SEC Exempts Foreign Private Issuers Directors Officers From Section 16 Reporting

The SEC issued an order exempting directors and officers of certain foreign private issuers from Section 16(a) reporting obligations, effective March 5, 2026. This action provides relief to individuals in qualifying jurisdictions with substantially similar reporting requirements, as clarified by subsequent FAQs.

Third-Party Arbitration Funding: Turmoil and Growth in 2025

A March 2026 article discusses the turbulent year for third-party arbitration funding in 2025, noting industry consolidation and a significant fraud suit. Despite challenges, the sector saw continued international arbitration claims, with 7% of new ICSID cases in 2025 involving funders.

EU to Provisionally Apply EU-Mercosur Trade Agreement Pending CJEU Opinion

The European Commission announced it will provisionally apply the EU-Mercosur Interim Trade Agreement (iTA) despite the European Parliament's request for a Court of Justice of the EU opinion. This follows ratification by Argentina and Uruguay, with provisional application potentially starting in May 2026.

Supreme Court Ruling on IEEPA Tariffs Impacts Duty Refund Process

The Supreme Court has ruled against the use of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) for enacting tariffs. While the ruling entitles importers to refunds, a specific process is still being developed by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the Court of International Trade (CIT). CBP is working on an ACE functionality to streamline refunds, with a target deployment in 45 days.

Podcast: UK vs. U.S. Investment Screening Regimes

Wiley Rein LLP published a podcast discussing the differences between the UK's investment screening regime under the National Security and Investment Act and the U.S. CFIUS program. The podcast features insights on evolving national security concerns and practical advice for businesses involved in cross-border investments.

UK Pharma Legal Developments and Trade Deal Updates

This briefing from Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer summarizes key UK legal developments in the pharmaceutical sector from 2025. It details a UK-US trade deal impacting pharmaceutical exports and discusses the UK Government's Life Sciences Sector Plan, which aims to enhance R&D, investment, and healthcare innovation.

SEC Grants Section 16(a) Exemption for Foreign Private Issuer Directors

The SEC has issued an exemptive order providing relief from Section 16(a) reporting requirements for directors and officers of foreign private issuers organized in specific jurisdictions, effective March 5, 2026. This exemption applies if the issuer is organized in a qualifying jurisdiction and subject to substantially similar regulations.

Global Antitrust Fines Reached $7.7 Billion in 2025

A&O Shearman's March 2026 report indicates global antitrust fines rose to $7.7 billion in 2025, the highest since 2021. While the total number of infringement decisions decreased, the report highlights a strategic shift by regulators towards more efficient enforcement, focusing on key sectors and utilizing "soft" tools alongside targeted "hard" fines for deterrence and precedent-setting.

International Trade Compliance Guidance

Braumiller Law Group has released guidance on "Hot Topics in International Trade," offering expertise on global trade compliance. The content appears to be informational, highlighting available consulting services and related video content.

Global Antitrust Enforcement Report Analysis

A&O Shearman has published a global antitrust enforcement report analyzing trends across over 30 jurisdictions. The report highlights a significant increase in cartel fines, reaching USD3.3 billion in 2025, and increased scrutiny of digital markets and investigative powers.