Good afternoon and thank you for the opportunity to speak to you today. It is great to see the energy and commitment to the credit union movement evident here today and reflected in your agenda for today’s conference. 1 Today’s event is especially timely, coming not long since Minister Troy’s announcement in April of the Credit Union Strategy Project, which provides an opportunity to future proof the credit union sector to overcome challenges and meet opportunities. The Central Bank welcomes ...
Introduction Good morning – I am delighted to be here, and many thanks to Brian and the BPFI for hosting us. 1 I very much look forward to the discussion, and to hearing from you all today, but before I do I would like to set out some reflections on a number of topics which are currently high on the regulatory agenda. While the discussion is multifaceted, and tied up with a regulatory cycle which has turned, an economic one which has become more challenging, not to mention a renewed focus by ...
Central Bank loan-level research shows the Irish lending market is significantly less concentrated when considering the full diversity of lenders. Robust capital and liquidity positions have served the sector well – with the evidence not supporting a lowering of overall levels of resilience on the basis of bank credit, profitability or international competitiveness. Central Banks best serve these broader objectives related to productivity and growth by delivering on their core mandates, effec...
I was in Washington for the Spring Meetings of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) two weeks ago and this week I was in Frankfurt at the latest meeting of the ECB Governing Council, to decide interest rates to achieve our price stability target of 2 per cent inflation over the medium term. I wanted to use this blog to offer some reflections on both meetings. Inevitably the war in the Middle East cast a shadow over both meetings. Uncertainty about the global outlook dominated the discourse: ...
Safeguarding Financial Integrity – Central Bank of Ireland’s Approach to Financial Crime Prevention Thank you for the invitation to speak at today’s event. This is an important opportunity for us to engage and share our experiences and approaches to deal with the global challenges and issues we are facing in financial crime. Change, instability, flux, unpredictability - all words that I guarantee you will hear on multiple occasions throughout the day’s events. I will not be any different. We ...
Good morning. Brendan, thank you for the warm introduction. It is a pleasure to join you at the ILCU Internal Audit Services Conference. I also want to thank Barry Harrington for the invitation to address you here today. 1 When I addressed the ILCU Annual Conference last April, I spoke about a time of transformative change for credit unions, a period that would bring both significant opportunities and important challenges. 2 One year on, we can see that transformation taking shape. A revised ...
More than one in three Irish adults (35%) have experienced fraud or scams. 38% of fraud victims never reported their experience to their financial service provider or any authority. Research identified risky online behaviours as the single strongest predictor of fraud experience—more influential than age, income, or education level. Fraud victims are far more likely to recover monies when the fraud is reported. Fraud literacy reduces predicted fraud exposure Central Bank of Ireland of Ireland...
Warning: Unauthorised Investment Firm / Unauthorised Investment Business Firm / Unauthorised Irish Collective Asset-Management Vehicle (ICAV) Unauthorised Firm Name Clarus IV ICAV (CLONE) Website https://www.clarusiv.com/ Email addresses used enquiries@clarusiv.com accounts@clarusiv.com michael.granger@clarusiv.com Phone number used +353 1525 9660 Authorisation in Ireland Clarus IV ICAV (Clone) is not authorised to provide investment services in Ireland. Additional Information This firm clone...
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 regarding **Clarus IV ICAV (CLONE)**, an unauthorised entity cloning a legitimate authorised ICAV to perpetrate investment scams. This matters for compliance professionals as it underscores rising clone firm risks in Ireland's investment sector, requiring vigilance to protect clients and avoid facilitation of scams.
What Changed
This is not a regulatory change but a specific enforcement action publishing details of an unauthorised clone firm. It highlights no new requirements but reinforces existing obligations under Irish law to verify firm authorisation before engaging in investment services, with the CBI actively using public warnings to combat scams.
Suggested Considerations
Client communications: Issue alerts on clone risks and direct to CBI scam protection resources (www.centralbank.ie/financialscams).
Internal screening: Update compliance systems to flag clone indicators (e.g., similar names, cloned authorisation details); report suspicions to CBI at (01) 224 5800.
Legitimate firms: Publicly disavow any connection if cloned, as emphasised by CBI.
Key Dates
17 April 2026
- CBI publishes warning notice on Clarus IV ICAV (CLONE)
Compliance Impact
Urgency: Medium - Immediate for client-facing activities due to active scam using Irish phone numbers and domains, but not a new rule change; matters to prevent regulatory scrutiny for inadequate due diligence or client harm under conduct and authorisation rules. Recent pattern of ICAV clones (e.g., Parus ICAV on 08 April 2026, Red Arc on 10 April 2026) signals heightened scam activity, elevating ongoing monitoring needs.
Warning: Unauthorised Investment Firm / Investment Business Firm Unauthorised Firm Name Pimco Global Wealth / Pimco (Ireland) (Clone) Websites www.pimcoglobalwealth.com www.pimcoprivatewealth.com www.pimcoprivateclients.com www.pimcoglobaladvisors.com Email address used admin@pimcoglobalwealth.com Phone numbers used +353 1 912 8604 +353 1 531 4593 Authorisation in Ireland This firm is not authorised to provide investment services in Ireland. Additional information Pimco Global Wealth / Pimco ...
AI Analysis
The Central Bank of Ireland (CBI) issued a warning notice on 17 April 2026 under section 53 of the Central Bank (Supervision and Enforcement) Act 2013, identifying "Pimco Global Wealth / Pimco (Ireland) (Clone)" as an unauthorised investment firm impersonating the legitimate authorised entity Pimco Global Advisors (Ireland) Limited by cloning its name, CRO number, and address. This matters for compliance professionals as it underscores rising cloning scams targeting Irish consumers, requiring firms to enhance client vigilance, scam monitoring, and public communications to mitigate reputational and conduct risks.
What Changed
This is not a regulatory change or new requirement but a specific enforcement warning publicising an unauthorised clone firm operating via listed websites (www.pimcoglobalwealth.com, www.pimcoprivatewealth.com, www.pimcoprivateclients.com, www.pimcoglobaladvisors.com), email (admin@pimcoglobalwealth.com), and Irish phone numbers (+353 1 912 8604, +353 1 531 4593). It reinforces CBI's ongoing use of section 53 powers to name and shame unauthorised entities engaged in deceptive practices, with no new rules but heightened emphasis on consumer deception via firm cloning.
Suggested Considerations
Verify authorisation: Firms and clients must check CBI's register (www.centralbank.ie) before engaging with any entity claiming to offer investment services.
Issue internal alerts: Authorised firms should disseminate this warning to staff, clients, and intermediaries via emails, client portals, and websites, emphasising no connection to clones.
Monitor and report: Screen for the listed websites, emails, and phone numbers in client communications; report suspicious activity to CBI at (01) 224 5800 or via unauthorised firm reporting portal.
Enhance controls: Implement or update scam detection protocols, including client onboarding checks for impersonation red flags and training on cloning tactics.
Public disclaimers: Legitimate firms like PIMCO should post fraud warnings, as seen on their site, advising against sharing personal/bank details with unknowns.
Key Dates
17 April 2026
- CBI publishes warning notice on Pimco Global Wealth (Clone)
Compliance Impact
Urgency: Medium - Immediate for Pimco-impacted firms due to active deception using Irish contact details, but medium overall as CBI warnings are routine (e.g., multiple Pimco clones in 2024-2026). Matters for conduct risk, client protection, and reputation; failure to act could breach CBI fitness & probity or consumer duty expectations, especially amid rising scams (e.g., Clarus IV ICAV clone on same date).
Warning: Unauthorised Retail Credit Firm Unauthorised Firm Name Finance Advice Help Website Financeadvicehelp.com Email address used contact@financeadvicehelp.com Authorisation in Ireland Finance Advice Help is not authorised to provide retail credit services in Ireland. Notes: Any person wishing to contact the Central Bank with information regarding such firms / persons may telephone (01) 224 5800 or report an unauthorised firm directly to the Central Bank . For more information on how to pr...
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 "Finance Advice Help" (website: financeadvicehelp.com; email: contact@financeadvicehelp.com) as an unauthorised firm providing retail credit services in Ireland. This matters for compliance professionals as it underscores CBI's proactive enforcement against unauthorised entities, heightening risks of consumer scams and potential liability for authorised firms if clients inadvertently engage with clones or similar frauds.[Source URL: https://www.centralbank.ie/news/article/finance-advice-help--central-bank-of-ireland-issues-warning-on-unauthorised-firm]
What Changed
This is not a regulatory change but an enforcement action via a public warning notice. It reinforces existing requirements under the Central Bank (Supervision and Enforcement) Act 2013 (section 53), which empowers CBI to publish names of unauthorised firms offering regulated services like retail credit. No new rules are introduced; it signals ongoing vigilance against unauthorised retail credit providers.[Source URL: https://www.centralbank.ie/news/article/finance-advice-help--central-bank-of-ireland-issues-warning-on-unauthorised-firm]
Suggested Considerations
Verify firm status: Use CBI's unauthorised firms search tool before engaging with any retail credit provider (https://www.centralbank.ie/regulation/how-we-regulate/authorisation/unauthorised-firms/search-unauthorised-firms).
Report suspicions: Contact CBI at (01) 224 5800 or via direct reporting portal for any dealings with Finance Advice Help or similar entities.[Source URL: https://www.centralbank.ie/news/article/finance-advice-help--central-bank-of-ireland-issues-warning-on-unauthorised-firm]
Educate clients/staff: Disseminate scam protection guidance from www.centralbank.ie/financialscams; implement "SAFE test" for verification.[Source URL: https://www.centralbank.ie/news/article/finance-advice-help--central-bank-of-ireland-issues-warning-on-unauthorised-firm]
Monitor clones: Screen for impersonation risks, as seen in related warnings (e.g., Shamrock Lend clone).
Key Dates
14 April 2026
Publication date of warning notice; Immediate public alert on unauthorised status of Finance Advice Help.[Source URL: https://www.centralbank.ie/news/article/finance-advice-help--central-bank-of-ireland-issues-warning-on-unauthorised-firm]
Compliance Impact
Urgency: Medium – This is a routine CBI warning (one of many in 2025-2026), not targeting authorised firms directly, but it elevates consumer protection and conduct risks. Firms must act promptly to update internal alerts and client advisories to mitigate reputational harm, regulatory scrutiny, or indirect liability from scam exposures; failure could trigger CBI inquiries under conduct rules.
The Central Bank of Ireland today announced details of a targeted amendment to the mortgage measures that will exempt certain principal home bridging loans from the Loan-to-Income (LTI) limit . The Loan-to-Value (LTV) limit will continue to apply to these products, and all other elements of the mortgage measures remain unchanged. The amendment recognises that bridging finance products are a feature of the evolving Irish mortgage market and ensures that the regulatory framework adapts appropri...
AI Analysis
The Central Bank of Ireland (CBI) has announced a targeted amendment exempting certain principal home bridging loans from the Loan-to-Income (LTI) limit while retaining the Loan-to-Value (LTV) limit and all other mortgage measures unchanged, recognizing bridging finance as a growing market feature repaid via property sale proceeds rather than income. This matters for compliance professionals as it enables lenders to offer these short-term products (max 18 months) without LTI constraints, but requires reinforced underwriting, consumer protection, and ongoing CBI monitoring to maintain lending standards.
What Changed
- Exemption from LTI limit: Principal home bridging loans—defined as short-term loans (maximum 18 months) enabling homeowners to buy a new principal home before selling their current property, repaid...
LTV limit retained: Maximum 90% LTV continues to apply to these loans, alongside the 15% flexibility allowance for first-time/second/subsequent buyer lending.
No other changes: All remaining mortgage measures, including consumer protection rules and lenders' prudent underwriting obligations, stay intact.
Monitoring commitment: CBI will track the exemption's operation within its regular mortgage measures assessments for unintended risks.
Suggested Considerations
Update lending policies: Identify and classify principal home bridging loans (max 18 months, repayment from property sale, no capital repayments required during term) to apply LTI exemption but enforce 90% LTV.
Enhance underwriting: Conduct individual suitability and affordability assessments beyond macroprudential limits; do not rely solely on exemption.
Strengthen consumer protections: Fully inform borrowers of risks (e.g., sale delays, interest costs); ensure products suit circumstances per consumer protection rules.
Internal monitoring and reporting: Track bridging loan volumes within flexibility allowances; prepare for CBI inquiries as part of ongoing assessments.
Staff training and systems updates: Revise origination, disclosure, and compliance systems promptly to operationalize changes.
Key Dates
08 April 2026
Announcement and effective date; CBI press release details the amendment, with immediate application implied for qualifying bridging loans (no explicit phase-in mentioned)
Compliance Impact
Urgency: High – Effective immediately on announcement (08 April 2026), this enables new lending opportunities in a evolving market but demands swift policy tweaks, training, and risk controls to avoid consumer protection breaches or excessive risk-taking, with CBI monitoring for emerging issues. Non-compliance risks supervisory scrutiny, as measures reinforce macroprudential goals amid housing market pressures.
In his latest blog, Governor Gabriel Makhlouf argues that central banks must modernise their digital infrastructure and regulatory frameworks to ensure that central bank money remains the stable foundation of Europe's financial system whilst enabling private sector innovation in a digitally transformed ecosystem.
The Prohibition Notice (PDF) issued after Mr Buckley signed a Statement of Undisputed Facts, in which he accepted that between 1 February 2021 and 12 December 2023, while he was employed at two different retail intermediaries, he issued invoices to clients directing payment to his personal bank account in place of his employers’ bank details. Mr Buckley also accepted that he misrepresented his financial qualifications to clients during the course of his employment. The Prohibition Notice issu...
AI Analysis
The Central Bank of Ireland (CBI) has issued an indefinite prohibition to Nicholas (Nick) Buckley from all controlled functions, effective 25 February 2026, following his admission of diverting client payments to his personal account and misrepresenting financial qualifications while at two retail intermediaries from 1 February 2021 to 12 December 2023. This enforcement action underscores the CBI's commitment to the Fitness and Probity Regime, emphasizing integrity in customer-facing roles to maintain public trust. Compliance professionals should note it as a precedent for severe sanctions on dishonesty, potentially influencing vetting and monitoring practices.
What Changed
This is not a new regulation but an enforcement outcome under the existing Fitness and Probity Regime, established by the Central Bank Reform Act 2010, which mandates high standards of competence, integrity, and honesty for individuals in controlled functions. No regulatory changes are introduced; instead, it reinforces enforcement mechanisms, including investigations and prohibitions for breaches, particularly in customer-facing roles where honesty is paramount.
Suggested Considerations
Firms employing similar roles: Immediately review invoicing processes to ensure payments direct only to firm accounts, with segregation of duties and dual approvals for client billing.
Fitness and Probity assessments: Conduct enhanced due diligence on customer-facing staff, verifying qualifications via independent sources and monitoring for personal financial gain conflicts.
Incident reporting: Escalate any suspected integrity breaches (e.g., qualification misrepresentation or fund diversion) to CBI under fitness and probity notification obligations.
Training programs: Update mandatory training on Fitness and Probity Standards (available at https://www.centralbank.ie/regulation/fitness-and-probity), focusing on honesty in client interactions.
Prohibition checks: Screen all controlled function holders against CBI's public prohibitions list before approvals or role changes.
Key Dates
1 February 2021
12 December 2023; Period of Buckley's admitted misconduct (diverting payments and misrepresenting qualifications)
25 February 2026
Effective date of the indefinite prohibition on Buckley performing any controlled functions
01 April 2026
Publication date of the CBI press release announcing the Prohibition Notice
Compliance Impact
Urgency: Medium – This is a specific enforcement precedent rather than a new rule, but it signals heightened CBI scrutiny on integrity breaches in retail intermediation, with indefinite bans as a tool to protect consumers. It matters because customer-facing misconduct erodes trust, prompting firms to strengthen controls proactively to avoid similar investigations, especially given CBI Director of Enforcement's warning on accountability. Non-compliance risks firm-level sanctions, reputational damage, and operational disruptions.
Good morning and welcome to Central Bank of Ireland. Thank you for joining us for this inaugural gathering of the Savings and Investment Forum. I want to extend a particular welcome to the Tánaiste. Today marks an important milestone. The Department of Finance's 2024 Funds Review recognised the importance of enabling more retail investment in Ireland. It recommended establishing this Forum to address that challenge and today provides a timely opportunity to do so. Let me place this initiative...
Central Bank of Ireland today launched a commemorative coin celebrating the life and work of renowned Irish playwright Seán O'Casey, on what would have been his 146 th birthday. It marks the 100th anniversary of the inaugural performance of his masterpiece The Plough and the Stars at the Abbey Theatre. The silver proof coin will go on sale today (Monday 30 March 2026) at 1pm on www.collectorcoins.ie . Designed by PJ Lynch, there are just 3,000 coins available, and they will retail at €90. Gov...
Good morning everyone. It is a pleasure to join you today at the Abbey Theatre. We are here, of course, to launch a commemorative coin to honour Seán O’Casey, one of Ireland’s most important literary figures, and one whose voice continues to resonate profoundly, both in Ireland and internationally. I am delighted to welcome Shivaun O’Casey, Seán O’Casey’s daughter. It is particularly fitting to mark this occasion in her presence. Thank you to the Abbey Theatre for hosting us here today, a pla...
Governor Gabriel Makhlouf of the Central Bank of Ireland today emphasised the critical need to strengthen Europe’s Single Market as the foundation for mobilising the continent’s substantial savings in an increasingly fragmented global environment.
In his remarks, Governor Gabriel Makhlouf emphasised that Europe must mobilise its substantial savings by strengthening economic growth, completing the Single Market, and building more integrated capital markets, as capital currently flows abroad due to perceived higher returns elsewhere. He argued that central banks must anchor price stability and financial stability as preconditions for effective capital allocation, and that by addressing these fundamentals, European savings will naturally ...
Good afternoon and welcome to this Central Bank of Ireland workshop on the Consumer Protection Code. Today I will focus on the outlook for consumers and investors. But first let me pause to talk a little about the broader context in which we find ourselves. We are living through a period marked by extraordinary change, geopolitical instability, rapid technological transformation and shifting economic conditions. Governor Makhlouf summarised this well when he said how 2026 has already seen ext...
AI Analysis
Deputy Governor Colm Kincaid's speech on 24 March 2026 emphasizes consumer protection as central to the Central Bank of Ireland's (CBI) mission amid geopolitical, technological, and economic changes, highlighting the revised **Consumer Protection Code 2025** (CPC 2025) as a key modernization effort. This matters for compliance professionals because the CPC 2025 introduces enhanced, digitally-focused protections effective **24 March 2026**, replacing the 2012 Code after a 12-month implementation period, with firms required to proactively secure customer interests.
What Changed
The CPC 2025 comprises Standards for Business Regulations (governance, resources, risk management, conduct standards) and Consumer Protection Regulations (cross-sectoral and sector-specific rules for...
Core obligation: Firms must "secure customers’ interests," shifting to a proactive, customer-focused mindset.
Cross-sectoral requirements: Knowing the consumer/suitability; conflicts of interest/remuneration; vulnerable consumers (updated definition); digitalisation (customer-focused design); effective...
Specific enhancements: Fraud/scam protections; mortgage switching disclosures; greenwashing prevention via clear sustainability claims; expanded consumer definition (e.g., SMEs up to €5m turnover...
Supporting materials: Guidance on securing interests/vulnerable consumers, mapping tool for legacy codes, redline amendments.
Suggested Considerations
Gap analysis: Map current policies/processes against CPC 2025 using CBI's mapping tool; update for new obligations like digital service design, vulnerability screening, fraud measures.
Urgency: High – With effectiveness today (24 March 2026), firms face immediate non-compliance risk as the 12-month window closes; CBI supervision will intensify on digital/fraud/vulnerability protections amid heightened risks (e.g., cyber, scams). Non-adherence risks enforcement under CBI's powers, reputational damage, and fines, especially as this "gold-plates" EU rules in a volatile environment.
The Central Bank of Ireland today (Tuesday 24 March 2026) marked the coming into force of the modernised Consumer Protection Code, giving consumers stronger protections when using banks, insurance companies, and other financial services. The modernised Code has been designed to better protect consumers in today’s world, and in anticipation of how financial services will evolve into the future. It follows extensive public consultation and engagement. Deputy Governor Colm Kincaid said: "The Cen...
Role of Non-Bank Entities in the Irish Housing Market regarding residential mortgages Go raibh maith agat a Chathaoirligh agus gabhaim buíochas leis an gcoiste as ucht an cuireadh a bheith anseo inniú. I am joined by my colleagues Domhnall Cullinan, Director of Banking and Payments, and Aisling Menton, Head of Retail Credit and we welcome the opportunity to continue this important discussion on the role of non-bank entities in the Irish mortgage market. As outlined in updated figures we publi...
Introduction Good morning. I am delighted to welcome you to Central Bank of Ireland today as part of our continued engagement with the crypto sector. This time last year we hosted an industry briefing focused on the path to success in the authorisation of Crypto-Asset Service Providers (CASPs). It has been a very active 12 months, and today I see many of you in the room from newly authorised CASPs who have come through the process successfully. This morning’s event is an excellent opportunity...
Good morning everyone, I am delighted to be here for what looks set to be an interesting conference on a topic which is both very close to my heart and central to what we do at Central Bank of Ireland (“the Central Bank”) – as we work to deliver on our mission, and in particular ensuring the financial system is operating in the best interests of consumers and the wider economy. 1 I am particularly delighted to be back in UCD – where I had the pleasure to study economics as an undergraduate, w...
AI Analysis
This speech by Deputy Governor Mary Elizabeth McMunn outlines the Central Bank of Ireland's (CBI) shift toward **outcomes-focused regulation and supervision**, emphasizing five key priorities from the 2026 Regulatory and Supervisory Outlook (RSO) to address geopolitical risks, consumer protection, technology, and resilience in a volatile environment. It matters for compliance professionals as it signals intensified CBI scrutiny on firm behaviors and outcomes rather than mere rule compliance, with direct implications for supervisory engagements, thematic reviews, and enforcement across banking, funds, insurance, and payments sectors.
What Changed
No new legislative changes are introduced in the speech itself, which serves as a practitioner's perspective on implementing the RSO 2026 priorities.
Resilience to geopolitical/macro risks (operational resilience, cyber security, financial resilience).
Technology transformations (AI, digital money, tokenisation).
These build on prior developments like the revised Consumer Protection Code (CPC), DORA implementation, and enhanced AML/CFT frameworks,...
Suggested Considerations
Conduct gap analyses for revised CPC compliance, focusing on thresholds, customer experience, and fraud support (immediate if in-scope).
Strengthen financial crime controls: Improve fraud detection, victim support, scam awareness; update AML/CFT via enhanced questionnaires and transaction monitoring.
Review technology/AI governance: Assess AI models, digital innovations (e.g., tokenisation); engage CBI supervisors pre-implementation; ensure data quality/reliability.
Embed ESG/climate risks: Integrate into governance/business models; prepare for desktop/onsite reviews and greenwashing checks.
Key Dates
24 March 2026DEADLINE
- Revised Consumer Protection Code (CPC) takes effect (12-month lead-in complete; firms must be compliant)
H1–H2 2026
- DORA implementation including threat-led penetration testing (survey issued H1)
H1–H2 2026
- Enhanced AML/CFT Risk Evaluation Questionnaire
H1 2026–H2 2027
- Thematic inspection of transaction monitoring and STR reporting
H1–H2 2026
- UCITS Value at Risk (VaR) model review and depositary oversight
Compliance Impact
Urgency: High – The speech, delivered today (9 March 2026), underscores imminent RSO 2026 execution with CPC effective in 2 weeks (24 March 2026) and H1 2026 activities (e.g., DORA testing, AML questionnaires) starting soon. Non-compliance risks intensified supervision, thematic inspections, enforcement, and reputational damage in a high-geopolitical-risk environment; outcomes-focus demands proactive evidence of resilience and consumer safeguards over procedural box-ticking.
New OECD report highlights financial scams as top threat to consumers globally Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Ireland Colm Kincaid welcomed the publication of the OECD’s Consumer Finance Risk Monitor 2026 , a comprehensive global assessment examining consumer protection challenges across 60 international jurisdictions. Deputy Governor Kincaid emphasised the need for strengthened oversight as structural economic, technological and market-conduct risks converge to significantly elevate ...
In his latest blog, the Governor Gabriel Makhlouf reflects on the publication of the Regulatory and Supervisory Outlook 2026 and the recent Access to Cash report.
The Central Bank has today published its Regulatory & Supervisory Outlook 2026 , which sets out its latest assessment of the risk landscape facing the financial sector and the supervisory work it will undertake in response. This follows on from the Governor’s letter to the Tánaiste on the economic outlook and regulatory priorities in January . This is the third year of the report, which continues to be set against a backdrop of a changing, uncertain and increasingly complex external environme...
AI Analysis
The Central Bank of Ireland (CBI) has published its **Regulatory & Supervisory Outlook 2026**, outlining priorities shaped by geoeconomic fragmentation, technological acceleration, and elevated risks like operational resilience, cyber threats, data/AI, and consumer protection. This matters for compliance professionals as it signals intensified supervisory scrutiny, including desktop and onsite inspections, across Ireland's financial sector to ensure resilience and adaptability amid uncertainties.[https://www.centralbank.ie/news/article/press-release-central-bank-sets-out-its-regulatory-and-supervisory-priorities-26-february-2026][https://www.ogier.com/news-and-insights/insights/regulatory-outlook-2026-the-central-bank-of-ireland-s-priorities-explained/]
What Changed
No new binding regulatory requirements are introduced in this publication, which serves as a strategic outlook rather than enforceable rules. Key shifts in risk assessment include elevated operational risks (due to geopolitics, digitalisation, complex models), increased asset valuation/market risks, and rising data/models/AI risks, while inflation/interest rate risks have decreased.
Suggested Considerations
Implement revised CPC by 24 March 2026, assessing scope changes and business impacts.[https://www.ogier.com/news-and-insights/insights/regulatory-outlook-2026-the-central-bank-of-ireland-s-priorities-explained/]
Enhance financial crime controls, including fraud victim support, scam awareness, and market abuse detection; monitor AMLA developments.[https://www.ogier.com/news-and-insights/insights/regulatory-outlook-2026-the-central-bank-of-ireland-s-priorities-explained/]
Embed ESG/climate risks into governance, risk management, and business models, preparing for SFDR 2.0 and event response reviews.[https://www.ogier.com/news-and-insights/insights/regulatory-outlook-2026-the-central-bank-of-ireland-s-priorities-explained/]
Prepare for integrated supervision via gatekeeping enhancements and streamlined reporting.[https://maples.com/regulatory-round-up/central-bank-of-ireland-update-and-supervisory-approach-for-2026-fund-service-providers]
Key Dates
2026
2027; - Ongoing desktop/onsite reviews on operational resilience, ESG/climate, and supervisory priorities across sectors.[https://www.ogier.com/news-and-insights/insights/regulatory-outlook-2026-the-central-bank-of-ireland-s-priorities-explained/]
24 March 2026DEADLINE
- Revised Consumer Protection Code (CPC) takes effect, following 12-month lead-in; firms must ensure full implementation.[https://www.ogier.com/news-and-insights/insights/regulatory-outlook-2026-the-central-bank-of-ireland-s-priorities-explained/]
H1 2026
- CBI consultation on new Regulatory Impact Assessment (RIA) Framework.[https://maples.com/regulatory-round-up/central-bank-of-ireland-update-and-supervisory-approach-for-2026-fund-service-providers][https://www.centralbank.ie/docs/default-source/regulation/transforming-regulation-and-supervision/regulating-supervising-well-a-more-effective-and-efficient-framework.pdf]
Urgency: High – This outlook directly previews intensified 2026 supervision, with operational/cyber resilience and consumer protection as "key concerns" likely triggering unannounced inspections and enforcement. Firms risk findings on outdated resilience testing or CPC gaps, especially amid elevated risks; proactive alignment now prevents remediation costs and sanctions, given CBI's efficiency roadmap and international...
The Central Bank of Ireland has today (24 February) published its first quarterly Access to Cash report . The Finance (Provision of Access to Cash Infrastructure) Act 2025 has put in place a framework to ensure sufficient and effective access to cash across the State. Today’s report uses newly collected data to show the number, location and opening hours of ATMs and cash service points across eight geographical regions in Ireland, as of 31 December 2025. The Minister for Finance set the acces...
In his latest blog, Governor Gabriel Makhlouf explains why the Governing Council kept its main policy interest rate (the deposit facility rate) unchanged at 2% for the fifth consecutive time since June 2025.
Introduction Good morning and thank you to Michael for inviting me to speak at the Compliance Institute’s Annual General Meeting. It is always a real pleasure to engage with compliance professionals. At the Central Bank, we recognise the essential role played by the compliance community in ensuring that financial firms are well-run and contributing to a financial system that is trusted and resilient. We also recognise the important role played by the compliance institute, equipping those work...
AI Analysis
This speech by Gerry Cross, Director of Capital Markets and Funds at the Central Bank of Ireland (CBI), outlines key supervisory priorities including securing customers' interests via the revised Consumer Protection Code, Individual Accountability Framework (IAF) implementation, regulatory simplification, resilience, technology leverage, and an evolving outcomes-focused supervision approach. It matters because it signals CBI's expectations for compliance professionals to drive these outcomes in firms, emphasizing proportionality and ongoing engagement amid regulatory evolution. Compliance teams must integrate these themes to align with CBI's shift toward less process-driven, more effective oversight.
What Changed
- Revised Consumer Protection Code: Introduces new Standards for Business, building on the Code reviewed with industry input; focuses on delivering good outcomes for consumers and the economy.
Individual Accountability Framework (IAF): Implemented 18 months prior (circa mid-2024); enhances clarity on responsibilities, supports governance, and aligns with outcomes-focused regulation rather...
Supervisory Approach Evolution: Shifting in 2025-2026 to risk-based, outcomes-focused, less process-driven supervision integrated across financial stability, consumer protection, safety/soundness,...
Regulatory Simplification: Openness to reviewing frameworks (e.g., fitness and probity) for simpler, outcomes-based alternatives without compromising effectiveness; supports broader simplification...
Resilience and Technology: Ongoing focus on financial resilience post-reforms, leveraging technology for supervision; no specific new rules but emphasis on embedding these in operations.
No new...
Suggested Considerations
Implement Revised Consumer Protection Code: Complete readiness by 24 March 2026; apply new Standards for Business in operations, leveraging CBI workshops for guidance.
Embed IAF: Maintain enhanced responsibility mapping, support decision-making, and engage with CBI on implementation feedback to mature governance.
Adopt Outcomes-Focused Practices: Shift from process-driven to outcomes-based compliance (e.g., customer interests, resilience); review internal frameworks for simplification opportunities.
Engage with CBI: Participate in ongoing consultations, workshops, and stakeholder feedback on supervision evolution, IAF, and Consumer Protection Code.
Leverage Technology: Integrate tech for resilience and compliance efficiency, aligning with CBI's supervisory priorities.
Key Dates
24 March 2026DEADLINE
- Revised Consumer Protection Code comes into force; firms must ensure full readiness and ongoing embedding of provisions, including new Standards for Business
Compliance Impact
Urgency: Medium. This speech reinforces imminent obligations like the 24 March 2026 Consumer Protection Code effective date (less than 2 months from speech/publication), requiring immediate readiness checks, but lacks new rules or critical enforcement threats. It matters for long-term alignment with CBI's outcomes-focused supervision, reducing future supervisory risks through proactive embedding of IAF and simplification; non-engagement could signal poor governance amid evolving oversight.
Mr Philip Smith, former Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Executive Director of RSA Insurance Ireland DAC disqualified for 13 years by the Central Bank of Ireland for his admitted participation in a breach of financial services law by RSAII On 1 December 2025 the Central Bank of Ireland reprimanded Mr Smith and disqualified him for 13 years from being a person concerned in the management of a regulated financial service provider for his participation in a breach by RSA Insurance Ireland DAC (...
AI Analysis
The Central Bank of Ireland (CBI) reprimanded and disqualified former RSA Insurance Ireland DAC (RSAII) CEO Philip Smith for 13 years from management roles in regulated financial service providers due to his admitted role in under-reserving large loss claims, breaching Article 13(1)(a) of the European Communities (Non-Life Insurance) Framework Regulations 1994 (S.I. No. 359/1994). This enforcement action underscores CBI's commitment to individual accountability for senior executives who circumvent controls, risking policyholder protection and firm solvency, as evidenced by RSAII's subsequent need for a major capital injection. It matters for compliance professionals as it demonstrates CBI's use of prolonged disqualifications and inquiries under the Administrative Sanctions Procedure (ASP) to deter governance failures in insurance firms.
What Changed
This is not a regulatory change or new requirement but an enforcement precedent reinforcing existing obligations under the 1994 Regulations for insurers to maintain adequate technical reserves reflecting true liabilities. It highlights CBI's focus on senior executive accountability for deliberate policy circumvention, such as undocumented processes overriding claims handlers' estimates, which inflated reported profits and understated liabilities.
Suggested Considerations
Conduct internal audits of large loss claim reserving processes to verify compliance with Article 13(1)(a) of the 1994 Regulations, ensuring estimates are accurately recorded in databases without undocumented overrides.
Review senior management oversight of claims handling; document all approvals and prohibit informal (e.g., in-person or hard-copy only) processes that bypass controls.
Enhance governance training for executives on personal liability under ASP, including simulations of reserving decisions and policyholder risk scenarios.
Assess historical exposures for under-reserving; remediate if needed, and prepare for potential CBI inquiries (noting 10+ year investigation timelines).
Update conduct and culture frameworks to align with CBI expectations for CEOs to drive compliance, as per Deputy Governor Colm Kincaid's comments.
Key Dates
2014
- CBI enforcement investigation into Mr Smith and RSAII commences
December 2018
- CBI reprimands and fines RSAII €3.5m for related breaches, including reserve failures
November 2022
- CBI decides to hold an Inquiry into Mr Smith's participation under Part IIIC of the Central Bank Act 1942
1 December 2025
- Reprimand and 13-year disqualification imposed on Mr Smith, effective immediately under IAF Act transitional provisions (no High Court confirmation needed)
12 December 2025
- CBI publishes public statement on the enforcement action
Compliance Impact
Urgency: High – This action signals intensified CBI scrutiny on individual accountability in insurance reserving, with 13-year bans possible for deliberate breaches risking policyholders, even without actual losses. It matters now (post-1 Dec 2025 effective date) as firms face elevated enforcement risk amid CBI's "full extent of powers" approach, potentially leading to parallel firm/individual sanctions and long inquiries; proactive reviews prevent similar outcomes, especially with statutory fine limits not mitigating non-financial penalties.
In this blog, Governor Gabriel Makhlouf writes about the development of the Digital Euro and how central banks foster trust and safety in the financial system and in the implementation of projects like the Digital Euro.
The Central Bank of Ireland has today (5 December) launched a public consultation on the implementation of our new Access to Cash responsibilities. Deputy Governor Vasileios Madouros said: “Amid a rapidly evolving payments landscape, the Central Bank of Ireland is committed to making sure that cash continues to be readily available as a means of payment. Today’s consultation is an important step towards the implementation of the Central Bank’s new responsibilities under the Access to Cash leg...
AI Analysis
The Central Bank of Ireland has launched a public consultation on implementing new **Access to Cash** responsibilities under the Finance (Provision of Access to Cash Infrastructure) Act 2025, which commenced on 30 June 2025. This consultation addresses two critical areas: identifying local deficiencies in cash infrastructure and establishing minimum ATM service standards. The initiative reflects regulatory commitment to ensuring cash remains readily available as payment preferences shift toward digital channels.
What Changed
The consultation covers two primary regulatory components:
1. Local Deficiency Guidelines
The Central Bank will establish procedures for identifying geographical areas where individuals and SMEs...
Hours of ATM availability
Cash withdrawal limits
Banknote denomination stocking requirements
Maximum ATM unavailability periods
Suggested Considerations
*For designated credit institutions:
Monitor consultation developments and prepare for compliance with minimum cash infrastructure maintenance levels once regulations are finalized
Prepare to provide quarterly data on ATM numbers, locations, and availability hours
*For ATM operators:
Engage with the consultation process to provide feedback on proposed service standards
Key Dates
30 June 2025
– Finance (Provision of Access to Cash Infrastructure) Act 2025 commenced
5 December 2025 – 4 March 2026
– Public consultation period for local deficiency guidelines and ATM service standards
Early 2026
– First publication of quarterly cash infrastructure data expected
2026
– Central Bank to publish final ATM service standards regulations
Q1 2026
– Direct engagement with consumers, people with disabilities, older people, and SMEs
Deutsche Bank Wealth Management (CLONE) / Deutsche Bank AG (CLONE) / DB UK Bank Limited (CLONE) - Central Bank of Ireland Issues Warning on Unauthorised Firm
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 to provide investment services in Ireland. Notes: Any person wishing to contact the Central Bank with information regarding such firms / persons may telephone (01) 224 5800 or re...
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]
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.
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.
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]
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.
At our meeting yesterday, the ECB’s Governing Council cut our three policy rates by 25 basis points (or, one quarter of a percent). The disinflation process remains on track, allowing us to reduce rates. However, with some components of inflation still too high for comfort – notably, services inflation – I continue to favour a gradual reduction in rates over large moves. As policy rates fall, we should see a reduction in the costs of borrowing for households and firms. We are already seeing s...
I’d like to thank Insurance Ireland and Milliman for inviting me here today for this Chief Risk Officer (CRO) Forum. I’d like to use this opportunity to briefly reflect on the recent turmoil we’ve seen in the banking sector, what this might mean for (re)insurers, and to highlight some of our supervisory priorities going forward. Much commentary has already been devoted to the fallout from SVB and Signature Bank in the US, and to the acquisition of Credit Suisse by UBS. Whilst the exposure of ...
“Review of the Consumer Protection Code: securing customers’ interests” - Remarks by Gerry Cross, Director of Financial Regulation – Policy & Risk, Central Bank of Ireland at Insurance Ireland - KPMG Briefing Session: CBI Review of the Consumer Protection Code
Introduction Good morning everyone. Thank you for inviting me to speak here today. Before I begin, I’d like to acknowledge the important role played by Financial Services Ireland in advocating for its members, and in promoting the Irish financial services sector, both here and abroad. Whilst the respective missions we undertake are undoubtedly different, we have a shared interest in a strong and stable financial services sector. It is claimed that the phrase “may you live in interesting times...
It has come to the attention of the Central Bank that a scam entity by the name SEI Investment (United States, Ireland), formerly operating the fraudulent clone website www.seiinvestment.com, has been claiming to be an investment firm / investment business firm in the absence of appropriate authorisations. In this instance, the scam entity cloned details and website content of the legitimate firm, SEI Investments (www.seic.com), in order to deceive consumers. The legitimate firm was proactive...
AI Analysis
The Central Bank of Ireland (CBI) issued a warning on 26 September 2022 about a fraudulent entity named "SEI Investment (United States, Ireland)" that cloned the legitimate authorised firm SEI Investments (www.seic.com) via the fake website www.seiinvestment.com to deceive consumers into unauthorised investment services. This matters because it highlights the rising threat of clone firm scams, which impersonate authorised entities using stolen details like names, addresses, and authorisation numbers, exposing firms to reputational risk and consumers to financial loss without Investor Compensation Scheme protection. Authorised firms must remain vigilant in monitoring for clones and reporting them promptly, as demonstrated by SEI Investments' proactive response that led to the site's deactivation in February 2022.
What Changed
This is not a regulatory change or new requirement but a public enforcement warning under Section 53 of the Central Bank (Supervision and Enforcement) Act 2013, emphasising ongoing enforcement against unauthorised firms providing regulated financial services, which is a criminal offence. It reinforces consumer protection guidance without introducing new rules, but signals CBI's heightened focus on clone firm frauds, as seen in similar warnings (e.g., The Capital Holdings clone, Bank of Ireland clones).
Suggested Considerations
Monitor for clones: Regularly search for impersonations of your firm's name, website, authorisation numbers, LEI, CRO, or address; report suspicions to CBI at (01) 224 4000.
Client communications: Advise clients to always access CBI Register directly from www.centralbank.ie (not via email/website links), double-check URLs/phone numbers, verify products on legitimate sites, and apply the SAFE test for unsolicited contacts.
Internal processes: Update fraud awareness training, client onboarding checks, and surveillance for clone activity; emulate SEI Investments by proactively notifying authorities.
Public reporting: Encourage staff/clients to report unauthorised activity via CBI hotline or Search Unauthorised Firms page.
Key Dates
February 2022
- Fraudulent clone website www.seiinvestment.com deactivated following legitimate firm's report
26 September 2022
- CBI issues warning notice on SEI Investment clone
Compliance Impact
Urgency: Medium – Not critical as the specific clone site was deactivated in 2022, but medium due to persistent clone fraud trend evidenced by ongoing CBI warnings into 2026 (e.g., BW Financial Services clone in August 2025, Stalwart Investments clone in March 2026). Matters for authorised firms as it underscores reputational, operational resilience, and consumer protection obligations under CBI's supervisory framework; unaddressed clones can lead to client complaints, enforcement scrutiny, or compensation claims if mis-sold products are linked back erroneously.
Ban on price walking in motor and home insurance comes into effect on 1 July 2022. New customer discounts not affected. For automatic renewals, better information and reminders to be provided to encourage switching. The Central Bank of Ireland has today published the Central Bank (Supervision and Enforcement) Act 2013 (Section 48(1)) (Insurance Requirements) Regulations 2022 which will apply to insurance undertakings and insurance intermediaries from 1 July 2022. The Central Bank identified d...
AI Analysis
The Central Bank of Ireland (CBI) published the Central Bank (Supervision and Enforcement) Act 2013 (Section 48(1)) (Insurance Requirements) Regulations 2022 on 15 March 2022, banning price walking in motor and home insurance from 1 July 2022 to eliminate loyalty penalties for renewing customers while preserving new customer discounts and competition. This matters for compliance professionals as it imposes immediate prohibitions on differential pricing, mandatory annual reviews, enhanced renewal disclosures, and record-keeping, with CBI emphasizing ongoing oversight to ensure fair consumer outcomes.
What Changed
- Ban on Price Walking: Insurance undertakings and intermediaries cannot charge renewing customers (defined as "relevant renewing customers") a premium higher than that charged to an equivalent...
Annual Pricing Reviews: Firms must conduct an annual review of motor and home insurance pricing policies and processes within two months of each year-end to ensure compliance, including controls to...
Automatic Renewal Disclosures: Firms must provide specific information to consumers before automatic renewals, including renewal price, right to cancel, and options to switch providers, to promote...
Record-Keeping: Written records must be retained for annual reviews, material pricing decisions, and compliance assessments.
Scope Exclusions: Applies prospectively from 1 July 2022; no retrospective application or transitional period.
Suggested Considerations
Pricing Adjustments: Update systems/models to ensure renewal prices ≤ EQFRP; identify close-matched products for comparisons.
Conduct Reviews: Perform comprehensive annual review of pricing policies/processes, documenting compliance, controls, and rectifications; avoid "tick-box" approaches.
Enhance Communications: Revise renewal notices/documents to include mandated info (e.g., price, cancellation rights, switching options); handle pre-1 July notices pragmatically but comply in spirit.
Record Maintenance: Retain written records of reviews, pricing decisions, and compliance evidence for audit readiness.
Internal Governance: Assess/align with CPC General Principle 2.1; monitor for material changes requiring documented consistency checks.
Compliance Impact
Urgency: Medium (as of 2026). The regulations have been effective since 1 July 2022 with no transitional period, requiring immediate system/process overhauls at implementation; non-compliance risks enforcement under Section 48 of the 2013 Act. Ongoing annual reviews and CBI's commitment to monitoring pricing practices sustain medium-term priority, especially amid CBI's consumer protection focus, but established firms likely adapted by now—late compliance or audit gaps remain risks.
Gender diversity at senior levels in the regulated financial services sector is increasing but remains insufficient, according to the latest Central Bank of Ireland Demographic Analysis Report . The annual publication analyses applications to hold certain senior roles within regulated firms that require the Central Bank’s prior approval under the Fitness & Probity Regime. The Central Bank received more than 3,500 such applications for Pre-Approval Control Function (PCF) roles in 2021. This is...
Differential Pricing and Business Interruption Insurance demonstrate Central Bank’s focus on conduct, culture and customer treatment Over €130 million paid in business interruption insurance claims to date Insurance sector needs to be prepared for the challenges ahead including digitisation and climate change Speaking at the Deloitte 2022 Insurance Industry Trends event Director General, Financial Conduct Derville Rowland discussed the position of the insurance sector in Ireland, the effect o...
Remarks by Director General, Financial Conduct Derville Rowland at the Deloitte Global Insurance Webinar Good morning everybody and thank you to Deloitte for the invitation to speak at this webinar. Some people think of insurance as a relatively modern financial concept. But of course, as the insurance experts in this audience know, its origins can be traced all the way back to certain kinds of shipping loans in Babylon, through Ancient Rome and Greece, and into Medieval Europe. In the 17 th ...
Review finds that differential pricing practices can result in unfair outcomes for some consumers Proposal to ban the practice of ‘price walking’ to end the loyalty penalty for consumers who do not switch insurance provider regularly Proposals will ensure that new business discounts are still available to allow consumers to seek the best prices, while ensuring that those who remain with the same insurance provider are not penalized The Central Bank is proposing to ban the practice of price wa...
AI Analysis
The Central Bank of Ireland (CBI) proposes banning "price walking" in private car and home insurance to eliminate the loyalty penalty, where long-term customers pay significantly higher premiums (14% more for car, 32% more for home after 9 years) than new customers with similar risk profiles. This stems from a 2021 review finding differential pricing unfair to loyal or less mobile consumers, with regulations finalized and effective from 1 July 2022, confirmed effective in subsequent reviews. It matters as it enforces fair treatment under CBI's consumer protection mandate, requiring insurers to overhaul pricing models while preserving new customer discounts to maintain competition.
What Changed
- Ban on price walking: Insurers cannot charge second or subsequent renewal customers a higher premium than an equivalent year-one renewal customer with similar risk and service cost.
Disclosure of new business discounts: Firms must clearly disclose to new customers that lower prices include a new business discount.
Annual pricing policy reviews: Providers must review pricing policies yearly to ensure focus on customer impact, adherence to rules, and fair treatment.
Automatic renewals requirements: Introduce consumer consent for automatic renewals and enhanced information/reminders to support informed decisions and switching.
These were implemented via the...
Suggested Considerations
Pricing model adjustments: Revise systems to ensure renewal premiums ≤ year-one premiums for equivalent risks; test against historical data (e.g., 11 million policy records analyzed).
Disclosure updates: Amend new customer communications to explicitly state "new business discount" inclusion.
Governance and reviews: Implement annual pricing policy reviews with documented evidence of customer impact assessment and fair treatment compliance; integrate into board/CPC oversight.
Renewal processes: Obtain explicit consumer consent for auto-renewals; provide reminders and clear switching info pre-renewal.
Monitoring and reporting: Conduct internal audits; respond to CBI engagements; retain records for supervision.
Key Dates
22 October 2021
- Consultation period closes for proposals in the final report
Early 2022
- CBI intends to finalize measures post-consultation
15 March 2022
- Publication of final Insurance Requirements Regulations 2022
1 July 2022
- Regulations apply to insurance undertakings and intermediaries; ban on price walking effective
2023/2024
- CBI review confirms regulations working, no loyalty penalty observed, no further measures needed at that time
Compliance Impact
Urgency: low (as of 2026). Rules have been effective since July 2022, with CBI's 2023/2024 review confirming no loyalty penalties, no unintended consequences, and market stability—Ireland was first EU state with such a ban. Firms compliant since 2022 face ongoing low-risk monitoring; non-compliance risks enforcement under Section 48(1), but positive outcomes reduce immediate pressure. Matters for legacy audits or CPC reviews.
Introduction Good morning, and thank you for attending our Insurance Industry Event, the second of these which we’ve held virtually. Hopefully, as the vaccine rollout continues and restrictions are eased, there won’t have to be a third! The COVID 19 crisis has brought about a significant amount of change to all of our personal and professional lives, and with it has provided the opportunity to reflect on what is important, and where our priorities should lie. With this in mind, I would like t...
Speech delivered at Institute of Directors’ Briefing Webinar on 10 June 2021 Good morning everyone, I am delighted to speak to you on the importance of effective culture in firms, the contribution fitness and probity can make, and how we see the forthcoming Individual Accountability Framework further reinforcing effective culture. I’ll come to each of those topics in turn. But first let me say that the Central Bank and the Institute of Directors have overlapping visions. The Central Bank serv...
AI Analysis
This 2021 speech by Derville Rowland, Director General of Financial Conduct at the Central Bank of Ireland (CBI), emphasizes the critical role of the Fitness & Probity (F&P) regime and the forthcoming Individual Accountability Framework (IAF) in fostering effective culture, governance, and individual responsibility in regulated firms. It matters because it signals CBI's supervisory priorities on senior role holders' competence, integrity, and accountability, which have since evolved into concrete regulatory updates, directly impacting board and compliance functions to mitigate conduct risks and ensure consumer protection. https://www.centralbank.ie/news/article/speech-importance-of-fitness-probity-and-ensuring-responsibility-derville-rowland-10-june-2021
What Changed
The speech itself outlines no new statutory changes but highlights the F&P regime's role in ensuring "fit and proper" individuals in key roles and previews the IAF as a complementary framework to...
Consolidation of F&P Standards into the Fitness and Probity Standards 2025, applicable across all sectors, read alongside revised Guidance on the Fitness and Probity Standards (effective 20 November...
Amendments to Pre-Approval Controlled Functions (PCFs), adding roles like Designated Person for Investment Management (PCF-39D), Distribution (PCF-39E), and Regulatory Compliance (PCF-39F),...
Clarifications on due diligence (best-efforts basis for references, criminal checks, financial soundness via public records only—no bank statements required), time commitments (case-by-case), and...
Proportionality for fitness assessments but not probity; ongoing certification obligations for Controlled Functions (CFs) and PCFs.
These build on the speech's vision, addressing Enria Report...
Suggested Considerations
Conduct thorough F&P due diligence on PCF/CF holders pre-appointment and ongoing (best-efforts for references, criminal/financial checks via public records; assess time commitments case-by-case).
Certify annually that PCF/CF individuals meet standards; no dual certification needed if PCF covers CF-1/2.
Review and update succession planning, handover policies, and conduct breach procedures in light of new PCFs and IAF/SEAR (Statements of Effectiveness and Accountability of Responsibilities).
Assess residency and capacity for non-resident PCF holders case-by-case, considering firm complexity.
Embed F&P into culture and governance frameworks, aligning with IAF Conduct Standards once enacted.[Speech]
Key Dates
22 September 2021
- CBI notice of intention to amend PCFs under F&P regime (e.g., new Designated Persons roles)
20 November 2025
- Effective date for revised Guidance on Fitness and Probity Standards
24 November 2025
- CBI publishes Feedback Statement on CP160, Fitness and Probity Standards 2025, and revised Guidance
Post
amendment (TBD, after regulations effective); - 6-week window for in-situ PCF assessments and confirmations to CBI
Compliance Impact
Urgency: High – While the 2021 speech is foundational, 2025 Standards and Guidance are now effective, mandating immediate due diligence enhancements and certifications amid IAF rollout. Non-compliance risks CBI investigations, prohibitions, or sanctions, especially with expanded PCFs tying into broader accountability (e.g., SEAR). This elevates board exposure, demanding proactive governance reviews to align culture with consumer protection mandates.
Opening remarks at the 2020 Insurance Industry Briefing Good morning everyone. I would like to thank you for attending today’s industry briefing. In my remarks this morning, I will take this opportunity to touch on: the role that insurance can play in society; some of the reasons why the industry in Ireland is negatively perceived; and the areas of supervisory focus for the Central Bank moving forward. 2020 has been an unprecedented year in so many respects and the emergence of COVID-19 has a...
Good afternoon Chairman, Committee members, I am joined by Ed Sibley, Deputy Governor, Prudential Regulation and Derville Rowland, Director General, Financial Conduct. We welcome the opportunity to appear before you today. The effects of the COVID-19 pandemic have been deep and distressing for our community. The actions taken to contain the health emergency have affected the economy and all of our lives. The Central Bank’s job is to ensure the financial system operates in the best interests o...
I am joined today by Gráinne McEvoy, Director of Consumer Protection, and Domhnall Cullinan, Director of Insurance Supervision. Thank you for this opportunity to speak to you today about the Central Bank’s work in regulating and supervising the Irish insurance industry and specifically the practices of differential pricing and dual pricing. Insurance serves a critical role in the functioning of a modern society, through reducing uncertainty by protecting people and businesses against the risk...
Insurance conference explores challenges facing the insurance industry Introduction of proposed judicial guidelines on personal injury claims would bring stability to the cost of insurance Solvency II review in 2020 to ensure continued protection of policyholders and beneficiaries The Central Bank hosted a conference for the insurance industry today with the theme “ Thriving in Challenging Times ”. The conference brought together domestic and international thought-leaders and policy makers to...
Following a satisfactory review of the data submitted by banks and credit unions, to the Central Credit Register, the initial enquiry phase has now commenced. This means that from today borrowers and lenders can request a copy of credit reports from the Central Credit Register. Data on mortgages, personal loans, credit cards and overdrafts, which is backdated to 30 June 2017, is live on the system and is incorporated into credit reports. From 30 September 2018 it will be compulsory for credit...