Financial Ombudsman urges young drivers on car insurance

The UK's Financial Ombudsman Service has issued a notice urging young drivers to make informed decisions about car insurance. The service highlights common pitfalls and issues, including policy cancellations, administrative problems, and claim disputes, based on over 1,200 complaints received from drivers under 25 last year.

FSA Analytical Notes on Regional Banks and Talent

The Financial Services Agency (FSA) of Japan has published its "FSA Analytical Notes (2026.2)", focusing on the analysis of human resource support by regional banks and talent shortages in firms. An English version is expected to be released shortly.

FSA: Bank Loans Total 8.0 Trillion Yen as of Sep 2025

The Financial Services Agency (FSA) of Japan has published its provisional translation of the status of loans held by all banks as of the end of September 2025. Total loans amounted to 8.0 trillion yen, a decrease of 0.4 trillion yen from the previous period.

FSA, SEC Hold Spring Financial Regulatory Dialogue

The Financial Services Agency of Japan (FSA) and the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) held their Spring Financial Regulatory Dialogue in Tokyo on February 27, 2026. The meeting focused on cross-border issues, market developments, and regulatory matters including digital assets.

FSA AI Discussion Paper Update for Financial Sector

The Financial Services Agency (FSA) of Japan has published Version 1.1 of its AI Discussion Paper, updating its previous 2025 version. This revision incorporates insights from public-private forums on AI utilization and risk management in the financial sector. The FSA is seeking comments on the paper to inform future policy development.

FSA Publishes English Version of Analytical Notes (2026.3)

The Financial Services Agency (FSA) of Japan has published the English version of its "FSA Analytical Notes (2026.3)". This publication provides analysis on financial markets and related topics, with specific notes on the OTC derivatives market.

HKMA Scam Alert: Fraudulent Bank Websites and Scams

The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) issued a scam alert on March 10, 2026, to warn the public about fraudulent websites and scams reported by several banks. The alert provides guidance on identifying and reporting such incidents.

HKMA Scam Alert: Fraudulent Websites and Scams Targeting Bank Customers

The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) has issued a scam alert regarding fraudulent websites and scams targeting bank customers. The alert highlights specific instances reported by The Bank of East Asia and Shanghai Commercial Bank Limited, warning the public about phishing attempts and advising on protective measures.

Hong Kong Green Week 2026 Announced

The Hong Kong Monetary Authority has announced the return of Hong Kong Green Week 2026, scheduled for September 7-11. This flagship sustainability event will focus on "Future-proofing Sustainable Growth" and will feature conferences, forums, and satellite events coordinated by the HKMA.

Exchange Fund Bills Tender Results Announced

The Hong Kong Monetary Authority announced the tender results for Exchange Fund Bills on March 10, 2026. The results detail the amounts applied for and allotted, along with accepted yields for various bill issuances.

Updated Sanctions Notice for ISIL (Da'esh) / Al-Kaida

The Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO) has updated its sanctions database following a UN sanctions committee decision on February 27, 2026. The update concerns individuals, companies, and organizations linked to ISIL (Da'esh) and Al-Qaeda. This change is directly applicable in Switzerland.

Updated Sanctions List for Taliban

The Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO) has updated its sanctions list concerning individuals and entities linked to the Taliban, effective March 11, 2026. Financial intermediaries are required to implement the prohibitions, freeze assets, and report relevant business relationships to SECO.

FINMA Contacts Bank After US Names it Money Laundering Concern

FINMA is in contact with MBaer Merchant Bank AG and FinCEN after the US designated the bank as a primary money laundering concern. FinCEN is proposing measures under the USA PATRIOT Act, which are currently undergoing public consultation. FINMA has appointed an audit agent at the bank.

Switzerland Updates Iran Sanctions List

The Swiss Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research (WBF) has updated annexes and the list of sanctioned individuals, companies, and organizations related to Iran. Financial intermediaries are required to implement prohibitions, freeze assets, and report affected business relationships.

FINMA Orders MBaer Merchant Bank AG Liquidation Due to Money Laundering Controls

Switzerland's FINMA has ordered the liquidation of MBaer Merchant Bank AG due to serious, systematic shortcomings in anti-money laundering controls and enabling clients to circumvent asset freezes. This follows FINMA's withdrawal of the bank's license, which is now effective after the bank withdrew its appeal.

Capital Asia Investments Investigated for Money Laundering and Compliance Failures

The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) and the Police are investigating Capital Asia Investments Pte Ltd and its directors for suspected money laundering and compliance failures. Over S$160 million in assets were seized, and two directors were arrested as part of the ongoing investigation.

MAS Issues Environmental Risk Transition Planning Guidelines

The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) has issued new Guidelines on Environmental Risk Management - Transition Planning for banks, insurers, and asset managers. These guidelines set supervisory expectations for managing climate-related transition and physical risks, taking effect from September 2027.

Payments Forward Plan Published

The Payments Vision Delivery Committee, comprising HM Treasury, the Bank of England, the FCA, and the PSR, has published the Payments Forward Plan. This plan outlines upcoming initiatives in retail and wholesale payments, including digital assets, to foster a trusted, world-leading payments ecosystem.

Ashley Alder Appointed New PSR Board Chair

Ashley Alder has been appointed as the new Chair of the Payment Systems Regulator (PSR) Board, effective January 26, 2026. This appointment coincides with the planned consolidation of the PSR into the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), where Alder also serves as Chair.

PSR Fines Bank of Ireland UK £3.7m for Confirmation of Payee Failure

The Payment Systems Regulator (PSR) has fined Bank of Ireland UK £3.7m for failing to implement the Confirmation of Payee system by the required deadline. This failure left over 1.14 million new payees and approximately £6.9 billion in payments unprotected against fraud.

PSR Consults on Card Fee Transparency and Governance Standards

The UK Payment Systems Regulator (PSR) is consulting on new standards to increase transparency and governance in card scheme and processing fees. These measures aim to provide businesses with clearer pricing information and ensure fee-setting is evidence-based, following a market review that found a lack of competition and clarity.

High Court Upholds PSR Powers to Cap Card Fees

The UK High Court has upheld the Payment Systems Regulator's (PSR) powers to cap cross-border interchange fees, following a legal challenge. This decision allows the PSR to proceed with its analysis and potential implementation of fee caps, aiming to reduce costs for UK businesses.

Public Responses to Insurer Recovery and Resolution Planning Consultation

The Financial Stability Board (FSB) has published public responses to its consultation on the scope of insurers subject to recovery and resolution planning requirements. The consultation period closed on February 6, 2026, and the FSB expects to publish final guidance in Q2-Q3 of 2026.

FSB Report on Repo Market Vulnerabilities

The Financial Stability Board (FSB) has released a report warning of vulnerabilities in government bond-backed repo markets. The report highlights potential contagion channels and emphasizes the need to preserve market functionality during stress periods, offering policy implications for regulators.

FSB 2026 Work Programme: Financial Stability and Systemic Risks

The Financial Stability Board (FSB) has published its work programme for 2026, outlining key priorities to promote global financial stability. The programme focuses on addressing systemic risks through vulnerability assessments, nonbank financial intermediation, cross-border payments, digital innovation, and operational resilience.

FSB Report on Strengthening Global Bank Resolution Frameworks

The Financial Stability Board (FSB) released its 2025 Resolution Report, detailing progress in strengthening global resolution frameworks for banks, insurers, and financial market infrastructures. The report highlights achievements in 2025 and outlines future work to enhance crisis preparedness and operationalize resolution tools.

FSB Peer Review: Public Sector Backstop Funding Mechanisms

The Financial Stability Board (FSB) is conducting a thematic peer review on public sector backstop funding mechanisms and has issued a summary of terms of reference. The FSB is seeking feedback from financial institutions and other stakeholders by March 31, 2026, to inform its review of implementation progress.

SEC Risk Alert on Investment Company Core Areas Review

The SEC's Division of Examinations has published a Risk Alert detailing typical document requests and examination observations for registered investment companies. The alert aims to help funds and their advisers enhance their compliance programs and practices by highlighting key review areas such as compliance programs, disclosures, and governance.

SEC Municipal Advisors Risk Alert and Examination Guidance

The SEC's Division of Examinations has published a Risk Alert to assist municipal advisors in understanding the examination process. The alert details potential areas of focus, selection criteria for examinations, and initial document requests.

SEC Division of Examinations Announces 2026 Priorities

The SEC's Division of Examinations has announced its 2026 examination priorities, focusing on areas of heightened risk to investors and compliance with new rules like amendments to Regulation S-P. The priorities aim to provide transparency and encourage firms to strengthen their compliance programs.

SEC Risk Alert on Advisers Act Marketing Rule Compliance

The SEC's Division of Examinations issued a Risk Alert highlighting observations regarding investment advisers' compliance with the Marketing Rule. The alert focuses on disclosure requirements, oversight practices for testimonials and endorsements, and due diligence for third-party ratings.

BIS General Manager Statement on Villeroy de Galhau Departure

The Bank for International Settlements (BIS) issued a statement from General Manager Pablo Hernández de Cos acknowledging the departure of François Villeroy de Galhau, Governor of the Bank of France, from his role as Chair of the BIS Board of Directors. The BIS will begin the process of appointing a new Chair.

Basel Committee: Governors welcome Basel III progress, discuss cryptoassets and G-SIBs

The Group of Central Bank Governors and Heads of Supervision (GHOS) met on March 9, 2026, to review progress on Basel III implementation, with approximately 75% of member jurisdictions having implemented or planning to implement the standards. The GHOS also endorsed targeted reviews of prudential standards for cryptoasset exposures and the assessment methodology for global systemically important banks (G-SIBs).

Basel Committee Publishes Synthetic Risk Transfer Analysis Report

The Basel Committee on Banking Supervision has published a report analyzing synthetic risk transfer (SRT) transactions. The report notes that while SRTs appear more prudently structured than pre-GFC transactions, risks associated with their growing use merit continued supervisory monitoring.

Basel Committee Consults on Consolidated Banking Guidelines

The Basel Committee on Banking Supervision has published a consultation on a consolidated version of its banking guidelines and sound practices. The aim is to improve accessibility and streamline guidance materials, reducing their volume by approximately 75%. Comments are requested by June 26, 2026.

Federal Reserve Issues Consent Order Against Former Regions Bank Employee

The Federal Reserve Board has issued a consent prohibition order against Nicole M. Ramsey, a former employee of Regions Bank. The action stems from the misappropriation of customer funds. This enforcement action signifies the Federal Reserve's commitment to upholding standards of conduct within the banking sector.

Federal Reserve Consent Order with Jamal Hillman

The Federal Reserve Board has issued a consent prohibition order against Jamal Hillman, a former employee of First Financial Bank, for misappropriation of customer funds. This enforcement action prohibits Mr. Hillman from participating in the banking industry.

Federal Reserve Board Enforcement Action Against Former PrimeLending Employee

The Federal Reserve Board has issued a consent prohibition order against Aquana Raffington, a former employee of PrimeLending. The action addresses conflicts of interest and fraud, with no monetary penalty imposed.

Federal Reserve Enforcement Actions for Embezzlement

The Federal Reserve Board announced enforcement actions against two former bank employees for embezzlement and misappropriation of funds. Jacob Hilton, formerly of United Bank, and Klaus Koberstein, formerly of East Cambridge Savings Bank, have each received consent prohibition orders.

Jericho Share Ceases NY Operations for Selling Unlicensed Health Insurance

The New York State Department of Financial Services announced that Jericho Share has agreed to cease all operations in New York for selling unlicensed health insurance plans. This action follows an investigation into the company's activities.

New York Designates Butternut Valley Banking Development District

New York State Comptroller DiNapoli and the Department of Financial Services (DFS) have designated the Butternut Valley as a Banking Development District. This designation aims to support community banking and economic development in the region.

Statement on FY 2027 Executive Budget Hearing

New York State Department of Financial Services Acting Superintendent Kaitlin Asrow delivered a statement at a joint legislative public hearing on the FY 2027 Executive Budget, focusing on economic development. The statement outlines the DFS's priorities and budget requests for the upcoming fiscal year.

New York Behavioral Health Treatment Access Campaign Launched

Governor Hochul has launched a public awareness campaign to educate New Yorkers on accessing behavioral health treatment. The campaign aims to inform individuals about their rights and available resources for mental health and substance use disorder services.

New York Regulation for Buy Now, Pay Later Loans

New York Governor Kathy Hochul announced a new regulation establishing comprehensive consumer protections for Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) loans. This regulation aims to provide a framework for BNPL services operating within the state, ensuring greater transparency and fairness for consumers.

PCAOB Names William Ryan Acting Director of Enforcement Investigations

The Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (PCAOB) announced William Ryan has been named Acting Director of its Division of Enforcement and Investigations. He succeeds Robert E. Rice, who is retiring. This appointment oversees investigations and enforcement of PCAOB rules and securities regulations.

PCAOB Publishes Expanded Inspection Reports on Three Firms

The PCAOB has published expanded inspection reports for three audit firms: Assure CPA, LLC; Kronick Kalada Berdy & Co, P.C.; and Michael T. Studer CPA P.C. These expansions are due to the firms' failure to adequately address quality control issues within the 12 months following the original inspection reports.

PCAOB Chairman and Board Members Sworn In

The Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (PCAOB) announced that Demetrios (Jim) Logothetis was sworn in as Chairman, and Mark A. Calabria and Steven D. Laughton were sworn in as Board Members on February 10, 2026. The new leadership was appointed by the SEC and will oversee the PCAOB's statutory responsibilities.

PCAOB Sanctions Zwick CPA, Revokes Registration, Imposes $50,000 Penalty

The PCAOB has sanctioned Zwick CPA, PLLC, its owner Jack Zwick, and former audit manager Jeffrey Hoskow for multiple violations of PCAOB rules and standards related to the audit of Genie Energy Ltd. The sanctions include revoking the firm's registration, barring individuals, and imposing a $50,000 penalty.

PCAOB Publishes 15 New Firm Inspection Reports

The Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (PCAOB) has published 15 new inspection reports for audit firms. These reports cover firms in various countries and provide insights into their audit quality. The PCAOB encourages users to visit its Firm Inspection Reports page for more detailed filtering and data access.

NCUA and FDIC Host Webinar on Financial Scams

The NCUA and FDIC are hosting a free webinar on March 12, 2026, to educate credit unions and banks on identifying and combating prevalent financial scams. The webinar will offer practical strategies, financial education resources, and best practices for protecting consumers.