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RBI imposes monetary penalty on Airtel Payments Bank for disclosure non-compliance

The Reserve Bank of India imposed a monetary penalty of ₹31.80 lakh (approximately USD 38,000) on Airtel Payments Bank Limited for non-compliance with RBI directions on 'Disclosure in Financial Statements'. The penalty stems from the bank's failure to disclose certain complaints in its annual financial statements for FY 2024-25, as identified during the Statutory Inspection for Supervisory Evaluation (ISE 2025).

RBI imposes monetary penalty on Davanagere co-operative bank

The Reserve Bank of India imposed a monetary penalty of ₹1.50 lakh on The Davanagere District Central Co-operative Bank Limited, Karnataka for violations of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949 and non-compliance with KYC directions. The penalty addresses three specific violations identified during a statutory inspection conducted by NABARD.

Scheduled Commercial Bank Lending and Deposit Rates

The Reserve Bank of India released March 2026 data on scheduled commercial bank lending and deposit rates. WALR on fresh rupee loans declined to 8.44% in February 2026 from 8.49% in January 2026. WALR on outstanding rupee loans decreased to 9.00% from 9.04%, while the 1-Year median MCLR fell to 8.40% in March 2026 from 8.45% in February 2026. Deposit rates also moderated marginally.

RBI penalty, ₹3 lakh, Nagar Sahakari Bank, Etawah

RBI penalty, ₹3 lakh, Nagar Sahakari Bank, Etawah

India International Trade in Services Statistics February 2026

The Reserve Bank of India released February 2026 monthly data on international trade in services. Services exports (receipts) totaled US$34.7 billion, representing 9.7% year-over-year growth, while services imports (payments) were US$16.9 billion, up 16.2% from the prior year period.

India's International Investment Position (IIP) - December 2025

The Reserve Bank of India released India's International Investment Position data for end-December 2025. Net claims of non-residents on India declined by $10.9 billion from end-September 2025, standing at $260.5 billion. The decline was driven by a $12.8 billion increase in Indian residents' overseas financial assets, exceeding the $1.9 billion rise in foreign-owned assets in India.

Capital Market Exposure Amendment Directions Deferred to July 2026

The Reserve Bank of India has deferred the implementation of Amendment Directions on Capital Market Exposures by three months from April 1, 2026 to July 1, 2026. The deferral follows stakeholder representations citing operational and interpretational issues. The RBI has also issued clarifications on acquisition finance, loan caps against securities, and credit facilities to capital market intermediaries.

RBI releases NGNF public limited companies financial data

RBI releases NGNF public limited companies financial data

NCUA Launches Streamlined Charter System Phase 1

The NCUA announced the launch of Phase 1 of a streamlined online charter application system, focusing on preliminary approval of a proposed credit union's field of membership. The system is part of a multi-phase effort to modernize credit union chartering, with a fully automated system expected in 2027. The December 2024 NCUA Board approved $2 million for system development.

New AML/CTF Enrollment and Registration Requirements

AUSTRAC announced new enrollment and registration requirements under AML/CTF laws taking effect 31 March 2026. Businesses already reporting to AUSTRAC must update enrollment details by 30 May 2026 (or 29 July 2026 for virtual asset service providers and newly regulated sectors). New businesses must enroll through AUSTRAC Online, with remittance and virtual asset service providers requiring both enrollment and registration before operating.

Thailand Japan Bilateral Currency Swap Arrangement Renewal

The Bank of Thailand and Bank of Japan have renewed their Bilateral Local Currency Swap Arrangement for three years until March 30, 2029. The arrangement, first established in 2020, permits exchange of local currencies up to THB 240 billion or JPY 800 billion. This enables both central banks to provide Thai Baht or Japanese Yen liquidity to eligible financial institutions in their respective countries.

Seán O'Casey Commemorative Coin Launch

The Central Bank of Ireland launched a commemorative silver proof coin honouring playwright Seán O'Casey on what would have been his 146th birthday. The coin commemorates the 100th anniversary of The Plough and the Stars premiere at the Abbey Theatre, with 3,000 coins available at €90 each.

EBA Chair Appointment - François-Louis Michaud

The European Banking Authority announced that François-Louis Michaud will take up his role as EBA Chair on 16 April 2026, following formal appointment by the Council of the European Union on 26 February 2026 and confirmation by the European Parliament on 10 March 2026. His term of office runs for five years and may be extended once. Michaud previously served as Executive Director of the EBA since September 2020.

EBA streamlines supervisory approvals for IRB model changes

The EBA published amendments to Regulatory Technical Standards on material model changes, significantly reducing the number of changes classified as material by shifting to quantitative thresholds and limiting qualitative triggers to model redevelopments and definition of default changes. This streamlines the approval process for IRB model changes while maintaining supervisory oversight. The revised RTS align with CRR3 and are expected to accelerate IRB model approvals for EU banks.

CEO Updates AML/CTF Guidance and Reforms Readiness

AUSTRAC released its December 2025 InBrief newsletter (Issue 21) featuring CEO updates on AML/CTF guidance and reforms. The newsletter announces newly released AML/CTF reforms guidance, new education resources including improved e-learning materials, and top tips for completing the 2025 compliance report (CR25). AUSTRAC also highlighted achievements including $22 million in asset seizures from financial intelligence reporting and international partnerships through the Fintel Alliance.

AML/CTF Reforms for Existing Reporting Entities

AUSTRAC announces AML/CTF reforms taking effect March 31, 2026 for existing reporting entities. The reforms shift regulation from compliance-checking to substantive risk and harm-focused approach. New enrollment forms become available March 31, with enrollment updates required by May 30, 2026. AUSTRAC will take regulatory action for non-compliance.

AML/CTF Reforms Take Effect: Travel Rule and Transitional Arrangements

AUSTRAC announces finalized AML/CTF reforms effective 30 March 2026, introducing a new Customer Due Diligence (CDD) framework with a 3-year transition period ending 30 March 2029. Key deadlines include compliance officer notification by 30 May 2026 and VASP travel rule obligations deferred until 1 July 2026. The reforms apply to all reporting entities including financial institutions, remittance service providers, and virtual asset service providers.

AML/CTF Reforms for Newly Regulated Businesses

AUSTRAC announced that new AML/CTF laws will take effect 1 July 2026, extending regulation to legal professionals, accountants, conveyancers, real estate professionals, and dealers in precious metals, stones and products. Affected businesses must enrol with AUSTRAC using new forms available from 31 March 2026. AUSTRAC has developed starter kits and resources to help newly regulated entities meet their compliance obligations.

Refreshed SMR reference guide with clearer examples

Refreshed SMR reference guide with clearer examples

AUSTRAC Newsletter on AML/CTF Law Updates

AUSTRAC issued InBrief Issue 22 to notify reporting entities of upcoming AML/CTF law reforms, including travel rules, transitional arrangements, and AML/CTF Rule amendments. The newsletter announces a refreshed website, an updated Suspicious Matter Reporting reference guide, and links to preparation resources for newly regulated businesses. AUSTRAC also highlighted updates to global lists of high-risk jurisdictions and its role in counter-terrorism financing.

AUSTRAC Guidance on New Compulsory Examination Powers

AUSTRAC published guidance on its new compulsory examination powers under section 172A, which were introduced by the Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing Amendment Act 2024. The guidance explains what information is included in examination notices, the examination process, the role of the examiner, legal representation rights, and how information is handled. The guidance clarifies that compulsory examinations are not routine or punitive and are used to understand money laundering risks and how businesses are managing those risks.

ECB Streamlines Internal Model Supervision for Credit Risk

The ECB is streamlining its supervision of banks' internal models for credit risk, shifting from an ex ante to an ex post assessment. This change, effective October 1, 2026, aims to speed up approval processes for material model changes, with a focus on higher-risk areas, while maintaining safeguards and building on new EBA standards.

FDIC Director Testimony on Fintech and AI Oversight

FDIC Director Ryan Billingsley testified before the U.S. House Committee on Financial Services regarding the agency's approach to financial technology and artificial intelligence. The testimony highlighted efforts to foster innovation while managing risks, including considerations for guidance on crypto-related activities and the use of AI in banking operations.

MAS Consultation on Capital Market Infrastructure Recovery and Resolution Planning

The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) has issued a consultation paper proposing new guidelines and a notice for recovery and resolution planning for capital market infrastructures (CMFIs). The consultation also seeks feedback on enhancing statutory bail-in powers for CMFIs.

FAQs on Recognition for Recognised Market Operators in Singapore

The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) updated its FAQs regarding the recognition of Recognised Market Operators (RMOs) incorporated in Singapore. The revisions, last updated on March 26, 2026, clarify admission standards for shareholders, directors, key persons, and internal governance arrangements.

PSN09 Notice on Specified Matters and Forms for Payment Service Providers

The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) has issued an amended PSN09 Notice, which takes effect on March 28, 2026. This notice outlines regulatory forms and administrative matters for payment service providers, operators of designated payment systems, and settlement institutions.

Compliance Toolkit for Bank Regulatory Submissions

The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) has updated its Compliance Toolkit for wholesale and full banks. This guidance facilitates understanding of MAS approval, notification, and reporting requirements. The toolkit covers various risk management, governance, and prudential topics relevant to bank operations.

MAS Compliance Toolkit for Merchant Banks

The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) has updated its Compliance Toolkit for Merchant Banks, last revised on March 26, 2026. This toolkit provides guidance on various approval, notification, and reporting requirements for merchant banks operating in Singapore.

FAQs on Risk Based Capital Adequacy Requirements for Capital Markets Licensees

The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) has updated its FAQs regarding risk-based capital adequacy requirements for capital markets services licensees. The revisions, dated March 25, 2026, provide guidance on compliance with financial and margin requirements and the lodgement of financial returns.

Proposed Treasury Share Disclosure Rules Change

The Financial Services Commission (FSC) in Korea has proposed changes to capital market rules regarding treasury shares. The proposed rules aim to enhance transparency by requiring all listed companies to disclose their treasury stock retention status and disposal plans twice annually, aligning with recent amendments to the Commercial Act.

RBI Announces Auction of Government of India Dated Securities

The Reserve Bank of India has announced the auction of two dated securities totaling ₹29,000 crore. The auction will be held on April 2, 2026, with settlement on April 6, 2026. This is a routine announcement regarding government debt issuance.

Notice: Formations of, Acquisitions by, and Mergers of Bank Holding Companies

The Federal Reserve System has published a notice regarding the formation, acquisition, and merger of bank holding companies. This notice, published on March 30, 2026, provides information on these corporate actions within the banking sector.

Treasury Amends Marketable Securities Redemption Operations

The Department of the Treasury, through the Fiscal Service, has amended the terms for marketable Treasury securities redemption operations. This rule, published on March 30, 2026, updates existing regulations concerning these operations.

Proposed Rule on Regulatory Capital and Risk-Weighted Assets

The FDIC, OCC, and Federal Reserve are proposing changes to the regulatory capital rule. The proposal aims to improve risk sensitivity in capital calculations, modify the treatment of mortgage servicing assets, and require certain banking organizations to include accumulated other comprehensive income in regulatory capital. A separate proposal would introduce an expanded risk-based approach for calculating risk-weighted assets.

FDIC Notice on Information Collection Activities for Regulatory Capital Rules

The FDIC, OCC, and Federal Reserve are seeking public comment on extending and revising information collection requirements related to proposed regulatory capital rules. This notice specifically addresses the Paperwork Reduction Act compliance for reporting, recordkeeping, and disclosure requirements associated with expanded risk-based capital rules and standardized approaches for risk-weighted assets.

FDIC Notice on Information Collection Activities Renewal

The FDIC is seeking public comment on the renewal of an existing information collection related to the Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) Sunshine provisions. This notice follows a previous publication in the Federal Register for which no comments were received. The comment period for this renewal request closes on April 27, 2026.

Central Bank Appointments: Elizabeth Mahon Secretary, Head of Governance

The Central Bank of Ireland announced the appointment of Elizabeth Mahon as Secretary and Head of Governance, effective March 30, 2026. Neil Whoriskey has been appointed Head of Internal Audit. These appointments are part of the bank's internal governance structure.

Governor Calls for Genuine Single Market to Mobilise Europe's Savings

Governor Gabriel Makhlouf of the Central Bank of Ireland has called for strengthening Europe's Single Market to mobilize savings. He emphasized the need for economic growth, market integration, and a European safe asset to encourage investment within the EU.

Thailand Prepares for 2026 IMF/World Bank Annual Meetings

Thailand's Ministry of Finance, the Bank of Thailand, and the IMF have reviewed preparations for the 2026 Annual Meetings of the IMF and World Bank Group, to be hosted in Bangkok. Progress in construction, security, and branding is reported as satisfactory, with a focus on themes of human empowerment and resilience.

Thai Economy Expanded in January Driven by Domestic and External Demand

The Bank of Thailand reported that the Thai economy expanded in January 2026, driven by increased domestic and external demand, including merchandise exports and tourism. Headline inflation became more negative due to lower food and energy prices.

Monetary Policy Committee Cuts Policy Rate to 1.00%

The Bank of Thailand's Monetary Policy Committee voted 4-2 to cut the policy interest rate by 0.25 percentage points to 1.00%, effective immediately. The decision aims to support economic recovery, alleviate debt burdens for SMEs and households, and anchor inflation expectations amid downside risks.

Thai Banking Sector Resilience and Loan Growth Contraction

The Bank of Thailand reported that the Thai banking system remains resilient, though overall loan growth contracted by 1.1% in Q4 2025, driven by SMEs and consumer loans. Profitability declined in 2025 due to lower net interest income and loan contraction. Close monitoring of financial conditions and debt serviceability is advised.

FDIC Board Meeting Discusses Capital Rule, Deposit Insurance

The FDIC Board of Directors met to discuss proposed rulemakings on regulatory capital rules for banking organizations and a final rule clarifying deposit insurance coverage for U.S. bank branches in the Federated States of Micronesia, the Marshall Islands, and Palau. The board also rescinded a statement of policy on failed bank acquisitions.

FDIC Board Meeting Notice

The FDIC Board of Directors will hold a meeting on March 19, 2026, to consider two proposed rulemakings regarding regulatory capital rules for various banking organizations. The meeting will also address a final rule on deposit insurance for U.S. bank branches in the Federated States of Micronesia, the Marshall Islands, and Palau, and the rescission of a statement of policy on failed bank acquisitions.

FDIC Board Meeting Summary

The FDIC Board of Directors held a closed session meeting on March 19, 2026. Details of the closed session discussions were not publicly disclosed.

FDIC Board of Directors Open Meeting and Actions

The FDIC Board of Directors held an open meeting on January 22, 2026, to consider and approve a Notice of Guidelines for Appeals of Material Supervisory Determinations and a Final Rule amending regulations on FDIC Official Signs, Advertisement of Membership, False Advertising, Misrepresentation of Insured Status, and Misuse of the FDIC’s Name or Logo.

FDIC Board of Directors Meeting - Closed Session

The FDIC Board of Directors held a closed session meeting on January 22, 2026. Details of the closed session are not publicly disclosed.

AI Adoption and Firms' Job-Posting Behavior

The Federal Reserve's FEDS Notes published research indicating that AI adoption has not yet led to a reduction in overall job postings by firms. The study analyzed job posting data and found that while specific occupations may be affected, firms are balancing this with other hiring priorities. This research is part of an ongoing monitoring process for AI's labor market impacts.

Tariffs Gradually Raised Retail Prices in 2025

The Federal Reserve's FEDS Notes published an analysis finding that tariffs gradually increased retail prices in 2025, with the greatest impact on goods imported from China. The analysis indicates that tariff pass-through to consumers for Chinese goods was at least 30% by December 2025.

Banks' Lending Standards Expectations Measured via Loan Officer Survey

The Federal Reserve published a FEDS Notes article analyzing how banks form expectations about future credit supply using data from the Senior Loan Officer Opinion Survey. The analysis explores factors influencing these expectations, including macroeconomic forecasts and bank characteristics, and identifies expectation shocks.