Dutch Data Protection Authority Warns of AI Agent Security Risks

The Dutch Data Protection Authority (AP) has issued a warning regarding the significant security risks associated with AI agents like OpenClaw. The AP advises users and organizations against using these experimental systems, particularly with sensitive data, due to potential data breaches and account takeovers.

Reddit v. Autoriteit Persoonsgegevens - Data Protection Proceedings

The District Court in The Hague rejected Reddit's legal claims against the Dutch data protection authority (AP) regarding an investigation into unlawful personal data processing. The AP is continuing its investigation into whether Reddit unlawfully shared user data with algorithm developers.

Dutch DPA warns generative AI risks becoming wild west

Dutch DPA warns generative AI risks becoming wild west

AMF Revises Salmon Derivative Contract Position Limits

The AMF has revised the position limits for the salmon derivative contract listed on Euronext Paris Matif. These changes, confirmed by ESMA, lower the limit for the spot contract and increase the limit for other maturities, effective February 12, 2026.

AMF Invites Participation in AMLA Consultations on AML/CFT Standards

The French AMF is inviting financial market participants to engage in AMLA's public consultations on three draft implementing standards for anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing. The consultations are open for one to three months, seeking stakeholder input on key clarifications for the new EU AML/CFT regulatory package.

AMF Appoints Sophia Bennani Director of Inspections

The Autorité des Marchés Financiers (AMF) has appointed Sophia Bennani as the new Director of Inspections, effective February 16, 2026. This is an internal leadership change within the regulatory body.

AMF Reminds Digital Asset Providers of MiCA Deadline

The Autorité des Marchés Financiers (AMF) is reminding Digital Asset Service Providers (DASPs) that the transitional period allowing them to operate without MiCA authorization ends on July 1, 2026. DASPs wishing to continue providing crypto-asset services must submit an authorization application as soon as possible.

AMF Withdraws APICAP Portfolio Management Authorisation

The Autorité des Marchés Financiers (AMF) has announced the effective withdrawal of the authorisation for portfolio management company APICAP. This action follows a decision on July 4, 2025, and is now effective as of January 9, 2026, after APICAP's funds were transferred to other authorised entities.

European Commission Competition Case Search Portal

The European Commission has launched a new competition case search portal, providing public access to information on competition cases. This portal aims to increase transparency regarding the Commission's enforcement activities in antitrust and merger control.

ECHA Updates Annual Evaluation Statistics

The European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) has updated its statistics on chemical evaluation progress, reporting on compliance checks conducted between 2009 and 2025. The agency checked the compliance of over 30% of substances registered before 2019 at volumes of at least 100 tonnes per year, aiming to ensure reliable hazard data and chemical safety.

ECHA Biocidal Products Committee Opinions on Active Substances and Authorisations

The European Chemicals Agency's Biocidal Products Committee (BPC) adopted six opinions on active substances and two on Union authorisations in its February 2026 meeting. These opinions concern substances like ethanol, DMDMH, hydrochloric acid, C(M)IT/MIT, and peracetic acid, impacting various product types. The European Commission will make the final decisions.

ECHA Risk Assessment Committee Adopts PFAS Restriction Opinion

The European Chemicals Agency's Risk Assessment Committee (RAC) has adopted its opinion on a proposal to restrict all per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) across the EU/EEA. This opinion is a key step in the regulatory process, with the Socio-Economic Analysis Committee (SEAC) expected to release its draft opinion soon.

Biocides Committee supports ethanol approval for disinfectants

ECHA's Biocidal Products Committee (BPC) has supported the approval of ethanol for use in human hygiene, general, and food/feed area disinfectants. The committee did not conclude on ethanol's carcinogenic or reprotoxic properties due to data limitations and the nature of existing evidence.

EBA Opinion on Commission Amendments to RTS on Equivalent Legal Mechanism

The European Banking Authority (EBA) published an Opinion responding to the European Commission's proposed amendments to draft technical standards on equivalent legal mechanisms for residential property under construction. The EBA disagrees with two key amendments concerning risk weight caps and the mandate for completion guarantees.

EBA Concludes Legacy Instruments Monitoring Work

The European Banking Authority (EBA) has concluded its dedicated monitoring of legacy instruments, which are financial instruments benefiting from grandfathering provisions under CRR1 and CRR2. The EBA will no longer prioritize this specific monitoring, trusting competent authorities to handle remaining cases based on existing guidance.

EBA Final Guidelines on Capital Endowment for Third-Country Branches

The European Banking Authority (EBA) has published final Guidelines specifying eligible instruments for the capital endowment requirement for third-country branches. These guidelines clarify which financial instruments can be used and the operational conditions required to protect local depositors and creditors.

EBA Final Report on Reporting Standards for Third-Country Branches

The European Banking Authority (EBA) has published its final report on harmonised reporting standards for third-country branches under CRD VI. The new framework aims to enhance supervisory oversight by introducing uniform reporting formats and definitions, with the first reporting reference date set for March 31, 2027.

EBA Central Validation of ISDA SIMM Begins March 1, 2026

The European Banking Authority (EBA) announced the commencement of its central validation function for the ISDA SIMM on March 1, 2026. This new function, established under EMIR, aims to ensure consistent oversight of initial margin models for non-centrally cleared derivatives across the EU.

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.

BaFin Warns of Unauthorized Richmond365 Finance Limited Website

Germany's BaFin has issued a warning regarding the website richmond365(.)com, which is offering financial and crypto asset services without authorization. The purported entity, Richmond365 Finance Limited, does not exist in the UK's company register, indicating a potential scam targeting German consumers.

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 Capital Markets Conference 2026 Details

The German Federal Financial Supervisory Authority (BaFin) has announced details for its Capital Markets Conference 2026, scheduled for June 23, 2026, in Frankfurt. Registration is now open for issuers and capital market representatives interested in topics such as the EU's Listing Act and private retirement provisions.

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.

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.

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.

Ben Gunnee appointed Interim Executive Director, Market Oversight

Ben Gunnee appointed Interim Executive Director, Market Oversight

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 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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Policy statement on recognised exchanges and transfer of main indices

Policy statement on recognised exchanges and transfer of main indices

West Mercia Police Fined After Officer Injured Responding to Collision

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has fined West Mercia Police £85,800 after a student officer sustained life-changing injuries when hit by a car while responding to a traffic collision. The investigation found the force failed to adequately manage risks, provide suitable training, and supply adequate equipment.

Somers Forge Limited Fined £750,000 After Employee Death

Somers Forge Limited has been fined £750,000 after an employee died in a lathe accident. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) found the company failed to implement safe operating procedures and prevent access to dangerous machinery. The incident occurred on December 8, 2023, and the fine was issued on February 18, 2026.

Grounds Maintenance Company Fined After Employee Fatality

MHS Countryside Management Limited was fined £27,000 after an employee died operating a ride-on lawnmower. The Health and Safety Executive investigation found the company failed to conduct a risk assessment and the machine's safety roll-over protection system had been removed. The company pleaded guilty to breaching the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974.

Care Home Fined After Resident Choked to Death

Riverside Care Limited has been fined £16,000 after a resident choked to death on food not prepared to his dietary requirements. The Health and Safety Executive investigation found a failure in the system for preparing modified meals, leading to a fatal outcome. The company pleaded guilty to breaching the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974.

Company Sentenced for Worker Vibration Illnesses

Drury Engineering Services Ltd was fined £44,000 after pleading guilty to health and safety breaches that led to seven workers developing vibration-related illnesses. The company failed to adequately assess risks, implement control measures, or provide health surveillance and training.

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.

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.

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.