SECO Removes Individuals from Ukraine Sanctions List
Switzerland's State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO) has removed 7 individuals from the sanctions list related to the situation in Ukraine. These amendments to Annex 8 of the ordinance came into force on March 20, 2026, at 11 pm CET.
Boston Common Mortgage Inc. Consent Order
The Massachusetts Division of Banks issued a Consent Order against Boston Common Mortgage, Inc. for substantial non-compliance with mortgage broker regulations. The order requires the company to infuse capital, maintain an adjusted net worth of $25,000, submit financial statements, revise its AML program, and establish new policies and procedures.
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 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 Consolidated Assessment Ratings
The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) has published its consolidated assessment ratings, covering the period from 2014 to 2026. This document provides an overview of countries' compliance with FATF recommendations on anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing.
FATF Attends UNODC-INTERPOL Global Fraud Summit
The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) announced its participation in the UNODC-INTERPOL Global Fraud Summit. The summit focused on combating financial crime and illicit financial flows, bringing together international law enforcement and financial intelligence units.
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.
HKMA SVF Schemes Statistics - Q4 2025
The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) released statistics for Stored Value Facilities (SVF) schemes for Q4 2025. The data shows an increase in SVF accounts, transactions, and transaction value compared to the previous quarter, with 86.4 million accounts and 2.3 billion transactions.
Hong Kong Payment Card Statistics Q4 2025
The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) has released payment card statistics for Q4 2025. The data shows a significant increase in credit card circulation and transactions compared to the previous year, with retail spending in Hong Kong and overseas being the primary drivers. Debit card transaction data also showed mixed trends.
HKMA Alerts Public to Bank Scam Press Releases
The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) has issued a scam alert regarding fraudulent websites and phishing attempts targeting customers of several banks. The alert directs the public to specific press releases from affected banks and advises on how to report suspicious activity.
MAS AI Risk Management Toolkit for Financial Sector
The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) has published an AI Risk Management Toolkit for the financial sector, developed in collaboration with industry partners. The toolkit includes an operationalisation handbook and case studies to guide financial institutions in managing AI-related risks.
CFTC Staff Issues FAQs on Crypto Assets and Blockchain Technologies
The CFTC staff has published frequently asked questions (FAQs) to provide further clarity on registrant and registered entity activities related to crypto assets and blockchain technologies. These FAQs build upon previous staff guidance concerning tokenized collateral and digital assets accepted as margin collateral.
Federal Reserve Enforcement Actions Against Former Bank Employees
The Federal Reserve Board announced enforcement actions against two former bank employees. Lidia Estrada, formerly of Ally Bank, faces a consent prohibition for falsifying documents related to compensation requests. Brenda Fuson, formerly of Regions Bank, also faces a consent prohibition for misappropriating customer funds.
Noble Escrow Services LLC - Final Order Cease and Desist
The Washington State Department of Financial Institutions (DFI) has issued a Final Order terminating a Temporary Order to Cease and Desist against Noble Escrow Services LLC. The temporary order was issued due to a deficit in the company's trust account, but has been terminated following the company's deposit of sufficient funds.
OFAC Russia-related General License 134A Issued
The Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) has issued Russia-related General License 134A, authorizing the delivery and sale of crude oil and petroleum products of Russian Federation origin loaded on vessels as of March 12, 2026. This action provides specific guidance on transactions involving Russian energy exports.
SFC Hong Kong: First SFO Criminal Prosecution for Illegal Short Selling Scheduled
The Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) of Hong Kong has scheduled the first criminal prosecution under the Securities and Futures Ordinance (SFO) for illegal short selling. The case involves alleged securities fraud and will be heard in the District Court.
Bank Holding Company Formations, Acquisitions, and Mergers
The Federal Reserve System has published a notice regarding applications for bank holding company formations, acquisitions, and mergers. These applications are filed under the Bank Holding Company Act of 1956 and Regulation Y. Interested parties can submit comments by April 20, 2026.
Federal Reserve: Change in Bank Control Notices and Acquisitions of Shares
The Federal Reserve System published a notice regarding change in bank control applications and acquisitions of shares. These applications are filed under the Change in Bank Control Act and Regulation Y. The notice lists specific applicants and the banks or bank holding companies involved.
Treasury Department Contract Solicitation and Post-Award Information Requirements
The Treasury Department has published a proposed collection of information regarding contract solicitation and post-award requirements. This notice initiates a 60-day public comment period, allowing interested parties to provide feedback on the proposed information collection activities.
Treasury Department: Emergency Capital Investment Program Information Collection
The Treasury Department is requesting public comment on a new information collection activity related to the Emergency Capital Investment Program. This includes proposed requirements for an Initial Supplemental Report and a Quarterly Supplemental Report. The comment period is open for 60 days.
US Mint Establishes Prices for 2026 Numismatic Products
The US Mint has published a notice establishing the prices for its 2026 numismatic products. This notice details the pricing structure for various collectible coins and related items to be released in the upcoming year.
Postal Regulatory Commission: New Postal Products
The Postal Regulatory Commission has announced new postal products through a notice published in the Federal Register. The notice includes a comment period ending on March 24, 2026, allowing interested parties to submit feedback.
Airworthiness Directives; General Electric Company Engines
The Federal Aviation Administration is proposing new airworthiness directives concerning General Electric Company engines. This proposed rule is open for public comment for 45 days.
Notice of Inventory Completion: Mercyhurst University
The National Park Service has issued a notice of inventory completion regarding human remains held by Mercyhurst University in Erie, PA. This notice is part of the process under the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA). Repatriation may occur on or after April 20, 2026.
Inventory completion notice for University of Hawai'i-West O'ahu
Inventory completion notice for University of Hawai'i-West O'ahu
Federal Reserve Rules of Procedure Correction Notice
The Federal Reserve System has issued a correction notice regarding its Rules of Procedure. This document corrects minor errors in the previously published rule, ensuring accuracy in the official record.
OFAC Sanctions Action Notice
The Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) has published a notice regarding sanctions actions. This notice details specific actions taken by OFAC, which may impact entities involved in international trade and financial transactions.
OCC Proposal: Standardized Approach for Risk-Weighted Assets
The OCC, Federal Reserve, and FDIC have jointly proposed revisions to the regulatory capital requirements for banking organizations not classified as Category I or II. The proposal aims to enhance the calculation of risk-based capital requirements to better reflect risks and improve capital adequacy assessments for these institutions.
OCC Proposal to Modernize Regulatory Capital Requirements for Large Banks
The OCC, Federal Reserve, and FDIC have jointly proposed a new framework to modernize regulatory capital requirements for Category I and II banking organizations and those with significant trading activity. The proposal aims to improve risk reflection, reduce complexity, and enhance consistency, aligning with international standards.
SFC Bans Kuo Che-jung for 4.5 Years, Fines $1 Million
The Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) of Hong Kong has banned Kuo Che-jung, a former responsible officer of Yuanta Securities, from the industry for four and a half years and fined him $1 million. The action was taken for conducting matched trades in Hang Seng Index options and operating secret accounts, which undermined market integrity and violated company policies.
SAM.gov Entity Exclusions Unavailable During Maintenance
The System for Award Management (SAM.gov) experienced a temporary outage, making entity registrations and exclusion data unavailable. The GSA has provided links to search, the homepage, and help resources for users affected by the unavailability.
Korea Reappointed to IFRS Sustainability Standards Advisory Forum
The Financial Services Commission announced that Korea has been reappointed to the IFRS Foundation's Sustainability Standards Advisory Forum (SSAF) for the 2026-2028 term. Korea, represented by the FSC and KSSB, will continue to contribute its policy experiences to support the development of IFRS sustainability disclosure standards.
European Council Discusses Ukraine Developments with President Zelenskyy
The European Council met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to discuss developments in Ukraine. The Council reaffirmed its unwavering support for Ukraine's independence and territorial integrity, welcoming progress on reforms and inviting the Council to open accession clusters without delay. They also reiterated support for a just and lasting peace based on UN principles.
EU Statement on Restrictive Measures for Ukraine Annexation
The EU Council announced that several non-EU countries (Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Moldova, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Norway, Serbia, and Ukraine) have aligned with EU Council Decision (CFSP) 2026/438. This decision renews restrictive measures in response to Russia's illegal annexation of Ukrainian territories until February 2027.
Euro Summit Statement
The Euro Summit adopted a statement on March 19, 2026, concerning economic policy and capital markets within the Eurozone. The statement was released by the EU Council and is available for review.
European Council Remarks on Competitiveness, Growth, Jobs, and Autonomy
European Council President António Costa delivered remarks on March 19, 2026, highlighting the focus on competitiveness, economic growth, job creation, and strategic autonomy. Key areas discussed include integrating energy and telecommunications into the single market, investing in innovation and skills, and addressing energy security through increased homegrown production.
European Council Discusses Competitiveness and Strategic Autonomy
The European Council has approved the 'One Europe, One Market' action plan to enhance European competitiveness and strategic autonomy. Key initiatives include completing the single market by resolving internal market barriers by March 2027, developing the Capital Markets Union, and advancing the digital euro project.
European Council Conclusions on Middle East Security and Iran
The European Council has issued conclusions on Middle East security and Iran, condemning Iran's military strikes and calling for de-escalation. The EU will continue to protect its security interests and citizens in the region, and Member States are urged to reinforce maritime operations and air defence capabilities.
European Council Appoints Boris Vujčić as ECB Vice-President
The European Council has appointed Boris Vujčić as the Vice-President of the European Central Bank for an eight-year term, effective June 1, 2026. This appointment follows consultations with the European Parliament and the ECB's Governing Council.
EU Statement on Ukraine Sanctions Alignment
The EU High Representative issued a statement on behalf of the EU regarding the alignment of several non-EU countries with Council Decision (CFSP) 2025/490. This decision extends restrictive measures related to the situation in Ukraine until March 6, 2027, and updates annex information. The statement welcomes the commitment of Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Moldova, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Norway, Serbia, and Ukraine to align their national policies.
European Council Conclusions on Ukraine, Middle East, Competitiveness, Defence, Migration
The European Council adopted conclusions on March 19, 2026, addressing key geopolitical and economic issues including Ukraine, the Middle East, competitiveness, single market, European defence, security, and migration. These conclusions outline the Council's positions and strategic priorities on these matters.
EU Council President Costa Welcomes UN Secretary-General Guterres, Stresses Multilateralism
European Council President António Costa met with UN Secretary-General António Guterres to emphasize the importance of multilateralism and the rules-based international order. Costa reaffirmed the European Union's strong support for the UN's work, particularly in challenging global times.
OFSI General Licence for Kazakh Oil Exports
The Office of Financial Sanctions Implementation (OFSI) has issued General Licence INT/2026/9247168, permitting activities related to the supply, purchase, transportation, or delivery of Kazakh Oil. This licence is issued under the Russia (Sanctions) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019.
RBI Approves Transition Arrangement for HDFC Bank Part-Time Chairman
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has approved a transition arrangement for the Part-Time Chairman position at HDFC Bank. The RBI stated that HDFC Bank is a Domestic Systemically Important Bank (D-SIB) with sound financials and no material concerns regarding its conduct or governance.
EBA Amends Technical Standards on Own Funds Application Timing
The European Banking Authority (EBA) has published final draft amending technical standards to shorten the application processing time for reducing own funds and eligible liabilities instruments from four to three months. These amendments aim to reduce regulatory burden for institutions and remove provisions for liquidation entities following recent legislative changes.