SFC Hong Kong: First SFO Criminal Prosecution for Illegal Short Selling Scheduled

The Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) of Hong Kong has scheduled the first criminal prosecution under the Securities and Futures Ordinance (SFO) for illegal short selling. The case involves alleged securities fraud and will be heard in the District Court.

State of California et al v. Wright et al - Motion for Pro Hac Vice Appearance

The U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California has filed a motion for a Pro Hac Vice appearance in the case State of California et al v. Wright et al. The motion was filed by the State of Vermont, seeking to allow Jonathan Rose to appear in the case. The court has since denied this motion.

Liang v. United States Department of State - Other Immigration Actions

A new civil case, Liang v. United States Department of State et al., was filed on March 9, 2026, in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California. The case involves 'Other Immigration Actions' and the latest filing on March 20, 2026, was a consent to proceed before a U.S. Magistrate Judge.

Jackson v. SSA Commissioner - Social Security Disability Insurance

The U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California has a new filing in the case of Jackson v. SSA Commissioner. The SSA Commissioner filed an amended brief, and the plaintiff filed a reply brief. The court previously ordered a brief to be stricken and set a new deadline for the plaintiff's reply.

Japan-U.S. Strategic Investment Joint Announcement

The U.S. Department of Commerce announced a joint strategic investment initiative with Japan. This announcement highlights a collaborative effort to foster economic ties and technological advancement between the two nations.

Cancel VAT Registration Guidance

HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) has updated guidance on how businesses can cancel their VAT registration, either online or by post. The guidance details the process, including the use of specific forms like VAT 7 and VAT 50-51 for VAT group registrations, and clarifies when cancellation applies, particularly concerning asset sales.

ATED Statistics Release Date Announcement

HM Revenue & Customs announced that the Annual Tax on Enveloped Dwellings (ATED) statistics will be released on March 31, 2026. The statistics will include totals and breakdowns of ATED receipts and relief claims.

Mandatory Tax Adviser Registration with HMRC

HMRC will implement mandatory registration for tax advisers paid to interact with HMRC on behalf of clients starting May 18, 2026. This change replaces the current registration process and requires advisers to register through a new single digital system and meet specific conditions.

HMRC Tax Receipts and National Insurance Contributions Statistics

HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) has announced the upcoming release of UK tax receipts and National Insurance contributions statistics. The announcement provides the release date and time for this official statistical report, which summarizes tax revenues and expenditures.

UN Human Rights Chief Urges Peace Amid Middle East Conflict

UN Human Rights Chief Volker Türk issued a statement on March 19, 2026, highlighting the severe impact of the ongoing Middle East conflict on civilians. He urged renewed diplomatic efforts to prevent further loss of life and destruction of vital infrastructure, particularly noting the risks associated with attacks on energy facilities.