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SEC v. Madison Capital Funding LLC - Investment Adviser Sanctions

The SEC instituted administrative and cease-and-desist proceedings against Madison Capital Funding LLC, an investment adviser. The firm allegedly failed to determine fair market value for trades with pooled investment vehicles it advised during a period of market disruption.

SEC Bars Ejiro Ode Okuma for Fraud and Misappropriation

The SEC has barred Ejiro Ode Okuma from associating with any regulated entity following findings of fraud and misappropriation of over $9 million from a client. A final judgment was entered against Okuma, permanently enjoining him from future violations of securities laws.

FCA and Independent Football Regulator Sign Memorandum of Understanding

The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) and the Independent Football Regulator (IFR) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This agreement outlines how the two organizations will collaborate to ensure effective regulation where football and financial services intersect.

FCA Launches New Regulatory Priorities Reports

The FCA has launched new Regulatory Priorities reports, starting with the insurance sector, to replace over 40 previous portfolio letters. These new reports aim to streamline communication and provide clearer, higher-level guidance for regulated firms.

FCA Proposes Action to Close Credit File Gaps for Borrowers

The FCA is consulting on proposals to require lenders to share credit information with all designated consumer credit reference agencies (CRAs). This aims to close gaps in consumers' credit files and ensure they more accurately reflect financial circumstances. The consultation closes on May 1, 2026.

FCA Stablecoin Regulatory Sandbox Testing

The FCA has selected four firms to participate in its regulatory sandbox to test stablecoin innovation. This initiative aims to gather real-world data to inform the development of future UK stablecoin regulations, with findings expected to shape final rules later in 2026.

Payments Forward Plan Published by Committee

The Payments Vision Delivery Committee, comprising HM Treasury, Bank of England, FCA, and PSR, has published the Payments Forward Plan. This plan outlines upcoming initiatives in retail and wholesale payments, including digital assets, to foster innovation and economic growth.

ESMA Consultation: Regulatory Standards for Post-Trade Risk Reduction Services

The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) has issued a consultation paper on proposed regulatory technical standards (RTS) for post-trade risk reduction services. This consultation seeks feedback on requirements for services that aim to reduce risk for the purpose of clearing obligation exemptions under EMIR.

FINRA proposes rule change for overnight transaction reporting exception

FINRA has filed a proposed rule change with the SEC to amend rules governing transaction reporting. The proposal seeks to provide a limited, temporary exception for reporting specified overnight transactions before 8:00 a.m. Eastern Time.

SEC Obtains Final Judgments Against Mining Company and Executives

The SEC announced final judgments by consent against Western Sierra Resource Corporation and its executives Roger Johnson and Dennis Atkins. The company and executives were charged with issuing false and misleading statements regarding the acquisition of gold mining claims. Johnson and Atkins each agreed to pay a $150,000 civil penalty, a three-year officer-and-director bar, and a five-year penny-stock bar.

SEC Obtains Consent Judgment Against Defendant in Fraud Case

The SEC announced it obtained a final consent judgment against Charles T. Lawrence, Jr. in a civil enforcement action. Lawrence was charged with a multi-million dollar offering fraud, misappropriating at least $4.89 million of investor funds. The judgment permanently enjoins him from violating securities laws and orders disgorgement.

ESMA Draft RTS on EMIR 3 Clearing Thresholds

The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) has published draft Regulatory Technical Standards (RTS) detailing new clearing thresholds under EMIR 3. These proposals aim to manage systemic risk in OTC derivative markets while minimizing compliance burdens for market participants.

Omnipoint Management Solutions LLC - Cease and Desist Order and $100,000 Penalty

The Connecticut Banking Commissioner has issued a Cease and Desist Order and imposed a $100,000 civil penalty on Omnipoint Management Solutions LLC. The company operated as a consumer collection agency without a required license and violated communication regulations.

SEC Obtains Final Consent Judgment Against Ian G. Bell

The SEC announced it obtained a final consent judgment against Ian G. Bell, a Denver day-trader charged with defrauding investors. Bell raised over $1.3 million from 29 investors by lying about trading performance and misappropriating funds. He is permanently enjoined from securities violations and ordered to pay disgorgement.

SEC Obtains Final Judgments in Insider Trading Case

The SEC announced the entry of final consent judgments against Joseph C. Lewis, Carolyn W. Carter, Patrick J. O’Connor, and Bryan L. Waugh in an insider trading case. The judgments include penalties, disgorgement, and prejudgment interest totaling over $2.3 million.

SEC Settles Joel Castellanos Ponzi Scheme Action

The SEC has settled an action against Joel Castellanos for his role in an alleged $196 million Ponzi scheme. Castellanos is charged with selling unregistered securities and operating without proper registration, resulting in a $150,000 civil penalty and disgorgement.

CT Dept of Banking Administrative Orders and Settlements Updates

The Connecticut Department of Banking has added new administrative orders for Zions Debt Holdings, LLC, Carter, Christopher Thayne, Fuller, Brian Scott, and Omnipoint Management Solutions LLC, all dated February 10. An existing order's date was also updated.

ESMA Consultation on CCP Collateral and Investment Policy

The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) has issued a consultation paper regarding guarantees as collateral for Central Counterparties (CCPs) and certain aspects of their investment policies. The consultation seeks feedback on proposed changes to the regulatory framework governing CCPs.

SEC Files Settled Action Against Former CEO and Consultant for False Press Release

The SEC filed a settled action against former Edison Nation CEO Christopher B. Ferguson and consultant Brian P. McFadden for allegedly disseminating a false press release regarding PPE purchase orders. Ferguson and McFadden consented to permanent injunctions, civil penalties of $50,000 each, and officer/director bars.

ESMA Withdraws MiFID II/MiFIR Market Data Guidelines

The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) has withdrawn its guidelines on MiFID II/MiFIR obligations concerning market data. This action aligns the regulatory framework with new technical standards that entered into force in November 2025, aiming to simplify rules for market participants.

ESMA Consults on CCP Collateral and Investment Policy

The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) has launched a public consultation on proposed changes to central counterparty (CCP) collateral and investment policies, stemming from EMIR 3. The consultation seeks feedback on the acceptance of various guarantees as collateral and the eligibility of debt instruments for CCP investment policies, with a deadline for responses on April 30, 2026.

OSFI Superintendent Discusses Mortgage Regulation and Financial System Resilience

OSFI Superintendent Peter Routledge discussed the future of mortgage regulation, including the retention of stress tests and LTI limits, and OSFI's ongoing regulatory modernization efforts. The speech highlighted OSFI's commitment to adapting its framework based on feedback from regulated institutions.

ESMA Supervisory Briefing on CCP AAR Representativeness Obligation

The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) has issued a supervisory briefing clarifying the representativeness obligation for Central Counterparties (CCPs) regarding their Approved Alternative Arrangements (AARs). This guidance aims to ensure consistent application of the obligation across the EU.

SEC Charges C-Hear, Inc. and Former CEO with Fraud

The SEC charged C-Hear, Inc. and its former CEO, Adena Harmon, with securities fraud in connection with a $4.2 million stock offering. The complaint alleges misleading statements about the company's technology and concealment of Harmon's criminal convictions, as well as misappropriation of investor funds.

California DFPI Enforcement Actions Summary - January 2026

The California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation (DFPI) issued a summary of enforcement and non-enforcement actions taken in January 2026. These actions include citations, desist and refrain orders, consent orders, and accusations related to violations of financial laws, including mortgage lending and securities regulations.

ESMA Supervisory Briefing on AAR Representativeness Obligation

The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) has published a supervisory briefing clarifying expectations for counterparties regarding the active account requirement (AAR) representativeness obligation. The briefing provides guidance on identifying relevant subcategories, reporting trades, and includes an example of compliance.

SEC Obtains Default Judgment Against Bluesky Eagle Capital Management Ltd

The SEC has obtained a final default judgment against Bluesky Eagle Capital Management Ltd. for making misrepresentations in its Form ADV filing. The judgment includes a permanent injunction and a civil penalty of $1,182,254.

SEC v. Cutter Financial Group, LLC and Jeffrey Cutter - Investment Adviser Fiduciary Duty Breaches

The SEC announced a final judgment against investment adviser Jeffrey Cutter and Cutter Financial Group, LLC for breaches of fiduciary duties. The judgment orders civil penalties totaling $150,000 and requires client notification and injunctions against future violations.

SEC charges North Texas brothers in real estate fraud

The SEC has charged two brothers and their companies in North Texas for allegedly conducting a real estate offering fraud, raising over $12 million through misrepresentations. The SEC seeks permanent injunctions, disgorgement, and civil penalties.

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 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 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.

Canadian Securities Regulators Amend Benchmark Assurance Report Rules

Canadian securities regulators have adopted final amendments to rules governing designated benchmarks and benchmark administrators, effective May 5, 2026. These changes clarify assurance report requirements for independent public accountants, specifying the level of assurance, report type, and submission timing, and introduce a new requirement for certain designated benchmarks.

ESMA Consultation on MAR Guidelines for Delaying Inside Information Disclosure

The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) has launched a consultation on draft guidelines concerning the conditions under which companies can delay the disclosure of inside information under the Market Abuse Regulation (MAR). The consultation seeks feedback on the interpretation and application of MAR provisions related to delaying disclosure.

ESMA Compliance Table for Sustainability Information Enforcement Guidelines

The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) has published a compliance table for its Guidelines on Enforcement of Sustainability Information. This document serves as a reference for entities to understand compliance requirements related to sustainability disclosures.

ESMA Statement on Prospectus Regulation Changes from Listing Act

The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) has issued a statement clarifying the implementation of certain changes to the Prospectus Regulation introduced by the Listing Act. This guidance aims to provide clarity for market participants on the application of these amendments.

ESMA Consultation on MAR Guidelines for Delayed Inside Information Disclosure

The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) has launched a consultation on draft guidelines concerning the delay of disclosure of inside information under the Market Abuse Regulation (MAR). The consultation aims to provide further clarity and consistent application of MAR provisions across the EU.

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.

SEC Proposes Amendments to Form N-PORT Reporting for Investment Companies

The SEC has proposed amendments to Form N-PORT reporting for investment companies, including open-end funds, closed-end funds, and ETFs. The proposal would extend the filing deadline, restore quarterly publication, and streamline reporting items. Public comments are due 60 days after publication in the Federal Register.

ESMA Statement on IFRS 18 and APM Guidelines Interaction

The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) has issued a statement clarifying the interaction between the upcoming IFRS 18 standard on presentation and disclosure in financial statements and ESMA's existing Guidelines on Alternative Performance Measures (APMs). The statement aims to ensure consistent application and understanding of these requirements for financial statement preparers.

State of Washington v. Joel John Sarysz - Consumer Loan Act Violations

The State of Washington Department of Financial Institutions has issued a consent order against Joel John Sarysz for violations of the Consumer Loan Act. Sarysz is fined $25,500 and prohibited from the mortgage broker and consumer loan industries in Washington until February 10, 2034.

Arboretum Mortgage Corp Fined and License Revoked

The Washington Department of Financial Institutions has issued a consent order against Arboretum Mortgage Corporation, requiring a fine of $27,425 and an investigation fee of $2,719.20. The company's mortgage broker license is revoked, and its ability to participate in the industry is restricted until February 6, 2029, subject to compliance with the order.

Arboretum Mortgage Corp. License Revoked and Fined $27,425

The Washington Department of Financial Institutions has revoked the mortgage broker license of Arboretum Mortgage Corporation and imposed a fine of $27,425 for violations of the Mortgage Broker Practices Act. The company also must pay an investigation fee of $2,719.20.

Florida Orders Cease and Desist for Unregistered Securities

The Florida Office of Financial Regulation (OFR) issued an immediate final order against GSB LTD, d/b/a GS Partners, and other members of GSB Group. The order requires them to cease and desist from alleged unregistered and fraudulent securities and banking services, citing a multilevel marketing scheme and misleading profit generation information.

Alliance Credit Union of Florida Placed into Conservatorship

Florida's Office of Financial Regulation placed Alliance Credit Union of Florida into conservatorship on November 8, 2024, appointing the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA) as conservator. Member accounts remain protected by the NCUA's Share Insurance Fund, and services will continue uninterrupted.

Bayview Fined $20M for Cybersecurity Lapses

The Office of Financial Regulation and 52 state agencies fined Bayview Asset Management and its affiliates $20 million for deficient cybersecurity practices and failure to cooperate following a data breach impacting 5.8 million customers. The companies must also implement corrective actions and undergo independent assessments.

Vanguard Agrees to $106 Million Multistate Settlement

Vanguard has agreed to a $106 million multistate settlement with state securities regulators and the SEC for failing to supervise registered persons and disclose tax consequences to investors. The settlement aims to compensate over 10,000 Florida investors and potentially hundreds of thousands nationwide for capital gains taxes incurred due to fund changes.

OFR Settles with Binance.US Money Transmitter in Florida

The Florida Office of Financial Regulation (OFR) has reached an agreement with BAM Trading Services, Inc. (Binance.US), a licensed money transmitter. This settlement addresses procedures to protect Floridians and the marketplace, following a prior multi-state settlement related to a felony conviction.

ESMA Opinion on European Salmon Futures Position Limits

The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) has issued an opinion on position limits for the European Salmon Futures contract traded on Euronext. This opinion provides guidance on the appropriate limits to prevent market abuse and ensure orderly trading conditions.