AML Compliance

NCUA and FDIC Host Webinar on Financial Scams

The NCUA and FDIC are hosting a free webinar on March 12, 2026, to educate credit unions and banks on identifying and combating prevalent financial scams. The webinar will offer practical strategies, financial education resources, and best practices for protecting consumers.

NCUA Proposes Deregulation Changes to Records Preservation Program

The National Credit Union Administration (NCUA) has proposed changes to its Records Preservation Program, aiming to clarify guidance and remove burdensome requirements. The proposals include removing appendices, defining key terms, and allowing electronic record formats, offering greater flexibility to credit unions.

NCUA Releases Q4 2025 Credit Union Performance Data

The National Credit Union Administration (NCUA) has released its fourth quarter 2025 performance data for federally insured credit unions. The report indicates growth in total assets and loans outstanding, alongside an increase in net income for the year 2025.

NCUA Voluntary EGRPRA Review and Deregulation Project

The National Credit Union Administration (NCUA) has initiated a voluntary review of its regulations under the Economic Growth and Regulatory Paperwork Reduction Act (EGRPRA). This review, which is not statutorily required, aims to reduce regulatory burden on credit unions and will inform future regulatory changes. The comment period is open for 90 days.

FinCEN Fines Canaccord Genuity $80 Million for BSA Violations

FinCEN has assessed an $80 million civil money penalty against Canaccord Genuity LLC for willful violations of the Bank Secrecy Act (BSA). This is the largest penalty ever imposed against a broker-dealer for BSA violations, stemming from failures in anti-money laundering programs and suspicious activity reporting.

Canaccord Genuity LLC - Enforcement Action

FinCEN announced an enforcement action against Canaccord Genuity LLC, citing violations of the Bank Secrecy Act. The action resulted in a consent order and a financial penalty. This action serves as a reminder of the importance of robust AML compliance programs for financial institutions.

FATF Lists Iran, DPRK, Burma as High-Risk; Kuwait, PNG Under Monitoring

FinCEN is informing U.S. financial institutions of the Financial Action Task Force's (FATF) updated lists of jurisdictions with strategic AML/CFT/CPF deficiencies. Kuwait and Papua New Guinea were added to the 'Jurisdictions Under Increased Monitoring' list, while Iran, DPRK, and Burma remain on the 'High-Risk Jurisdictions Subject to a Call for Action' list.

Geographic Targeting Order for Southwest Border MSBs

FinCEN has issued a Geographic Targeting Order (GTO) imposing recordkeeping and reporting requirements on certain Money Services Businesses (MSBs) along the Southwest Border. This order aims to enhance efforts against illicit finance and money laundering activities.

FDIC Extends Comment Period for GENIUS Act Stablecoin Rulemaking

The FDIC has extended the public comment period for its proposed rulemaking concerning the GENIUS Act application procedures for stablecoin issuance. The comment period is now extended to May 18, 2026, providing additional time for FDIC-supervised institutions to submit feedback.

Call Report Instructions for Q4 2025

The FDIC issued updated instructions for the Consolidated Reports of Condition and Income (Call Report) for the fourth quarter of 2025. The notice highlights the implementation of multifactor authentication for the Central Data Repository and provides submission deadlines for the December 31, 2025, report date.

FDIC Final Rule on Signs, Advertising, and Misuse of Name/Logo

The FDIC issued a final rule amending regulations on official signs, advertising, and misuse of the FDIC's name or logo for insured depository institutions. The rule provides additional flexibility for digital signage and ATMs while clarifying consumer protections, with a compliance date of April 1, 2027.

FDIC Amends Guidelines for Appeals of Material Supervisory Determinations

The FDIC is amending its Guidelines for Appeals of Material Supervisory Determinations by replacing the Supervision Appeals Review Committee with a new Office of Supervisory Appeals. This office will serve as the final review level for supervisory determinations and will also expand appeal rights to certain enforcement action cases.

FDIC FAQ on Capital Treatment of Tokenized Securities

The FDIC, OCC, and Federal Reserve have issued an FAQ addressing the capital treatment of tokenized securities for FDIC-insured financial institutions. The guidance clarifies how ownership rights represented by distributed ledger technology are treated under existing capital rules and confirms the technology-neutral nature of these regulations.

CFTC Seeks Comment on Prediction Market Regulations

The Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) has published an Advanced Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (ANPRM) to solicit public comment on potential new regulations for prediction markets. The ANPRM seeks input on how existing rules apply to event contracts and what types of contracts may be prohibited.

CFTC Advisory on Prediction Markets and Event Contracts

The CFTC's Division of Market Oversight issued an advisory reminding designated contract markets (DCMs) of their regulatory obligations under the Commodity Exchange Act and Commission regulations concerning the listing of event contracts. The advisory encourages innovation while emphasizing proactive compliance, particularly for sports-related event contracts.

CFTC and SEC Sign MOU for Lawful Innovation

The CFTC and SEC have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to enhance coordination and collaboration on lawful innovation, market integrity, and investor protection. The MOU establishes a Joint Harmonization Initiative to clarify definitions, modernize frameworks, and streamline reporting for areas of common regulatory interest, including crypto assets.

CFTC Senior Advisor Brigitte Weyls Departs

The Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) announced the departure of Senior Advisor Brigitte Weyls after 17 years of service. Weyls played a role in significant litigation, policy, and rulemaking initiatives, including those related to digital assets and emerging markets.

CFTC Announces Marc H. Sielski as Executive Director

The Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) announced Marc H. Sielski has been named the agency's new executive director. Sielski will oversee administrative operations to support the CFTC's mission and ensure effective stewardship of public resources.

Federal Reserve Board Approves FirstSun Capital Bancorp Merger with First Foundation Inc

The Federal Reserve Board has approved the application by FirstSun Capital Bancorp to merge with First Foundation Inc. This approval allows for the indirect acquisition of First Foundation Bank. The decision was announced on March 11, 2026.

Federal Reserve Approves Associated Banc-Corp Acquisition of American National Corporation

The Federal Reserve Board has approved the application by Associated Banc-Corp to acquire American National Corporation. This approval allows Associated Banc-Corp to indirectly acquire American National Bank.

Federal Reserve Terminates Enforcement Actions Against Banks

The Federal Reserve Board announced the termination of several enforcement actions against Industrial and Commercial Bank of China and Standard Chartered Bank. These actions were terminated on various dates in February 2026, following the completion of their respective terms.

Agencies Clarify Capital Treatment of Tokenized Securities

The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, Federal Reserve Board, and Office of the Comptroller of the Currency have issued frequently asked questions to clarify the capital treatment of tokenized securities. The guidance confirms that eligible tokenized securities should receive the same capital treatment as their non-tokenized counterparts.

Federal Reserve Approves CBS Banc-Corp. Acquisition

The Federal Reserve Board has approved a notice from CBS Banc-Corp. to acquire TAG Bancshares Inc. and indirectly acquire Citizens Bank & Trust, Inc. This action pertains to a standard regulatory approval for a banking acquisition.

FDIC Approves Edward Jones Bank Deposit Insurance Application

The FDIC approved the deposit insurance application for Edward Jones Bank, a Utah-chartered industrial bank. The approval is subject to certain conditions, including maintaining a minimum tier 1 leverage ratio and capital/liquidity support from its parent companies. The approval order expires if the bank is not established within 12 months.

FDIC Issues CRA Examination Schedules for Q2 and Q3 2026

The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) has issued the Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) examination schedules for the second and third quarters of 2026. These schedules outline institutions slated for CRA examinations, which assess banks' records of meeting community credit needs.

Agencies Clarify Capital Treatment of Tokenized Securities

The FDIC, Federal Reserve Board, and OCC have jointly issued Frequently Asked Questions to clarify the capital treatment of tokenized securities. The guidance confirms that eligible tokenized securities generally receive the same capital treatment as their non-tokenized counterparts and that the capital rule is technology-neutral.

FDIC Issues List of Banks Examined for CRA Compliance

The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) has issued a list of state nonmember banks recently evaluated for compliance with the Community Reinvestment Act (CRA). The list includes evaluation ratings assigned to institutions in December 2025.

FDIC Publishes January 2026 Bank Enforcement Actions

The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) has published a list of administrative enforcement actions taken against banks and individuals in January 2026. The publication includes eight orders, comprising consent orders, orders terminating consent orders, orders to pay, and prohibition orders.

Paula Christina Krost - Consent Order and Fine

The Washington Department of Financial Institutions issued a consent order against Paula Christina Krost, requiring a $50,000 fine and prohibiting her from participating in mortgage lending until March 9, 2036. Krost also surrendered her mortgage loan originator license.

EU Council President Remarks on Azerbaijan Meeting

European Council President António Costa made press remarks following a meeting with Azerbaijan's President Ilham Aliyev on March 11, 2026. The remarks highlighted strengthened cooperation in security, energy, digital, and transport, and expressed EU solidarity with Azerbaijan amidst regional geopolitical challenges.

Eurogroup President Visits Netherlands for Economic Talks

Eurogroup President Kyriakos Pierrakakis visited the Netherlands on March 11, 2026, to discuss macroeconomic conditions and Eurogroup priorities with national authorities, including digital finance and the Savings and Investments Union. Meetings were held with the Dutch Minister of Finance and the President of the Dutch Central Bank.

Eurogroup President Reports on Euro Area Economy to Euro Summit

The President of the Eurogroup has submitted a report to the President of the Euro Summit detailing the state of the euro area economy and upcoming work priorities. The report covers topics such as international cooperation, the strengthening of the euro's international role, and the acceleration of the savings and investments union.

EU Council Agrees Negotiating Position on Fisheries and Aquaculture Statistics Framework

The Council of the EU has agreed on a negotiating position for a new regulation on fisheries and aquaculture statistics. This framework aims to modernise data collection, replace five existing regulations, and improve the use of digital technologies. Negotiations with the European Parliament are expected to begin later in 2026.

EU Council President Costa and Azerbaijan President Aliyev Meet

European Council President António Costa met with Azerbaijan President Ilham Aliyev to discuss deepening political dialogue and practical cooperation. The leaders reaffirmed their commitment to a new comprehensive bilateral agreement and highlighted Azerbaijan's role in energy security and regional connectivity.

Press Briefing for Foreign Affairs Council

The Council of the EU announced a press briefing for the Foreign Affairs Council meeting on March 16, 2026. The briefing will be held on March 13, 2026, and is 'off the record'. Journalists must register by March 13, 2026, at 14:00.

Sanctions Ordinance Against Taliban-Associated Individuals and Groups

Switzerland has updated its sanctions ordinance against individuals and groups associated with the Taliban, following amendments by the UN sanctions committee. The SESAM database has been updated, and formal corrections were made to existing entries.

Illinois Issues Cease and Desist Order to Kirk J. Reeves

The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation has issued a cease and desist order against Kirk J. Reeves for operating businesses using the terms "bank" and "trust" without proper authorization. The order cites violations of the Illinois Banking Act and the Corporate Fiduciary Act.

FinCEN Geographic Targeting Order for Southwest Border MSBs

The Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) has issued a Geographic Targeting Order (GTO) imposing recordkeeping and reporting requirements on certain Money Services Businesses (MSBs) along the U.S. Southwest border. This rule specifically targets transactions between $1,000 and $10,000.

EU Ambassadors Conference Speech by President António Costa

President António Costa delivered a speech at the EU Ambassadors Conference on March 10, 2026, emphasizing the importance of a unified EU foreign policy in a multipolar world. He highlighted the need to defend the rules-based international order and address global challenges, including conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East.

Sanctions: Ordinance against Iran amended

Switzerland's Federal Department of Economic Affairs amended annexes to the ordinance on measures against the Islamic Republic of Iran, effective March 10, 2026. The content of the list of goods in annex 3 was also completed. These amendments update existing sanctions measures.

ECB Fines Nordea Finance Finland €2.26 Million for Reporting Breaches

The European Central Bank (ECB) has imposed a €2.26 million penalty on Nordea Finance Finland Ltd for breaching reporting requirements and the large exposures limit over 13 consecutive quarters. The breaches, classified as severe, stemmed from incorrect reporting of guaranteed receivables and deficiencies in internal controls.

UK Sanctions Enforcement: Cross-Government Strategic Approach

The UK government has published its strategic approach to sanctions enforcement, outlining key principles and the roles of various departments. This policy paper emphasizes the importance of strong compliance and details potential consequences for non-compliance.

Council Recommendation on Tackling Skills Shortages

The Council of the EU has adopted a recommendation to help member states tackle labour and skills shortages in strategic sectors. This non-binding guidance aims to boost competitiveness and resilience by investing in people's knowledge and skills, addressing challenges in areas like digital technologies, health, and farming.

Andrés Ritter Confirmed as European Chief Prosecutor

The Council of the EU has confirmed the appointment of Andrés Ritter as the new European Chief Prosecutor for the European Public Prosecutor's Office (EPPO). His term begins on November 1, 2026, succeeding Laura Codruța Kövesi. The EPPO investigates crimes against the financial interests of the EU.

Council Calls for Greater Efforts to Combat Child Poverty

The Council of the EU has adopted conclusions calling for increased support to combat child poverty and enhance child well-being. The conclusions emphasize the economic benefits of investing in children and urge member states and the Commission to ensure adequate funding and targeted policies, aiming for five million fewer children at risk of poverty or social exclusion by 2030.

Macroeconomic Dialogue with Social Partners on AI and Labour Market

The Council of the EU, European Central Bank, European Commission, and Eurogroup met with European social partners on March 9, 2026, to discuss the economic situation and the impact of Artificial Intelligence on the EU labour market. The dialogue focused on safeguarding EU competitiveness and social cohesion amidst geopolitical tensions and economic uncertainties.

Eurogroup Meeting Remarks on Macroeconomic Developments and Middle East Crisis

Remarks following the Eurogroup meeting on March 9, 2026, addressed macroeconomic developments, the impact of the Middle East crisis on energy markets and inflation, and the need to accelerate the energy transition and strengthen Europe's strategic autonomy. The meeting also endorsed Belgium's draft budgetary plan for 2026.

Eurogroup Statement on Belgian Draft Budgetary Plan for 2026

The Eurogroup has welcomed Belgium's draft budgetary plan for 2026, noting its compliance with the Stability and Growth Pact. The group will continue to monitor economic and fiscal developments in Belgium and across the EU.

EU Leaders Discuss Iran War, Regional Attacks, and Energy Security

EU leaders discussed the war in Iran, regional attacks, and energy security with Middle Eastern countries. The statement condemned attacks, expressed solidarity, and announced humanitarian aid for Lebanon, while reaffirming commitment to regional stability and maritime operations.

OFAC Adds Sudanese Muslim Brotherhood to SDN List

The US Treasury Department's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) has added the Sudanese Muslim Brotherhood to its Specially Designated Nationals (SDN) List. This action imposes sanctions on the entity and carries secondary sanctions risk under Executive Order 13224, as amended.