the release of new publications, and increased monitoring of member countries' compliance with anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing standards.
FATF Plenary Outcomes: Argentina, Oman Reports, Senegal Monitoring
The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) has published the outcomes of its recent plenary meeting. Key discussions included reports on Argentina and Oman, as well as ongoing monitoring of Senegal. These outcomes provide updates on the FATF's global efforts against money laundering and terrorist financing.
FATF Plenary Outcomes: Revised Standards and Russia Suspension
The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) Plenary outcomes include revised standards and country updates. Notably, Russia's membership has been suspended, impacting its participation in FATF activities and potentially international financial relations.
FATF-MONEYVAL Plenary Strengthened Efforts Against Criminal Activity
The FATF and MONEYVAL Plenary meeting in June 2025 discussed strengthened efforts against criminal activity. The outcomes highlight ongoing international cooperation and policy discussions aimed at combating financial crime.
EU Council Press Briefings for Transport, Energy, and Environment Councils
The Council of the EU has issued a media advisory for press briefings preceding the Transport, Telecommunications and Energy Council (Energy) on March 16 and the Environment Council on March 17, 2026. Journalists are invited to register for a hybrid format briefing by March 13, 2026.
EU Statement on Restrictive Measures Against Terrorism
The EU has issued a statement regarding Council Decision (CFSP) 2026/455, which updates restrictive measures to combat terrorism. This decision repeals previous articles and expands the scope for imposing measures against individuals and entities associated with terrorist acts.
EU Statement on Countries Aligning with Terrorist List Update
The EU has issued a statement noting that several non-EU countries have aligned with a recent Council Decision updating the EU's terrorist list. This alignment means these countries will conform their national policies to the updated list of individuals and entities subject to restrictive measures.
European Council Invitation: Middle East, Ukraine, Competitiveness, MFF
European Council President António Costa has invited members to a meeting on March 19-20, 2026, to discuss the Middle East escalation, Ukraine, strategic competitiveness, the Multiannual Financial Framework, defense readiness, and migration. The invitation outlines key agenda items and the urgency of coordinated responses.
Press Briefing for General Affairs Council
The Council of the EU has issued a media advisory for a press briefing concerning the General Affairs Council meeting on March 17, 2026. The briefing will take place on March 13, 2026, and is designated as 'off the record'. Journalists must register by March 13, 2025, to participate.