Rates Finder– Central Bank of Ireland Issues Warning on Unauthorised Firm
Why this matters
This regulatory update from the Central Bank of Ireland warns about an unauthorized firm operating in the banking, investment management, and wealth management sectors. This is a high urgency issue as it relates to consumer protection and the proper authorization of financial firms.
Quilter Cheviot Europe Limited (CLONE) - Central Bank of Ireland Issues Warning on Unauthorised Fir
Why this matters
This is a warning from the Central Bank of Ireland about an unauthorized firm, Quilter Cheviot Europe Limited (CLONE), which is impersonating a legitimate wealth management firm. This is a consumer protection issue and relates to the authorization and licensing of financial firms operating in Ireland.
Barclays Wealth (Clone) – Central Bank of Ireland Issues Warning on Unauthorised Firm
Why this matters
This is a warning from the Central Bank of Ireland about an unauthorized firm operating under the name 'Barclays Wealth (Clone)'. This is a consumer protection issue related to firms operating without proper authorization, which poses risks to investors and the public.
Magnum Options - Central Bank of Ireland Issues Warning on Unauthorised Firm
Why this matters
This warning from the Central Bank of Ireland relates to an unauthorized firm operating in the banking, investment management, and wealth management sectors. It is a high urgency issue as it involves consumer protection and the proper authorization of financial firms.
LSFX Limited/ LightStocksFX- Central Bank of Ireland Issues Warning on Unauthorised Firm
Why this matters
This warning from the Central Bank of Ireland relates to an unauthorized firm operating in the investment and wealth management sectors, which poses risks to consumers. The high urgency reflects the need to alert the public about this unauthorized activity.
The Swiss Financial Market Supervisory Authority FINMA has completed its annual assessment of the emergency and recovery plans for the domestic systemically important banks. The emergency plans for Zürcher Kantonalbank and Raiffeisen fulfil the regulatory requirements. The emergency plan for PostFinance is still not…
Why this matters
This regulatory update from FINMA assesses the emergency and recovery plans for three domestic systemically important banks in Switzerland - PostFinance, Raiffeisen, and Zürcher Kantonalbank. This is relevant for the banking and payments sectors, as it relates to prudential requirements and operational resilience.
Uniq Loan Financial - Central Bank of Ireland Issues Warning on Unauthorised Firm
Why this matters
This is a warning from the Central Bank of Ireland about an unauthorized retail credit firm, Uniq Loan Financial, which is not authorized to provide retail credit services in Ireland. This is a high urgency issue as it relates to consumer protection and unauthorized financial activities.
CFD Trades 24 – Central Bank of Ireland Issues Warning on Unauthorised Firm
Why this matters
This is a warning from the Central Bank of Ireland about an unauthorized investment firm, CFD Trades 24, that is operating without proper authorization. This poses risks to consumers and the integrity of the financial markets, warranting a high urgency classification.
BW Financial Services (Clone) - Central Bank of Ireland Issues Warning on Unauthorised Firm
Why this matters
This is a warning from the Central Bank of Ireland about an unauthorized firm cloning the details of a legitimate authorized firm. This poses a high risk to consumers and requires immediate attention.
Coinhive - Central Bank of Ireland Issues Warning on Unauthorised Firm
Why this matters
This is a warning from the Central Bank of Ireland about an unauthorized firm, Coinhive, that is operating in the crypto/digital assets space without proper authorization. This poses risks to consumers and requires prompt action.
This regulatory update announces the departure of a CFTC commissioner, which is relevant for capital markets firms and crypto/digital asset firms that are regulated by the CFTC. The topics of authorization/licensing and senior management/governance are impacted by commissioner changes.
Given at The Future of Central Banking conference on the occasion of the 100th Anniversary, Banco de México
Why this matters
This speech by a central bank official discusses research and the future of central banking, which is relevant for banking, investment management, and wealth management firms in terms of prudential requirements, operational resilience, and technology/cyber risks.
Das Staatssekretariat für Wirtschaft (SECO) hat eine Änderung der Verordnung vom 21. März 2025 über Massnahmen gegenüber Personen und Organisationen, die mit den Organisationen ISIL (Da'esh) und Al-Kaida in Verbindung stehen (SR 946.231.08) publiziert.
Why this matters
This regulatory update from FINMA relates to sanctions measures against individuals and organizations associated with ISIL (Da'esh) and Al-Qaida. This impacts banking, investment management, and wealth management firms that need to comply with sanctions requirements.
Pionew Ireland (Clone) - Central Bank of Ireland Issues Warning on Unauthorised / Unregistered Firm
Why this matters
This regulatory update from the Central Bank of Ireland warns about an unauthorized and unregistered firm, Pionew Ireland (Clone), that is impersonating a legitimate authorized entity.
Caventer Finance - Central Bank of Ireland Issues Warning on Unauthorised Firm
Why this matters
This is a warning from the Central Bank of Ireland about an unauthorized retail credit firm, Caventer Finance, which appears to be engaging in an advanced fee fraud scam. This is a high-urgency issue as it involves consumer protection and unauthorized financial activities.
Clearbnk (Clone) – Central Bank of Ireland Issues Warning on Unauthorised Firm
Why this matters
This is a warning from the Central Bank of Ireland about an unauthorized firm called Clearbnk (Clone) that is impersonating a legitimate bank in order to deceive consumers. This is a high-urgency issue related to consumer protection and unauthorized financial activities.
Cryptocom (Clone) – Central Bank of Ireland Issues Warning on Unauthorised Firm
Why this matters
This is a warning from the Central Bank of Ireland about an unauthorized firm called Cryptocom (Clone) that is impersonating a legitimate firm. This poses risks to consumers around unauthorized investment services, potential financial crime, and lack of regulatory oversight.
Bemo Investment Firm Ltd (Clone)– Central Bank of Ireland Issues Warning on Unauthorised Firm
Why this matters
This is a warning from the Central Bank of Ireland about an unauthorized investment firm that is cloning the details of a legitimate firm. This is a high-urgency issue as it involves consumer protection and unauthorized financial activities.
Warning Unauthorised Investment Firm / Unauthorised Investment Business Firm Unauthorised Firm Name Monument Financial Group Website https://monumentfg.com/ Email addresses used admin@monumentfg.com [name].[surname]@monumentfg.com Phone number used +353 81 800 5284 Authorisation in Ireland This firm is not authorised…
AI Analysis
The Central Bank of Ireland (CBI) has issued a warning notice under section 53 of the Central Bank (Supervision and Enforcement) Act 2013, identifying **Monument Financial Group** as an unauthorised firm providing investment services in Ireland without authorisation. This matters for compliance professionals because it underscores the CBI's proactive enforcement against unauthorised activity, heightens scam awareness, and signals risks of consumer harm, regulatory referrals to An Garda Síochána, and potential enforcement against facilitating parties.[https://www.centralbank.ie/news/article/monument-financial-group---central-bank-of-ireland-issues-warning-on-unauthorised-firm]
Key dates
25 August 2025
- Warning notice published by CBI, adding Monument Financial Group to the unauthorised firms list.[https://www.centralbank.ie/news/article/monument-financial-group---central-bank-of-ireland-issues-warning-on-unauthorised-firm]
Suggested considerations
Immediate verification: Use CBI's authorisation registers and unauthorised firms search tool before any engagement with firms claiming investment services.[https://www.centralbank.ie/regulation/how-we-regulate/authorisation/unauthorised-firms/search-unauthorised-firms]
Client communications: Advise clients to apply the "SAFE test" (check authorisation, avoid unsolicited offers, etc.) and visit www.centralbank.ie/financialscams for scam protection guidance.
If engaged: Cease all activity, secure funds, and report to CBI/Gardaí; no compensation protections apply.
What changed
This is not a regulatory change or new requirement but an enforcement action via a warning notice published on 25 August 2025. It publicly names the firm, its website (https://monumentfg.com/), emails (admin@monumentfg.com, [name].[surname]@monumentfg.com), and phone (+353 81 800 5284), confirming it lacks authorisation for investment services in Ireland.
Compliance impact
Urgency: Medium. This matters as part of a pattern of CBI warnings (e.g., Expert Limited on 19 June 2025, RCE Banque on 29 August 2025, DotBig on 01 December 2025), indicating rising unauthorised investment activity and scam risks in Ireland. Authorised firms face indirect liability for poor due diligence, reputational damage, or facilitation charges; consumers risk total fund loss without regulatory protections.
Informs insurers on the issuance of the Response to Consultation Paper on Proposed Equity Counter-Cyclical Adjustment for Insurers.
AI Analysis
The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) has finalized its **equity counter-cyclical adjustment (CCA)** framework for insurers, making it a mandatory requirement under the RBC 2 capital framework effective January 1, 2026. This regulatory enhancement aims to reduce procyclicality in equity investment risk requirements by adjusting capital charges based on market conditions, requiring all licensed insurers to implement uniform CCA calculations using monthly average year-on-year equity returns.
Key dates
27 March 2025
– MAS issued original consultation paper on proposed equity CCA
28 April 2025
– Consultation period closed
25 August 2025
– MAS published response to consultation feedback
08 December 2025
– Last revision date for related Notices 133 and FHC-N133
1 January 2026
– **Effective implementation date for equity CCA**
Suggested considerations
*Immediate Compliance Steps (by January 1, 2026):
*System Implementation – Develop or modify capital calculation systems to incorporate monthly average YoY equity return calculations
*Policy Documentation – Update internal capital management policies to reflect mandatory CCA application
*Governance Alignment – Ensure board and senior management understand the mandatory nature and cannot exercise discretion to opt out during market stress
What changed
Mandatory CCA Implementation
MAS will proceed with introducing the CCA as a mandatory requirement across all insurers.
Determining YoY returns on a daily basis
Computing the average YoY returns over the preceding one-month period
This change addresses concerns that daily calculations created excessive sensitivity to timing and duration of market stress...
Clermont Meridian Trading - Central Bank of Ireland Issues Warning on Unauthorised Firm
Why this matters
This is a warning from the Central Bank of Ireland about an unauthorized investment firm, Clermont Meridian Trading, that is operating in Ireland without proper authorization. This poses risks to consumers and the integrity of the financial system, warranting a high urgency classification.
Northern Trust Fund Managers (Ireland) Ltd (Clone) - Central Bank of Ireland Issues Warning on Unauthorised Firm
Why this matters
This is a warning from the Central Bank of Ireland about an unauthorized firm cloning the details of a legitimate authorized firm. It involves banking and investment services, with potential consumer protection and AML risks.
TD Global Company (Clone) - Central Bank of Ireland Issues Warning on Unauthorised Firm
Why this matters
This is a warning from the Central Bank of Ireland about an unauthorized firm, TD Global Company (Clone), that is impersonating a legitimate authorized firm in order to deceive consumers. This poses a high risk to investors and requires prompt action.
Ackerman & Foster LLP - Central Bank of Ireland Issues Warning on Unauthorised Firm
Why this matters
This is a warning from the Central Bank of Ireland about an unauthorized investment firm, Ackerman & Foster LLP, which is not authorized to provide investment services in Ireland. This is a high urgency issue as it relates to consumer protection and unauthorized financial activities.
Investment Peak - Central Bank of Ireland Issues Warning on Unauthorised Firm
Why this matters
This is a warning from the Central Bank of Ireland about an unauthorized investment firm called Investment Peak, which appears to be operating investment and trading services without proper authorization. This poses risks to consumers and requires prompt action.
GasTrade - Central Bank of Ireland Issues Warning on Unauthorised Firm
Why this matters
This is a warning from the Central Bank of Ireland about an unauthorized investment firm called GasTrade that is using deceptive tactics like deepfake videos and fake media to promote its activities. This poses a high risk to consumers and requires urgent action.
Beta-Tech - Central Bank of Ireland Issues Warning on Unauthorised Firm
Why this matters
This is a warning from the Central Bank of Ireland about an unauthorized investment firm, Beta-Tech, that is engaging in fraudulent activities by cloning the details of a legitimate firm. This poses a high risk to consumers and requires urgent action.
KPMG Ireland (Clone) - Central Bank of Ireland Issues Warning on Unauthorised Firm
Why this matters
This is a warning from the Central Bank of Ireland about an unauthorized firm cloning the details of a legitimate financial services provider. It is a high urgency issue as it involves financial fraud and consumer protection concerns.
VintageFXsignals - Central Bank of Ireland Issues Warning on Unauthorised Firm
Why this matters
This is a warning from the Central Bank of Ireland about an unauthorized investment firm, VintageFXsignals, that is providing investment services without proper authorization. This poses risks to consumers and requires prompt action.
Das Eidgenössische Departement für Wirtschaft, Bildung und Forschung WBF hat eine Änderung des Anhangs 7 der Verordnung vom 11. November 2015 über Massnahmen gegenüber der Islamischen Republik Iran (SR 946.231.143.6) publiziert.
AI Analysis
On August 18, 2025, the Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (WBF) published an updated sanctions notification regarding Iran, specifically modifying Annex 7 of the Ordinance on Measures against the Islamic Republic of Iran (SR 946.231.143.6). This update is critical for Swiss financial institutions and businesses because it reflects the evolving sanctions landscape following the automatic reinstatement of UN Security Council resolutions on Iran's nuclear program in September 2025.
Key dates
August 18, 2025
- WBF published updated sanctions notification for Iran (Annex 7 modifications)
August 28, 2025
- Germany, France, and UK triggered UN snapback mechanism
September 15, 2025
- Harmonization of sanctions ordinances entered into force (affecting financial sanctions procedures across multiple jurisdictions including Iran)
September 27, 2025
- UN nuclear-related sanctions against Iran automatically reinstated
September 28, 2025
- EU reactivated suspended sanctions related to Iran's proliferation activities
Suggested considerations
*Immediate compliance obligations:
*Sanctions List Screening: Update all sanctions screening systems and databases to reflect the August 2025 Annex 7 modifications and subsequent December 2025 total revision
*Transaction Review: Conduct comprehensive review of existing Iranian counterparties, customers, and beneficiaries against updated FINMA-published lists
*Account Monitoring: Identify and freeze accounts or assets belonging to designated persons and entities; report frozen assets to authorities
*Reporting: File mandatory notifications with FINMA and relevant authorities regarding any identified matches or transactions with sanctioned parties
What changed
The August 2025 notification updated the list of designated persons, entities, and organizations subject to Swiss sanctions against Iran. While the search results do not provide the specific details of individual entries added or removed from Annex 7, this type of notification typically reflects changes to the UN Security Council's consolidated sanctions list that Switzerland is obligated to implement under its Embargo Act (EmbG).
The broader context shows that Switzerland was preparing for significant sanctions escalation: on December 12, 2025, the Swiss Federal Council conducted a total...
Das Staatssekretariat für Wirtschaft (SECO) hat eine Änderung der Liste der sanktionierten natürlichen Personen, Unternehmen und Organisationen der Verordnung vom 30. März 2011 über Massnahmen gegenüber Libyen (SR 946.231.149.82) publiziert.
AI Analysis
This FINMA publication announces an update by Switzerland's State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO) to the sanctions list under the Ordinance of 30 March 2011 on Measures against Libya (SR 946.231.149.82), aligning Swiss sanctions with changes in the UN Libya sanctions regime. It matters for Swiss financial institutions as it triggers immediate screening and compliance obligations to avoid violations of asset freeze and related restrictions on designated persons, entities, or organizations. Failure to act promptly risks enforcement by FINMA.
Key dates
Immediate upon publication (19 August 2025) Deadline
- Swiss firms must implement updated sanctions list screening and freeze applicable assets/transactions per FINMA/SECO requirements (https://www.finma.ch/en/news/2025/08/20250819-sr-946-231-149-82/)
1 May 2026
- Expiration of UN authorizations/measures on illicit petroleum exports from Libya (Resolution 2769)
15 May 2026
- End of UN Panel of Experts mandate monitoring Libya sanctions
Suggested considerations
Screen immediately: Run full client, transaction, and asset portfolios against the updated SECO list (SR 946.231.149.82) for matches on newly added/removed designations.
Freeze assets: Identify and freeze any funds/economic resources of designated parties without delay; report to SECO/FINMA.
Cease dealings: Halt direct/indirect provision of funds, financial services, or trade facilitation to/from listed parties.
Monitor related flows: Heighten scrutiny on Libyan petroleum trade, LIA assets, and arms-related exemptions per UN Resolution 2769.
What changed
The core change is an amendment to the list of sanctioned natural persons, companies, and organizations in SR 946.231.149.82, as published by SECO. This reflects broader UN Security Council updates via Resolution 2769 (2025), which introduced new designation criteria for individuals/entities supporting armed groups or criminal networks through illicit exploitation/export of crude oil or refined petroleum from Libya, alongside exemptions for certain arms embargo activities, allowances for Libyan Investment Authority (LIA) frozen cash investments in low-risk deposits, and extensions of related...
Compliance impact
Urgency: High - Immediate action required due to asset freeze obligations; non-compliance risks FINMA fines, reputational damage, or criminal liability under Swiss AML/sanctions laws. This matters amid evolving geopolitical risks (e.g., petroleum smuggling destabilizing Libya), as flagged in FINMA's 2025 Risk Monitor on sanctions evasion via financial flows (https://www.swlegal.com/en/insights/newsletter-detail/finma-risk-monitor-2025-finma-flags-nine-principal/). Firms with Libyan exposure face elevated audit scrutiny.
Das Staatssekretariat für Wirtschaft (SECO) hat eine Änderung des Anhangs 2 der Verordnung vom 12. August 2015 über Massnahmen gegenüber der Republik Südsudan (SR 946.231.169.9) publiziert.
AI Analysis
FINMA has published an update notifying financial intermediaries of changes to Annex 2 of the Ordinance on Measures against the Republic of South Sudan (SR 946.231.169.9), as announced by SECO on August 18, 2025, effective August 20, 2025. This matters because it imposes immediate asset freeze and transaction ban obligations on Swiss financial institutions with exposure to newly or modified sanctioned entities, aligning with UN Security Council Resolution 2206 (2015) and EU measures to address South Sudan's ethnic conflict, human rights violations, and humanitarian crisis. Compliance failure risks enforcement actions under the Embargo Act (EmbG) and AML regulations (GwG).
Key dates
18.08.2025
- SECO publishes amendment to Annex 2
19.08.2025
- FINMA issues public notification of the update
20.08.2025
- Amendment enters into force; asset freezes and prohibitions apply immediately
Suggested considerations
Screen client portfolios, transactions, and relationships against the updated SESAM database and Annex 2 via FINMA's website or MyFINMA portal.
Freeze assets of newly listed parties without delay; block prohibited transactions.
Report affected business relationships to SECO promptly; conduct additional GwG Art. 6 due diligence if suspicions arise, and file SARs with the Money Laundering Reporting Office (MROS) under Art. 9 GwG if unresolved.
Update internal sanctions screening systems and train staff; document compliance for audit trails.
What changed
- SECO amended Annex 2 of the Ordinance, likely adding, removing, or modifying listings of sanctioned persons, companies, or organizations related to South Sudan.
The update requires implementation of prohibitions (e.g., no new business), asset freezing for listed parties, and reporting of affected relationships to SECO.
Changes stem from ongoing enforcement of UN and EU sanctions, with Switzerland implementing via the Embargo Act; Annexes are dynamically updated.
Compliance impact
Urgency: High - Immediate effect from August 20, 2025, mandates asset freezes and reporting with no grace period, exposing non-compliant firms to FINMA enforcement, fines, or reputational damage under EmbG and GwG. South Sudan sanctions are niche but cumulative updates (e.g., similar to Sudan changes) heighten screening fatigue risks; firms with Africa desks must prioritize to avoid inadvertent violations amid dynamic listings.
Das Eidgenössische Departement für Wirtschaft, Bildung und Forschung (WBF) hat den Anhang 2 der Verordnung vom 25. Mai 2005 über Massnahmen gegenüber Sudan (SR 946.231.18) geändert.
AI Analysis
The Swiss Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research (WBF) has amended Annex 2 of the Ordinance of May 25, 2005, on Measures against Sudan (SR 946.231.18), updating Switzerland's sanctions list in alignment with the SESAM database managed by SECO. This change, effective immediately on a urgent basis, requires Swiss financial intermediaries to implement updated asset freezes and transaction restrictions without delay, heightening compliance risks amid ongoing international sanctions escalation on Sudan-related actors. It matters because non-compliance exposes firms to FINMA enforcement, reputational damage, and penalties under anti-money laundering and sanctions regimes.
Suggested considerations
Screen against updated SESAM database: Immediately query SECO's Sanctions Management system and Annex 2 for new/updated designations; freeze any matching assets and report to SECO/FINMA as required.
Transaction screening and blocking: Halt any funds transfers, services, or economic resources to/from designated parties; document due diligence.
Internal compliance update: Review client portfolios, KYC files, and transaction monitoring systems for Sudan exposure; train staff and update policies.
Reporting obligations: Notify FINMA/SECO of any frozen assets or potential breaches within regulatory timelines (typically 30 days for suspicious activity under AMLA).
Audit and evidence retention: Maintain records of screening/compliance actions for FINMA inspections.
What changed
- Amendment to Annex 2 of SR 946.231.18, which lists designated persons, entities, and assets subject to sanctions such as asset freezes and prohibitions on making funds or economic resources...
Updates reflected in the official Swiss sanctions database SESAM (SECO Sanctions Management), published on the SECO website, ensuring harmonized implementation across Switzerland.
Urgent (dringliche) amendment entering into force immediately, bypassing standard consultation periods to address time-sensitive developments in the Sudan conflict.
Specific details of added/removed...
Compliance impact
Urgency: High – The urgent effective date mandates immediate action to avoid violations, with FINMA's enforcement history showing fines up to CHF 500,000+ for sanctions breaches. This matters amid Sudan's escalating conflict, where global sanctions (e.g., EU/UK additions in 2025) increase circumvention risks via Swiss hubs, amplifying AML/Financial Crime exposure and FINMA scrutiny in its 2025 Risk Monitor on geopolitical flows.
Adoption of the EBA Guidelines on internal policies, procedures and controls to ensure the implementation of Union and national restrictive measures (sanctions)
AI Analysis
Circular CSSF 25/896 adopts the EBA Guidelines EBA/GL/2024/14 and EBA/GL/2024/15, mandating Luxembourg financial institutions to establish robust internal policies, procedures, and controls for complying with EU and national restrictive measures (sanctions). This matters because it sets binding EU-wide standards to prevent sanctions violations and circumvention, with absolute obligations for immediate asset freezing and reporting, amid escalating geopolitical tensions.
Suggested considerations
Conduct annual exposure assessments to sanctions risks and circumvention; update policies accordingly.
Appoint senior management/board-level responsibility for approving and overseeing sanctions strategy, including annual reviews and deficiency reporting.
Implement reliable screening systems for customers, transactions, and lists; define screenable datasets; test systems regularly for effectiveness (e.g., immediate freezing, accurate hits).
Provide documented training to relevant staff on sanctions, institutional exposure, and internal processes.
Establish processes for immediate action on matches: suspend transfers, freeze assets, report to Ministry of Finance/CSSF/FIU without delay; maintain whitelists only under strict conditions.
What changed
- Institutions must develop, implement, and maintain up-to-date policies, procedures, and controls for identifying, investigating, and applying restrictive measures without delay, including risk...
Management body responsibilities expanded: approve sanctions compliance strategy, oversee implementation, conduct at least annual assessments of exposure and controls, ensure remedial actions, and...
Screening and monitoring requirements: Maintain updated sanctions lists with immediate integration of changes; screen customer base, transactions, and datasets accurately; enable immediate...
Training and testing: Deliver regular, documented role-specific training; perform ongoing system testing for screening calibration, list accuracy, transaction monitoring effectiveness, and reporting.
Proportionality applies based on institution's size, activities, and exposure; PSPs and CASPs explicitly addressed with tailored controls.
Compliance impact
Urgency: High – With less than 12 months until the 30 December 2025 deadline (as of January 2026), firms face binding requirements for absolute compliance, including personal accountability for management bodies; non-compliance risks enforcement by CSSF, reputational damage, and fines amid frequent EU sanctions updates (e.g., Regulations 2025/1469, 2025/1476). This elevates sanctions from operational task to strategic board priority.
This regulatory update from the ECB appears to be a list of supervised entities, which is likely relevant for banks, asset managers, and wealth managers in terms of prudential requirements, reporting, and licensing.
This regulatory update from FINMA appears to relate to the harmonization of sanctions regulations, which would impact banking, investment management, and wealth management firms in terms of AML/financial crime compliance, prudential requirements, and reporting obligations.
Das Staatssekretariat für Wirtschaft (SECO) hat eine Änderung des Anhangs der Verordnung vom 7. August 1990 über Wirtschaftsmassnahmen gegenüber der Republik Irak (SR 946.206) publiziert.
AI Analysis
The Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO) published an updated sanctions notification on August 13, 2025, reflecting modifications to the UN sanctions list targeting Iraq under the Ordinance of August 7, 1990 (SR 946.206). This update is automatically applicable in Switzerland and requires immediate compliance by all financial institutions and regulated entities, as Switzerland implements UN Security Council sanctions lists without delay through its automatic application framework.
Key dates
August 5, 2025
- UN Sanctions Committee decision modifying the Iraq sanctions list
August 13, 2025
- SECO published the updated sanctions notification and SESAM database modifications
Immediate
- Effective date in Switzerland (automatic application upon UN modification)
Suggested considerations
*Update screening systems immediately - Integrate the August 5, 2025 modifications into transaction monitoring and customer due diligence systems
*Review existing customer relationships - Screen all current customers, counterparties, and beneficial owners against the updated SESAM database
*Audit transaction history - Identify any transactions processed between August 5-13, 2025 that may have involved newly sanctioned parties
*Document compliance procedures - Maintain records demonstrating implementation of updated sanctions screening
*Train compliance staff - Ensure all relevant personnel understand the updated sanctions list and screening requirements
What changed
The UN Sanctions Committee modified the list of sanctioned individuals, companies, and organizations subject to Iraq-related sanctions on August 5, 2025. The specific modifications to the sanctions list were incorporated into Switzerland's SESAM database (SECO Sanctions Management), which serves as the authoritative sanctions reference for Swiss compliance purposes. Under Switzerland's automatic application ordinance adopted by the Federal Council on March 4, 2016, amendments to UN Security Council sanctions lists enter into force in Switzerland without delay.
Das Eidgenössische Departement für Wirtschaft, Bildung und Forschung WBF hat eine Änderung der Anhänge 5, 13, 14 und 15 der Verordnung über Massnahmen gegenüber Belarus (SR 946.231.116.9) publiziert.
AI Analysis
The Swiss Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research (WBF) published updates to Annexes 5, 13, 14, and 15 of the Ordinance on Measures against Belarus (SR 946.231.116.9), aligning Switzerland with additional EU sanctions imposed on July 18, 2025, in response to Belarus's involvement in Russia's war against Ukraine. This matters for Swiss financial institutions as it expands asset freezes, reporting obligations, and prohibitions, strengthening sanctions parity with Russia to prevent circumvention and enhance enforcement effectiveness.
Key dates
15 September 2025
- Harmonization of financial sanctions across multiple regimes (including Belarus) enters into force, clarifying fund crediting on blocked accounts and reporting
30 October 2025
- New provisions from Bundesrat decision on 29 October 2025 enter into force, requiring immediate implementation of updated Belarus measures
12 December 2025
- Publication of list expansions by WBF/SECO
13 December 2025
- Expansions to sanctions lists for Russia/Belarus (including 22 persons, 42 entities, 116 ships, 45 trade firms, 5 banks) take effect
Suggested considerations
Screen clients, assets, and transactions against updated Annexes 5, 13-15, and related lists (e.g., Annexes 3, 11a, 19) for freezes and prohibitions; block and report frozen assets/business relationships to SECO immediately.
Conduct GwG Art. 6 due diligence on suspicions; if unresolved, file AML reports under Art. 9 GwG (SECO reporting does not exempt this).
Cease prohibited activities: no loans, insurance, deposits >CHF 100k from Belarusians, specialized messaging for payments, or dealings with National Bank of Belarus.
Update internal screening tools, policies, and training; monitor SECO/FINMA websites for ongoing Anhänge updates.
For trade/energy firms: Halt exports/imports of listed goods (e.g., oil, potash, machinery) and verify third-country counterparties.
What changed
The updates amend Annexes 5, 13, 14, and 15 of SR 946.231.116.9, incorporating EU measures beyond the 18th Russia sanctions package, focusing on goods, financial, and energy sectors. Specific enhancements include expanded lists of sanctioned goods for military/technological strengthening (Annex 3 updated 29.10.2025), high-priority goods (Annex 11a), and industrial strengthening goods (Annex 19).
Compliance impact
Urgency: High - Immediate effect from 30 October 2025 demands swift asset screening and reporting to avoid GwG/EmbG violations, with heightened FINMA scrutiny amid Russia-Belarus alignment and recent list expansions (e.g., December 2025). Non-compliance risks enforcement, reputational damage, and sanctions evasion facilitation penalties, especially as circumvention via third countries rises.
Das Eidgenössische Departement für Wirtschaft, Bildung und Forschung WBF hat eine Änderung des Anhangs der Verordnung vom 28. Juni 2023 über Massnahmen betreffend Moldau (SR 946.231.156.5) publiziert.
AI Analysis
The Swiss Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research (WBF) published an update to Annex of the Ordinance on Measures concerning Moldova (SR 946.231.156.5) on August 11, 2025, expanding the sanctions list for Moldova-related destabilizing activities. This matters for Swiss financial intermediaries as it imposes immediate asset freeze and reporting obligations under the Embargo Act (EmbG) and Anti-Money Laundering Act (GwG), aligning Switzerland with EU measures to counter threats to Moldova's sovereignty amid regional instability.
Key dates
28.06.2023
Original Ordinance effective date; (context for baseline measures)
11.08.2025
Publication of Annex update by WBF
12.08.2025
Measures enter into force; (based on similar recent updates; immediate effect standard)
Immediate (unverzüglich)
Report frozen assets to SECO
Suggested considerations
Screen Client Base: Immediately rescreen all existing and prospective clients, relationships, and transactions against the updated SECO/FINMA Moldova sanctions list via MyFINMA portal.
Freeze and Report Assets: Block all funds/economic resources of newly listed parties without delay; report details (e.g., account info, asset values) to SECO promptly.
AML Due Diligence: Conduct enhanced checks under Art. 6 GwG; if suspicions persist post-SECO report, file suspicious activity report (SAR) with MROS under Art. 9 GwG.
Internal Controls: Update screening tools, train staff, and document compliance to mitigate enforcement risk from FINMA.
Monitor Ongoing: Subscribe to FINMA MyFINMA alerts and SECO updates for further Annex changes.
What changed
- Updated Sanctions List: The WBF amended the Annex to include additional natural or legal persons, organizations, or entities subject to financial sanctions, effective immediately upon publication.
Financial Sanctions Reinforced: Mandatory asset freezes (sperre von Vermögenswerten), prohibitions on making funds or economic resources available (Bereitstellungsverbote), and reporting requirements...
No Change to Core Ordinance: The underlying Ordinance from June 28, 2023, is unchanged, but the Annex expansion triggers re-screening of existing relationships.
Compliance impact
Urgency: High – Immediate asset blocking and SECO reporting are mandatory with no grace period, risking FINMA enforcement (e.g., fines, reputational damage) for non-compliance; matters due to expanding geopolitical risks in Eastern Europe, potential for rapid list growth, and overlap with high-volume Russia/Ukraine sanctions regimes.
Das Departement für Wirtschaft, Bildung und Forschung (WBF) hat die Erweiterung der Sanktionslisten betreffend Russland publiziert. Die Schweiz hat damit diverse Änderungen übernommen, welche die EU im Rahmen ihres 18. Sanktionspakets beschlossen hatte.
AI Analysis
This FINMA publication announces Switzerland's adoption of the EU's 18th sanctions package against Russia, expanding the sanctions lists with new designations and restrictions via the Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO/WBF). It matters because Swiss financial institutions must immediately screen and freeze assets of newly listed parties, aligning with heightened FINMA enforcement on Russia sanctions risks amid ongoing geopolitical tensions. Compliance teams face elevated legal, reputational, and secondary sanctions exposure from US/EU measures.
Key dates
Immediate upon publication (August 13, 2025)
- Swiss sanctions lists updated; asset freezes and prohibitions take effect instantly for newly designated parties
15 December 2025
- Noted FINMA reference for ongoing list updates and independent freezing measures
31 July 2026
- EU sectoral sanctions against Russia renewed until this date (adopted December 2025), influencing Swiss alignment
Suggested considerations
Enhance customer due diligence (CDD): Review existing Russia/Ukraine portfolios for matches; implement enhanced monitoring for shadow fleet, oil traders, and FIMI-linked entities.
Report to FINMA/SECO: Notify of any frozen assets or potential breaches; document compliance efforts to mitigate enforcement risks.
Update policies: Integrate EU 18th package into internal sanctions frameworks, including red flags for circumvention (e.g., crypto, third-country banks).
Train staff: Conduct urgent refreshers on secondary sanctions risks per FINMA Risk Monitor 2025.
What changed
The core update involves Switzerland incorporating EU Council decisions from the 18th sanctions package, which typically include:
Additions to asset freeze lists targeting Russian individuals, entities, and sectors like energy, finance, and dual-use goods.
Expanded prohibitions on making funds or economic resources available to designated parties.
Alignment with EU sectoral restrictions on Russia's financial messaging services (e.g., SPFS), oil trade, and shadow fleet activities, now binding in Switzerland via ordinances updated by WBF/SECO.
Compliance impact
Urgency: High - This directly expands enforceable prohibitions, with FINMA's targeted on-site reviews and "very high" Russia sanctions risk rating amplifying enforcement (https://www.finma.ch/en/~/media/finma/dokumente/dokumentencenter/myfinma/finma-publikationen/risikomonitor/20251117-finma-risikomonitor-2025.pdf?sc_lang=en). Non-compliance risks fines, reputational damage, and secondary US sanctions, especially post-EU renewals through 2026.
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