ESMA Regulatory Updates

What Changed

• - Counterparties whose average aggregate notional amount (AANA) of non-centrally cleared OTC derivatives falls below the EUR 8 billion threshold will no longer be required to exchange initial margin...
• The current framework, under which below-threshold counterparties are exempt from initial margin for new trades but must continue to exchange initial margin for pre-existing “legacy” contracts, will...
• Article 28(1) of Delegated Regulation (EU) 2016/2251 will be amended to explicitly extend the exemption from initial margin requirements to outstanding contracts where one of the two counterparties...
• The RTS introduce a clearer operational framework for entry into and exit from the initial margin regime based on the annual AANA calculation for March–May, including scenarios where one or both...
• Once a counterparty falls below the EUR 8 billion threshold under the revised rules, firms will be permitted to terminate related initial margin processes, including ceasing ongoing calculation,...

Suggested Considerations

• Map all EMIR in-scope entities within the group and identify those whose AANA of non-centrally cleared OTC derivatives is close to or below the EUR 8 billion threshold, to assess which relationships may benefit from the expanded exemption.
• Review current collateral and margin frameworks to identify legacy contracts where initial margin is still being exchanged solely because the regime requires continuation despite the counterparty having fallen below the EUR 8 billion threshold.
• Prepare an internal policy update so that, once the RTS enter into force, initial margin requirements are switched off for counterparties below the EUR 8 billion threshold on both new and existing uncleared OTC derivatives, subject to group risk appetite.
• Update EMIR margin procedures and AANA calculation processes to ensure accurate annual determination of whether each counterparty is above or below the EUR 8 billion threshold, including documentation of the March–May calculation methodology.
• Review and amend collateral agreements, credit support annexes (CSAs) and associated legal documentation to incorporate the revised treatment for below-threshold counterparties, including terms for stopping margin exchange and potentially releasing segregated collateral.

Key Dates

References

• [1] esma.europa.eu/press-news/esma-news/joint-rts-amendments-...
• [2] esma.europa.eu/sites/default/files/library/esas_2019_20_-...
• [3] esma.europa.eu/document/emir-rts-various-amendments-bilat...
• [4] esma.europa.eu/sites/default/files/2026-08/ESA_2026_07_Fi...
• [5] esma.europa.eu/press-news/consultations
• [6] ashurst.com/en/insights/financial-services-speedread-4-au...
• [7] esma.europa.eu/press-news/esma-news/esas-publish-joint-qa...
• [8] sip.lex.pl/komentarze-i-publikacje/poradniki/sprawozdanie...

What Changed

• - ESMA reports that NCAs have strengthened authorisation assessments by placing greater emphasis on firms’ cross-border business plans and intentions before granting or maintaining permissions.
• NCAs are increasingly using data-driven and risk-based supervision to monitor cross-border activity and calibrate supervisory attention to the scale, nature, and complexity of the activity.
• NCAs have expanded cooperation and enforcement, including more targeted supervisory actions and reporting of enforcement cases where relevant.
• ESMA expects NCAs with significant outbound cross-border activity to ensure that their supervisory and enforcement approaches are proportionate to the level of risk and business volume.
• The report reinforces that cross-border activity should be treated as a distinct supervisory risk area, not merely as an incidental extension of domestic supervision.

Suggested Considerations

• Review cross-border business plans for all passported investment services and ensure they are supported by clear governance, staffing, systems, and client-service arrangements.
• Map all outbound cross-border activities by jurisdiction, client type, product type, and distribution channel so that compliance can identify where supervisory risk is highest.
• Strengthen controls over retail cross-border activity, including marketing, suitability/appropriateness, complaints handling, and local conduct requirements in each host market.
• Prepare to provide supervisors with more granular evidence of how cross-border risks are identified, monitored, escalated, and mitigated.
• Ensure internal reporting can distinguish cross-border revenue, complaints, incidents, and enforcement exposure from domestic business lines.

Key Dates

References

• [1] esma.europa.eu/sites/default/files/2026-07/ESMA42-2004696...
• [2] esma.europa.eu/press-news/esma-news/esma-finds-shortcomin...
• [3] esma.europa.eu/sites/default/files/2025-10/ESMA22-5075148...
• [4] esma.europa.eu/sites/default/files/2025-12/ESMA35-3354356...
• [5] esma.europa.eu/sites/default/files/2026-06/ESMA22-5075148...
• [6] schoenherr.eu/content/to-the-point-financial-regulation-1...
• [7] esma.europa.eu/press-news/esma-news/esma-publishes-report...
• [8] esma.europa.eu/sites/default/files/library/esma42-111-553...

What Changed

• - The decision clarifies that EBA’s decision whether or not to initiate an investigation into a possible breach or non‑application of Union law under Article 17 of Regulation (EU) No 1093/2010 is a...
• The Board of Appeal confirms that a decision not to open a Union law breach investigation does not constitute a reviewable “decision” for the purposes of Article 60(1)–(2) of the ESA Regulations and...
• The Board of Appeal confirms that individual complaints about account closures and associated supervisory handling remain primarily within the remit of national competent authorities and national...
• The decision reiterates that only certain categories of ESA acts that produce binding legal effects (for example, decisions adopted under Articles 17, 18 or 19 of the ESA Regulations, and acts within...
• The outcome aligns with prior Board of Appeal and EU court case law confirming that persons outside the specific categories listed in Article 17(2) of the ESA Regulations have no right of appeal to...

Suggested Considerations

• Review internal complaints‑handling and escalation procedures to ensure that disputes over account closures and related supervisory decisions are managed through national complaint bodies and courts, rather than assuming EBA or Board of Appeal review will be available.
• Update legal and compliance guidance notes to reflect that EBA’s decision whether to initiate a breach‑of‑Union‑law investigation is discretionary and generally not subject to appeal before the Board of Appeal, limiting external escalation avenues.
• Train front‑office, customer‑service and complaints staff to provide accurate information to customers about available redress routes, emphasising national ombudsman, national competent authority and judicial mechanisms rather than ESMA/EBA appeals.
• For groups operating across the EU, map national complaint and judicial mechanisms for account closures in each jurisdiction and integrate them into group‑wide conduct risk frameworks and customer communication templates.
• Monitor further ESA and EU court case law on which ESA acts are susceptible to appeal before the Board of Appeal, and adjust litigation and escalation strategies accordingly.

Key Dates

References

• [1] eba.europa.eu/sites/default/files/document_library/103736...
• [2] eulawlive.com/european-banking-authoritys-decision-not-to...
• [3] cms.law/en/int/regulatory-news/eba-eiopa-esma-decision4
• [4] eufimar.jeanmonnet.unige.it/boa
• [5] esma.europa.eu/press-news/esma-news/esas-joint-board-appe...
• [6] inview.nl/document/idfc65faa7e3b34ffab5a421db4ee486d3/esa...
• [7] art.torvergata.it/retrieve/5202f4a5-3ac8-4386-b202-68b342...
• [8] inview.nl/document/idf6f86cf964ed45c8930028872e35ba78/jud...

What Changed

• - ESMA added a Q&A clarifying consulting activities to investors or undertakings under the EU ESG Ratings Regulation (ESGRR), which is relevant where a ratings provider’s advisory services may...
• ESMA added Q&As on the application and scope of the two working day notification period under ESGRR, indicating that firms must apply the notification clock consistently and in line with ESMA’s...
• ESMA clarified access to the dataset for factual error review under ESGRR, which affects how rated entities or issuers can review underlying data used in ESG ratings processes.
• ESMA added a Q&A on notifications without a designated contact under ESGRR, which is relevant for governance and outreach workflows when a notification lacks an identified recipient.
• ESMA clarified the obligation to consider issuer feedback under ESGRR, reinforcing that issuer comments cannot be ignored and must be handled through a documented review process.

Suggested Considerations

• Review ESG ratings policies to ensure consulting, notification, issuer feedback, and factual error review procedures align with ESMA’s latest ESGRR Q&As.
• Update internal case-handling workflows so notifications are screened for the designated contact issue and the two-working-day notification period is calculated consistently.
• Document how your firm distinguishes internal-use ESG ratings or in-house financial services from externally provided ESG ratings activity.
• Reassess whether any second-party opinion business can rely on the ESGRR exemption and record the legal basis for that conclusion.
• Re-map MiCA permissions for custody, administration, transfer, and lending services to confirm the firm is not performing activities outside its authorisation scope.

Key Dates

References

• [1] aima.org/article/esma-publishes-fourth-package-of-mifir-l...
• [2] esma.europa.eu/press-news/esma-news/new-qas-available-may...
• [3] esma.europa.eu/press-news/esma-news/new-qas-available-15
• [4] esma.europa.eu/esmas-activities/digital-finance-and-innov...
• [5] esma.europa.eu/publications-and-data/questions-answers
• [6] regulationtomorrow.com/2026/06/esma-public-statement-on-e...
• [7] service.betterregulation.com/document/827391
• [8] lexisnexis.com/en-gb/legal/news/eu-financial-services-dai...

What Changed

• - ESMA has started publishing annual market capitalisation figures and market capitalisation ratios for each EU Member State under its FASTER Directive mandate.
• The published figures are based on a harmonised methodology developed by ESMA in technical standards, using transaction data reported under MiFIR.
• Market capitalisation is calculated from shares admitted to trading on a regulated market or multilateral trading facility, with aggregation at the level of the issuer’s legal address in the relevant...
• The market capitalisation ratio is calculated as the Member State’s market capitalisation divided by the total market capitalisation of all Member States on the same date, expressed as a percentage.
• Member States whose market size exceeds 1.5% of total EU market capitalisation for four consecutive years are subject to specific withholding tax relief-related requirements.

Suggested Considerations

• Compliance teams should map whether any serviced Member State may approach or exceed the 1.5% threshold over a rolling four-year period and flag jurisdictions that could trigger special withholding tax relief consequences.
• Tax operations teams should align withholding tax relief workflows with the ESMA-published ratios so that jurisdictional eligibility assessments use the current official figures.
• Data and controls teams should document the calculation source, methodology, and reconciliation process for any internal use of ESMA market capitalisation data.
• Investment firms and intermediaries should review client-facing tax-relief processes to ensure they can respond to changes in Member State status under FASTER.
• Market-data and regulatory-reporting teams should prepare for annual updates by building a recurring review process around each ESMA publication cycle.

Key Dates

References

• [1] esma.europa.eu/sites/default/files/2025-10/ESMA12-1406959...
• [2] esma.europa.eu/sites/default/files/2025-06/ESMA12-1406959...
• [3] cnmv.es/DocPortal/DocFaseConsulta/CESR/CP_MarketCap_ENen.pdf
• [4] esma.europa.eu/press-news/consultations/consultation-meth...
• [5] czasopisma.uni.lodz.pl/fipf/article/view/27784
• [6] icmagroup.org/market-practice-and-regulatory-policy/repo-...
• [7] lexisnexis.com/en-gb/legal/news/esma-finalises-methodolog...
• [8] ec.europa.eu/transparency/documents-register/api/files/C(...

What Changed

• - CCPs must base admission criteria on a comprehensive risk assessment of the risks posed by clearing members and ensure the criteria reflect those risks.
• CCPs must consider whether clearing members have sufficient financial resources to meet obligations arising from participation in the CCP.
• CCPs must assess whether clearing members have access to reliable credit, liquidity, and foreign exchange facilities commensurate with the scale and nature of their clearing activity.
• CCPs must examine the clearing member’s operational capacity to meet CCP obligations, including readiness to support clearing operations and margin obligations.
• CCPs must take account of the client clearing activity of a clearing member, including the relative importance of that activity and the member’s ability to meet margin requirements if clients default.

Suggested Considerations

• CCPs should review their current admission criteria to ensure they are explicitly tied to a documented assessment of risks posed by each clearing member type.
• CCPs should update membership rulebooks and onboarding procedures to reflect the RTS requirement to consider financial resources, operational capacity, and liquidity support arrangements.
• CCPs should build or refine documented methodologies for assessing NFC clearing members’ ability to meet margin and default fund obligations.
• CCPs should ensure sponsored membership frameworks clearly define how the sponsor’s support, the sponsored member’s profile, and relevant risk controls are assessed for eligibility purposes.
• CCPs should prepare to publish clear admission criteria, application steps, timelines, required documentation, and explanations for any category-specific requirements.

Key Dates

References

• [1] esma.europa.eu/sites/default/files/2026-07/ESMA91-1505572...
• [2] esma.europa.eu/sites/default/files/2025-10/ESMA91-1505572...
• [3] eachccp.eu/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/EACH-Response-ESMA-...
• [4] isda.org/a/o4vgE/ISDA-Response-to-ESMA-on-CCP-Participati...
• [5] esma.europa.eu/press-news/esma-news/esma-consults-ccp-par...
• [6] asam.org/asam-criteria
• [7] deutsche-boerse.com/resource/blob/59972/5a6ef04dd55bcedf5...
• [8] drs-als.com/esma-publishes-guidelines-for-ccp-colleges/

What Changed

• - ESMA has published an Interim Report on the effectiveness of the Active Account Requirement, covering implementation and market impact during 2025 and early 2026, and explicitly framing this as the...
• ESMA confirms that roughly 500 entities have formally notified ESMA and national competent authorities that they are subject to the AAR, indicating that competent authorities now have a defined...
• Notified entities represent more than 90% of notional outstanding held by EU entities in relevant AAR‑scope derivatives, signalling supervisory focus on a concentrated set of high‑exposure...
• ESMA identifies early signs of increased clearing activity at EU CCPs, particularly among smaller entities, including some full relocation of positions from Tier 2 CCPs to EU CCPs for AAR‑relevant...
• ESMA notes a gradual but limited shift in market shares from systemically important Tier 2 CCPs to EU CCPs in certain AAR‑related products, indicating that supervisors will monitor market‑share...

Suggested Considerations

• Confirm whether your entity (and any funds or branches) is subject to the Active Account Requirement by assessing EMIR clearing obligation status and relevant notional clearing volumes against EMIR 3 thresholds for AAR‑scope derivatives.
• Implement and document annual stress‑testing of the active account arrangements, including at least one test per year, to evidence that positions and new trades can be shifted from Tier 2 CCPs to EU CCPs under stress scenarios.
• Map and quantify exposures to Tier 2 CCPs across AAR‑relevant derivatives, and establish an internal monitoring framework to track shifts in clearing volumes between Tier 2 CCPs and EU CCPs in line with AAR objectives.
• Align trade booking, clearing workflows, and client documentation so that the required minimum number of trades per relevant subcategory and contract class can be cleared through the EU active account on an annual average basis, taking into account representativeness requirements where applicable.
• Prepare to submit the first AAR report by 31 July 2026, ensuring that systems and controls can capture and report activity from 25 June 2025 to 30 June 2026 in accordance with ESMA’s reporting templates and instructions.

Key Dates

References

• [1] linkedin.com/pulse/emir-3-esma-moves-from-principle-imple...
• [2] ashurst.com/en/insights/eu-emir-esma-publishes-guidance-o...
• [3] esma.europa.eu/press-news/esma-news/esma-releases-reporti...
• [4] esma.europa.eu/press-news/esma-news/esma-publishes-final-...
• [5] simmons-simmons.com/en/publications/cm5wo3yoj06j8tr0ksgax...
• [6] linkedin.com/posts/eurex_emir-30-active-account-requireme...
• [7] esma.europa.eu/sites/default/files/2025-12/ESMA91-1505572...
• [8] eurex.com/ec-en/rules-regs/emir3-0

What Changed

• - ESMA has clarified, through enforcement, that CRAs must ensure complete, accurate and up‑to‑date data is reported to ESMA across all relevant CRA reporting channels (including the European Rating...
• ESMA has reinforced that errors limited to regulatory reporting data (and not directly affecting published ratings) can still constitute material breaches of the CRA Regulation, demonstrating that...
• ESMA has indicated that group reporting arrangements (where one CRA entity reports on behalf of others in the group) must have clear documentation of responsibilities, validation processes, and...
• ESMA has emphasized that regulatory reporting frameworks must include robust policies, procedures and internal control mechanisms, and that deficiencies in these frameworks constitute distinct...
• ESMA has signalled that negligence, rather than intentional misconduct, is sufficient to trigger significant fines under the CRA Regulation, and that both aggravating and mitigating factors will be...

Suggested Considerations

• Conduct a comprehensive review of all ESMA‑related reporting processes to ensure that data submitted to ESMA (including rating information, historical performance data, rating changes, and other CRA regulatory reports) is complete, accurate, and kept up‑to‑date at all times.
• Map and document all responsibilities for ESMA reporting within the CRA group, ensuring that where one entity reports on behalf of others, the allocation of roles, ownership of data, and validation steps is explicitly defined, approved, and regularly reviewed.
• Perform a gap analysis of existing regulatory reporting policies, procedures, and internal control mechanisms against CRA Regulation requirements and ESMA supervisory expectations, and update documentation to remove ambiguities and outdated provisions.
• Implement or strengthen data validation and reconciliation controls over submissions to the European Rating Platform and ESMA’s central repositories, including automated checks for missing ratings, non‑withdrawn ratings, incorrect rating actions, and inconsistencies in historical performance data.
• Establish a formal governance process for changes to regulatory reporting frameworks, ensuring regular review, independent challenge by compliance or risk functions, and clear escalation routes for identified data quality issues or control failures.

Key Dates

References

• [1] fxnewsgroup.com/forex-news/regulatory/esma-imposes-e2-1m-...
• [2] esma.europa.eu/sites/default/files/2026-07/ESMA43-8572387...
• [3] mnb.hu/en/pressroom/press-releases/press-releases-2017/es...
• [4] pinsentmasons.com/out-law/news/esma-fines-moodys-in-germa...
• [5] fintech.global/2021/03/30/esma-fines-moodys-e3-7m-for-fai...
• [6] reuters.com/article/business/eu-fines-moodys-for-failing-...
• [7] finextra.com/pressarticle/86859/esma-fines-moodys-37-mill...
• [8] moodys.com/uploadpage/Mco%20Documents/SCL0042_Policy%20Re...

What Changed

• - CCIL is formally recognised as a Tier 1 third‑country central counterparty (TC‑CCP) under Regulation (EU) No 648/2012 (EMIR), allowing it to offer clearing services to EU clearing members and EU...
• The recognition is contingent on an equivalence decision adopted by the European Commission for the Indian regulatory framework applicable to CCPs under EMIR Article 25.
• ESMA has assessed and confirmed effective supervision and enforcement by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) over CCIL as a prerequisite for recognition.
• ESMA and RBI have put in place cooperation arrangements, formalised through a Memorandum of Understanding, to support ongoing supervisory coordination over CCIL’s activities that affect EU...
• CCIL is now included in ESMA’s updated list of recognised third‑country CCPs, clarifying that EU firms may use CCIL’s clearing services while complying with EMIR’s clearing and risk‑management...

Suggested Considerations

• Confirm and document that CCIL now appears on ESMA’s official list of recognised third‑country CCPs and that its status is Tier 1 under EMIR, updating internal CCP eligibility lists and counterparty approval registers accordingly.
• Review and update internal clearing policies, procedures and governance documents to reflect that EU entities may again clear eligible products through CCIL, subject to EMIR and firm‑specific risk appetite.
• Reassess and formally approve CCIL within the firm’s CCP due‑diligence framework, including credit risk, operational risk, legal risk and jurisdictional risk assessments, taking account of the RMU with RBI and the Tier 1 classification.
• Update EMIR compliance mappings to ensure that trades cleared via CCIL are correctly treated for clearing obligation, risk‑management, reporting and collateral requirements, and that no activity is undertaken through non‑recognised CCPs in India.
• Coordinate with front‑office, clearing operations and collateral management teams to re‑open or adjust clearing access to CCIL (e.g. membership arrangements, client clearing channels, account structures, margin and collateral workflows).

Key Dates

References

• [1] ndtvprofit.com/markets/ccil-receives-esma-recognition-to-...
• [2] x.com/lakshmishaks/status/2072157632589418928
• [3] business-standard.com/amp/industry/news/ccil-secures-esma...
• [4] securitiesfinancetimes.com/securitieslendingnews/regulati...
• [5] esma.europa.eu/press-news/esma-news/esma-withdraw-recogni...
• [6] esma.europa.eu/sites/default/files/library/third-country_...
• [7] esma.europa.eu/central-counterparties/third-country-ccps
• [8] dirittobancario.it/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Third-count...

What Changed

• - Supervisory expectations are raised for standardisation and reduction of fragmentation in CCP default-management procedures and communication conventions, with a strong push toward harmonised...
• Lead authorities explicitly promote greater use of portal-based solutions (rather than ad hoc email or bespoke channels) for communication, information sharing, and auction-related workflows between...
• Authorities call for more realistic testing of porting arrangements, including end-to-end operational tests that reflect real-life constraints (documentation, client consent, timing of transfers, and...
• The lead authorities propose considering a voluntary “market stress overlay” module in future CIDS exercises, creating a coherent cross-CCP macro stress scenario to test whether operational capacity...
• ESMA confirms that global CCP fire drills are now a core component of system-wide resilience expectations, effectively embedding regular multi-CCP default simulations into ongoing supervisory...

Suggested Considerations

• CCPs should review and update their default management procedures to align with emerging cross-CCP standards, including harmonised communication conventions, standardised information templates, and coordinated auction timelines.
• Clearing members should conduct a cross-CCP gap analysis of their default-management playbooks to ensure they can support simultaneous auctions and calls from multiple CCPs without creating operational bottlenecks.
• CCPs and clearing members should implement or upgrade portal-based communication and workflow tools for default events, replacing fragmented email- or spreadsheet-based processes where feasible.
• Clearing brokers and client-clearing firms should test and, where necessary, redesign their porting arrangements (including client consent, documentation, booking models, and operational capacity) to ensure they can port positions and collateral under stressed but realistic timelines.
• Risk and operations teams at CCPs and clearing members should incorporate findings from the 2023 and 2025 CIDS exercises into their internal default-management training, drills, and board reporting on operational resilience.

Key Dates

References

• [1] posttrade360.com/news/infrastructure/follow-up-report-esm...
• [2] bankofengland.co.uk/paper/2026/2025-ccp-global-internatio...
• [3] esma.europa.eu/sites/default/files/2024-04/ESMA91-1505572...
• [4] ccp-global.org/defaultsimulation
• [5] esma.europa.eu/press-news/esma-news/esma-and-eu-ccps-part...
• [6] securitiesfinancetimes.com/securitieslendingnews/industry...
• [7] eurex.com/ec-en/find/circulars/clearing-circular-4426338
• [8] linkedin.com/posts/post-trade-360_esma-and-eu-ccps-comple...

What Changed

• - The ESAs have operationalised Article 22(2) DORA by issuing the first annual overview of major ICT‑related incidents, confirming that yearly ESA‑level aggregation and analysis of incident data is...
• Incident reporting under DORA is now demonstrably harmonised and centralised, with major ICT‑related incidents being notified to all competent authorities involved and then aggregated by the ESAs for...
• The report confirms that cross‑border incidents are prevalent (around one third of major incidents), reinforcing that the “borderless and interconnected” nature of ICT risk is a key supervisory...
• System failures and external events, rather than pure cyber‑attacks, are identified as the main drivers of major incidents, placing regulatory emphasis on ICT change management, resilience of core...
• The ESAs highlight third‑party and outsourcing risk as a core theme, stressing the need for robust oversight of ICT service providers and close coordination with them during incident response and...

Suggested Considerations

• Review and, where necessary, recalibrate internal incident classification criteria against the DORA definition of “ICT‑related incident” and “major ICT‑related incident”, ensuring consistency with applicable RTS on classification and materiality thresholds.
• Validate that your firm’s incident management and escalation processes can identify, assess and classify incidents “without undue delay” and trigger major‑incident reporting within the prescribed timelines (initial, intermediate and final reports).
• Conduct a gap analysis of cross‑border incident handling, ensuring that governance, communication and coordination arrangements adequately address incidents affecting multiple Member States or shared cross‑border infrastructures.
• Strengthen third‑party and outsourcing risk management by mapping critical and important functions to their supporting ICT service providers, and ensuring contracts, SLAs and incident‑response clauses support DORA reporting and cooperation obligations.
• Test and, if needed, enhance incident response runbooks to ensure close coordination with ICT service providers during incident containment, remediation and recovery, including clear roles for data provision required for regulatory reporting.

Key Dates

References

• [1] regulation-dora.eu/dora-incident-reporting
• [2] centralbank.ie/regulation/digital-operational-resilience-...
• [3] fma.gv.at/en/cross-sectoral-topics/dora/dora-ict-related-...
• [4] dilitrust.com/prepare-dora-compliance/
• [5] bdo.com.mt/en-gb/insights/dora-rts-its-reporting-template...
• [6] digital-operational-resilience-act.com
• [7] esma.europa.eu/press-news/esma-news/esas-publish-study-fe...
• [8] ispartnersllc.com/blog/dora-compliance/

What Changed

• - ESMA is advancing the simplification of EU reporting frameworks for funds and transaction reporting, indicating upcoming changes to reporting templates, data fields and/or reporting channels under...
• ESMA has launched its sixth EU‑wide stress test exercise for Central Counterparties (CCPs), expanding supervisory scrutiny of CCP risk management, default management processes and resilience to...
• ESMA has published guidance on the effective use of resolution tools in CCP crisis planning, clarifying expectations for CCP resolution planning, coordination with resolution authorities and use of...
• ESMA has issued reporting templates and instructions for the Active Account Requirement under EMIR 3, operationalising new obligations for counterparties and CCPs to maintain and report active...
• ESMA has published a call for evidence on the structure of European equity markets, opening a policy workstream that may lead to changes in market structure, transparency, and best execution...

Suggested Considerations

• Map your firm’s current EMIR, MiFIR and fund reporting obligations against ESMA’s stated objective of simplifying EU reporting frameworks and begin scenario‑planning for changes to templates, data models and validation rules.
• For CCPs and clearing members, review participation in the sixth ESMA CCP stress test, ensure timely and accurate data delivery, and assess internal implications of potential stress test findings for risk management frameworks.
• CCPs should compare existing recovery and resolution plans and playbooks against ESMA’s new guidance on effective use of resolution tools, updating governance, triggers, communications and coordination arrangements with resolution authorities.
• Counterparties and CCPs in scope of EMIR 3 should identify products and business lines affected by the Active Account Requirement and begin implementing systems, processes and controls to populate ESMA’s reporting templates and instructions.
• Investment firms active in equity markets should respond to ESMA’s call for evidence on European equity market structure where appropriate, and internally assess potential impacts on best execution, order routing, internalisation and transparency obligations.

Key Dates

References

• [1] esma.europa.eu/press-news/esma-news/esma-publishes-latest...
• [2] esma.europa.eu/press-news/esma-news/esma-outlines-enforce...
• [3] esma.europa.eu/press-news/esma-news/esma-identifies-areas...
• [4] youtube.com/watch?v=NY5CU84kj78
• [5] complianceweek.com/europe/esma-statement-supports-smooth-...
• [6] esma.europa.eu/news-publications/newsletter
• [7] esma.europa.eu/form/newsletter
• [8] esma.europa.eu/press-news/esma-news

What Changed

• - ESMA confirms measurable data quality improvements across EMIR, SFTR, MiFIR, AIFMD and MMFR regulatory datasets, indicating that regulators now consider these data sufficiently reliable for...
• ESMA highlights extensive and growing supervisory use of regulatory data by ESMA and NCAs for investor protection, financial stability, orderly markets and market integrity, increasing the...
• The scope of the annual data quality and use report is expanded to include Prospectus reporting obligations, bringing prospectus‑related data formally into ESMA’s cross‑regime data quality scrutiny.
• The report scope is also expanded to include ICT‑related incident reporting under the Digital Operational Resilience Act (DORA), signaling that operational resilience incident data will be monitored...
• ESMA has launched a 2025 Call for Evidence on streamlining reporting across EMIR, MiFIR and SFTR, including options to remove duplications and apply a “report once” approach, which will likely lead...

Suggested Considerations

• Map all existing regulatory reporting obligations across EMIR, SFTR, MiFIR, AIFMD, MMFR, Prospectus and DORA ICT‑incident reporting, and document the underlying data sources, systems and ownership for each regime.
• Review and enhance data quality controls for EMIR, SFTR and MiFIR reporting, including validation rules, completeness checks, reconciliations, pairing and matching processes, and governance around Unique Transaction Identifiers and counterparty data.
• Perform a gap analysis of Prospectus reporting and DORA ICT‑incident reporting processes against ESMA’s emerging cross‑regime data quality expectations and ensure they are covered in the firm’s enterprise data governance framework.
• Establish or update a centralised regulatory data governance framework that explicitly covers cross‑regime consistency (for example, trade and position data alignment between EMIR, SFTR and MiFIR) and defines clear accountability at senior management level.
• Engage with internal IT and reporting teams to identify where a future “report once” model could be supported technically, including harmonised reference data, common identifiers and golden‑source transaction and position records.

Key Dates

References

• [1] kaizenreporting.com/esma-data-quality-progress-2024-annua...
• [2] esma.europa.eu/press-news/esma-news/esma-report-shows-inc...
• [3] spglobal.com/market-intelligence/en/news-insights/researc...
• [4] esma.europa.eu/sites/default/files/2025-04/ESMA12-1209242...
• [5] cms.law/en/int/regulatory-news/esma-annual-assessment-of-...
• [6] youtube.com/watch?v=NY5CU84kj78
• [7] esma.europa.eu/esmas-activities/data
• [8] esma.europa.eu/sites/default/files/2026-05/ESMA32-2064178...

What Changed

• - ESMA clarifies what constitutes a “defined ranking system” under the EU ESG Ratings Regulation (ESGRR), including when rating scales, score bands or league tables will be regarded as a ranking...
• ESMA sets out transitional provisions for existing ESG rating providers active before ESGRR application, detailing conditions and timelines under which they may continue operating while completing...
• ESMA explains how ESG rating providers established after the ESGRR date of entry into force must comply, including the need to obtain authorisation/registration before commencing activity in the EU...
• ESMA defines what qualifies as “material changes to registration information” for ESG rating providers under ESGRR, indicating the types of changes (e.g.
• Under MAR and Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2016/957, ESMA clarifies expectations regarding the annually conducted audit of market soundings arrangements, including scope, independence of the...

Suggested Considerations

• Map all existing and planned ESG rating products against ESMA’s clarified concept of a “defined ranking system” and update methodologies, scales, and disclosures to ensure they meet ESGRR and Q&A expectations.
• For ESG rating providers operating before 02 July 2026, develop and execute a documented transitional compliance plan that aligns governance, methodologies, data controls and transparency with ESGRR, ensuring timely notification to ESMA within one month from 02 July 2026.
• For entities intending to launch ESG rating activities after ESGRR entry into force, prepare and submit complete authorisation or registration files to ESMA before commencing rating activity, incorporating the Q&A guidance on initial registration requirements.
• Establish or enhance a formal process to identify, assess and record “material changes to registration information” for ESG rating providers, and implement controls to ensure ESMA is notified within required timelines before or immediately after such changes, as specified in the Q&A.
• Review and update MAR compliance frameworks, with particular focus on market soundings procedures, to incorporate ESMA’s expectations on the scope, independence, and documentation of the annually conducted audit required under Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2016/957.

Key Dates

References

• [1] esma.europa.eu/press-news/esma-news/new-qas-available-26
• [2] esma.europa.eu/press-news/esma-news/new-qa-tool-launched
• [3] esma.europa.eu/press-news/esma-news/new-qas-available-19
• [4] esma.europa.eu/press-news/esma-news/esma-publishes-new-qa...
• [5] esma.europa.eu/press-news/esma-news/new-qas-available-23
• [6] esma.europa.eu/press-news/esma-news/new-qa-available
• [7] esma.europa.eu/press-news/consultations
• [8] centralbank.ie/regulation/markets-update/esma-guidelines-...

What Changed

• - ESMA proposes revised Guidelines on standardised procedures and messaging protocols for allocations and confirmations under CSDR Settlement Discipline, specifically to support the transition to a...
• The guidelines will mandate the use of electronic, standardised communication channels for post‑trade allocations and confirmations, moving away from mixed paper / manual practice to fully electronic...
• Firms will be required to use international messaging standards (e.g. ISO‑based protocols) for post‑trade communication, to ensure interoperability and faster straight‑through processing across EU...
• The guidelines remove references to non‑electronic and non‑machine‑readable methods, including oral allocations and confirmations, except where there is a temporary technical disruption that prevents...
• The revisions are explicitly aligned with ESMA’s Final Report on Amendments to the CSDR RTS on Settlement Discipline, which introduce same‑day timing for allocations and machine‑readable formats for...

Suggested Considerations

• Map all current allocation and confirmation workflows and identify any use of non‑electronic, non‑standardised or non‑machine‑readable communication (including email attachments, faxes, PDFs, and oral instructions).
• Develop and execute a remediation plan to replace manual or oral allocation and confirmation processes with fully electronic, machine‑readable workflows using recognised international messaging standards.
• Review and update front‑to‑back trade processing systems (OMS, EMS, middle‑office, back‑office, matching engines) to ensure they can generate, receive and process standardised electronic allocation and confirmation messages within same‑day T+1‑compatible timelines.
• Engage with CSDs, custodians, brokers, counterparties and third‑party vendors to confirm their roadmap and readiness for the mandated electronic standards and to align implementation timelines to the 7 December 2026 application date.
• Update contractual documentation with clients and counterparties (including terms of business and service level agreements) to incorporate obligations for electronic, standardised, machine‑readable allocations and confirmations and to remove reliance on manual methods except as contingency.

Key Dates

References

• [1] esma.europa.eu/press-news/esma-news/esma-proposes-key-ref...
• [2] gfma.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/esma_cp1_sett_gfmas-g...
• [3] icmagroup.org/News/news-in-brief/icma-responds-to-esmas-c...
• [4] esma.europa.eu/esmas-activities/markets-and-infrastructur...
• [5] marketsmedia.com/esma-proposes-settlement-reforms-for-t1/
• [6] cssf.lu/en/t1-settlement-preparing-for-the-future-of-euro...
• [7] esma.europa.eu/sites/default/files/2025-06/High-level_Roa...
• [8] esma.europa.eu/sites/default/files/2025-10/ESMA74-2119945...

What Changed

There are no immediate regulatory changes; this is a fact-finding call for evidence to assess whether adjustments to the CRA Regulation are needed. ESMA seeks views on definitions (e.g., restricted subscription ratings as selectively distributed to limited subscribers with economic interest; private ratings excluded from CRA scope if not distributed to >150 persons), production processes, governance comparability to public ratings, distribution risks, and market needs. Potential future outcomes include enhanced clarity on CRA Regulation application, but none are confirmed yet.

Suggested Considerations

• Review the full Call for Evidence document and annexes for specific questions on restricted subscription (Annex I) and private credit ratings (Annex II).
• Prepare and submit evidence-based responses addressing key areas: use cases/benefits vs. public ratings, contracting/distribution parties, analytical/governance comparability, transparency impacts, risks/mitigations, and multi-CRA practices.
• Provide quantitative data, concrete examples, and rationale; indicate specific questions and alternatives considered.
• Submit online by 31 May 2026 using the docx reply form; note responses may be published unless confidentiality requested.

Key Dates

References

• [1] esma.europa.eu/press-news/esma-news/esma-launches-call-ev...
• [2] esma.europa.eu/sites/default/files/2026-04/ESMA00-6666163...
• [3] esma.europa.eu/esmas-activities/investors-and-issuers/cre...
• [4] esma.europa.eu/press-news/consultations/call-evidence-res...
• [5] afg.asso.fr/app/uploads/2015/03/2015_03_27_reponse_AFG_ES...
• [6] icmagroup.org/sustainable-finance/regulatory-responses-an...
• [7] blackrock.com/corporate/literature/publication/esma-call-...
• [8] tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/17441048.2024.2347723

What Changed

• The newsletter highlights no immediate binding rules but flags forthcoming or proposed changes via publications:
• Trends, Risks and Vulnerabilities (TRV) Report 2026: Identifies high-risk EU financial markets, urging heightened risk monitoring.[User Query]
• Annual transparency calculations for equity and equity-like instruments: Updates pre- and post-trade transparency thresholds, published 27 February 2026.[User Query]
• Joint EBA-ESMA consultation on revised suitability assessment: Proposes updates to requirements for banks and investment firms on assessing client knowledge and needs under MiFID II.[User Query]
• ESMA proposals to simplify MiFID II/MiFIR obligations on market data: Aims to streamline reporting and data access burdens.[User Query]

Suggested Considerations

• Review and implement transparency calculations: Adjust trading systems and disclosures for equity/equity-like instruments per 27 February 2026 publication.
• Respond to consultations: Submit feedback on suitability (by 25 May 2026), EMIR 3 (20 April), MAR delays (29 April), CCP collateral (30 April); attend 15 April hearing.
• Assess TRV risks: Conduct internal risk reviews aligning with high-risk market warnings; update policies on retail investor journeys and fund costs.[User Query]
• Update compliance programs: Incorporate MiFID II/MiFIR simplification proposals, Listing Act statement, market abuse guidelines, EMIR 3, sustainability reporting, and new Q&As.[User Query]
• Monitor enforcement: Review supervisory actions for peer benchmarks (e.g., similar to prior MFSA review).

Key Dates

References

• [1] esma.europa.eu/press-news/esma-news/esma-publishes-latest...
• [2] esma.europa.eu/press-news/esma-news/esma-publishes-latest...
• [3] esma.europa.eu/press-news/esma-news/esma-publishes-latest...
• [4] esma.europa.eu/press-news/esma-news
• [5] esma.europa.eu/news-publications/newsletter
• [6] euagenda.eu/news/908208
• [7] esma.europa.eu/form/newsletter
• [8] esma.europa.eu

What Changed

• - Mandatory pre-authorization engagement: Data contributors (trading venues and APAs) must cooperate with selected CTPs *before* formal CTP authorization to set up data transmission, including...
• CTP confidentiality obligations: Selected CTPs must implement safeguards for data confidentiality and integrity during preparatory phases.[User Query]
• Legal obligation reinforcement: ESMA and NCAs remind that data contribution to CTPs is a binding requirement from CT go-live, tied to MiFIR.[User Query] No new rules are introduced; this clarifies...

Suggested Considerations

• For data contributors: Immediately engage selected CTPs (EuroCTP, fairCT; derivatives post-selection) to agree transmission protocols, conduct connectivity testing, and complete end-to-end testing before 01 April 2026 go-live.[User Query]
• For CTPs: Deploy confidentiality/integrity safeguards for pre-authorization data; prepare operational rules per Q&As (accessible via ESMA's online tool).[User Query]
• For all firms: Review ESMA Q&As via online tool; update internal policies, IT systems, and vendor contracts for CT compliance; coordinate with NCAs if needed.[User Query]
• Document cooperation efforts to demonstrate readiness during ESMA/NCAs supervision.

Key Dates

References

• [1] assetservicingtimes.com/assetservicesnews/regulationartic...
• [2] esma.europa.eu/esmas-activities/markets-and-infrastructur...
• [3] esma.europa.eu/sites/default/files/2025-10/Newsletter_Sep...
• [4] esma.europa.eu/press-news/esma-news/esma-launches-selecti...
• [5] thetradenews.com/esma-launches-initial-selection-process-...
• [6] mapsplatis.com/news/regulatory-roundup/january-2026-regul...
• [7] jdsupra.com/legalnews/technical-standards-on-consolidated...
• [8] regulationtomorrow.com/2025/06/esma-launches-selection-of...

What Changed

• - Crowdfunding: New Q&A (2601) on use of fiduciary (nominee) structures in equity crowdfunding, clarifying permissible structures for service providers.
• MiCA (CASPs): Updates include clarification on withdrawal requirements under Article 75 (2320); fixed overheads calculation (2349); interests from client funds at credit institutions (2486); fiat...
• EMIR (CCPs): New Q&As on AAR threshold calculation (2418, 2779), AAR representativeness obligation (2776, 2777), and AAR stress testing (2778), building on ESMA's supervisory briefing for...
• Transparency Directive: New Q&A (2775, effective 1 January 2027) on IFRS 18 and APMs interaction; updated Q&As (effective 1 January 2027) on measures in/outside financial statements (1868), interim...

Suggested Considerations

• Review and update policies: CASPs must align withdrawal processes (Art. 75), overhead calculations, client fund interest handling, fiat payout mechanisms, offer/placing distinctions, and trading platform compliance with Title II.
• Crowdfunding firms: Assess and document use of nominee structures per Q&A 2601.
• CCPs/counterparties: Implement AAR reporting for thresholds, representativeness (with subcategory identification and trade reporting examples), and stress testing; reference ESMA's supervisory briefing for compliance models.
• Issuers/reporters: Revise APM disclosures for IFRS 18 compatibility, ensuring prominence, clear definitions, and consistent presentation inside/outside statements effective 1 January 2027.
• General: Integrate Q&As into compliance training, internal audits, and NCA reporting; monitor ESMA's Questions and Answers section for full texts.

Key Dates

References

• [1] esma.europa.eu/sites/default/files/2026-02/Newsletter_Jan...
• [2] regulationtomorrow.com/2025/10/esma-publishes-new-micar-q...
• [3] natlawreview.com/article/investment-management-client-ale...
• [4] practicalesg.com/2026/01/esma-issues-guidance-on-avoiding...
• [5] esma.europa.eu/press-news/esma-news/esma-simplifies-mifid...
• [6] esma.europa.eu/press-news/esma-news/esma-publishes-superv...
• [7] funds-europe.com/one-size-fits-none-supervision/
• [8] cryptoadventure.com/esma-warns-crypto-perpetual-derivativ...

What Changed

• The draft RTS introduce a structured framework governing how PTRR services operate under the clearing obligation exemption: Eligible Service Types The standards focus on three primary PTRR service...
• Market risk neutrality in PTRR exercises—transactions must not alter the overall market risk profile of portfolios
• Required risk reduction in submitted portfolios—genuine risk mitigation rather than speculative activity
• Compliance with pre-agreed rules and reasonable, transparent, non-discriminatory conduct Operational & Governance Framework The RTS establish requirements across multiple dimensions:
• Transparency towards participants in PTRR exercises

Suggested Considerations

• *For PTRR Service Providers:
• *Assess current operations against proposed RTS requirements, particularly regarding market risk neutrality and risk reduction thresholds
• *Review algorithm safeguards and execution protocols to ensure compliance with transparency and non-discrimination standards
• *Establish record-keeping systems capable of documenting PTRR exercises and demonstrating exemption qualification
• *Prepare monitoring capabilities to support NCA oversight and supervisory reporting

Key Dates

References

• [1] esma.europa.eu/press-news/esma-news/esma-consults-post-tr...
• [2] en.cryptonomist.ch/2026/02/26/ptrr-services-emir3-regulat...
• [3] esma.europa.eu/sites/default/files/2026-02/ESMA74-1049116...
• [4] esma.europa.eu/press-news/consultations/consultation-regu...
• [5] tradingview.com/news/financemagnates:febf7b8a7094b:0-esma...
• [6] esma.europa.eu/press-news/esma-news/esma-sets-out-clearin...
• [7] regulationtomorrow.com/2026/02/esma-final-report-on-draft...
• [8] esma.europa.eu/sites/default/files/2026-02/ESMA74-1049116...

What Changed

• - Incorporation of revised CRD requirements for large institutions, including ex-ante applications where authorities perform ex-post assessments, and mandatory suitability assessments for key roles...
• Expanded application to CRD-covered entities and MiFID II investment firms, with further specifications for third-country branches.
• Strengthened integration with AML/CFT framework, providing guidance on identifying reasonable grounds to suspect money laundering or terrorist financing risks during assessments.
• Introduction of targeted simplifications to streamline processes, reduce administrative burdens, and offer greater flexibility/clarity for institutions and supervisors.
• Parallel EBA consultation on RTS specifying standardized documentation (e.g., suitability questionnaires, CVs, internal assessments) for large institutions to ensure consistent submissions.

Suggested Considerations

• Assess current suitability processes against new requirements (e.g., ex-ante applications, AML/CFT checks, third-country branch specs) and prepare for mandatory assessments of additional roles like CFOs.
• For large institutions, evaluate EBA RTS on documentation and align internal templates (e.g., suitability questionnaires, CVs).
• Participate in public hearings on 15 April 2026 if relevant.
• Plan governance updates, including ongoing monitoring of collective/individual suitability and corrective measures.

Key Dates

References

• [1] esma.europa.eu/press-news/esma-news/eba-and-esma-consult-...
• [2] eba.europa.eu/publications-and-media/press-releases/eba-a...
• [3] esma.europa.eu/sites/default/files/2026-02/ESMA35-2432281...
• [4] esma.europa.eu/press-news/hearings/public-hearing-eba-esm...
• [5] mlex.com/mlex/articles/2445703/revised-suitability-rules-...
• [6] eba.europa.eu/publications-and-media/events/consultation-...
• [7] regulationtomorrow.com/2024/12/official-translations-of-e...
• [8] esma.europa.eu/press-news/consultations/consultation-join...

What Changed

• - Withdrawal of ESMA's previous guidelines on MiFID II/MiFIR market data obligations, effective immediately on 23 February 2026, to avoid overlap with binding rules.
• Full alignment with RTS on RCB, which sets criteria for transparency, non-discrimination, and reasonable commercial basis pricing of market data by trading venues and approved publication...
• Firms must now rely solely on RTS legal text for interpreting data provision, disclosure, and fee structures, without legacy interpretive guidance.

Suggested Considerations

• Review and map internal policies, procedures, and data disclosure practices directly to RTS on RCB criteria for transparency, non-discrimination, and cost-based pricing.
• For market data providers authorised before 23 November 2025: Use the transition period (until 22 August 2026) exclusively to renegotiate and align existing contractual arrangements, including pricing schedules, data packages, and service-level clauses, with RTS requirements.
• Document compliance with RTS across asset classes and distribution channels; cease reliance on withdrawn guidelines.
• Contact ESMA at RCB@esma.europa.eu for issues on RTS application or interpretative uncertainties.

Key Dates

References

• [1] esma.europa.eu/press-news/esma-news/esma-simplifies-mifid...
• [2] en.cryptonomist.ch/2026/02/23/mifid-market-data-esma-rcb/
• [3] finreg.aoshearman.com/ESMA-issues-second-statement-on-the...
• [4] esma.europa.eu/sites/default/files/2025-10/Simplification...
• [5] regulationtomorrow.com/2025/10/esma-updates-manual-on-pos...
• [6] icmagroup.org/market-practice-and-regulatory-policy/secon...
• [7] esma.europa.eu/trading/mifid-ii-and-mifir-review
• [8] esma.europa.eu/press-news/consultations

What Changed

• - Permanent expansion of eligible CCP collateral to include public guarantees, public bank guarantees, and commercial bank guarantees, with specified conditions for acceptance.
• Criteria for deeming debt instruments as eligible financial instruments under CCP investment policies.
• Requirements for highly secured arrangements to deposit emission allowances as margins or default fund contributions. These build on EMIR 3's measures to broaden collateral scope and entity coverage,...

Suggested Considerations

• Review and Respond to Consultation: CCPs, clearing members, NFCs, and clients should analyze the paper, prepare responses to Annex 1 questions by 30 April 2026, and submit online; indicate confidentiality if needed.
• Assess Internal Policies: CCPs must evaluate current collateral, investment, and emission allowance frameworks against proposed conditions; clearing members/NFCs should model impacts on liquidity and margin posting.
• Monitor Developments: Track ESMA's final report and RTS submission; prepare for potential supervisory expectations on guarantee acceptance and debt instrument eligibility post-2026.
• Engage with Industry: Join associations like EACH for coordinated feedback on risk-based approaches and proportionality.

Key Dates

References

• [1] esma.europa.eu/press-news/esma-news/esma-consults-guarant...
• [2] eachccp.eu/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/EACH-Response-ESMA-...
• [3] esma.europa.eu/press-news/consultations/consultation-guar...
• [4] cliffordchance.com/content/dam/cliffordchance/briefings/2...
• [5] eurelectric.org/publications/joint-associations-letter-ca...
• [6] generationimpact.global/news/esma-emir3-draft-rts-partici...
• [7] gibsondunn.com/derivatives-legislative-and-regulatory-wee...
• [8] deutsche-boerse.com/resource/blob/4898032/f3790a0ea1a0ebb...

What Changed

The supervisory briefing addresses three core compliance areas: Identifying Most Relevant Subcategories: Counterparties must continuously identify the five most relevant subcategories for each class of derivatives over each reference period, based on their trading activity. The guidance clarifies that the number of subcategories to select equals the maximum number available for that derivative class. Representativeness Compliance Standard: Counterparties must clear, on an annual average basis, at least five trades in each of the most relevant subcategories per class of derivative contracts...

Suggested Considerations

• *Immediate (by 26 February 2026):
• Review the ESMA supervisory briefing and Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2026/305 in detail
• Assess whether your firm meets the €6 billion notional clearing volume outstanding threshold triggering AAR obligations
• Identify internal teams responsible for AAR compliance (trading, operations, compliance, reporting)
• *Short-term (by 31 July 2026):

Key Dates

References

• [1] esma.europa.eu/sites/default/files/2026-02/ESMA91-1505572...
• [2] isda.org/a/PBpgE/ISDA-EFAMA-FIA-Request-for-Clarification...
• [3] esma.europa.eu/press-news/esma-news/esma-publishes-superv...
• [4] ashurst.com/en/insights/eu-emir-first-aar-technical-stand...
• [5] regulationtomorrow.com/2026/02/published-in-oj-active-acc...
• [6] simmons-simmons.com/en/publications/cmlfc9bmo0078u43gptxr...
• [7] fia.org/fia/events/emir-30-implementing-active-account-re...
• [8] fiadocumentation.org/fia/new-emir-30-active-account-requi...

What Changed

• This is an enforcement decision, not new legislation, but it reinforces existing EMIR and SFTR requirements on TRs, particularly:
• Policies and procedures: Must be adequate to ensure compliance, with clear roles and responsibilities for governing bodies (breaches under EMIR Art. 78(3) and SFTR Art.
• Organisational structure: Must ensure business continuity and orderly functioning, especially for SFTR services (breach under SFTR).
• Operational risk management: Identify and minimise risks via systems, controls, and procedures (breaches under EMIR and SFTR, Point (a) Section II Annex I EMIR).
• Data confidentiality and integrity: Protect information received under EMIR and prevent misuse (breaches under EMIR). Fines were calculated per EMIR Art.

Suggested Considerations

• For REGIS-TR specifically: Cease three ongoing breaches (policies/procedures under EMIR/SFTR; SFTR organisational structure for business continuity) per ESMA supervisory measures (EMIR Art. 73).
• For all TRs: - Review and strengthen policies/procedures for clarity on governance roles/responsibilities.
• Audit organisational structure for SFTR business continuity and orderly functioning.
• Conduct operational risk assessments, implementing controls/systems to minimise risks under EMIR/SFTR.
• Enhance data confidentiality/integrity protections and misuse prevention measures.

Key Dates

References

• [1] esma.europa.eu/sites/default/files/2026-02/ESMA43-8572387...
• [2] esma.europa.eu/sites/default/files/2026-02/ESMA43-8572387...
• [3] euagenda.eu/news/914230
• [4] esma.europa.eu/sites/default/files/2026-02/ESMA43-8572387...
• [5] euagenda.eu/news/914233
• [6] esma.europa.eu/document/esma-sanctions-regis-tr-serious-b...
• [7] mondovisione.com/news/
• [8] icmagroup.org/market-practice-and-regulatory-policy/repo-...

What Changed

• - Alignment with Listing Act: Guidelines will reflect MAR amendments, removing the requirement for immediate disclosure of inside information on protracted processes before completion (effective June...
• New legitimate interests for delay: Adds scenarios such as public authority requests for non-disclosure, issuer need for more time to collect information, or involvement in multiple similar...
• Elimination of "no misleading the public" condition: Removes Guideline 2 entirely, as the Listing Act deleted this from MAR; replaces with requirement that delayed disclosure must not contradict the...
• Overall simplification: Reduces administrative burdens for issuers while providing clearer, non-exhaustive lists of delay situations.

Suggested Considerations

• Respond to consultation: Submit feedback via ESMA's online .docx form by 29 April 2026, focusing on proposed amendments, additional legitimate interests, and interactions with prudential supervision (Annex IV of Consultation Paper).
• Review and update policies: Assess current inside information disclosure procedures against proposed changes, particularly removing protracted process delays and incorporating new legitimate interests; prepare for non-contradiction with latest public announcements.
• Train staff: Update compliance training on MAR delay conditions ahead of June 2026, ensuring alignment with Listing Act changes.
• Monitor updates: Track ESMA's Q4 2026 final report for binding guidelines and adjust insider lists, PDMR notifications, and disclosure workflows accordingly.

Key Dates

References

• [1] esma.europa.eu/press-news/esma-news/esma-seeks-input-stre...
• [2] fca.org.uk/markets/market-abuse/regulation
• [3] sidley.com/en/insights/newsupdates/2026/02/uk-eu-investme...
• [4] regulationtomorrow.com/france/esma-publishes-official-tra...
• [5] esma.europa.eu/sites/default/files/2025-11/ESMA22-5075148...
• [6] esma.europa.eu/sites/default/files/2026-02/ESMA74-2685449...
• [7] esma.europa.eu/press-news/consultations
• [8] esma.europa.eu/press-news/consultations/consultation-mar-...

What Changed

Scope of Supplementary Deferrals The decision permits volume omission deferrals for sovereign bonds classified as Group 1, Category 1 instruments (medium-size, liquid instruments) under MiFIR's post-trade transparency framework. Market operators and investment firms may defer publication of transaction volumes until end-of-trading-day, rather than the standard 15-minute deferral period. Regulatory Rationale ESMA determined that these deferrals are necessary to account for specific characteristics of sovereign bond markets, particularly protecting market liquidity and ensuring orderly price...

Suggested Considerations

• *Immediate Compliance Preparation (by May 4, 2026)
• *System Configuration: Trading venues and investment firms must update post-trade reporting systems to implement volume omission deferrals for Group 1, Category 1 sovereign bonds, with automated end-of-day publication triggers.
• *Instrument Classification: Establish processes to correctly identify which sovereign bonds qualify as Group 1, Category 1 under Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2017/583 (RTS 2), referencing Table 2.6 of Annex III.
• *APA Coordination: Approved Publication Arrangements must configure deferral management services to apply volume omission rules consistently across all reporting firms, with fallback procedures for system failures.
• *Policy Documentation: Update post-trade transparency policies, procedures, and client disclosures to reflect the new deferral regime and explain the timing of volume publication.

Key Dates

References

• [1] esma.europa.eu/sites/default/files/2026-02/ESMA74-2765844...
• [2] esma.europa.eu/press-news/esma-news/esma-publishes-list-s...
• [3] assets.marketaxess.com/twu/a4f85a00-067b-4861-9448-8dc62e...
• [4] fi-desk.com/simpler-bond-liquidity-assessments-diverge-on...
• [5] afme.eu/media/ceckeczx/afmemifirimplementation09.pdf
• [6] sidley.com/en/insights/newsupdates/2026/01/uk-eu-investme...
• [7] aoshearman.com/en/insights/financial-services-horizon-rep...
• [8] icmagroup.org/assets/documents/Regulatory/Secondary-marke...

What Changed

• The draft revised ESRS introduce simplifications such as improved readability, language, format, reduced volume of requirements, and a focus on material matters.
• Introduce time limits to certain permanent reliefs (e.g., reliefs #3, #4, #9, #11 on quantitative information for anticipated financial effects until FY 2029, and metrics).
• Refine requirements on transition plans (e.g., consistent disclosure of absolute financed emissions and contextual information).
• Strengthen reporting on sustainability competences of administrative, management, and supervisory bodies.
• Enhance transparency on financial resources allocated to sustainability actions.

Suggested Considerations

• Monitor Commission process: Track final delegated act by summer 2026, incorporating ESMA/EBA/EIOPA/ECB opinions; review full ESMA opinion PDF for detailed recommendations.
• Assess current reporting: Evaluate use of permanent/temporary reliefs (e.g., #3/#4 on quantitative data, #9/#11 on metrics) and prepare for time limits; refine transition plans for emissions/targets.
• Enhance governance disclosures: Strengthen reporting on sustainability competences in management/supervisory bodies and financial resources for actions.
• Review subsidiary exemptions: Check materiality exclusions for sustainability risks/opportunities in consolidated statements.
• Prepare for supervision: Leverage NCAs flexibility during transition; integrate into data governance and risk systems per CSRD implementation trends.

Key Dates

References

• [1] esma.europa.eu/sites/default/files/2026-02/ESMA32-8462626...
• [2] esma.europa.eu/sites/default/files/2026-02/ESMA32-8462626...
• [3] synesgy.com/en/esg-guide/uk-eu-esg-regulation-key-updates...
• [4] cuatrecasas.com/en/global/sustainability/art/european-202...
• [5] stibbe.com/publications-and-insights/eu-esg-wrap-up-concl...
• [6] aoshearman.com/en/insights/financial-services-horizon-rep...
• [7] esma.europa.eu/press-news/esma-news/esma-supports-simplif...
• [8] environmental-finance.com/content/news/esrs-reliefs-risk-...

What Changed

• - Transitional regime clarification under Article 48a PR: Registration documents and universal registration documents approved or filed until 4 June 2026 fall within the Article 48a(1) transitional...
• Interim disclosure guidance for new prospectus types: Until the Delegated Act amending Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2019/980 applies (expected post-5 March 2026), EU Follow-on prospectuses...
• Standardized presentation: Listing Act introduces clearer prospectus formats (e.g., banning generic risk factors), applying from March 2026 for secondary/growth prospectuses and June 2026 for...

Suggested Considerations

• Review and file/approve registration/universal registration documents before 4 June 2026 to leverage transitional regime; ensure ongoing supplements/amendments under old PR.
• For EU Follow-on/Growth prospectuses pre-Delegated Act: Structure per PR Annexes IV/V/VII/VIII; voluntarily adopt recommended Delegated Act disclosures for compliance with Articles 14a/15a.
• Advisors/issuers: Rely on ESMA statement for NCA interactions; update templates/processes for standardized formats and ESG disclosures (e.g., alignment with ICMA Green Bond Principles or EU Taxonomy if advertised).
• NCAs: Apply ESMA's clarified transitional approach to avoid gaps.
• Monitor Delegated Act adoption (likely pre-5 March 2026) and ESMA Level 2 technical standards.

Key Dates

References

• [1] esma.europa.eu/press-news/esma-news/esma-publishes-statem...
• [2] esma.europa.eu/sites/default/files/2026-02/ESMA32-7538902...
• [3] amf-france.org/en/news-publications/depth/listing-act
• [4] hoganlovells.com/en/publications/esma-finalises-report-on...
• [5] esma.europa.eu/sites/default/files/2025-06/ESMA32-1171959...
• [6] mayerbrown.com/en/insights/publications/2025/06/esma-publ...
• [7] ashurst.com/en/insights/esma-final-report-on-changes-to-t...
• [8] taylorwessing.com/-/media/taylor-wessing/files/germany/20...

What Changed

This publication announces no direct regulatory changes or new requirements; it is a vacancy notice for ESMA's leadership position rather than a policy update or consultation imposing obligations on market participants. Responsibilities outlined align with the existing ESMA Regulation, including chairing the Board of Supervisors and Management Board, strategy development, and navigating potential governance adjustments from the European Commission's market integration proposal.

Key Dates

References

• [1] esma.europa.eu/press-news/esma-news/esma-launches-selecti...
• [2] esma.europa.eu/sites/default/files/2025-10/ESMA22-5075148...
• [3] stepstone.dk/jobannonce/h1635341/esma-chair
• [4] esma.europa.eu/document/vacancy-notice-esma-chair
• [5] esma.europa.eu/ga/press-news/esma-news/esma-publishes-sho...
• [6] regulationtomorrow.com/the-netherlands/eu-policy-regulato...
• [7] amf-france.org/en/news-publications/news/esmas-20-recomme...

What Changed

• This is not a formal regulatory change but supervisory guidance reinforcing four principles for non-regulatory communications (e.g., marketing materials, websites, investor presentations, voluntary...
• Accurate: Claims must fairly represent sustainability profiles without exaggeration, falsehoods, omissions, cherry-picking, vagueness, or misleading ESG terminology/imagery.
• Accessible: Information must be easy to understand and navigate, with layered substantiation in electronic formats for retail materials.
• Substantiated: Backed by clear reasoning, facts, processes, and methodologies; disclose data limitations and comparison bases.
• Up to date: Reflect current data, with timely disclosure of material changes and analysis dates. Practical do's/don'ts include explaining ESG processes in plain language, disclosing portfolio...

Suggested Considerations

• Review and update all non-regulatory ESG communications (marketing, websites, presentations, DDQs, PPMs) against the four principles and do's/don'ts.
• Define and clearly explain ESG integration/exclusions (e.g., processes, criteria, thresholds, portfolio impact, materiality).
• Ensure consistency across channels, substantiate claims with accessible evidence, and avoid vagueness or overstatements.
• Train compliance/marketing teams; monitor for updates as further thematic notes may follow.
• Cross-reference with first note and regulations like SFDR, Cross-Border Distribution Regulation.

Key Dates

References

• [1] esma.europa.eu/sites/default/files/2026-01/ESMA36-4292347...
• [2] bahr.no/newsletter/asset-management-compliance-esg-esma-p...
• [3] esma.europa.eu/press-news/esma-news/esma-promotes-clarity...
• [4] sustainablefutures.linklaters.com/post/102m2dj/eu-how-to-...
• [5] regulationtomorrow.com/france/esg-fr/esma-thematic-notes-...
• [6] cms.law/en/lux/news-information/newsflash-esma-updates-on...
• [7] practicalesg.com/2026/01/esma-issues-guidance-on-avoiding...
• [8] esgtoday.com/esma-releases-guide-on-expectations-to-avoid...

What Changed

• - Standardized Integration of ESG Risks: NCAs must embed ESG risks into existing supervisory stress tests or ad-hoc assessments, using a risk-based materiality assessment to scope relevant risks,...
• Methodological and Governance Guidance: Outlines design for ESG-inclusive tests, including objectives (e.g., capital/liquidity robustness, strategy resilience), scenario analysis, and organizational...
• No New Obligations: Does not require NCAs to conduct dedicated ESG stress tests, but ensures consistency when they do, improving legal certainty and transparency in approval processes.
• Phased Approach: Initial focus on climate/environmental risks, with gradual extension to full ESG coverage based on data and model maturity.

Suggested Considerations

• For NCAs: Review and integrate ESG risks into stress testing frameworks via materiality assessments; define objectives, scenarios, and governance; notify ESAs of compliance post-translation; maintain risk-based, phased approach.
• For Firms: No direct mandates, but prepare by enhancing internal ESG risk modeling, data collection (especially climate/physical/transition risks), and stress testing capabilities to align with supervisory expectations; conduct voluntary ESG scenario analyses.
• General: Monitor NCA implementations, update policies for ESG risk integration in ICAAP/ORSA, and engage in industry feedback on data/methodological gaps.

Key Dates

References

• [1] esma.europa.eu/press-news/esma-news/esas-publish-joint-gu...
• [2] esma.europa.eu/sites/default/files/2026-01/ESAs_Final_Rep...
• [3] regulationtomorrow.com/france/esas-joint-guidelines-to-en...
• [4] sustainablefinancedaily.com/esg-news/weekly-esg-update-03...
• [5] esgtoday.com/eu-financial-regulators-release-guidelines-f...
• [6] synesgy.com/en/esg-guide/uk-eu-esg-regulation-key-updates...
• [7] structuredretailproducts.com/insights/82253/eu-regulators...
• [8] samcorporate.com/eu-esg-risk-guidelines-stress-tests/

What Changed

• The regulatory framework introduces several substantive requirements:
• CTP Mandate: The selected provider will consolidate post-trade data from trading venues and other data contributors into a unified electronic stream, enabling market participants to access accurate,...
• Data Scope: The CTP will collect and disseminate OTC derivatives data in accordance with ESMA's Final Report on transparency for derivatives, with specific technical standards governing pre- and...
• Technical Standards: ESMA has finalized regulatory technical standards (RTS) prescribing data quality requirements for CTPs and data contributors.
• Implementation Date: All derivatives-related changes, including amendments to RTS 2 (derivatives transparency) and the OTC derivatives CTP data requirements, are scheduled for 1 March 2027.

Suggested Considerations

• *For prospective CTP applicants:
• *For trading venues and data contributors:
• trade OTC derivatives data to the selected CTP from 1 March 2027
• minute maximum delay for real-time dissemination
• *For market participants:

Key Dates

References

• [1] esma.europa.eu/press-news/esma-news/esma-launches-selecti...
• [2] gibsondunn.com/derivatives-legislative-and-regulatory-wee...
• [3] finreg.aoshearman.com/esma-launches-selection-of-ctp-for-...
• [4] structuredretailproducts.com/insights/82178/esma-moves-fo...
• [5] thetradenews.com/esma-launches-initial-selection-process-...
• [6] jdsupra.com/legalnews/esma-final-draft-rts-under-mifir-re...
• [7] regulationtomorrow.com/france/esma-mifir-review-final-rep...
• [8] esma.europa.eu/esmas-activities/markets-and-infrastructur...

What Changed

• - ESMA welcomes the European Commission's 4 December 2025 legislative package on market integration, emphasizing robust governance and market infrastructure for deeper EU capital markets.
• Announcement of selected applicant for the equity consolidated tape provider (CTP), advancing MiFIR transparency for equity markets by improving post-trade data consolidation and access.
• Publication of ESMA's final report on Regulatory Technical Standards (RTS) for non-equity transparency, clarifying pre- and post-trade transparency rules for bonds, derivatives, and other non-equity...
• Launch of a Common Supervisory Action (CSA) on MiFID II conflicts of interest requirements to promote supervisory convergence and governance across Member States.
• European Supervisory Authorities (ESAs) designate critical ICT third-party providers under DORA, enhancing oversight of key outsourcing risks.

Suggested Considerations

• Review the final non-equity transparency RTS and assess impacts on trading and reporting systems for compliance by any upcoming application dates (not specified).
• Evaluate MiFID II conflicts of interest policies in preparation for the CSA; conduct internal audits and enhance training/staff attestations on identification and mitigation.
• Monitor equity CTP rollout for changes to post-trade data access and costs; update vendor contracts if applicable.
• For DORA-impacted firms, map exposures to designated critical ICT providers and strengthen due diligence, contractual clauses, and exit strategies.
• Asset managers: Audit fund names against guidelines and review UCITS distribution practices for cost transparency.

Key Dates

References

• [1] esma.europa.eu/press-news/esma-news/esma-publishes-latest...
• [2] jdsupra.com/post/fileServer.aspx?fName=81a62b9b-3256-4cec...
• [3] cyprus-mail.com/2025/12/31/esma-highlights-drive-for-deep...
• [4] esma.europa.eu/news-publications/newsletter
• [5] esma.europa.eu/sites/default/files/2025-12/Newsletter_Nov...
• [6] regulationtomorrow.com/france/eu-policy-regulatory-legisl...
• [7] esma.europa.eu/lt
• [8] esma.europa.eu/de/press-news/esma-news

What Changed

• The December 19, 2025 Q&A publication covers several regulatory domains:
• AIFMD Exclusion Criteria: New guidance on the UNGC/OECD Guidelines exclusion (Q&A 2734), clarifying when alternative investment fund managers must apply exclusion-related requirements
• ESG Rating Activities: Updated Q&As addressing regulatory requirements for ESG rating providers, including clarification on group-affiliated small ESG rating activities
• Sustainable Finance: Continued development of guidance under SFDR and related sustainability disclosure frameworks
• Digital Finance and Innovation: Guidance supporting implementation of digital finance rules

Suggested Considerations

• *Immediate (0-30 days):
• *Short-term (1-3 months):
• level information
• advertised securities per Annex 21 requirements

Key Dates

References

• [1] mazantipulse.com/updates/impactandesg/updated-qa-from-esm...
• [2] mayerbrown.com/en/insights/publications/2025/06/esma-publ...
• [3] regulationtomorrow.com/france/esma-publishes-new-micar-qa...
• [4] esma.europa.eu/press-news/esma-news/esma-updates-its-qas-...
• [5] esma.europa.eu/press-news/esma-news/new-qas-available-24
• [6] esma.europa.eu/press-news/esma-news/new-qa-available
• [7] esma.europa.eu/publications-and-data/questions-answers
• [8] esma.europa.eu/press-news/esma-news/new-qas-available