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BaFin Warns of Unauthorized Financial Services Platform Series

Germany's BaFin has issued a warning regarding a series of websites operating under the name 'Investieren & Handeln Sie 300+'. These platforms are offering financial, securities, and crypto-asset services without the required authorization from BaFin, potentially engaging in identity theft against legitimate investment funds.

BaFin Warns Consumers About exomarkets(.)pro Website and Identity Theft

Germany's BaFin has issued a warning to consumers regarding the website exomarkets(.)pro, which is offering financial, investment, and cryptoasset services without authorization. The warning highlights potential identity theft and unauthorized business operations.

BaFin Warns About Unauthorized Forex Platforms

Germany's financial regulator, BaFin, has issued a warning regarding several forex trading platforms operating under the slogan 'Trade Without Limits' that are offering cryptoasset services without the required authorization. Consumers are advised to exercise extreme caution as these platforms are not supervised by BaFin.

Financial Reporting Council Chair Sir Jan du Plessis to retire

The Financial Reporting Council (FRC) announced that its Chair, Sir Jan du Plessis, will retire at the end of September 2026. His tenure has been marked by significant reforms in audit, corporate governance, and reporting standards.

FRC Consultation on Temporary Amendment to Third Country Auditor Policy

The UK's Financial Reporting Council (FRC) is consulting on a temporary amendment to its Third Country Auditor (TCA) policy. The proposed change would allow auditors of Chinese-registered entities listing Global Depositary Receipts (GDRs) in London to use Chinese Standards on Auditing (CSAs) temporarily, aiming to boost capital flow and London's market competitiveness.

FRC Closes Investigation into Ernst & Young LLP Audit

The UK's Financial Reporting Council (FRC) has closed its investigation into audits conducted by Ernst & Young LLP for a Public Interest Entity for the years 2021 and 2022. The FRC's Executive Counsel decided not to bring enforcement action against the firm.

FRC Feedback on UK XBRL Taxonomy Proposals

The Financial Reporting Council (FRC) has published a feedback statement on proposed technical changes to the UK and Irish Digital Reporting Taxonomy Suite. The statement summarises stakeholder responses to a discussion paper and will inform the FRC's ongoing development of the Taxonomy project.

FRC Amends FRS 102 for Balance Sheet and Profit/Loss Accounts

The Financial Reporting Council (FRC) has issued amendments to FRS 102, effective for accounting periods beginning on or after January 1, 2027. These changes update the framework for companies adapting their balance sheet and profit and loss account formats, maintaining alignment with IFRS. Entities not adapting their formats will not be affected.

The Pensions Regulator Appoints Executive Director

The Pensions Regulator (TPR) has appointed Richard Knox as its Executive Director, Strategy, Policy and Analysis. This appointment is part of TPR's ongoing transformation to address the evolving pensions landscape and strengthen its senior leadership team.

Ben Gunnee appointed Interim Executive Director, Market Oversight

Ben Gunnee appointed Interim Executive Director, Market Oversight

TPR Data: Shift from Savings to Pensions System, Warns Smaller Schemes

New data from The Pensions Regulator (TPR) shows a significant shift towards in-scheme retirement options, with 13.4 million members now having access to drawdown. TPR urges smaller pension schemes to improve their offerings or consider consolidation.

Pension Value, Costs, and Service Quality Publication Proposals

The FCA, DWP, and The Pensions Regulator have proposed new measures requiring pension schemes to publish data on performance, costs, and service quality. These proposals aim to ensure savers receive good value and are open for comment until March 8, 2026.

SFO Investigation into London Capital & Finance plc

The Serious Fraud Office (SFO) announced an ongoing investigation into individuals associated with London Capital & Finance plc (LCF), which relates to investments offered to the public between 2013 and 2018. The SFO opened the investigation in 2019 and has made arrests, with the case remaining active.

SFO v. AOG Technics Director - Fraudulent Trading

The Serious Fraud Office (SFO) has concluded its substantive case against Jose Alejandro Zamora Yrala, director of AOG Technics Ltd, with his sentencing to 4 years 8 months in prison for fraudulent trading. The company was investigated for supplying suspected unapproved aircraft parts.

Serious Fraud Office v. Safe Hands Plans Limited - Fraud Investigation

The Serious Fraud Office (SFO) has charged two former executives of Safe Hands Plans Limited and its parent company, SHP Capital Holdings Limited, with conspiracy to defraud. The investigation into suspected fraud began in 2022 following the collapse of the pre-paid funeral plan scheme, impacting approximately 46,000 plan holders.

SFO Investigates Northern Powerhouse and MBi Group for Fraud and Money Laundering

The Serious Fraud Office (SFO) announced an investigation into suspected fraud and money laundering by the Northern Powerhouse Development Group and MBi Group. The investigation, which began in August 2021, focuses on investments offered in care homes and hotels between 2013 and 2019.

PRA Statement on 2028 Life Insurance Stress Test

The Prudential Regulation Authority (PRA) has issued a statement indicating its intent to launch the next Life Insurance Stress Test (LIST) exercise in January 2028. The PRA will engage with stakeholders throughout 2026 to refine the design and methodology based on lessons learned from the 2025 exercise.

Consultation on UK Solvency II Own Funds Rules Updates

The Bank of England's Prudential Regulation Authority (PRA) has issued a consultation paper (CP4/26) proposing updates and fixes to UK Solvency II own funds rules and expectations. The consultation seeks feedback on these proposed changes, with responses due by April 24, 2026.

Policy statement on recognised exchanges and transfer of main indices

Policy statement on recognised exchanges and transfer of main indices

PRA Regulatory Digest - UK Financial Services Regulatory News

The PRA published its February 2026 Regulatory Digest, highlighting key financial services regulatory news and publications. This includes consultations on securitisation reforms, rule changes for overseas prudential requirements, and updates to Solvency II rules, alongside a discussion paper on future banking data.

Credit Union Service Organisations Policy Statement Feedback

The Prudential Regulation Authority (PRA) has published a policy statement providing feedback on responses to its consultation regarding Credit Union Service Organisations (CUSOs). This statement includes final policy amendments to the PRA Rulebook and updates to supervisory guidance, relevant to PRA-authorised credit unions.

Bank of England Consultation on CCP Mobilisation Powers

The Bank of England has published a consultation paper outlining its proposed approach to using its requirements and permissions powers to facilitate the mobilisation of new Central Counterparties (CCPs). The consultation seeks feedback on how these powers will be applied to new CCPs entering the market.

UK MFI External Business Statistics Q4 2025

The Bank of England has published the UK MFI external business statistics for Q4 2025. This release incorporates updated country grouping conventions aligned with the Bank for International Settlements (BIS). External liabilities increased by $114.1 billion and claims by $109.5 billion in Q4 2025.

UK Business Price Growth and Inflation Expectations

The Bank of England's Decision Maker Panel survey for February 2026 shows realised annual own-price growth at 3.7%, unchanged from the previous month. Year-ahead own-price inflation expectations decreased slightly to 3.4%. The survey also noted a decrease in expected CPI inflation and a slight decline in realised wage growth.

Bank of England Weekly Report

The Bank of England published its weekly report on March 5, 2026, detailing the latest data on its assets and liabilities as of March 4, 2026. The report includes figures for sterling and foreign currency assets and liabilities, providing a snapshot of the Bank's financial position.

Noble Escrow Services LLC - Temporary Cease and Desist Order

The Washington State Department of Financial Institutions issued a temporary cease and desist order against Noble Escrow Services LLC on March 2, 2026. The order requires the company to immediately deposit funds to cover a deficit in its trust account, cease accepting new business, and continue processing existing transactions without harming customers.

Juan Dario Lopez License Revocation by DFI

The Washington State Department of Financial Institutions (DFI) has issued a Consent Order revoking the check casher license of Juan Dario Lopez (NMLS #1463739). The revocation is stayed for two years, contingent on compliance with the terms of the order.

SEC Files Proposed Settlement with Rainberry for Wash Trading Claims

The SEC has filed a proposed settlement with Rainberry, Inc. for wash trading claims, requiring a $10 million civil penalty. This settlement, if approved by the court, would resolve the SEC's claims against Rainberry related to wash trading and dismiss all remaining claims against Rainberry and other defendants, including Justin Sun and associated foundations.

FCA warns customers of unsuitable advice from HDH Investment Services

The FCA has warned customers of HDH Investment Services Limited that the firm may have provided unsuitable financial advice. Restrictions were placed on HDH from January 20, 2026, preventing it from conducting regulated activities. Customers who believe they received unsuitable advice are advised to complain and seek advice from another authorised firm.

FCA Announces Senior Leadership Appointments

The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has announced two senior leadership appointments: Chris Knight as Director of Insurance and David Lymburn as interim Deputy Managing Director of the Payment Systems Regulator (PSR). These appointments aim to strengthen the FCA's capabilities and support its strategic priorities.

Z Grills, Inc. Consent Order under Securities Act

The Washington State Department of Financial Institutions Securities Division has issued a Consent Order against Z Grills, Inc. for alleged violations of the Securities Act of Washington. Z Grills offered and sold over $140,000 in securities through its Reward Crowdfunding Program to over 180 Washington investors without proper registration or disclosure.

MiCA Guidelines: Compliance Table for System and Security Access

The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) has published a compliance table for guidelines on the maintenance of systems and security access protocols under the Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) regulation. This document aids entities in assessing their adherence to MiCA's requirements.

ESMA Compliance Table for Crypto Asset Classification Guidelines

The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) has published a compliance table related to its Joint Guidelines on templates for explanations and opinions, and the standardised test for the classification of crypto assets. This document serves as a reference for entities to ensure their compliance with existing guidelines.

ESMA Compliance Table: Crypto-Assets as Financial Instruments

The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) has published a compliance table related to its Guidelines on the conditions and criteria for qualifying crypto-assets as financial instruments. This document serves as a reference for market participants to understand how to apply the guidelines.

ESMA Compliance Table for Market Abuse Guidelines under MiCA

The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) has published a compliance table for its guidelines on market abuse under the Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) regulation. This document serves as a reference for entities to understand their obligations regarding market abuse provisions within the MiCA framework.

Motor Finance Compensation Scheme Implementation Period

The FCA has announced that a proposed motor finance compensation scheme will include an implementation period of 3 to 5 months. This aims to streamline the process for consumers to receive compensation and for firms to manage claims, with millions expected to receive payouts in 2026.

FCA fines John Wood Group £12.99M for misleading statements

The FCA has fined John Wood Group PLC £12,993,700 for publishing inaccurate information in its financial results for 2022, 2023, and the first half of 2024. The company failed to maintain adequate systems and controls, leading to misleading statements that impacted its share price.

SEC Sanctions Shima Capital and Yida Gao for Misrepresentations

The SEC has sanctioned Shima Capital Management LLC and its owner Yida Gao for making material misrepresentations to investors. As a result, Shima Capital's registration as an investment adviser has been revoked.

CapexMD LLC Consent Order for Unlicensed Small Loans

The Connecticut Department of Banking issued a consent order against CapexMD LLC for making unlicensed small loans to 41 Connecticut borrowers. CapexMD agreed to pay a civil penalty and restitution without admitting wrongdoing.

OPBAS Report: AML Supervisors Improve, Enforcement Needs Strengthening

The FCA's Office for Professional Body Anti-Money Laundering Supervision (OPBAS) has released a report indicating improvements in AML supervisor effectiveness for professional services firms. However, the report highlights ongoing concerns regarding the enforcement capabilities of some supervisors and potential conflicts of interest due to their dual role.

FCA Review of UK Listing Rules for Investment Entities

The FCA is reviewing UK Listing Rules concerning investment entities, specifically eligibility criteria and risk-spreading requirements. The review aims to assess potential changes to these rules and will involve targeted work on board responsibilities. Proposals will be set out in a consultation paper.

SEC Sanctions Carole Liston for Investor Fund Misuse

The SEC has sanctioned Carole A. Liston for misusing investor funds, raising at least $5.7 million from approximately 200 investors nationwide. The sanctions follow a civil judgment permanently enjoining Liston from future violations of securities laws.

ESMA Report on Costs and Performance of EU Retail Investment Products

The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) has released its 2025 market report on the costs and performance of EU retail investment products. The report indicates a general decline in ongoing costs, primarily driven by new investment funds entering the market.

CT Dept of Banking Administrative Orders Added

The Connecticut Department of Banking has added new administrative orders for CapexMD, LLC, dated February 26, and for Jason A. Goodhue, dated February 20. These orders represent enforcement actions taken by the department.

CPG Management Co. LLC and Christopher Scott Reid - Consent Order

The Washington State Department of Financial Institutions issued a consent order against CPG Management Co. LLC and Christopher Scott Reid for alleged violations of the Securities Act of Washington. The order settles alleged misconduct related to investment advisory services and private investment funds.

CSA Disarms Over 7,500 Fake Investment and Crypto Scam Websites

The Canadian Securities Administrators (CSA) announced the deactivation of over 7,586 fake investment and crypto scam websites targeting Canadians between June 2025 and February 2026. This initiative highlights the CSA's ongoing efforts to combat online investment fraud using regulatory and technological tools.

Luminate Home Loans Fined $100k, Surrenders License

The Washington State Department of Financial Institutions has issued a consent order against Luminate Home Loans, Inc., requiring a $100,000 fine and the surrender of its consumer loan license. The company is prohibited from participating in Washington's mortgage broker or consumer loan industry until February 20, 2031.

Jason Goodhue Fined for Securities Law Violations

The Connecticut Department of Banking has issued a final order fining Jason A. Goodhue $100,000 for violating state securities laws. Goodhue engaged in dishonest or unethical practices and exercised discretionary power in customer accounts without written authorization.

FINRA Seeks Comment on Modernizing Arbitration Rules

FINRA has issued a request for comment on modernizing its arbitration rules, guidance, and processes. The notice seeks input from interested parties to help shape future revisions aimed at improving fairness, efficiency, and transparency in the arbitration forum.

SEC Fines North East Asset Management $251,640.83 for Cherry-Picking

The SEC has fined North East Asset Management Group, Inc. and its principal, Gregory A. Zandlo, a total of $251,640.83 for engaging in cherry-picking. The funds will be used to create a Fair Fund for distribution to harmed investors.