Written Reply on Private Credit Risk Exposure of Singapore Financial Institutions
MAS responded to a parliamentary question regarding Singapore-domiciled financial institutions' exposure to US private credit markets. Deputy Prime Minister Gan Kim Yong confirmed that Singapore financial institutions have minimal exposure to US private credit despite record 9.2% default rates in 2025. MAS stated it regularly monitors risk exposures as part of supervisory oversight and engages financial institutions on stress testing balance sheets against global financial stress scenarios including private credit defaults.
Securities and Futures Amendment Bill 2026 - Dual Listing Framework
The Monetary Authority of Singapore introduced the Securities and Futures (Amendment) Bill 2026 for First Reading in Parliament. The Bill enables a Global Listing Board (GLB) co-established by Singapore Exchange (SGX) and Nasdaq Stock Market to facilitate dual listings under a streamlined regulatory framework. MAS will gain powers to prescribe dual listing arrangements and harmonise securities laws with foreign jurisdictions.
Written reply to Parliamentary Question on timeline for making cash acceptance mandatory
The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS), through Deputy Prime Minister Gan Kim Yong, responded to a parliamentary question regarding a timeline for mandating cash acceptance by law. The government has deferred the decision, referring instead to a previous ministerial reply dated 26 February 2026. The question was raised in response to concerns about consumers being left without payment options during digital banking service failures.
SIC Public Statement on PSC Corporation Ltd Take-over Rule Breach
The Securities Industry Council issued a public statement finding that Dr. Goi Seng Hui, Executive Chairman of PSC Corporation Ltd, breached Rule 14.1(a) of the Singapore Code on Take-overs and Mergers. The breach occurred when the Offeror purchased shares on 4 December 2023 despite the Share Buy-Back Exemption conditions not being met, causing his voting rights to increase to 30.23%. The Offeror failed to make a mandatory general offer for the company upon crossing the 30% threshold.
Result of Yield/Price Based Auction of State Government Securities - April 2026
The Reserve Bank of India conducted an auction of state government securities on April 7, 2026, successfully raising the full target of ₹18,159 crore from seven participating states. All amounts offered were accepted, with yields ranging from 7.35% to 8.07% across tenors of 5 to 31 years. This represents standard monetary operations by the RBI for state government borrowing.
Money Market Operations Report - April 6, 2026
The Reserve Bank of India published its daily money market operations report for April 6, 2026, presenting statistical data on monetary operations including amounts in ₹ crore and interest rates. The report provides transparency on the central bank's liquidity management activities for the specified date.
RBI extends Baghat Urban Co-operative Bank regulatory directions
The Reserve Bank of India has extended regulatory directions issued to The Baghat Urban Co-operative Bank Limited, Solan for a further three months from close of business on April 8, 2026 to close of business on July 8, 2026. The original directions under Section 35A read with Section 56 of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949 were issued on October 6, 2025. The extension is subject to review and does not imply satisfaction with the bank's financial position.
RBI imposes monetary penalty on Dr. Panjabrao Deshmukh Urban Cooperative Bank Ltd.
The Reserve Bank of India imposed a monetary penalty of ₹1.09 lakh on Dr. Panjabrao Deshmukh Urban Cooperative Bank Ltd., Amravati, Maharashtra for non-compliance with regulatory directions. The violations include breaching prudential single counterparty exposure limits for non-SLR investments and charging customers above the prescribed regulatory ceiling for NEFT transactions.
RBI Branch Authorisation Amendment Directions 2026 - Consultation
The Reserve Bank of India has issued seven draft Amendment Directions (2026) covering branch authorisation for Commercial Banks, Small Finance Banks, Payments Banks, Local Area Banks, Regional Rural Banks, Urban Co-operative Banks, and Rural Co-operative Banks. The proposals define three types of delivery points (branch, BC-BO, BC-BT), simplify Business Correspondent eligibility criteria, subsume Business Facilitators under the BC model, and standardise BC commission/remuneration structures. Public comments are invited until May 5, 2026.
RBI Cancels Licence of Shirpur Merchants' Co-operative Bank
The Reserve Bank of India cancelled the licence of The Shirpur Merchants' Co-operative Bank Ltd., Shirpur effective April 6, 2026, under Section 22 read with Section 56 of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949. The bank ceases all banking business operations due to inadequate capital, non-compliance with statutory requirements, and inability to protect depositor interests. DICGC has already paid ₹48.95 crore to eligible depositors, with 99.7% of depositors entitled to full coverage up to ₹5 lakh.
RBI extends regulatory directions for Ramgarhia Co-operative Bank Ltd., New Delhi
The Reserve Bank of India has extended the operational period of Directive No. DEL.DOS.EXG_SSM.No.S515/12-10-013/2022-2023 for Ramgarhia Co-operative Bank Ltd., New Delhi for an additional three months from close of business on April 8, 2026 to close of business on July 8, 2026. The extension is issued under Section 35A read with Section 56 of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949. The RBI notes that this extension should not be construed as satisfaction with the bank's financial position.
State Government Securities Auction Results - April 7, 2026
The Reserve Bank of India published auction results for State Government Securities dated April 7, 2026. The results detail the outcome of government bond auctions conducted for state governments, showing issuance amounts, yields, and participating institutions. This routine publication provides transparency on public debt operations and state borrowing activities.
Auction of Government of India 6.48% GS 2035 - Rs 34,000 Crore
The Reserve Bank of India announced the auction of Government of India dated security 6.48% GS 2035 for a notified amount of Rs 34,000 crore. The auction will be conducted on April 10, 2026 using the multiple price method, with settlement on April 13, 2026. GoI may retain additional subscription up to Rs 2,000 crore.
AML/CFT Program Requirements - Joint Notice of Proposed Rulemaking
The FDIC, OCC, and NCUA have issued a joint notice of proposed rulemaking to amend AML/CFT program requirements for supervised banks and credit unions. The proposed amendments would align agency regulations with FinCEN requirements and the Anti-Money Laundering Act of 2020, introducing risk-based program requirements, US-based designated AML/CFT officer requirements, and a new FinCEN consultation framework for supervisory and enforcement actions.
NCUA Ninth Round Deregulation Proposals - Field of Membership Eligibility
The National Credit Union Administration announced its ninth round of deregulation proposals under the ongoing Deregulation Project. The proposal targets 12 CFR 701, Appendix B concerning credit union chartering and field of membership eligibility. NCUA seeks to remove the automatic disqualification of associational groups that require purchase of a product or service as a condition of membership, replacing it with a more holistic evaluation approach.
Bridge to the Future - Mobilising Europe's Savings in a Fragmenting World
Gabriel Makhlouf, Governor of the Central Bank of Ireland, delivered a speech at the 2026 Eurofi High Level Seminar highlighting Europe's savings-investment gap. While euro area household deposits approach €10 trillion with savings rates around 15 percent, investment through European capital markets has not kept pace. The EU requires an estimated additional €750-800 billion annually by 2030 to meet investment needs. Makhlouf advocated for deepening the Single Market and strengthening the Savings and Investments Union to channel savings into productive investment.
Climate risk and sustainable finance - bridging policy, research and practice
Bank of Spain Deputy Governor Soledad Núñez delivered remarks at a joint BIS-NGFS conference on climate risk and sustainable finance, discussing how climate change creates physical and transition risks affecting financial stability. The speech highlighted increasing extreme weather events, their localized economic impacts, and the importance of long-term climate action for the financial sector.
An anchor of stability in uncertain times
Carolyn Rogers, Senior Deputy Governor of the Bank of Canada, delivered remarks to the Brandon Chamber of Commerce on March 26, 2026, discussing three major economic forces shaping Canada's economy: global trade policy and US protectionism, demographic shifts, and artificial intelligence. The speech addressed central bank independence and the current affordability concerns of Canadians without announcing new policy measures.
Central banks must evolve from stability keepers to resilience architects
Bank Negara Malaysia Governor Abdul Rasheed Ghaffour delivered a keynote address at the Central Banking Meetings in Kuala Lumpur on March 31, 2026, arguing that central banks must evolve beyond their traditional role as stability keepers to become architects of resilience. The speech addresses structural shifts confronting economies including geopolitical conflict, trade fragmentation, digital transformation, and climate change, asserting that resilience building is central to central bank mandates rather than an extension of it.
Little Time Left to Wake Up - Can We Reconcile Europe with Speed?
François Villeroy de Galhau, Governor of the Banque de France, delivered his final speech at the Eurofi High Level Seminar, reflecting on European urgency and the need for faster policy delivery. The speech emphasized that Europeans know what needs to be done but must overcome institutional inertia to act with greater speed. Drawing on Stoic philosophy from Cyprus, the birthplace of Zeno, Villeroy called for lucidity about unchangeable circumstances and determination to change what must be addressed.
Banks shift from controls to scam psychology
ABA Banking Journal published an article exploring how financial institutions are evolving their fraud prevention strategies from traditional transactional controls to human-centered approaches that address the psychology of scam victimization. The article discusses emerging frameworks for protecting customers through behavioral insights and empathy-based interventions rather than solely relying on technological barriers.
FDIC and OCC Finalize Rule Removing Reputational Risk from Bank Supervision
The FDIC and OCC have finalized a rule eliminating reputational risk as a standalone category from their bank supervision frameworks. The change removes what had been a distinct supervisory consideration related to an institution's public image and community standing. This modification affects how federal banking regulators evaluate and assess bank risk profiles during examinations.
ABA Commends FCC Forfeiture Against Voxbeam for Spoofed Bank Calls
The American Bankers Association published an article commending the FCC's enforcement action imposing a $9,914,000 forfeiture against Voxbeam for making thousands of spoofed calls that impersonated banks. The FCC found Voxbeam violated the Truth in Caller ID Act by transmitting calls with falsified caller ID information to deceive consumers. The ABA praised this action as an important step in protecting banks and their customers from fraudulent call schemes.
OFAC removes Russian banker Zadornov from sanctions list
The ABA Banking Journal reports that the Treasury Department's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) has removed Russian banker Mikhail Zadornov from its sanctions list. This delisting action reverses the prior designation of Zadornov, who had been subject to asset freezes and transaction prohibitions under U.S. sanctions authority.
Trump Administration Proposes $204.5 Million CDFI Fund Budget Cut
The Trump administration has proposed eliminating $204.5 million from the Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFI) Fund budget as part of broader federal spending cuts. The proposal would redirect funds away from CDFI programs toward rural development initiatives. The CDFI Fund, administered by the Treasury Department, provides grants and technical assistance to community development financial institutions serving underserved populations.
65 victims identified, 60 arrests in year-long child sexual abuse operation
UNODC announced the results of Operation Eclipse, an INTERPOL-coordinated operation spanning nine countries across Central America, North America, and the Caribbean. Law enforcement arrested 60 individuals and identified 65 child victims of sexual abuse and exploitation over the year-long period (February 2025–January 2026). UNODC provided training, mentoring, and technical support to investigation and prosecution units in participating countries.
Global Fraud Summit Vienna - 44 Countries Pledge Coordinated Action Against Fraud
UNODC and INTERPOL co-hosted the Global Fraud Summit in Vienna, Austria on March 16-17, 2026, where 44 countries signed a joint statement pledging coordinated action against the rising global threat of fraud. More than 1,300 participants including government officials, law enforcement agencies, tech companies, banks, and civil society organizations attended to identify practical solutions for disrupting fraud networks. According to GASA, losses from organized fraud and scams are estimated at USD 442 billion annually.
Waste Trafficking Driving Toxic Pollution and Harming Public Health
UNODC released its 'Waste Crimes and Trafficking' analysis examining five categories of illegal waste trafficking including e-waste, plastics, end-of-life vehicles, and metal-bearing wastes. The report finds that legislative gaps, limited enforcement capacity, lack of traceability, and low penalties enable organized crime groups and corporations to traffic billions of dollars worth of waste annually, causing severe public health and environmental damage, particularly in low-income countries.
69th CND Session - Journalists Invited to Cover Vienna Meeting
UNODC issued a media advisory inviting journalists to cover the 69th session of the Commission on Narcotic Drugs (CND) scheduled for March 9-13, 2026 in Vienna, Austria. The session will be chaired by Ambassador Andranik Hovhannisyan of Armenia and will bring together Member States, UN entities, inter-governmental organizations, civil society, and the scientific community to address international drug policy. The event will feature 169 side events and 23 exhibitions alongside the plenary sessions.
CND Establishes 19-Member Expert Panel for 2029 Global Drug Policy Review
The Commission on Narcotic Drugs (CND) announced the 19 members of its newly established Expert Panel at its sixty-ninth session. The Panel, created under Resolution 68/6, will prepare recommendations for the 2029 global drug policy review aimed at enhancing implementation of international drug control treaties. Allan Rock (Canada) and Natalie Yu-Lin Morris-Sharma (Singapore) were appointed as Co-Chairs of the Panel.
Podcast on Fraud Prevention: ACH Check Fraud Rising
NACHA published a podcast featuring Q2 and NACHA executives discussing the rise in check and ACH fraud. The podcast highlights that Positive Pay fraud prevention services are often adopted reactively after fraud occurs rather than proactively, and explores potential industry shifts such as making fraud protection an 'opt-out' rather than 'opt-in' service.
NACHA Rules on Credit-Push Fraud Risk Now Effective
NACHA has implemented Phase 1 of new fraud monitoring rules for the ACH Network effective March 20, 2026. ODFIs of all sizes and non-consumer Originators, Third-Party Service Providers, and Third-Party Senders with 6 million+ annual ACH origination volume (2023) must now have risk-based processes to identify fraudulent ACH entries. RDFIs with 10 million+ annual ACH receipt volume (2023) must similarly implement fraud identification procedures. Phase 2 in June 2026 will extend these requirements to all entities regardless of volume.
2026 Nacha Operating Rules and Guidelines - New Risk Management Focus
NACHA announces the 2026 Nacha Operating Rules and Guidelines, emphasizing a new focus on risk management and credit-push fraud monitoring. The rulebook is available for purchase through the Nacha Store at $75 for members and $110 for non-members. Financial institutions are encouraged to obtain the latest edition to access educational materials and guidance for compliance with the new risk-based approach.
New Nacha Risk Management Rules Compliance Guidance
NACHA published compliance guidance on new ACH Network Risk Management Rules effective in 2026, advising organizations to implement proactive, risk-based processes including annual reviews. The guidance emphasizes that compliance is not a one-time exercise but requires ongoing evaluation against evolving fraud schemes, technological changes, and operational growth.
20 New Members Join Payments Innovation Alliance
NACHA announced that 20 organizations joined the Payments Innovation Alliance during Q1 2026, expanding the cross-industry network that addresses innovation, education and operational improvements across the ACH Network. New members include financial institutions, fintech companies, technology providers, and legal service firms. The Alliance provides members with workgroup access, industry discussions, and engagement with payments ecosystem leaders.
SEC Highlights Financial Independence During Financial Literacy Month
The SEC's Office of Investor Education and Assistance announced it will highlight financial planning tools and resources during National Financial Literacy Month in April. The initiative promotes diversified investing, emergency fund creation, debt reduction, and long-term retirement planning through Investor.gov resources.
Prohibition on Use of Reputation Risk by Regulators: Final Rule
The OCC and FDIC issued a joint final rule prohibiting banking regulators from using reputation risk as a basis for supervisory criticism or adverse action against institutions. The rule also bars agencies from requiring or encouraging banks to terminate or modify relationships with third parties based on political, social, religious views, constitutionally protected speech, or lawful but politically disfavored activities. The rule codifies the agencies' removal of reputation risk from their supervisory frameworks and will take effect 60 days after Federal Register publication.
AML/CFT Program Requirements Proposed Rule - Joint Consultation
Three federal banking regulators (FDIC, OCC, NCUA) jointly published a proposed rule to modernize AML/CFT program requirements for supervised banks and credit unions. The amendments would align agency regulations with the Anti-Money Laundering Act of 2020 and FinCEN requirements, including risk-based program design, explicit customer due diligence integration, and a new FinCEN consultation framework. The proposal requires comments within 60 days of Federal Register publication.
Final Rule Prohibits Regulators from Using Reputation Risk in Bank Supervision
The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency and Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation jointly issued a final rule codifying the elimination of reputation risk from their supervisory programs. The rule defines reputation risk and explicitly prohibits the agencies from criticizing, taking adverse action, or instructing banks to close customer accounts based on a person's political, social, cultural, religious views, constitutionally protected speech, or lawful business activities perceived as reputational risk.
AML/CFT Program Requirements - Notice of Proposed Rulemaking
The OCC, FDIC, and NCUA jointly issued a notice of proposed rulemaking to amend BSA compliance program requirements for supervised banks, rebranding them as AML/CFT programs. The proposal would incorporate FinCEN's national AML/CFT priorities, add customer due diligence requirements, establish a two-pronged framework for evaluating program establishment and maintenance, and create a new notice and consultation framework for AML/CFT enforcement and supervisory actions. The changes align bank regulations with amendments made by the Anti-Money Laundering Act of 2020.
OCC Announces Deputy Comptrollers for Chartering, Organization and Structure
The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency announced the promotions of Jason Almonte and Sebastian Astrada to Deputy Comptrollers for Chartering, Organization and Structure (CO&S). In their new roles, they will set policies and provide executive direction on federal bank applications, chartering, and corporate activities. The announcement highlights their experience with digital asset filings, de novo charter applications, and business combinations.
Agentic workflows for financial crime
ACAMS published a member perspective article examining how agentic AI workflows can be applied to financial crime compliance. The article discusses practical implementation approaches for using autonomous AI agents in transaction monitoring, fraud detection, and suspicious activity reporting. The piece targets compliance professionals and financial crime specialists seeking to understand emerging applications of artificial intelligence in anti-money laundering operations.
Global Shift Toward Outcomes-Based Anti-Financial Crime Frameworks
ACAMS published an analysis examining the global trend toward outcomes-based approaches in anti-financial crime (AFC) compliance frameworks. The piece discusses how regulators and financial institutions are shifting from traditional activity-based compliance toward measuring actual outcomes and effectiveness. This analysis is directed at compliance professionals and AML specialists within financial institutions.
Operation Prince: Inside a $15 billion crypto fraud takedown
ACAMS Today published an analysis of Operation Prince, a major law enforcement action targeting a cryptocurrency fraud scheme estimated at $15 billion. The article, authored by Ari Redbord, examines the fraud mechanics, regulatory response, and implications for compliance professionals in the digital asset space.
Threat finance: Cryptocurrencies, covert funds and advanced detection
ACAMS published a member perspective article by Dr. Robert Pakla on threat finance trends involving cryptocurrencies and covert fund detection methods. The article discusses emerging patterns in illicit finance and advanced detection technologies for identifying suspicious cryptocurrency transactions.
2026 U.S. Risk Assessments Redefine Financial Crime and National Security Priorities
ACAMS published an analysis on March 13, 2026 examining how the 2026 U.S. risk assessments are reshaping financial crime and national security priorities for compliance professionals and financial institutions. The article discusses emerging trends in anti-money laundering enforcement and strategic priorities that institutions should monitor.
AML/CFT Program Reform NPRM - Effectiveness-Based Compliance
FinCEN issued a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking on April 7, 2026, proposing fundamental reforms to AML/CFT program requirements for financial institutions under the Bank Secrecy Act. The proposal would shift supervisory and enforcement focus from technical compliance to program effectiveness, empowering institutions to allocate resources based on their own risk assessments. The rule supersedes FinCEN's prior AML/CFT program proposed rule from July 3, 2024.
FATF 2024-2025 Annual Report: Mexican Presidency Achievements
The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) published its 2024-2025 annual report summarizing achievements under the Mexican presidency. The report covers FATF's ongoing work to combat money laundering, terrorist financing, and proliferation financing globally. Key accomplishments include progress on FATF Recommendations implementation, mutual evaluation outcomes, and FATF-style regional body activities worldwide.
Serbia Mutual Evaluation Report 2025 - AML/CFT/CPF Compliance Ratings
FATF published its mutual evaluation report on Serbia's Anti-Money Laundering/Combating the Financing of Terrorism and Proliferation Financing (AML/CFT/CPF) framework. The report assigns compliance ratings to Serbia across 40 FATF recommendations and 11 immediate outcomes, assessing the country's legal and institutional frameworks, powers, and responsibilities of competent authorities, and preventive measures for financial institutions and DNFBPs. Serbia's inclusion on FATF's regular follow-up procedure was triggered by the evaluation findings.
Trump Administration Section 232 Metal Tariff Revisions
The Trump administration issued a Proclamation on April 2, 2026, significantly revising the Section 232 tariff methodology for steel, aluminum, and copper imports. Effective April 6, 2026, the system shifts from calculating duties based on metal content value to applying ad valorem tariffs on the full customs value of imports, with differentiated rates of 50% for Annex I-A products, 25% for Annex I-B products, and removal from coverage for Annex II products. The quarterly inclusion processes for derivative articles have been terminated, replaced by case-by-case review.
BOI Reporting Exemptions Under Corporate Transparency Act
FinCEN issued an FAQ clarifying that domestic U.S. companies are exempt from Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI) reporting under the Corporate Transparency Act following an interim final rule published March 26, 2025. The rule revised the definition of 'reporting company' to include only foreign entities registered to do business in U.S. states. Foreign entities still subject to reporting must file by April 25, 2025 (if registered before March 26, 2025) or within 30 days of registration (if registered on or after March 26, 2025).
U.S. Companies Exempt from BOI Reporting Under CTA Revision
FinCEN published an interim final rule on March 26, 2025, exempting all U.S. domestic entities and their beneficial owners from beneficial ownership information reporting under the Corporate Transparency Act. The revised rule narrows reporting obligations to foreign entities registered to do business in the U.S. Foreign entities registered before March 26, 2025 must file by April 25, 2025, while those registered on or after that date have 30 calendar days from registration notice to file.
FinCEN Exempts US Companies from BOI Reporting
FinCEN published an interim final rule on March 26, 2025, exempting all US companies and their beneficial owners from Beneficial Ownership Information reporting requirements under the Corporate Transparency Act. The rule revised the definition of "reporting company" to include only foreign entities registered to do business in the US, eliminating obligations for domestic companies. Foreign reporting companies face new compliance deadlines.
Beneficial Ownership Reporting - Interim Final Rule Exempts US Entities
FinCEN issued an interim final rule removing beneficial ownership information (BOI) reporting requirements for U.S. companies and U.S. persons under the Corporate Transparency Act. The rule narrows the definition of "reporting company" to only foreign entities registered to do business in the U.S. Foreign reporting companies must file BOI reports within 30 days of publication or registration notice. U.S. entities and beneficial owners are fully exempt from CTA reporting obligations.
Whistleblower Incentives and Protections NPRM
FinCEN published a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) on whistleblower incentives and protections, seeking public comment on a proposed program to incentivize reporting of Bank Secrecy Act violations. The NPRM outlines potential financial rewards for whistleblowers whose tips lead to successful enforcement actions exceeding $1 million in sanctions. Comments are being accepted through the Federal Register docket.
Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism Programs NPRM
FinCEN has released a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) regarding Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) Programs. The proposed rulemaking seeks public comment on potential new or revised requirements for financial institutions' AML/CFT programs. This represents a significant regulatory initiative that may affect compliance obligations across the financial services sector.
FinCEN Proposes Rule to Reform AML/CFT Programs Under Bank Secrecy Act
FinCEN issued a proposed rule on April 7, 2026, to fundamentally reform anti-money laundering and countering the financing of terrorism (AML/CFT) programs for financial institutions under the Bank Secrecy Act. The proposal would shift compliance obligations from volume-based metrics to effectiveness-based evaluation, empower institutions to allocate resources based on their risk assessments, and clarify examiner expectations for program requirements. The rule withdraws a prior proposed rule from July 3, 2024, and introduces a notice and consultation framework between federal banking supervisors and FinCEN.
Norfolk Man Sentenced to 3 Years 10 Months for PPP Fraud and Money Laundering
IRS Criminal Investigation announced the sentencing of Brian Renard Manley Jr. to 3 years and 10 months in federal prison for money laundering and unlawful monetary transactions connected to fraudulent Paycheck Protection Program loans. Manley and his co-defendant spouse obtained $700,000 in total fraudulent PPP funds ($350,000 each) by submitting applications containing fabricated tax returns created by a third party in Georgia.
Las Vegas Man Convicted of Methamphetamine and Fentanyl Trafficking and Money Laundering
A federal jury in Sioux Falls, South Dakota convicted Quantae Harris of Las Vegas, Nevada of three conspiracy charges: distribution of methamphetamine, distribution of fentanyl, and money laundering. The 5-day trial concluded with a verdict on March 27, 2026. Harris led a drug trafficking organization responsible for distributing over 100 pounds of methamphetamine and tens of thousands of fentanyl pills in the Sioux Falls area, and was linked to over $1.2 million in money laundering transactions.
IRS Criminal Investigation Press Releases - March 2026
IRS Criminal Investigation published March 2026 press releases documenting federal enforcement actions including convictions for drug trafficking, money laundering, healthcare fraud, and tax evasion. Notable cases include a Las Vegas man convicted of methamphetamine distribution and money laundering conspiracy, eight individuals arrested in a healthcare fraud scheme involving hospice billing, and multiple tax preparers sentenced for fraud schemes.
8 Arrested in Healthcare Fraud Takedown Involving Hospice Owners
IRS-CI, FBI, DOJ, HHS-OIG, and Department of Labor announced a coordinated healthcare fraud takedown resulting in eight arrests, including three nurses, a chiropractor, and a psychologist. The defendants are charged with scheming to defraud the nation's healthcare system of more than $50 million by operating sham hospice facilities and billing Medicare for patients without terminal illnesses. The operation, dubbed 'Operation Never Say Die,' targeted hospice-related fraud in the Southern California region.
CFTC Announces Four Whistleblower Awards Totaling $4.5 Million to Seven Recipients
The CFTC announced four orders granting whistleblower awards totaling approximately $4.5 million to seven whistleblowers, marking the most awards issued on a single day in the program's history. The awards recognize whistleblowers who provided information leading to successful enforcement actions, including victims of fraud, market participants, and employees who reported violations internally after 120 days without remedial action.
CFTC Awards Over $4 Million to Insider Whistleblower
The Commodity Futures Trading Commission announced an award of over $4 million to an insider whistleblower who provided information that enabled the Division of Enforcement to open an investigation into ongoing misconduct involving complex products and transactions. The whistleblower reported failures to comply with CFTC rules protecting against fraudulent, deceptive, and manipulative practices, and cooperated throughout the investigation.
CFTC Awards Over $1 Million to Whistleblower Who Aided a Digital Assets-Related Investigation
The Commodity Futures Trading Commission announced a whistleblower award of over $1 million to an individual who provided significant information and assistance that led the CFTC to bring an enforcement action connected to digital asset markets. The CFTC based its enforcement action on whistleblower-provided information about improper trading that was previously unknown to the agency. Since issuing its first award in 2014, the CFTC has granted whistleblower awards totaling approximately $380 million associated with enforcement actions resulting in nearly $3.2 billion in monetary sanctions.
CFTC Awards $4M to Two Whistleblowers for Enforcement
The CFTC announced nearly $4 million in awards to two whistleblowers who provided information leading to successful enforcement of a covered action. One whistleblower reported earlier and received a higher award based on timeliness factors among other considerations. The violations related to market integrity and CFTC investigation integrity. Since issuing its first award in 2014, the CFTC has granted approximately $390 million in whistleblower awards associated with enforcement actions resulting in over $3.2 billion in monetary sanctions.
CFTC Awards Approximately $700,000 to Whistleblower
The CFTC announced a whistleblower award of approximately $700,000 to an individual whose information prompted the agency to open an investigation and described misconduct that appeared in the enforcement order. The whistleblower provided substantial assistance that helped conserve Commission resources, though the award was reduced due to unreasonable delay in reporting and whistleblower culpability. Since 2014, the CFTC has granted awards totaling approximately $390 million associated with enforcement actions resulting in over $3.2 billion in monetary sanctions.
FINRA Foundation Research on Social Media Investors and Fraud Risk
The FINRA Investor Education Foundation released research examining retail investors who use social media and follow finfluencers. The study, based on the 2024 National Financial Capability Study, found that social media is successfully engaging younger and previously underrepresented investors, but these investors exhibit elevated fraud risk. Among social media users targeted for fraud, 68-69% lost money versus 26-29% for non-users, despite answering only 42% of investment knowledge questions correctly while 63% rated their knowledge as high.
FINRA Orders American Portfolios Financial Services to Pay $4.6M Restitution
FINRA ordered American Portfolios Financial Services to pay $4.6 million in restitution to approximately 85,000 customers affected by overcollection of fees and retention of undisclosed surplus interest in its bank deposit program between April 2018 and September 2022. The firm collected more than $3 million in aggregate fees beyond what its disclosed formula would have yielded, retained approximately $1.25 million in surplus interest, and was fined $550,000 for violations of FINRA and SEC rules.
FINRA Appoints Four New Board Governors
FINRA announced the appointment of four new Governors to its Board of Governors: Rostin Behnam (former CFTC Chairman), Tim Carter (former Piper Sandler CFO), Dan Gallagher (Robinhood CLO and former SEC Commissioner), and Heather Traeger (General Counsel at Texas Teacher Retirement System). The new governors bring diverse expertise in financial services, regulation, industry leadership, and public pension management to FINRA's 22-member Board.
FINRA Launches Financial Intelligence Fusion Center for Cybersecurity Threat Sharing
FINRA announced the launch of the Financial Intelligence Fusion Center (FIFC), a secure portal for member firms to share cybersecurity and fraud threat intelligence and coordinate responses. The portal was piloted with a diverse group of member firms and is now available for all member firms to opt into. The initiative expands FINRA's existing resources for cybersecurity guidance and is part of the FINRA Forward program.
FINRA Board approves five rule proposals under modernization initiative
FINRA's Board of Governors approved five rule proposals on March 4-5, 2026, as part of the FINRA Forward rule modernization initiative. The proposals address shortened exam waiting periods, electronic delivery of regulatory requests via FINRA Gateway, streamlined allocation approval requirements, alternative investment reconciliation adjustments, and arbitration procedure enhancements including arbitrator replacement processes.
South Africa Exits FATF Grey List After 32 Months
The Financial Intelligence Centre announced South Africa's removal from the FATF grey list on 24 October 2025, ending 32 months of increased monitoring that began in February 2023. The removal follows successful remediation of deficiencies identified in the 2019 mutual evaluation, including enhanced DNFBP supervision capabilities and improved law enforcement collaboration. South Africa now prepares for its fifth round of mutual evaluations scheduled for 2026 to 2027.
Directive 11 of 2026: 2026 Risk and Compliance Return Submission Requirements
The South African Financial Intelligence Centre (FIC) issued Directive 11 of 2026 on March 31, 2026, mandating specified accountable institutions to submit their 2026 Risk and Compliance Return (RCR) electronically. The submission window opens May 4, 2026 and closes either June 30 or July 31, 2026 depending on the institution category. The directive requires completion of a self-assessment questionnaire covering ML, TF, and PF risks across three reporting years.
FIC 2024-25 Annual Report: Grey List Progress and Clean Audit
The Financial Intelligence Centre (FIC) released its 2024-25 annual report demonstrating continued progress in combating financial crime in South Africa. The report highlights that 55,262 registered institutions submitted over 13.4 million regulatory reports, contributing to approximately R144 million in recovered criminal proceeds. A FATF review team completed an on-site assessment in July 2025 to verify AML/CFT reforms, with a decision on South Africa's potential grey list exit expected at the October 2025 FATF plenary.
General Laws Amendment Bill 2025 - Public Comment on AML/CFT Reforms
South Africa's National Treasury has published the draft General Laws (Anti-Money Laundering and Combating Terrorism Financing) Amendment Bill, 2025 for public comment through Government Gazette No. 53955. The Bill proposes amendments to four pieces of legislation including the Financial Intelligence Centre Act, Financial Sector Regulation Act, Companies Act, and Nonprofit Organisations Act to address AML/CFT deficiencies identified in the 2021 FATF Mutual Evaluation Report. Public comments are due 13 February 2026.
South Africa Exits FATF Greylist After 32 Months
The FATF removed South Africa from its greylist on October 24, 2025, ending 32 months of increased monitoring that began in February 2023. South Africa completed all 22 Action Plan items, culminating in a successful on-site evaluation in July 2025. Going forward, South Africa must sustain its AML/CFT improvements and prepare for a mutual evaluation expected in the first half of 2026.
Warning About Fraudulent Website Impersonating Licensed Firm
QFCRA has issued an investor warning about fraudulent website snbinvests.com, which falsely represents itself as the official website of SnB Investments LLC(IC), a legitimate Investment Club licensed in the Qatar Financial Centre. The fraudulent website advertises financial services including corporate finance, asset finance, project finance, personal finance, home finance, and car finance despite having no connection to the licensed firm, the QFC, or Qatar.
QFCRA Amends Representative Office and Wholesale Advisory Rules
The QFC Regulatory Authority issued amendments to the Representative Office Rules 2020 and Investment Management and Advisory Rules 2014, effective 1 May 2026. The REPO amendments strengthen the authorization framework for representative offices, while INMA amendments introduce a regulatory framework for authorized firms conducting advisory business for wholesale customers. The changes are set out in two rule instruments: REPO and Miscellaneous Amendments Rules 2026 and INMA (Wholesale Advisory Firms) Amendments Rules 2026.
Consultation on Representative Office and Wholesale Advisory Firm Amendments
The QFC Regulatory Authority has issued two Consultation Papers proposing amendments to the Representative Office Rules 2020 (REPO) and Investment Management and Advisory Rules 2014 (INMA). The proposed REPO amendments would tighten the authorisation framework for representative offices and make miscellaneous amendments to other parts of the regulatory framework. The proposed INMA amendments would introduce a new regulatory framework for authorised firms conducting advisory business for a new class of 'wholesale' customer. The Regulatory Authority is inviting public comments until 8 February 2026.
QFCRA Launches New Brand Identity and Refreshed Logo
QFCRA announced the launch of a refreshed brand identity, including a new logo aligned with the updated visual identity of the Qatar Financial Centre. The brand update reflects QFCRA's continued evolution and its commitment to reinforcing a unified and cohesive identity within the QFC ecosystem.
Experts Credit Solutions fined for arranging unauthorized credit
QFCRA announced a settlement with Experts Credit Solutions Consultancy LLC (ECSC) for arranging credit facilities without authorization between January 2023 and October 2024. A reduced financial penalty of QAR 145,800 (USD 40,000) was imposed along with QAR 36,450 (USD 10,000) toward investigation costs. The penalty reduction reflected ECSC's early cooperation and implementation of remedial measures.
MSB Buyback Auction Notice - Competitive Bidding
The Bank of Korea announced a competitive bidding auction for buybacks of Monetary Stabilization Bonds (MSBs) scheduled for April 2, 2026. This open market operation allows the central bank to manage domestic liquidity through bond repurchase activities. Financial institutions may participate in the electronic bidding process.
Bank of Korea Finalizes Benchmark Rate Reform Plan
On March 30, 2026, the Bank of Korea and the Financial Services Commission held the 6th Benchmark Rate and Short-Term Financial Market Consultation to finalize the benchmark rate reform plan. The reform shifts from CD-based rates to KOFR as the primary overnight risk-free benchmark rate. The plan establishes new methodology, governance, and publication standards for the reference rate with full implementation targeted for 2027.
Monetary Stabilization Bond Issuance Competitive Bidding Notice
The Bank of Korea announced a competitive bidding auction for Monetary Stabilization Bonds (MSB) scheduled for April 7, 2026. The notice provides details for electronic bidding participation in open market operations. Financial institutions and investors may participate in the auction through the specified competitive bidding process.
Official Foreign Reserves - March 2026
The Bank of Korea published official foreign reserves data for March 2026, reporting total international reserves of 848 billion USD. This is a routine monthly statistical release providing updated reserve figures to the public and market participants. The release includes attached files with detailed reserve composition data.
Monetary Stabilization Bond Issuance Competitive Bidding Notice
The Bank of Korea published a Monetary Stabilization Bond (MSB) issuance notice (DC026-0707-0910) for competitive bidding scheduled on April 3, 2026. The notice, referencing document number 471, pertains to open market operations conducted by the Bank's Market Operations Team. Bidders are directed to the attached files in HWP and PDF formats for complete auction terms and conditions.
Huntleigh Advisors, Datatex Fair Fund Termination Order
The SEC issued an order terminating the Fair Fund established in the 2023 enforcement action against Huntleigh Advisors, Inc. and Datatex Investment Services, Inc. and authorizing the transfer of the remaining $23,040.17 to the U.S. Treasury. Huntleigh distributed 1,900 payments totaling $893,502 to harmed investors, with 1,834 successful disbursements totaling $870,461.83, achieving a 73.65% recovery rate for affected investors. The final accounting has been approved and the Fair Fund is now terminated.
SEC v. Jeffrey Higgins - Securities Fraud Misappropriation
The SEC charged former investment adviser Jeffrey Higgins with misappropriating more than $800,000 from twelve clients through a sham investment program between September 2017 and February 2024. Higgins allegedly used client funds to purchase securities at a transfer agent without discount, then used falsified documents to divert securities to his personal account. The SEC seeks permanent injunctions, disgorgement with prejudgment interest, and civil penalties.
NCUA Sunshine Act Meeting Notice - April 2026 Board Briefings
NCUA published a Sunshine Act meeting notice announcing an open board meeting on April 9, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. in Alexandria, VA. The agenda includes four board briefings covering brokered and reciprocal deposits, the NCUA Deregulation Initiative, the 2026-2030 Strategic Plan, and the 2026 Annual Performance Plan. The meeting is open to the public with access via the specified entrance.
Bundesbank Central Office Moving to New Frankfurt Location
The Deutsche Bundesbank's board has approved a decision to purchase a property in Frankfurt as its new headquarters, following a cost-effectiveness study comparing this option against renovating the current Wilhelm-Epstein-Straße location. The analysis found purchasing a property significantly more economical than continued operations at the existing site, with total investment costs estimated at 1.6 billion EUR versus 2.9 billion EUR for the current location through 2067.
German balance of payments, January 2026, €17.1B surplus
The Deutsche Bundesbank published Germany's balance of payments for January 2026, showing a current account surplus of €17.1 billion, slightly below the previous month. The goods trade surplus increased by €6.9 billion to €14.9 billion. Germany recorded net capital imports of €9.2 billion, reversing from net capital exports of €27.5 billion in December 2025.
German State Debt Rises €144bn to €2.8 Trillion in 2025
German state debt increased by €144 billion to €2.84 trillion in 2025, with the debt-to-GDP ratio rising from 62.2% to 63.5%. Federal debt (including extra budgets) grew by €107 billion, while states and municipalities added €19 billion and €25 billion respectively. Social security debt more than doubled from €3 billion to €7 billion.
SAMA launches fintech open banking licensing under Vision 2030
The Saudi Central Bank (SAMA) announced the launch of a fintech open banking licensing framework under Vision 2030. The initiative establishes a regulatory pathway for fintech companies to obtain open banking licenses, expanding access to the Kingdom's financial services sector. Licensed entities will operate under SAMA's supervisory rulebook.
SAMA Updates Payment Systems Oversight Framework
SAMA (Saudi Central Bank) has updated its Payment Systems Oversight Framework, replacing the previous version. The updated framework applies to all payment service providers operating in Saudi Arabia, including banks and non-bank payment institutions. Key changes include enhanced requirements for operational resilience, cybersecurity controls, and consumer protection standards in payment services.
SAMA licenses two firms for open banking services
SAMA (Saudi Central Bank) has licensed two firms to provide open banking services in Saudi Arabia. This licensing action expands the ecosystem of authorized payment service providers operating in the country's open banking framework. The newly licensed entities join other permitted fintechs in SAMA's regulatory sandbox and licensed payment service providers.
SAMA Licenses Atyoun Payment Services Company
SAMA (Saudi Central Bank) announced the licensing of Atyoun Payment Services Company as an authorized payment service provider in Saudi Arabia. This grants the company official regulatory approval to operate within the Saudi payments sector under SAMA supervision. The announcement updates the public registry of licensed payment service providers in the Kingdom.
SAMA licenses Wukad Solutions finance aggregation services
SAMA (Saudi Central Bank) has granted a license to Wukad Solutions to provide finance aggregation services in Saudi Arabia. This licensing action brings Wukad Solutions under SAMA's supervised entities as a permitted finance service provider. The license is listed in SAMA's official registry of licensed finance entities.
Global Fifth Round AML/CFT Mutual Evaluation Procedures
The APG has issued its Global Fifth Round Mutual Evaluation Procedures, effective 17 March 2026, establishing the framework for conducting AML/CFT/CPF assessments of member jurisdictions based on FATF Standards. The document defines evaluation team composition, procedural steps, timelines, follow-up processes, and quality consistency mechanisms for the fifth evaluation round. Members will be assessed on technical compliance with FATF Recommendations and effectiveness of their AML/CFT systems using the FATF Methodology.
APG Global Fourth Round Transitional Follow-Up Procedures
The APG Plenary adopted Transitional Follow-Up Procedures in March 2026 to govern the follow-up reporting process for the Global Fourth Round mutual evaluations. The procedures establish monitoring mechanisms for member jurisdictions' compliance with FATF Standards, including regular follow-up, enhanced follow-up, and quality and consistency review processes. Members exit the process 24 months before their Global Fifth Round mutual evaluation commences.
APG 2024-2025 Annual Report on Regional AML/CFT Efforts
The Asia/Pacific Group on Money Laundering (APG) published its 2024-2025 Annual Report covering the period July 1, 2024 to June 30, 2025. The report highlights the adoption of mutual evaluation reports for Niue and the Maldives, technical assistance coordination activities, and the APG Secretariat's relocation to new premises in Sydney. Japan's Co-Chair priorities for 2024-2026 focus on preparing members for the 5th round of FATF global mutual evaluations.
Egmont Group Participates in Fifth FATF Plenary, Advancing Cooperation and Training
The Egmont Group, representing Financial Intelligence Units (FIUs) worldwide, participated in the FATF Fifth Plenary meeting held in Mexico from February 9-13, 2026. The event was opened by Mexico's Secretary of Finance and Public Credit, Mr. Édgar Amador Zamora, and chaired by FATF President Ms. Elisa de Anda Madrazo. The Plenary focused on advancing international cooperation and training initiatives among FIUs to strengthen anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing efforts globally.
Job Opportunity: Finance and Administrative Manager, Brussels
The Egmont Group of Financial Intelligence Units published a job opportunity for a Finance and Administrative Manager position based in Brussels, with an application deadline of April 12th. The Egmont Group is a global network of 182 FIUs that facilitates exchange of financial intelligence to combat money laundering, terrorist financing, and related crimes.
OECD Global Anti-Corruption and Integrity Forum 2026 | Paris
The Egmont Group, represented by Executive Secretary Jerome Beaumont, attended the 2026 OECD Global Anti-Corruption and Integrity Forum in Paris. The forum provided an opportunity to highlight the role of Financial Intelligence Units (FIUs) and the Egmont Group's work in advancing anti-corruption and integrity efforts. The event covered FIU tools and practices for investigating laundering and related topics.
RFP - Independent IT Security Audit for Egmont Group Secretariat
The Egmont Group Secretariat issued a Request for Proposals inviting qualified vendors to conduct an independent external security audit of its IT system. The audit will assess compliance with Egmont Group security, confidentiality, and access control requirements. The IT infrastructure is built on Microsoft Entra ID, Microsoft 365, and Microsoft Azure platforms.
Strengthening Global Cooperation to Counter Fraud
The Egmont Group announced that its leadership participated in multiple panels at the Global Fraud Summit in Vienna, Austria. Egmont Group Chair Elżbieta Franków-Jaśkiewicz and Vice-Chair participated in high-level discussions reinforcing the role of Financial Intelligence Units (FIUs) in combating fraud internationally. The summit brought together stakeholders to address fraud prevention and information sharing among FIUs worldwide.
Formations of, Acquisitions by, and Mergers of Bank Holding Companies
The Federal Reserve System published a notice announcing approvals of bank holding company formations, acquisitions, and mergers. The notice covers transactions including PBI Holdings, Inc.'s proposed acquisition of Citizens Bancshares Corporation and Central Valley Community Bancorp's merger with Davis Community Bancorp. This is a routine regulatory notification listing approved applications under the Bank Holding Company Act.
NCUA Sunshine Act Meeting Notice
The National Credit Union Administration published a Sunshine Act meeting notice announcing a board meeting scheduled for April 9, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. The notice lists standard meeting information including time, place, status, and matters to be considered. This is a routine administrative disclosure required under the Government in the Sunshine Act for open meeting requirements.
Notice of OFAC Sanctions Actions
OFAC published a notice documenting sanctions actions taken on April 7, 2026. The notice covers additions to the Specially Designated Nationals (SDN) List and other sanctions designations under various OFAC programs. Parties engaging with sanctioned entities may face civil penalties.
Robert Humphrey sentenced 10 years probation for $412,500 investment fraud targeting seniors
Robert Humphrey sentenced 10 years probation for $412,500 investment fraud targeting seniors
Former Naples Man Sentenced for Role in Investment Scam
The Florida Office of Financial Regulation announced that Konstantinos Konstantinou was sentenced to four years in prison and 25 years probation for defrauding an elderly couple through a fake T-Bond investment scheme. Konstantinou must pay $707,395 in restitution. He was not registered as a securities dealer when he solicited the investment.
Orlando Man Arrested for Alleged Elder Investment Fraud Scheme
The Florida Office of Financial Regulation announced the arrest of Anthony Michael Hernandez on charges of organized fraud, exploitation of the elderly, unregistered securities sales, and bank fraud. Hernandez is accused of orchestrating a $1.6 million investment fraud scheme targeting more than 300 mostly elderly investors across 37 states. Bond was set at $1.95 million.
Florida SB 180 Securities Regulation
Florida Office of Financial Regulation Commissioner Russell C. Weigel, III issued a statement on Governor DeSantis signing Florida Senate Bill 180 – Securities Regulation. The bill takes effect October 1, 2023, and eliminates issuer-dealer registration requirements and issuer escrow requirements, exempts advisers to private funds from registration, reduces a filing fee, and establishes continuing education requirements for associated persons of investment advisers and federal covered advisers.
OFR Warns Unlicensed Check Cashers, Issues Subpoenas in Operation CheckBox
The Florida Office of Financial Regulation (OFR) conducted Operation CheckBox, a statewide sweep targeting convenience store retailers operating unlicensed self-service check-cashing machines. The OFR issued warning letters, subpoenas, and document requests to over a dozen unlicensed entities and began formal investigations of three related companies for potential violations of Chapter 560, Florida Statutes.