ESMA News

ESMA Fines Regis-TR €1.37M for EMIR/SFTR Breaches

The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) has fined Regis-TR €1.37 million for seven breaches of EMIR and SFTR regulations. This is ESMA's first enforcement action for SFTR breaches and the highest fine imposed on a trade repository, requiring Regis-TR to cease ongoing infringements.

ESMA Publishes Sovereign Bond Deferrals List

The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) has published a list of supplementary deferrals for sovereign bonds under MiFIR, effective May 4, 2026. These deferrals allow for the omission of trade volume publication for medium-sized trades on liquid bonds until the end of the trading day.

ESMA Consultation on MAR Guidelines for Inside Information Disclosure Delay

The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) is consulting on proposed amendments to its Market Abuse Regulation (MAR) guidelines concerning the delay of inside information disclosure. The changes aim to align with the Listing Act, reduce administrative burdens for issuers, and clarify requirements. Stakeholders are invited to provide feedback by April 29, 2026.

ESMA Opinion on Revised European Sustainability Reporting Standards

The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) has issued an opinion on draft revised European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS). ESMA supports the simplification goals but suggests targeted adjustments to enhance investor protection and financial stability, with the European Commission expected to adopt revised standards by summer 2026.

ESMA Statement on Listing Act Prospectus Compliance

The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) has issued a statement providing practical guidance on the Listing Act's revised prospectus framework. The guidance clarifies transitional rules for registration documents and universal registration documents, aiming to simplify compliance for issuers while maintaining investor protection.

ESMA Principles for Risk-Based Supervision

The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) has published its principles for risk-based supervision. These principles aim to foster a common and effective EU-wide supervisory culture and strengthen the EU single market by providing a structured framework for identifying, assessing, and addressing risks.

ESAs Joint Guidelines on ESG Stress Testing

The European Supervisory Authorities (ESAs) have published joint guidelines on integrating environmental, social, and governance (ESG) risks into supervisory stress tests for the banking and insurance sectors. These guidelines aim to establish common standards for ESG risk assessment methodologies across the EU financial system and will be subject to a 'comply or explain' procedure by National Competent Authorities.

ESMA Thematic Note on ESG Strategies Clarity

The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) has published a thematic note on ESG strategies, focusing on ESG integration and exclusions. The note aims to promote clarity in communications directed at retail investors and provides practical do's and don'ts to mitigate greenwashing risks.

ESMA, UK Regulators Sign MoU on DORA ICT Oversight

The European Supervisory Authorities (ESAs) and UK financial regulators (BoE, PRA, FCA) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance cooperation on overseeing critical ICT third-party service providers under DORA. This agreement facilitates information sharing and coordinated oversight activities.