Clinical investigations for electrically powered devices

MHRA published guidance on clinical investigations for electrically powered medical devices. The guidance explains additional information requirements for notifying the agency of planned clinical investigations. Sponsors and clinical investigators of electrically powered medical devices should follow these requirements when submitting notifications.

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.

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.

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.

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.

FSOC Proposed Activities-Based Framework for Nonbank Financial Company Oversight

The Financial Stability Oversight Council (FSOC) has issued proposed interpretive guidance that would replace its existing guidance on nonbank financial company determinations. The proposal shifts FSOC's approach from an entity-based designation methodology to an activities-based framework for identifying and addressing potential risks to U.S. financial stability. Comments are due May 14, 2026.

Extension of TSCA Section 8(d) Health and Safety Data Reporting Deadline

The EPA is proposing to extend the compliance deadline for the TSCA Section 8(d) Health and Safety Data Reporting Rule by one year, from May 21, 2026 to May 21, 2027. This extension applies to chemical manufacturers and petroleum refineries required to report health and safety data on 16 listed chemical substances under 40 CFR Part 716. The agency is seeking public comment on the proposed extension.

Channel Islands Launch European Year of the Normans 2027

The Governments of Guernsey and Jersey, in partnership with the Region of Normandy, launched their participation in the 2027 European Year of the Normans at the British Embassy in Paris on March 26, 2026. The celebration marks 1,000 years since the birth of William the Conqueror. Over 40 projects across the Channel Islands will be organized throughout 2027, with the official programme to be launched in Caen in July.

Easter 2026 Office Closure Notice

Care Inspectorate Wales (CIW) has announced its Easter 2026 holiday closure schedule. The office will be closed on Good Friday 3 April and Easter Monday 6 April 2026, resuming normal hours on Tuesday 7 April. Stakeholders requiring urgent assistance during the closure period are directed to CIW's online reporting form.

K Trademark - Mental Health SaaS Services

USPTO published trademark application TM79436922 for 'K' covering mental health SaaS services including software for scheduling and managing mental health information, downloadable applications, and mental health therapy and counseling services. The application was published for opposition on March 29, 2026, opening a 30-day window during which third parties may challenge the registration.

SDI Trademark Application Published for Opposition

USPTO published SDI trademark application TM79438667 for opposition on March 29, 2026. The application covers goods in Nice Classes 9, 10, and 11, including scientific instruments, medical devices, and electronic equipment. The publication initiates a 30-day opposition period during which third parties may file objections.

Truva Trademark Application Published for Opposition

USPTO published trademark application TM79440897 for "TRUVA" in Class 044 (Medical Services) on March 29, 2026. The application covers medical services including healthcare, hearing aid fitting and repair, diagnostic services, telemedicine, and medical screening. The filing date was December 2, 2025.

Cosmy Trademark - Entertainment, Healthcare, and Communications Services

USPTO published trademark application TM79444107 for COSMY on March 29, 2026. The application covers services including entertainment and educational activities, advertising, healthcare and beauty consultancy, and telecommunications/social networking software. Third parties have a 30-day window to file oppositions.

Amendments to Treasury Buyback Operations Terms and Conditions

The Bureau of the Fiscal Service issued final amendments to Treasury buyback operations regulations, expanding direct offer submission eligibility to additional counterparties based on auction participation criteria. The rule updates certification statements for buyback participants and makes conforming changes to reflect current Treasury practices.

Cardinal Health EP Packs Type I Recall

Health Canada issued a Type I medical device recall for Cardinal Health Cardiac Electrophysiology (EP) Packs containing potentially affected Medline Namic Angiographic Control Syringes. The recall addresses a risk that the syringe rotating adaptor may unwind during use, causing loose connection or full disconnection between the syringe and manifold. Affected products include lots 479584 and 473022 with model number SAN30EP'XXX'.

Excavators from China - Absorption Review

The UK Trade Remedies Authority (TRA) initiated Case AR0089, an absorption review concerning self-propelled tracked excavators (11,000 kg to less than 80,000 kg operating weight) imported from China. The applicant is JCB Heavy Products Ltd. Interested parties must register and submit evidence to participate in the investigation.

Optical Detection of Middle Ear Effusion and Infection via Laser Speckle

The USPTO published patent application US20260083310A1 for an optical detection system using laser speckle imaging to diagnose middle ear effusion and infection. The system employs dual-wavelength light sources and an imaging device sized to fit within a patient's ear canal. Inventors include Claus-Peter Richter, Joaquin Cury, and Jordan Michael Villa.

Oral Health Monitoring Device

USPTO published Colgate-Palmolive Company's patent application US20260083311A1 for an oral health monitoring device. The device incorporates wing structures with dual image sensors enabling simultaneous imaging of multiple tooth surfaces. The application was filed August 28, 2023 and granted A1 publication status on March 26, 2026.

Split Overtube Prevents Loop Formation During Colonoscopy

USPTO published patent application US20260083313A1 for a split overtube device designed to prevent loop formation during colonoscopy. The device features a longitudinal split allowing placement over an endoscope shaft during an ongoing procedure. Invented by Rafal Sadurski, the overtube uses segmented oval openings and a fastening mechanism to create a semi-rigid conduit that translates axial force into forward endoscope movement without dangerous loop formation.

White-Light Source and Intraocular Illumination Device

USPTO published patent application US20260083316A1 for a white-light source and intraocular illumination device with controllable spectral composition. The invention combines multiple light sources (blue, green, red spectral ranges) including laser-activated remote phosphor (LARP) technology for fiber-based intraocular illumination in surgical applications. Application No. 19109457 was filed April 28, 2023, by inventors Doubek, Masini, and Neis.

Visual Field Testing Method and Device

The USPTO published patent application US20260083318A1 for a visual field testing method and device. The invention, filed July 23, 2025, describes a method using display equipment with a detection interface where central and peripheral targets are presented according to preset strategies, with subject responses determining testing results. This affects medical device manufacturers developing diagnostic ophthalmic equipment.

Glaucoma visual field diagnosis head-mounted display

USPTO published patent application US20260083319A1 for a head-mounted display system implementing adaptive map perimetry for glaucoma visual field diagnosis and monitoring. The system includes a headset device with a display screen, adaptive algorithm, normative database, and spatial mapping to identify damaged visual field clusters. Inventors: Lama Al-Aswad, Iván Marín-Franch, Nicholas Neissa.

Administrative Judicial Review Dismissed - Licence Refusal Appeal

The Federal Court of Australia dismissed an application for judicial review brought by JGW25 challenging a decision to refuse a licence under s 19AP of the Crimes Act 1914 (Cth). The applicant raised grounds including constructive failure to exercise jurisdiction, legal unreasonableness, reliance on erroneous information, and failure to consider relevant matters. The Court ordered the applicant to pay the respondent's costs.

Mastercard Asia/Pacific v ACCC - Implied Waiver of Legal Privilege

The Federal Court of Australia Full Court in Mastercard Asia/Pacific v ACCC [2026] FCAFC 37 upheld that implied waiver of legal professional privilege is not limited to express assertions about privileged communications. The Court affirmed that waiver can arise from conduct opening the subject-matter to scrutiny, including the filing of affidavits asserting non-competitive purposes, even before they are read into evidence. This judgment clarifies privilege law applicable to ACCC competition proceedings.

Court orders meeting for Diversified United Investment scheme of arrangement

The Federal Court of Australia ordered a meeting to be convened for the scheme of arrangement involving Diversified United Investment Limited (ACN 006 713 177) as plaintiff and Australian United Investment Company Limited (ACN 004 268 679) as interested person. The court was satisfied that ASIC was given adequate notice and opportunity to review the proposed scheme and draft explanatory statement.

Non-opposition to EPH/TTE/EFG concentration (Case M.12302)

The European Commission issued a non-opposition decision for Case M.12302 involving EPH, TTE, and EFG. The notified concentration was cleared without commitments or further investigation, indicating the Commission found no competition concerns. This is a standard Phase I merger clearance under EU competition rules.

Spain CISAF: Catalonia Zero-Emission Manufacturing Aid Scheme

The European Commission approved Spain's request for a €50 million state aid scheme under the Clean Industrial Deal State Aid Framework (CISAF) to support zero-emission manufacturing in Catalonia. The aid will be administered as direct grants through non-competitive open calls by the Catalan Directorate General of Industry, with eligible manufacturers able to apply until 31 December 2030.

JLL and PIF acquire joint control of FMTECH

The European Commission received a merger notification (M.12358) under Council Regulation No. 139/2004 for JLL Co-Investment and Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF) to acquire joint control of FMTech, a Saudi facilities management company currently solely controlled by PIF. JLL is a Chicago-based global commercial real estate and investment management company.

EU merger notification JLL/PIF/FMTECH simplified procedure

The European Commission published a prior notification of a concentration in Case M.12358 involving JLL, PIF, and FMTECH. The transaction has been identified as a candidate for the simplified merger procedure, which applies to straightforward cases unlikely to raise competition concerns. This notice invites third parties with comparable interests to submit observations on the proposed concentration.

JLL / PIF / FMTECH Merger - Phase I Clearance

The European Commission cleared the JLL/PIF/FMTECH merger under Article 6(1)(b) of the EU Merger Regulation. The Phase I decision was adopted on 27 March 2026, with the parties notified on 4 March 2026. The concentration involves combined facilities support activities (NACE O.81.10) and was cleared without conditions or remedies.

JLL/PIF/FMTECH Merger Approved

The European Commission approved the acquisition of joint control over Saudi Facility Management Company (FMTech) by Jones Lang Lasalle Co-Investment (US) and the Public Investment Fund (Saudi Arabia). The transaction was reviewed under the simplified merger procedure and declared compatible with the internal market and EEA Agreement. No concerns were raised regarding competition.

Appointment of François-Louis Michaud as EBA Chairperson

The Council of the European Union formally appointed François-Louis Michaud as chairperson of the European Banking Authority (EBA) for a five-year term starting 16 April 2026. The appointment was made following the EBA board of supervisors shortlisting two candidates, interviews in January 2026, and confirmation by the European Parliament on 10 March 2026. The appointment may be extended once upon completion of the initial term.

Common EU Insolvency Rules Harmonization

The Council of the EU has given final approval to a new Directive harmonizing key aspects of insolvency law across member states. The rules include avoidance actions, cross-border asset tracing via bank account registers, pre-pack proceedings, directors' duty to file for insolvency within three months of financial distress, creditors' committee strengthening, and transparency requirements. Member states have two years and nine months to transpose the directive into national law.

EU Talent Pool Platform for Non-EU Jobseekers

The Council of the EU gave final approval to Regulation (EU) establishing an EU talent pool, a digital platform connecting non-EU jobseekers with EU employers facing labor shortages. The platform will facilitate international recruitment while providing safeguards against labor exploitation and informing candidates of their rights regarding fair recruitment and decent working conditions. Participation in the platform remains voluntary for EU member states, with full operational status expected by 2027.

EU External Action Guarantee Amendments for Investment Efficiency

The Council of the EU formally adopted targeted amendments to the NDICI-Global Europe regulation to enhance the External Action Guarantee (EAG). The EAG supports investments outside the EU by reducing financial risks and mobilizing public and private financing, backed by up to €53.4 billion in EU funds.

Heavy-Duty Vehicle CO2 Target Flexibility for Manufacturers

The Council of the EU formally adopted a targeted amendment to CO2 emission standards for heavy-duty vehicles, introducing temporary flexibility for manufacturers on 2030 reduction targets. The amendment allows manufacturers of heavy lorries (over 16t) and certain buses (over 7.5t) to earn more emission credits between 2025-2029 by comparing against annual targets rather than stricter linear trajectories. The regulation will enter into force 20 days after publication in the Official Journal.

EU-UK Negotiations on Electricity Market, Cohesion, and Erasmus+

The Council of the EU formally authorized the European Commission to open negotiations with the UK on three separate agreements: UK participation in the EU's internal electricity market (wholesale and retail), a permanent mechanism for UK financial contributions to EU cohesion policy, and UK association to the Erasmus+ programme for 2027. The electricity and cohesion agreements must proceed on parallel paths and enter into force simultaneously.

Stronger Package Travel Protections

The Council of the EU adopted a revised Package Travel Directive strengthening protections for travelers purchasing combined tourist services. Key changes include clarified definitions excluding linked travel arrangements, enhanced pre-trip information requirements (payment methods, visa requirements, accessibility, cancellation fees), 14-day refund rights for force majeure cancellations, 12-month transferable vouchers as refund alternatives, and 6-month insolvency refund guarantees. Member states have 28 months to implement.

EU Council Updates Naval Operation Mandates for ASPIDES and ATALANTA

The Council of the EU adopted two decisions amending the mandates of EUNAVFOR ASPIDES and EUNAVFOR ATALANTA naval operations. ASPIDES gains new tasks including collecting information on suspicious activities related to critical submarine infrastructure (CSI), training Djiboutian maritime forces, and cooperating with the Yemeni Coast Guard. ATALANTA's mandate is updated to suspend monitoring of illicit charcoal trade while maintaining arms and narcotics trafficking tasks.

BLUMEPAY Trademark Application - Payment Processing Software

The USPTO published trademark application TM79441467 for BLUMEPAY on March 29, 2026, covering payment processing software, financial lending services, credit management platforms, and SaaS/PaaS solutions for fintech applications. The trademark is in International Class 36 (financial services) and is now in the opposition period, allowing third parties to challenge registration.

COVER YOUR ASSETS COMPLIANCE Trademark Renewal

USPTO renewed Trademark Registration TM86623656 for COVER YOUR ASSETS COMPLIANCE as of March 29, 2026. The mark covers advisory and consulting services in employee benefits and group healthcare plan compliance. Trademark holders in Class 036 should maintain renewal schedules to preserve their registrations.

LEVIN CAPITAL STRATEGIES Trademark Registration

USPTO trademark registration TM78705851 for LEVIN CAPITAL STRATEGIES, LP was granted on March 29, 2026. The registered mark covers financial services including investment advisory services, investment management services, and asset management services. The original application was filed on September 2, 2005.

REBELAI AI Trademark Application - Intent to Use

USPTO received Intent-to-Use trademark application TM99731095 for REBELAI AI brand filed by REBELAI INC on March 28, 2026. The application covers software as a service and platform as a service offerings for artificial intelligence business integration, decision support, workflow automation, and analytics.

Cyborg Marketing Trademark Application - AI Marketing Services

USPTO received an Intent to Use trademark application TM99731055 from Cyborg Marketing for AI-powered marketing and advertising services including SaaS platforms, consulting, and digital marketing. The application covers 17 service categories spanning AI-enabled marketing automation, algorithmic advertising platforms, business technology consulting, and advertising strategy services. No compliance deadlines or penalties are associated with this filing - it is simply a registration request pending USPTO examination.

Report a financial loss from the delay to the replacement credits service

HMRC published guidance on 30 March 2026 explaining that the National Insurance replacement credits service has been delayed until April 2027. Affected parents and carers who reached State Pension age from 6 April 2016 onwards may report financial losses caused by the delay through HMRC's complaints process. HMRC will calculate and make one-off payments from April 2027 when the replacement credits service opens.

HMRC Assist provides feedback for Making Tax Digital users

HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) has published information about HMRC Assist, a digital feedback service for Making Tax Digital users. The service provides tailored guidance based on software submissions for Making Tax Digital for Income Tax Self Assessment, helping users get their tax returns correct. This is an informational publication dated 30 March 2026.

Critical RCE vulnerability in F5 BIG-IP APM, active exploitation

The NCSC issued an urgent advisory regarding CVE-2025-53521, a critical unauthenticated remote code execution vulnerability in F5 BIG-IP Access Policy Manager that is being actively exploited. All UK organisations using BIG-IP APM are urged to take immediate mitigation action including isolation, investigation for compromise, and patching to the latest version.