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🇪🇺 ESMA Enforcement high

May 28th 2026

New Q&As available

New Q&As available 28 May 2026 Digital Finance and Innovation Market Abuse Sustainable finance The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA), the EU's securities markets regulator, has published the following question and answer: EU ESG Ratings Regulation (ESGRR) Defined ranking system (2853) Transitional provisions (2854) ESG rating providers established after date of entry into force (2855) Material changes to registration information (2856) Market Abuse Regulation (MAR) Regulation A...

AI Analysis

ESMA has released new Q&As clarifying several operational aspects of the EU ESG Ratings Regulation (ESGRR), the Market Abuse Regulation (MAR) delegated audit requirements, and an exemption from MiCA white paper obligations for certain crypto-asset offerings. These Q&As materially affect how ESG rating providers structure their methodologies and registrations, how firms plan and evidence MAR compliance audits, and when MiCA white papers are required, and therefore should immediately be integrated into internal compliance frameworks.

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

03 January 2025

– ESG Ratings Regulation (ESGRR) enters into force, starting the formal legislative timeline and triggering preparatory obligations for future ESG rating providers

02 July 2026

– ESGRR applies and the main substantive requirements become effective; from this date entities have one month to notify ESMA of their intention to apply for authorisation or registration as ESG rating providers

Compliance Impact

Non-compliance with ESGRR, MAR and MiCA as interpreted in ESMA’s Q&As may lead to authorisation refusals or withdrawals, administrative fines, product restrictions, and heightened supervisory scrutiny. Given the enforcement nature of ESG ratings supervision and MAR/MiCA regimes, firms face significant conduct, reputational and business model risks if they fail to align promptly with this guidance.

References

AI-generated analysis. May contain errors or omissions — verify with the original ESMA source before acting. Full disclaimer.

Sectors:

Investment Management Capital Markets & Trading Crypto & Digital Assets

Topics:

ESG Market Abuse / Surveillance Authorisation & Licensing

Asset ManagerBroker DealerCrypto Exchange

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🇪🇺 ESMA Consultation high

May 26th 2026

ESMA consults on revised guidelines to support smoother allocations and confirmations under T+1

ESMA consults on revised guidelines to support smoother allocations and confirmations under T+1 26 May 2026 Post Trading The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA), the EU’s financial markets regulator and supervisor, has launched a consultation on the updated guidelines on standardised procedures and messaging protocols. This review is part of ESMA’s work to support market participants in preparing for the transition to a T+1 settlement cycle. The updates are designed to make post ...

AI Analysis

ESMA has launched a consultation on **revised ESMA Guidelines on standardised procedures and messaging protocols for allocations and confirmations**, aligning them with the forthcoming CSDR Settlement Discipline RTS amendments and the EU’s move to **T+1 settlement by 11 October 2027**. The draft guidelines harden expectations around **mandatory electronic, standardised, machine‑readable communication** for post‑trade processes and remove reliance on manual or non‑machine‑readable methods, significantly tightening operational requirements for EU trading, post‑trade and operations functions.

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

07 July 2026 DEADLINE

– Deadline stated by ESMA for stakeholders to submit consultation feedback on the revised guidelines

October 2026

– ESMA expects to publish its final report, including updated and finalised guidelines on standardised procedures and messaging protocols

07 December 2026

– Expected application date of the revised ESMA Guidelines on allocations and confirmations, aligned with the anticipated application of the amended CSDR RTS on Settlement Discipline requirements for allocations and confirmations

11 October 2027 DEADLINE

– EU transition date to a T+1 settlement cycle, when trades in in‑scope instruments must settle one business day after the trade date and firms must fully operate under the new T+1‑aligned post‑trade framework

Compliance Impact

The change is high impact for operational and conduct compliance: failure to implement mandatory electronic, standardised post‑trade communication and to meet compressed T+1 timelines will directly increase settlement fails, trigger CSDR Settlement Discipline measures and may expose firms to supervisory findings, sanctions and client detriment. Given the hard deadlines and dependency on technology and counterparties, non‑compliance risks crystallising as both regulatory breaches and material operational risk.

References

AI-generated analysis. May contain errors or omissions — verify with the original ESMA source before acting. Full disclaimer.

Sectors:

Capital Markets & Trading Investment Management Banking & Credit

Topics:

Operational Resilience / Outsourcing Reporting & Disclosure

Broker DealerBankAsset Manager

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🇪🇺 ESMA News

May 20th 2026

ESMA publishes shortlist of candidates for position of Chair

ESMA publishes shortlist of candidates for position of Chair 20 May 2026 About ESMA Board of Supervisors Press Releases The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA), the EU’s financial markets regulator and supervisor, has published the shortlist of candidates for the position of Chair, which it has sent to the Council of the European Union (Council) and the European Parliament (Parliament). The Council will appoint the Chair following confirmation by the Parliament. The Board of Supe...

Sectors:

Capital Markets & Trading

Topics:

Authorisation & Licensing Senior Managers / Governance

All Firms

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🇪🇺 ESMA Enforcement medium

May 13th 2026

ESMA issues guidance on effective use of resolution tools in CCP crisis planning

ESMA issues guidance on effective use of resolution tools in CCP crisis planning 13 May 2026 CCP The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA), the EU’s financial markets regulator and supervisor, has today published a resolution briefing for Central Counterparties (CCPs). The briefing provides practical guidance to National Resolution Authorities (NRAs) on how to operationalise the write-down and conversion of instruments tool (WDCI). Marking an important step in ESMA’s wider efforts ...

Sectors:

Capital Markets & Trading Crypto & Digital Assets

Topics:

Technology & Cyber Market Abuse / Surveillance

All Firms

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🇪🇺 ESMA Consultation low

May 12th 2026

European Commission launches call for candidates for the ESAs’ Board of Appeal

European Commission launches call for candidates for the ESAs’ Board of Appeal 12 May 2026 Board of Appeal The European Commission has launched a call for expression of interest for the appointment of members to the Board of Appeal of the three European Supervisory Authorities (EBA, EIOPA and ESMA – the ESAs). This call aims to establish a reserve list of qualified candidates to fill vacancies that may arise within the Board of Appeal. The reserve list will remain valid for a period of five y...

Sectors:

General

Topics:

Technology & Cyber Authorisation & Licensing Senior Managers / Governance

All Firms

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🇪🇺 ESMA Enforcement high

May 11th 2026

ESMA identifies areas for further supervisory convergence on compliance and internal audit in the funds sector

ESMA identifies areas for further supervisory convergence on compliance and internal audit in the funds sector 11 May 2026 Audit Fund Management The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA), the EU’s financial markets regulator and supervisor, has published the results of its 2025 Common Supervisory Action (CSA) on the compliance and internal audit functions of fund managers , carried out in with the participation of all EU and EEA national supervisors. The EU-wide review found that m...

Sectors:

Investment Management Capital Markets & Trading

Topics:

Consumer Protection / Conduct Technology & Cyber Market Abuse / Surveillance

Asset Manager

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🇪🇺 ESMA Enforcement critical

May 7th 2026

ESMA outlines enforcement activities for corporate reporting across the EEA in 2025

ESMA outlines enforcement activities for corporate reporting across the EEA in 2025 07 May 2026 Corporate Finance Electronic reporting Financial reporting Sustainable finance The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA), the EU’s financial markets regulator and supervisor, has today published its Report on 2025 Corporate reporting enforcement and regulatory activities . The report provides an overview of how national enforcers and ESMA supervised corporate reporting across the Europea...

Sectors:

Capital Markets & Trading

Topics:

ESG Technology & Cyber Market Abuse / Surveillance

All Firms

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🇪🇺 ESMA Enforcement medium

May 6th 2026

ESMA consults on a new simplified approach to updating MMF stress test parameters

ESMA consults on a new simplified approach to updating MMF stress test parameters 05 May 2026 Fund Management Simplification and Burden Reduction The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA), the EU’s financial markets regulator and supervisor, has today launched a consultation on a new approach to updating the parameters for stress test scenarios under the Money Market Funds framework. ESMA proposes replacing the current annual amendments to Section 5 of the Guidelines with an annual...

Sectors:

Investment Management Capital Markets & Trading Crypto & Digital Assets

Topics:

Prudential / Capital Requirements Technology & Cyber Market Abuse / Surveillance

All Firms

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🇪🇺 ESMA Enforcement high

May 6th 2026

ESMA promotes proportionate supervision of MiFID II sustainability requirements

ESMA promotes proportionate supervision of MiFID II sustainability requirements 06 May 2026 Investor protection The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA), the EU’s financial markets regulator and supervisor, has issued a statement presenting the results of its Common Supervisory Action (CSA) on how sustainability is integrated into firms’ suitability assessment as well as into processes and procedures for product governance. The statement highlights key themes emerging from the sup...

Sectors:

Capital Markets & Trading

Topics:

Consumer Protection / Conduct ESG Technology & Cyber

All Firms

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🇪🇺 ESMA Speech

May 4th 2026

ESMA advances the simplification of EU reporting frameworks for funds and transactions

ESMA advances the simplification of EU reporting frameworks for funds and transactions 04 May 2026 Fund Management Market data Press Releases Securities Financing Transactions Simplification and Burden Reduction The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA), the EU financial markets regulator and supervisor, has launched a harmonised approach to funds reporting and has set a clear path towards streamlined, more efficient transaction reporting across European markets. The two reports pu...

Sectors:

Investment Management Capital Markets & Trading

Topics:

AML / Financial Crime Technology & Cyber Market Abuse / Surveillance

All Firms

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🇪🇺 ESMA Consultation low

April 30th 2026

ESMA launches its sixth stress test exercise for Central Counterparties

ESMA launches its sixth stress test exercise for Central Counterparties 30 April 2026 CCP Press Releases The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA), the EU’s financial markets regulator and supervisor, today launched its sixth stress test exercise for Central Counterparties (CCPs) . The CCP stress test framework drafted by ESMA for the purpose of this exercise is supported by an adverse market scenario provided by the European Systemic Risk Board (ESRB). Mandated under the European ...

Sectors:

Capital Markets & Trading

Topics:

AML / Financial Crime Prudential / Capital Requirements Technology & Cyber

All Firms

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🇪🇺 ESMA Speech

April 30th 2026

ESMA launches a call for evidence on the structure of European equity markets

ESMA launches a call for evidence on the structure of European equity markets 30 April 2026 Trading The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) has published a call for evidence (CfE) presenting a data driven analysis of the evolution of trading in European equity markets between 2022 and 2025, based on MiFIR transaction reporting data. The CfE invites stakeholder feedback on observed trends and their potential regulatory implications. The analysis shows that European equity markets ...

Sectors:

Capital Markets & Trading

Topics:

Prudential / Capital Requirements Technology & Cyber Market Abuse / Surveillance

Broker Dealer

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🇪🇺 ESMA Consultation medium

April 29th 2026

ESMA consults on guidelines on endorsement under the ESG Ratings Regulation

ESMA consults on guidelines on endorsement under the ESG Ratings Regulation 29 April 2026 Credit Rating Agencies The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) has launched a public consultation on draft guidelines on endorsement under the ESG Ratings Regulation 1 . The consultation paper sets out ESMA’s proposed approach to the endorsement of non-EU ESG ratings under the regulatory framework and seeks feedback from ESG rating providers and other stakeholders on the draft guidelines. Th...

Sectors:

Capital Markets & Trading

Topics:

ESG Technology & Cyber Market Abuse / Surveillance

All Firms

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🇪🇺 ESMA News

April 24th 2026

Joint Committee annual report highlights digitalisation, cyber resilience and sustainable finance as key priorities of 2025

Joint Committee annual report highlights digitalisation, cyber resilience and sustainable finance as key priorities of 2025 24 April 2026 Joint Committee The Joint Committee of the European Supervisory Authorities (EBA, EIOPA and ESMA – the ESAs) today published its Annual Report for 2025 , setting out the main priorities and achievements of its cross-sectoral work over the past year. In 2025, the Joint Committee focused on protecting consumers in increasingly digital financial markets, stren...

Sectors:

Banking & Credit Insurance & Pensions Capital Markets & Trading

Topics:

AML / Financial Crime Consumer Protection / Conduct Operational Resilience / Outsourcing

Fintech

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🇪🇺 ESMA Consultation medium

April 21st 2026

ESMA support ESEF implementation with updated taxonomy

ESMA support ESEF implementation with updated taxonomy 21 April 2026 Electronic reporting The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA), the EU’s financial markets regulator and supervisor, has published the 2025 European Single Electronic Format (ESEF) XBRL taxonomy files , together with an updated ESEF Conformance Suite . These materials support issuers and software vendors in preparing 2026 IFRS consolidated financial statements using the most up‑to‑date ESEF format. The 2025 taxono...

Sectors:

Capital Markets & Trading

Topics:

Technology & Cyber Market Abuse / Surveillance Reporting & Disclosure

All Firms

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🇪🇺 ESMA Consultation medium

April 16th 2026

ESMA launches a call for evidence on restricted subscription and private credit ratings

ESMA launches a call for evidence on restricted subscription and private credit ratings 16 April 2026 Credit Rating Agencies The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA), the EU’s financial markets regulator and supervisor, today launched a call for evidence to gather stakeholder views on the purposes, market practices, needs and risks associated with restricted subscription and private credit ratings. ESMA is encouraging all interested stakeholders to share views, data and analysis i...

AI Analysis

ESMA has launched a call for evidence on restricted subscription and private credit ratings to gather stakeholder input on their market practices, uses, risks, and potential regulatory gaps under the CRA Regulation. This matters because rising use of these non-public ratings could prompt future clarifications or adjustments to ensure consistent standards with public ratings, impacting credit rating agencies (CRAs) and users reliant on them for regulatory or investment purposes.

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

Q2 2026

- ESMA reviews responses to assess potential regulatory adjustments under CRA Regulation

31 May 2026 DEADLINE

- Deadline for submitting evidence-based responses, including quantitative data and market examples, via ESMA's online consultation form in docx format

Compliance Impact

Urgency: Medium - This is not mandatory rulemaking but a critical opportunity to influence potential CRA Regulation clarifications amid growing private rating use, which could standardize governance/internal controls or expand scope. Firms using or issuing these ratings should engage to mitigate risks of future unaddressed practices leading to enforcement or restrictions; inaction may expose gaps if ESMA identifies inconsistencies with public rating standards.

References

AI-generated analysis. May contain errors or omissions — verify with the original ESMA source before acting. Full disclaimer.

Sectors:

Banking & Credit Capital Markets & Trading Investment Management

Topics:

Reporting & Disclosure Authorisation & Licensing Senior Managers / Governance

Asset ManagerBankAll Firms

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🇪🇺 ESMA News

April 13th 2026

ESMA releases reporting templates and instructions for the Active Account Requirement

ESMA releases reporting templates and instructions for the Active Account Requirement 13 April 2026 CCP Market data The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA), the EU’s financial markets regulator and supervisor, has published the reporting templates and instructions for the Active Account Requirement (AAR) reporting under European Market Infrastructure Regulation (EMIR 3). The new templates set out in detail how entities subject to the AAR should report the required information to ...

Sectors:

Capital Markets & Trading

Topics:

Technology & Cyber Market Abuse / Surveillance Reporting & Disclosure

All Firms

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🇪🇺 ESMA Enforcement medium

April 10th 2026

ESMA publishes latest edition of its newsletter

ESMA publishes latest edition of its newsletter 10 April 2026 ESMA newsletter The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA), the EU’s financial markets regulator and supervisor, has published today its latest edition of the Spotlight on Markets newsletter. This edition opens with ESMA’s actions to simplify the retail investor journey and make investing more accessible, setting out steps to support retail participation in capital markets. Top news highlights include the publication of t...

AI Analysis

ESMA's latest *Spotlight on Markets* newsletter (edition 42, published 10 April 2026) summarizes recent supervisory, enforcement, and policy actions, emphasizing simplification of retail investor access, high market risks per the first 2026 TRV report, and key publications on transparency, suitability, MiFID II/MiFIR data, and Listing Act compliance.[User Query] This matters for compliance teams as it signals ESMA's priorities in reducing regulatory burdens while enhancing investor protection and market transparency amid a high-risk environment.

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

27 February 2026

Publication of annual transparency calculations for equity and equity-like instruments

10 April 2026

Release of first 2026 TRV report and newsletter; .

15 April 2026

Public hearing on EBA-ESMA joint guidelines on suitability of management body and key function holders

20 April 2026 DEADLINE

Consultation deadline on regulatory standards for post-trade risk reduction services under EMIR 3

29 April 2026

Consultation on MAR Guidelines on delay in disclosure of inside information

Compliance Impact

Urgency: Medium. This newsletter compiles ongoing developments rather than enacting immediate rules, but tied consultations (e.g., suitability by 25 May 2026) and recent publications (e.g., transparency calculations) require prompt review to avoid enforcement risks in a high-risk market flagged by TRV.[User Query] It matters for aligning with ESMA's simplification push while preparing for stricter suitability, data, and risk rules, potentially reducing costs but increasing scrutiny on retail protection and transparency.

References

AI-generated analysis. May contain errors or omissions — verify with the original ESMA source before acting. Full disclaimer.

Sectors:

Investment Management Capital Markets & Trading Banking & Credit

Topics:

Consumer Protection / Conduct Reporting & Disclosure Market Abuse / Surveillance

Asset ManagerBroker DealerBank

View Original

🇪🇺 ESMA Guidance high

April 1st 2026

ESMA clarifies expectations in the run-up to the launch of EU’s Consolidated Tapes

ESMA clarifies expectations in the run-up to the launch of EU’s Consolidated Tapes 01 April 2026 Market data Trading The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA), the EU’s financial markets regulator and supervisor, has published Questions and Answers (Q&As) on the onboarding of data contributors to the EU’s Consolidated Tapes (CTs), and on the operational rules for the Consolidated Tape Providers (CTPs). The goal is to increase certainty for all market participants in anticipation of...

AI Analysis

ESMA has issued Q&As clarifying expectations for data contributors onboarding to the EU's Consolidated Tapes (CTs) for equities, bonds, and derivatives, emphasizing pre-go-live cooperation with selected Consolidated Tape Providers (CTPs). This matters because it mandates trading venues and Authorised Publication Arrangements (APAs) to establish data transmission setups ahead of the **01 April 2026** launch, ensuring market transparency under MiFIR while minimizing disruptions. Compliance professionals must prioritize this to avoid supervisory scrutiny from ESMA and National Competent Authorities (NCAs).

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

2025

- ESMA selected fairCT for bonds CTP (authorization ongoing).

22 December 2025

- ESMA selected EuroCTP for equities/ETFs CTP (authorization ongoing)

January 2026

- ESMA launched derivatives CTP selection

11 February 2026 DEADLINE

- Deadline for derivatives CTP selection participation requests

01 April 2026

- CTs go-live; mandatory data contribution from trading venues/APAs begins.

Compliance Impact

Urgency: High – With CT go-live just days away (01 April 2026), failure to complete onboarding risks non-compliance with MiFIR obligations, potential enforcement by ESMA/NCAs, and market access disruptions. This amplifies operational resilience demands amid MiFIR review, affecting data reporting workflows for Capital Markets & Trading firms.[User Query]

References

AI-generated analysis. May contain errors or omissions — verify with the original ESMA source before acting. Full disclaimer.

Sectors:

Capital Markets & Trading

Topics:

Reporting & Disclosure Market Abuse / Surveillance

Broker DealerAll Firms

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🇪🇺 ESMA News medium

March 27th 2026

Postponement of the rollout for Commodity Derivatives Weekly Position Reporting

Postponement of the rollout for Commodity Derivatives Weekly Position Reporting 27 March 2026 Trading The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA), the EU’s financial markets regulator and supervisor, is postponing the rollout of the new solution for Commodity Derivatives Weekly Position Reporting, originally scheduled for 1 April 2026. The decision follows the identification of issues during the final testing phase, which require further corrective actions to ensure system stability ...

Sectors:

Capital Markets & Trading

Topics:

Reporting & Disclosure

Broker DealerAll Firms

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🇪🇺 ESMA Warning high

March 27th 2026

ESAs spring risk update highlights geopolitical pressures and rising private finance risks

ESAs spring risk update highlights geopolitical pressures and rising private finance risks 27 March 2026 Joint Committee Risk monitoring The European Supervisory Authorities (EBA, EIOPA and ESMA – the ESAs) today published their spring 2026 Joint Committee update on risks and vulnerabilities in the EU financial system. The update focuses on the challenges arising from ongoing geopolitical tensions and developments in private finance. Geopolitical tensions continue to pose significant risks Th...

Sectors:

Banking & Credit Investment Management Insurance & Pensions

Topics:

Prudential / Capital Requirements Operational Resilience / Outsourcing ESG

BankAsset ManagerInsurance

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🇪🇺 ESMA News low

March 18th 2026

SEC confirms exemption for directors and officers of EEA Foreign Private Issuers

SEC confirms exemption for directors and officers of EEA Foreign Private Issuers 18 March 2026 Market Abuse Post Trading The United States Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has decided to exempt directors and officers of European Economic Area (EEA) foreign private issuers (FPIs) from the reporting requirements under Section 16(a) of the US Securities Exchange Act of 1934. The SEC’s decision means that directors and officers of EEA FPIs will not be required to comply with these specifi...

Sectors:

Capital Markets & Trading Investment Management

Topics:

Reporting & Disclosure Authorisation & Licensing Senior Managers / Governance

Asset ManagerBroker DealerBank

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🇪🇺 ESMA Speech medium

March 12th 2026

ESMA sets out actions to simplify the retail investor journey and make investing more accessible

ESMA sets out actions to simplify the retail investor journey and make investing more accessible 12 March 2026 Investor protection Press Releases The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA), the EU’s financial markets regulator and supervisor, has published its takeaways from the 2025 Call for Evidence (CfE) on the retail investor journey. Taking into account the input from stakeholders, ESMA outlines a number of actions and operational improvements it will take forward to make it ea...

Sectors:

Investment Management Wealth & Private Banking Capital Markets & Trading

Topics:

Consumer Protection / Conduct ESG Reporting & Disclosure

Asset ManagerWealth ManagerBank

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🇪🇺 ESMA News high

March 11th 2026

EU financial markets enter 2026 amid high-risk environment

EU financial markets enter 2026 amid high-risk environment 11 March 2026 Press Releases Risk monitoring The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA), the EU’s financial markets regulator and supervisor, published today its first risk monitoring report of 2026 , outlining the key risks and vulnerabilities in EU financial markets. ESMA finds that risks of market and systemic stress remain high despite resilient market performance in the second half of 2025. Our risk assessment for the s...

Sectors:

Capital Markets & Trading Crypto & Digital Assets

Topics:

Market Abuse / Surveillance Operational Resilience / Outsourcing Technology & Cyber

BankBroker DealerCrypto Exchange

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🇪🇺 ESMA News low

March 3rd 2026

New investment funds drive reduction in costs to investors

New investment funds drive reduction in costs to investors 03 March 2026 Fund Management Press Releases Risk monitoring The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA), the EU financial markets regulator and supervisor, today publishes its 2025 market report on the costs and performance of EU retail investment products . This eighth Costs and Performance report shows that ongoing costs in the EU continued to decline in 2024. This is however mostly due to new investment funds entering the...

Sectors:

Investment Management Capital Markets & Trading

Topics:

Consumer Protection / Conduct ESG Reporting & Disclosure

Asset ManagerBroker DealerWealth Manager

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🇪🇺 ESMA News medium

March 3rd 2026

ESMA publishes the results of the annual transparency calculations for equity and equity-like instruments

ESMA publishes the results of the annual transparency calculations for equity and equity-like instruments 27 February 2026 Market data Trading The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA), the EU’s financial markets regulator and supervisor, has published today the results of the annual transparency calculations for equity and equity-like instruments, which will apply from 6 April 2026. The calculations made available include: the liquidity assessment as per Articles 1 to 5 of CDR 201...

Sectors:

Capital Markets & Trading

Topics:

Market Abuse / Surveillance Reporting & Disclosure

Broker DealerBank

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🇪🇺 ESMA Guidance high

February 27th 2026

New Q&As available

New Q&As available 27 February 2026 CCP Digital Finance and Innovation Financial reporting Issuer disclosure Transparency The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA), the EU's securities markets regulator, has published or updated the following Questions and Answers: European crowdfunding service providers for business Use of fiduciary (nominee) structures in equity crowdfunding (2601) Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation (MiCA) Clarification on Withdrawal Requirements under Article 7...

AI Analysis

ESMA has published or updated multiple Q&As covering European crowdfunding, MiCA for crypto-asset service providers (CASPs), EMIR for central counterparties (CCPs), and Transparency Directive requirements on financial reporting and alternative performance measures (APMs). These updates provide clarifications on operational, reporting, and disclosure obligations, enhancing supervisory convergence and compliance certainty amid evolving EU regulations like MiCA and IFRS 18. Compliance professionals must prioritize these to avoid enforcement risks, particularly with upcoming effective dates in 2027.

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

27 February 2026

- Publication date of new/updated Q&As on crowdfunding, MiCA, EMIR, and Transparency Directive

1 January 2027

- Effective date for new Q&A on IFRS 18 & APMs interaction (2775) and updates to APM-related Q&As (1868, 1874, 1875, 1877)

31 December 2027 DEADLINE

- Deadline for trading platform operators under MiCA to ensure compliant white papers for legacy tokens (related context from prior MiCA Q&As)

Compliance Impact

Urgency: High - These Q&As address supervisory priorities in high-risk areas like crypto (MiCA) and CCP resilience (EMIR), with imminent 2027 deadlines for reporting changes aligning to IFRS 18. Non-compliance risks fines, authorization delays, or supervisory actions, especially as ESMA emphasizes convergence (e.g., AAR briefing). Firms in crypto/digital assets face heightened scrutiny amid MiCA rollout, while reporters must adapt quickly to avoid disclosure breaches.

References

AI-generated analysis. May contain errors or omissions — verify with the original ESMA source before acting. Full disclaimer.

Sectors:

Capital Markets & Trading Crypto & Digital Assets Payments & E-Money

Topics:

Reporting & Disclosure Authorisation & Licensing Market Abuse / Surveillance

Crypto ExchangeBroker DealerFintech

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🇪🇺 ESMA Consultation high

February 26th 2026

ESMA consults on post-trade risk reduction services under EMIR 3

ESMA consults on post-trade risk reduction services under EMIR 3 26 February 2026 Post Trading The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA), the EU’s financial markets regulator and supervisor, has launched a consultation on the requirements for how post-trade risk reduction (PTRR) services can benefit from the conditioned exemption from the clearing obligation introduced under the European Market Infrastructure Regulation (EMIR 3). ESMA is seeking feedback on several elements of the ...

AI Analysis

ESMA has launched a consultation on draft Regulatory Technical Standards (RTS) that establish requirements for **post-trade risk reduction (PTRR) services** to qualify for a conditioned exemption from the mandatory clearing obligation under EMIR 3. This framework is critical because it balances market efficiency gains from risk reduction tools against systemic risk concerns, requiring compliance professionals to understand new operational, transparency, and monitoring requirements before the standards take effect.

AI-generated analysis. May contain errors or omissions — verify with the original ESMA source before acting. Full disclaimer.

Sectors:

Capital Markets & Trading Banking & Credit

Topics:

Reporting & Disclosure Prudential / Capital Requirements Operational Resilience / Outsourcing

Broker DealerAsset ManagerBank

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🇪🇺 ESMA News medium

February 26th 2026

ESMA issues a supervisory briefing on algorithmic trading

ESMA issues a supervisory briefing on algorithmic trading 26 February 2026 Trading The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA), the EU’s financial markets regulator and supervisor, today published a supervisory briefing to support consistent supervision of algorithmic trading across the EU. The briefing provides National Competent Authorities (NCAs) with practical tools and clarified expectations for supervising firms engaged in algorithmic trading under MiFID II. It focuses on key a...

Sectors:

Capital Markets & Trading

Topics:

Technology & Cyber Operational Resilience / Outsourcing Authorisation & Licensing

Broker DealerFintechAll Firms

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🇪🇺 ESMA Consultation high

February 25th 2026

The EBA and ESMA consult on revised suitability assessment requirements for banks and investment firms

The EBA and ESMA consult on revised suitability assessment requirements for banks and investment firms 25 February 2026 Investor protection The European Banking Authority (EBA) and the European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) today launched a consultation on the revised joint guidelines on the assessment of the suitability of members of the management body and key function holders . The revised guidelines form part of a broader package designed to harmonise suitability assessments and...

AI Analysis

The EBA and ESMA have launched a consultation on revised joint guidelines updating suitability assessments for management body members and key function holders in banks and investment firms, incorporating new requirements from the revised CRD and MiFID II to enhance harmonization and supervisory convergence. This matters for compliance professionals as it introduces mandatory assessments for additional roles, strengthens AML/CFT links, and includes simplifications to reduce burdens, potentially impacting governance processes once finalized and replacing the 2021 guidelines.

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

15 April 2026, 14:00

15:30; - Public hearing on joint guidelines

15 April 2026, 15:30

16:30; - Public hearing on EBA RTS

25 May 2026 DEADLINE

- Deadline for submitting comments on joint guidelines and EBA RTS

Post

25 May 2026; - EBA publishes all contributions (unless requested otherwise)

TBD (post

consultation); - Revised guidelines enter into force, repealing 2021 guidelines

Compliance Impact

Urgency: High - As a consultation launched today (25 February 2026), firms have ~3 months to engage, but final guidelines will repeal existing ones, mandating process updates for core governance/AML functions in banks and investment firms; delays risk non-compliance with harmonized EU standards, especially for large institutions facing RTS on documentation. Matters due to expanded scope (e.g., CFOs, third-country branches) and AML ties, amplifying fit-and-proper regime enforcement amid supervisory convergence push.

References

AI-generated analysis. May contain errors or omissions — verify with the original ESMA source before acting. Full disclaimer.

Sectors:

Banking & Credit Investment Management Capital Markets & Trading

Topics:

Senior Managers / Governance AML / Financial Crime Prudential / Capital Requirements

BankBroker DealerAll Firms

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🇪🇺 ESMA Speech medium

February 25th 2026

ESMA sets out clearing thresholds under EMIR 3

ESMA sets out clearing thresholds under EMIR 3 25 February 2026 Post Trading The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA), the EU’s financial markets regulator and supervisor, has published its draft Regulatory Technical Standards (RTS) setting out new and revised clearing thresholds (CTs) under EMIR 3. The proposed thresholds ensure continuity in the coverage of systemic risk in over‑the‑counter (OTC) derivative markets while avoiding unnecessary complexity and additional compliance ...

Sectors:

Capital Markets & Trading Investment Management

Topics:

Prudential / Capital Requirements Reporting & Disclosure

Asset ManagerBankBroker Dealer

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🇪🇺 ESMA Warning high

February 24th 2026

ESMA reminds firms of their obligations under CFD product intervention measures amid rising offerings of perpetual futures

ESMA reminds firms of their obligations under CFD product intervention measures amid rising offerings of perpetual futures 24 February 2026 Investor protection The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA), the EU’s financial markets regulator and supervisor, has issued a statement reminding firms of their obligation to assess whether newly offered products fall within the scope of existing product intervention measures on contracts for differences (CFDs). The statement responds to the...

Sectors:

Capital Markets & Trading Crypto & Digital Assets

Topics:

Consumer Protection / Conduct Authorisation & Licensing

Broker DealerCrypto ExchangeAll Firms

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🇪🇺 ESMA policy_statement high

February 23rd 2026

ESMA simplifies MiFID II/ MiFIR obligations on market data

ESMA simplifies MiFID II/ MiFIR obligations on market data 23 February 2026 Guidelines and Technical standards Market data Trading The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA), the EU’s financial markets regulator and supervisor, has withdrawn its guidelines on the MiFID II/ MiFIR obligations on market data , effective immediately, reflecting its ongoing commitment to simplifying rules and reducing unnecessary compliance burdens for market participants. The decision aligns the framewo...

AI Analysis

ESMA has immediately withdrawn its guidelines on MiFID II/MiFIR market data obligations to align with the new Regulatory Technical Standards on making market data available on a reasonable commercial basis (RTS on RCB), reducing compliance burdens for market participants. This simplifies the regulatory framework by eliminating overlapping soft-law guidance, focusing firms on binding RTS requirements for data transparency, non-discrimination, and cost-based pricing. It matters as it streamlines operations amid broader MiFID II/MiFIR reviews, lowering costs while maintaining market integrity.

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

23 November 2025

- RTS on RCB enters into force

23 February 2026

- Withdrawal of legacy ESMA guidelines takes effect immediately

22 August 2026

- End of transition period for pre-authorised market data providers to align contracts with RTS on RCB

Compliance Impact

Urgency: High - Immediate guideline withdrawal requires prompt policy updates to avoid supervisory misalignment, though the 22 August 2026 transition eases contract changes for legacy providers. This matters as it reduces ambiguity and burdens in a simplifying regulatory environment, but non-compliance risks enforcement under binding RTS amid MiFID II/MiFIR reviews; proactive alignment prevents future disruptions.

References

AI-generated analysis. May contain errors or omissions — verify with the original ESMA source before acting. Full disclaimer.

Sectors:

Capital Markets & Trading

Topics:

Reporting & Disclosure

Broker Dealer

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🇪🇺 ESMA Consultation high

February 23rd 2026

ESMA consults on guarantees as CCP collateral and on certain aspects of CCP investment policy

ESMA consults on guarantees as CCP collateral and on certain aspects of CCP investment policy 23 February 2026 CCP The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA), the EU’s financial markets regulator and supervisor, has launched a public consultation following the review of the European Market Infrastructure Regulation (EMIR 3). ESMA is encouraging all interested stakeholders, including non-financial counterparties (NFCs), to share their views about: the relevant conditions under which ...

AI Analysis

ESMA has launched a public consultation under EMIR 3 to gather stakeholder input on conditions for CCPs accepting public guarantees, public bank guarantees, and commercial bank guarantees as collateral, eligibility of debt instruments for CCP investment policies, and secured arrangements for emission allowances as margins or default fund contributions. This matters because it permanently broadens eligible collateral types and extends access to NFC clients, enhancing EU CCP efficiency, competitiveness, and accessibility amid liquidity pressures in energy and other markets.

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

End of 2026

- ESMA to submit final draft technical standards to the European Commission following final report preparation

30 April 2026 DEADLINE

- Consultation response deadline; submit online via ESMA portal, addressing specific questions with rationale

Compliance Impact

Urgency: High - Firms face a tight 2-month window (from 23 February 2026) to influence final RTS, with implementation likely in 2027+ affecting core clearing operations; delays risk non-compliance with broadened collateral rules amid ongoing liquidity strains, especially for NFCs in volatile markets like energy.

References

AI-generated analysis. May contain errors or omissions — verify with the original ESMA source before acting. Full disclaimer.

Sectors:

Capital Markets & Trading Banking & Credit Payments & E-Money

Topics:

Prudential / Capital Requirements Reporting & Disclosure Operational Resilience / Outsourcing

BankBroker DealerAll Firms

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🇪🇺 ESMA Guidance high

February 20th 2026

ESMA publishes a supervisory briefing on the AAR representativeness obligation

ESMA publishes a supervisory briefing on the AAR representativeness obligation 20 February 2026 CCP The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA), the EU’s financial markets regulator and supervisor, has published a supervisory briefing on the representativeness obligation linked to the active account requirement (AAR). The briefing sets out ESMA’s supervisory expectations for how counterparties should comply with and report on the AAR representativeness obligation. It provides guidanc...

AI Analysis

ESMA has published supervisory guidance clarifying how counterparties must comply with the **representativeness obligation** under the Active Account Requirement (AAR), a key component of EMIR 3 that mandates EU counterparties maintain active accounts at EU central counterparties (CCPs) and clear representative volumes of derivatives trades. This briefing is critical because market participants and regulators have held conflicting interpretations of the representativeness requirement, creating compliance uncertainty that this guidance now resolves.

AI-generated analysis. May contain errors or omissions — verify with the original ESMA source before acting. Full disclaimer.

Sectors:

Capital Markets & Trading Banking & Credit Investment Management

Topics:

Reporting & Disclosure Operational Resilience / Outsourcing Prudential / Capital Requirements

Asset ManagerBroker DealerBank

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🇪🇺 ESMA Enforcement high

February 20th 2026

ESMA sanctions Regis-TR for serious breaches of organisational obligations

ESMA sanctions Regis-TR for serious breaches of organisational obligations 19 February 2026 Press Releases Securities Financing Transactions Supervision Trade Repositories The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA), the European Union’s (EU) financial markets regulator and supervisor, has fined the trade repository (TR) REGIS-TR, S.A. a total of EUR 1,374,000 for seven infringements under the European Market Infrastructure Regulation (EMIR) and the Securities Financing Transactions ...

AI Analysis

ESMA has fined REGIS-TR, S.A. €1,374,000 for seven negligent breaches of organisational obligations under EMIR and SFTR, marking the first SFTR enforcement action and ESMA's highest fine against a trade repository. The breaches involved deficiencies in policies, procedures, organisational structure, operational risk management, and data confidentiality, compromising SFTR reporting and market data integrity. This underscores ESMA's intensified enforcement on trade repositories (TRs) to ensure high-quality data for market surveillance and financial stability.

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

14 November 2013

- REGIS-TR initial registration with ESMA under EMIR

7 May 2020

- REGIS-TR registration extended to SFTR reporting

14 June 2024

- ESMA Supervisory Report identifying serious indications of breaches

17 June 2024

- Public notice references investigations leading to findings (dated in decision docs)

17 February 2026

- ESMA Board of Supervisors meeting discussing the case

Compliance Impact

Urgency: High – As the first SFTR enforcement and record TR fine (€1.374M), it demonstrates ESMA's commitment to punitive action on negligence causing systemic data risks, directly threatening market integrity and surveillance. TRs face immediate remediation pressure (three breaches ongoing), with fines amplified by duration/systemic factors; non-TRs using TRs risk indirect exposure via poor data quality. Firms should prioritise audits now to avoid similar "negligent" findings.

References

AI-generated analysis. May contain errors or omissions — verify with the original ESMA source before acting. Full disclaimer.

Sectors:

Capital Markets & Trading

Topics:

Reporting & Disclosure Operational Resilience / Outsourcing Senior Managers / Governance

All Firms

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🇪🇺 ESMA Consultation medium

February 19th 2026

ESMA seeks input to streamline and simplify its market abuse guidelines

ESMA seeks input to streamline and simplify its market abuse guidelines 19 February 2026 Market Abuse Market Integrity The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA), the EU’s financial markets regulator and supervisor, has launched a consultation proposing amendments to its Market Abuse Regulation (MAR) guidelines on the delay in the disclosure of inside information. The proposals align the guidelines with the disclosure regime as amended by the Listing Act, ensuring issuers face fewer...

AI Analysis

ESMA has launched a consultation on amending its Market Abuse Regulation (MAR) guidelines on delaying disclosure of inside information, aligning them with changes introduced by the Listing Act to reduce issuer burdens and clarify requirements. This matters because it simplifies compliance for issuers by removing outdated delay justifications and adding new ones, effective from June 2026, potentially lowering administrative costs while maintaining market integrity.

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

19 February 2026

Consultation launch date

29 April 2026 DEADLINE

Consultation response deadline; (10-week period)

5 June 2026 DEADLINE

Entry into application of amended MAR disclosure regime; (issuers no longer required to immediately disclose protracted process inside information)

Q4 2026

ESMA final report and updated guidelines publication

Compliance Impact

Urgency: Medium. This is a consultation on simplifications that reduce burdens rather than impose new obligations, with changes not effective until June 2026—giving firms over four months post-consultation to adapt. It matters for issuers to engage now for influence and early policy alignment, avoiding future misalignment penalties under MAR, but lacks immediate enforcement risk.

References

AI-generated analysis. May contain errors or omissions — verify with the original ESMA source before acting. Full disclaimer.

Sectors:

Capital Markets & Trading

Topics:

Market Abuse / Surveillance Reporting & Disclosure

All Firms

View Original

🇪🇺 ESMA Consultation high

February 19th 2026

ESMA publishes list of supplementary deferrals for sovereign bonds

ESMA publishes list of supplementary deferrals for sovereign bonds 19 February 2026 Post Trading The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA), together with National Competent Authorities (NCAs), has agreed supplementary deferrals that may be applied on top of the standard Markets in Financial Instruments Regulation (MiFIR) deferral regime for sovereign bonds. ESMA and all NCAs, except the National Bank of Slovakia (NBS), have decided to allow the following supplementary deferrals: fo...

AI Analysis

ESMA has authorized **supplementary deferrals for sovereign bond post-trade transparency**, allowing market participants to omit transaction volumes from immediate publication for medium-sized trades on liquid bonds, with full disclosure required by end-of-day. This measure balances market transparency with liquidity protection in EU sovereign bond markets, effective May 4, 2026, with a compressed implementation timeline requiring immediate compliance planning.

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

February 17, 2026

- ESMA Board of Supervisors adopts decision

February 19, 2026

- ESMA publishes supplementary deferrals list

March 2, 2026

- Original implementation date (subsequently extended)

May 4, 2026

- **Effective date for supplementary deferrals application**

Compliance Impact

Urgency: HIGH

References

AI-generated analysis. May contain errors or omissions — verify with the original ESMA source before acting. Full disclaimer.

Sectors:

Capital Markets & Trading Investment Management Banking & Credit

Topics:

Reporting & Disclosure Market Abuse / Surveillance Operational Resilience / Outsourcing

Broker DealerAsset ManagerBank

View Original

🇪🇺 ESMA News low

February 19th 2026

Upcoming changes to the Euribor Panel

Upcoming changes to the Euribor Panel 18 February 2026 Benchmarks The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA), the EU’s financial markets regulator and supervisor, is issuing a statement on the upcoming changes to the Euribor panel, in its capacity as supervisor of the European Money Market Institute (EMMI), administrator of Euribor. This statement concerns the announcement by EMMI that Barclays Bank PLC (BBPLC), based in the United Kingdom, will withdraw from the Euribor panel. The ...

Sectors:

Banking & Credit Capital Markets & Trading

Topics:

Prudential / Capital Requirements Reporting & Disclosure

BankBroker Dealer

View Original

🇪🇺 ESMA Enforcement medium

February 18th 2026

ESMA supports the simplified European Sustainability Reporting Standards and suggests targeted adjustments

ESMA supports the simplified European Sustainability Reporting Standards and suggests targeted adjustments 18 February 2026 Issuer disclosure Press Releases Sustainable finance The European Securities and Markets Authority, the EU’s financial markets regulator and supervisor, has delivered its opinion on the draft revised European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS) developed by EFRAG. ESMA strongly supports the European Commission’s goal of enhancing competitiveness and growth through ...

AI Analysis

ESMA has issued an opinion supporting EFRAG's draft simplified European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS) under the CSRD, praising improvements in readability and materiality focus while recommending targeted adjustments to enhance investor protection and financial stability. This matters for compliance professionals as it signals upcoming refinements to sustainability disclosures, with pragmatic supervision promised during the transition, potentially reducing short-term burdens but requiring monitoring of final delegated act adoption by summer 2026.

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

Summer 2026

- European Commission aims to adopt revised ESRS into a delegated act, considering ESMA, EBA, EIOPA, ECB opinions

FY 2029 (reporting in 2030)

- End of certain temporary reliefs on quantitative information for anticipated financial effects (if ESMA recommendations adopted)

First years post

adoption (2026+); - Learning curve period with pragmatic NCAs supervision and flexibility in examinations

Compliance Impact

Urgency: Medium - Not yet finalized (pending summer 2026 adoption), with pragmatic supervision promised, reducing immediate pressure; however, matters due to potential tightening of reliefs and disclosures impacting FY2026+ reporting, investor protection focus, and interoperability needs. Firms should prioritize if heavily using reliefs or with complex transition plans, as non-adjustment risks supervisory scrutiny post-learning curve.

References

AI-generated analysis. May contain errors or omissions — verify with the original ESMA source before acting. Full disclaimer.

Sectors:

Capital Markets & Trading Investment Management Insurance & Pensions

Topics:

ESG Reporting & Disclosure Senior Managers / Governance

Asset ManagerBankInsurance

View Original

🇪🇺 ESMA Guidance high

February 18th 2026

ESMA publishes statement supporting the smooth implementation of the Listing Act – simplifying prospectus compliance for issuers

ESMA publishes statement supporting the smooth implementation of the Listing Act – simplifying prospectus compliance for issuers 18 February 2026 Prospectus The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA), the EU’s financial markets regulator and supervisor, has issued a statement with practical guidance to national competent authorities (NCAs), issuers, and their advisors on the application of the revised prospectus framework introduced by the Listing Act. ESMA clarifies that any regis...

AI Analysis

ESMA has issued a public statement providing practical guidance on implementing changes to the Prospectus Regulation (PR) under the Listing Act, clarifying the transitional regime for registration documents and universal registration documents approved or filed until 4 June 2026, allowing their continued use in prospectuses. This matters because it reduces compliance burdens for issuers accessing capital markets while preserving investor protection, enabling smoother transitions amid upcoming Level 2 measures. Issuers and advisors can rely on this non-binding guidance as ESMA expects NCAs to follow it.

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

March 2026

Listing Act provisions for secondary and growth issuance prospectuses enter application

5 March 2026

Expected non-application date of Delegated Act amending (EU) 2019/980; interim PR Annexes IV/V/VII/VIII and Articles 14a/15a apply, with recommended Delegated Act disclosures

Until 4 June 2026

Registration/universal registration documents approved/filed fall under Article 48a transitional regime; usable thereafter until validity ends

5 June 2026 / 10 June 2026

Bulk of Listing Act provisions (including standard prospectuses) enter application; new Level 2 requirements apply from related ESMA technical advice

H1 2026

Potential NCA flexibility for early implementation of new requirements if available

Compliance Impact

Urgency: High – Immediate relevance today (18 February 2026) for ongoing prospectus preparations, as it clarifies transitional use of existing documents and interim disclosures amid imminent deadlines (March/June 2026). Failure to align risks invalidation of documents or heightened scrutiny, but guidance eases burden reduction—critical for issuers timing listings to minimize costs while ensuring investor protection.

References

AI-generated analysis. May contain errors or omissions — verify with the original ESMA source before acting. Full disclaimer.

Sectors:

Capital Markets & Trading

Topics:

Reporting & Disclosure

All Firms

View Original

🇪🇺 ESMA News medium

February 14th 2026

ESMA publishes latest edition of its newsletter

ESMA publishes latest edition of its newsletter 13 February 2026 ESMA newsletter The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA), the EU’s financial markets regulator and supervisor, has published today its latest edition of the Spotlight on Markets Newsletter. This edition opens with ESMA’s Digital and Data Strategies , outlining how enhanced data use and improved digital tools will strengthen effective and risk-based supervision. Top news highlights include the launch of the selection ...

Sectors:

Capital Markets & Trading Investment Management Crypto & Digital Assets

Topics:

Technology & Cyber ESG Reporting & Disclosure

Asset ManagerBroker DealerCrypto Exchange

View Original

🇪🇺 ESMA Speech

February 5th 2026

Join us for ESMA’s Conference “A new era for EU capital markets” on 21 May 2026

Join us for ESMA’s Conference “A new era for EU capital markets” on 21 May 2026 05 February 2026 About ESMA The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA), the EU’s financial markets regulator and supervisor, is organising a high‑level conference “A new era for EU capital markets” on 21 May 2026 in Paris, France. Marking ESMA’s 15-year anniversary, the conference will bring together senior policymakers, regulators, leaders of major market infrastructures and financial institutions, as w...

Sectors:

Capital Markets & Trading Investment Management

Topics:

Market Abuse / Surveillance Consumer Protection / Conduct Technology & Cyber

Asset ManagerBroker DealerBank

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🇪🇺 ESMA Consultation low

February 3rd 2026

ESMA launches selection process for its next Chair

ESMA launches selection process for its next Chair 03 February 2026 About ESMA Careers Vacancies The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA), the EU’s financial markets regulator and supervisor, has launched the selection procedure for the position of ESMA Chair . This key leadership role offers the opportunity to shape the future of Europe’s financial markets and steer the organisation through an evolving regulatory and supervisory landscape. As a full‑time, independent professional...

AI Analysis

ESMA has launched a selection process for its next Chair, a full-time independent role based in Paris responsible for leading strategic direction, governance, and representation amid evolving EU financial markets regulation. This matters for compliance professionals as the incoming Chair will influence ESMA's supervisory priorities, enforcement approach, and adaptation to upcoming legislative changes like market integration proposals, potentially impacting how firms navigate cross-border supervision and reporting requirements.

AI-generated analysis. May contain errors or omissions — verify with the original ESMA source before acting. Full disclaimer.

Sectors:

Capital Markets & Trading

Topics:

Senior Managers / Governance

All Firms

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🇪🇺 ESMA News low

January 29th 2026

ESMA publishes report on cross-border marketing of funds including statistics on notifications

ESMA publishes report on cross-border marketing of funds including statistics on notifications 06 January 2026 The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA), the EU’s financial markets regulator and supervisor, has today published its third report on marketing requirements and marketing communications under the Regulation on cross-border distribution of funds . For the first time, the report includes statistics on notifications of cross-border marketing of funds. Drawing on input from ...

Sectors:

Investment Management Capital Markets & Trading

Topics:

Reporting & Disclosure Authorisation & Licensing

Asset ManagerBank

View Original

🇪🇺 ESMA News medium

January 29th 2026

ESMA signs Memorandum of Understanding with the Reserve Bank of India

ESMA signs Memorandum of Understanding with the Reserve Bank of India 27 January 2026 CCP International cooperation The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA), the EU’s financial markets regulator and supervisor, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to facilitate cooperation and exchange of information for the recognition of central counterparties (CCPs) established in India and supervised by RBI. This agreement marks a significant step...

Sectors:

Banking & Credit Capital Markets & Trading

Topics:

Prudential / Capital Requirements Authorisation & Licensing

BankBroker Dealer

View Original

🇪🇺 ESMA News high

January 14th 2026

The European Supervisory Authorities and UK financial regulators sign Memorandum of Understanding on oversight of critical ICT third-party service providers under DORA

The European Supervisory Authorities and UK financial regulators sign Memorandum of Understanding on oversight of critical ICT third-party service providers under DORA 14 January 2026 Digital Finance and Innovation International cooperation The European Supervisory Authorities (EBA, EIOPA and ESMA – the ESAs) have today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Bank of England (BoE), the Prudential Regulation Authority (PRA), and the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). This agreement...

Sectors:

Banking & Credit Investment Management Wealth & Private Banking

Topics:

Operational Resilience / Outsourcing Technology & Cyber

BankAsset ManagerWealth Manager

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🇪🇺 ESMA Enforcement high

January 14th 2026

ESMA promotes clarity in communications on ESG strategies

ESMA promotes clarity in communications on ESG strategies 14 January 2026 Sustainable finance The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA), the EU’s financial markets regulator and supervisor, published today a second thematic note on sustainability-related claims, focusing on ESG strategies. The note concentrates on ESG integration and ESG exclusions, as references to these strategies are often made by market participants and widely referenced in marketing communications directed to ...

AI Analysis

ESMA published a thematic note on January 14, 2026, providing guidance on clear, fair, and not misleading communications regarding ESG strategies, specifically ESG integration and ESG exclusions, to mitigate greenwashing risks in non-regulatory materials like marketing. This matters because sustainability claims heavily influence investor decisions, and misleading communications can lead to supervisory actions, reputational damage, and loss of trust, aligning with existing EU rules under SFDR and related frameworks without imposing new disclosures.

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

1 July 2025

- Publication of ESMA's first thematic note on ESG credentials (to be read in combination)

14 January 2026

- Publication date of the thematic note on ESG strategies (second in series)

Compliance Impact

Urgency: High – Immediate risk of enforcement for greenwashing in high-visibility ESG marketing, amid rising supervisory scrutiny; non-compliance threatens fines, remediation, and reputational harm as investor focus on sustainability grows. Proactive alignment builds trust and differentiates firms.

References

AI-generated analysis. May contain errors or omissions — verify with the original ESMA source before acting. Full disclaimer.

Sectors:

Investment Management

Topics:

ESG Consumer Protection / Conduct

Asset ManagerAll Firms

View Original

🇪🇺 ESMA News medium

January 13th 2026

ESMA’s Digital and Data strategies support supervision of EU financial markets

ESMA’s Digital and Data strategies support supervision of EU financial markets 13 January 2026 About ESMA Market data Press Releases The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA), the EU’s financial markets regulator and supervisor, has adopted a new Digital Strategy and updated its Data Strategy . They reflect ESMA’s commitment to smarter regulatory reporting and technology-driven supervision, promote synergies and innovation while reducing unnecessary complexity. The digital strategy...

Sectors:

Capital Markets & Trading Crypto & Digital Assets

Topics:

Reporting & Disclosure Technology & Cyber Operational Resilience / Outsourcing

All Firms

View Original

🇪🇺 ESMA Speech

January 9th 2026

Principles for risk-based supervision: a critical pillar for ESMA’s simplification and burden reduction efforts

Principles for risk-based supervision: a critical pillar for ESMA’s simplification and burden reduction efforts 09 January 2026 Supervision The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA), the EU’s financial markets regulator and supervisor, published today its principles for risk-based supervision . These principles support a common and effective EU-wide supervisory culture and strengthen the EU single market. The principles on risk-based supervision outline key concepts and foundationa...

Sectors:

Capital Markets & Trading Investment Management

Topics:

Prudential / Capital Requirements Operational Resilience / Outsourcing

Asset ManagerBankBroker Dealer

View Original

🇪🇺 ESMA Consultation medium

January 8th 2026

ESAs publish joint Guidelines on ESG stress testing

ESAs publish joint Guidelines on ESG stress testing 08 January 2026 Guidelines and Technical standards Joint Committee The European Supervisory Authorities (EBA, EIOPA and ESMA - the ESAs) published today their Joint Guidelines on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) stress testing . These Guidelines provide national insurance and banking supervisors with clear guidance on how to integrate ESG risks into supervisory stress tests, both when using established frameworks and when conducti...

AI Analysis

The European Supervisory Authorities (ESAs)—EBA, EIOPA, and ESMA—published final Joint Guidelines on 8 January 2026 to standardize how national competent authorities (NCAs) integrate ESG risks into supervisory stress testing frameworks for banking and insurance sectors, without mandating new ESG-specific tests. These guidelines promote consistency, long-term methodologies, and common standards across the EU, initially prioritizing climate and environmental risks (physical and transition) before expanding to social and governance factors. They matter for compliance professionals as they shape future supervisory expectations, enhancing resilience assessments and aligning with CRD (Article 100(4)) and Solvency II (Article 304c(3)) mandates, potentially influencing firm-level stress testing preparations.

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

08 January 2026

Publication of Final Report and Joint Guidelines by ESAs

10 January 2026 DEADLINE

Statutory deadline for ESAs to publish guidelines per CRD Article 100(4) and Solvency II Article 304c(3)

Two months after official EU translations (expected ~March/April 2026) DEADLINE

NCAs notify respective ESAs of compliance or intent to comply

01 January 2027

Application date of Joint Guidelines for NCAs

Compliance Impact

Urgency: Medium. While not imposing immediate firm-level requirements, the guidelines signal escalating supervisory focus on ESG risks from 2027, with potential for more frequent/punitive stress tests; firms delaying ESG integration risk capital/liquidity shortfalls in exercises, amplified by improving data availability and EU sustainability push (e.g., CSRD, SFDR). Proactive preparation mitigates future remediation costs and supports strategic resilience.

References

AI-generated analysis. May contain errors or omissions — verify with the original ESMA source before acting. Full disclaimer.

Sectors:

Banking & Credit Insurance & Pensions

Topics:

Prudential / Capital Requirements ESG

BankInsurance

View Original

🇪🇺 ESMA News low

January 6th 2026

ESMA publishes report on cross-border marking of funds including statistics on notifications

ESMA publishes report on cross-border marking of funds including statistics on notifications 06 January 2026 The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA), the EU’s financial markets regulator and supervisor, has today published its third report on marketing requirements and marketing communications under the Regulation on cross-border distribution of funds . For the first time, the report includes statistics on notifications of cross-border marketing of funds. Drawing on input from Na...

Sectors:

Investment Management Wealth & Private Banking

Topics:

Reporting & Disclosure Authorisation & Licensing

Asset ManagerWealth Manager

View Original

🇪🇺 ESMA News medium

January 5th 2026

ESAs’ Joint Board of Appeal rules on reimbursement of costs in an appeal brought by NOVIS Insurance Company against the European Insurance and Occupational Pensions Authority (EIOPA)

ESAs’ Joint Board of Appeal rules on reimbursement of costs in an appeal brought by NOVIS Insurance Company against the European Insurance and Occupational Pensions Authority (EIOPA) 05 January 2026 Board of Appeal Joint Committee The Joint Board of Appeal (“The Board”) of the European Supervisory Authorities (ESAs) – the EBA, ESMA, EIOPA – has issued its decision on costs arising in the appeal brought by NOVIS Insurance Company, NOVIS Versicherungsgesellschaft, NOVIS Compagnia di Assicurazio...

Sectors:

Insurance & Pensions

Topics:

Authorisation & Licensing

Insurance

View Original

🇪🇺 ESMA Consultation high

January 5th 2026

ESMA launches selection of Consolidated Tape Provider for OTC derivatives

ESMA launches selection of Consolidated Tape Provider for OTC derivatives 05 January 2026 MiFID - Secondary Markets Trading The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA), the EU’s financial markets regulator and supervisor, is launching the first selection procedure for the Consolidated Tape Provider (CTP) for over the counter (OTC) derivatives. Entities interested to apply are encouraged to register and submit their requests to participate in the selection procedure by 11 February 20...

AI Analysis

ESMA has launched the first selection procedure for a **Consolidated Tape Provider (CTP) for OTC derivatives**, with applications due by 11 February 2026 and a decision expected by early July 2026. This initiative establishes a critical market infrastructure component to enhance transparency and efficiency in the EU's OTC derivatives market by consolidating post-trade data into a single, continuous electronic stream.

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

11 February 2026 DEADLINE

– Deadline for entities to register and submit requests to participate in the selection procedure

Early July 2026

– ESMA to adopt reasoned decision on selected applicant

1 September 2026

– Mandatory use of new OTC derivatives identifying reference data (Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2025/1003)

1 March 2027

– Single application date for all derivatives-related changes: amendments to RTS 2, Package Order RTS, and OTC derivatives CTP data requirements

Compliance Impact

Urgency: HIGH

References

AI-generated analysis. May contain errors or omissions — verify with the original ESMA source before acting. Full disclaimer.

Sectors:

Capital Markets & Trading Investment Management

Topics:

Reporting & Disclosure Authorisation & Licensing Market Abuse / Surveillance

Broker DealerAsset ManagerAll Firms

View Original

🇪🇺 ESMA Consultation medium

December 23rd 2025

ESMA publishes latest Spotlight on Markets newsletter featuring updates on market integration and transparency

ESMA publishes latest Spotlight on Markets newsletter featuring updates on market integration and transparency 23 December 2025 ESMA newsletter The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA), the EU’s financial markets regulator and supervisor, has today published the latest edition of its Spotlight on Markets newsletter. This edition opens with ESMA welcoming the European Commission’s ambitious proposal on market integration, underlining the importance of deeper, more integrated and ef...

AI Analysis

ESMA's latest *Spotlight on Markets* newsletter (November/December 2025 issue, published 23 December 2025) summarizes key regulatory updates on EU market integration, transparency enhancements, and supervisory actions, including welcoming the European Commission's market integration proposal and announcing an equity consolidated tape provider (CTP) selection. This matters for compliance professionals as it signals accelerating EU efforts to deepen capital markets integration, improve data transparency, and strengthen oversight under MiFID II and DORA, potentially requiring firms to adapt governance, reporting, and conflict management practices.

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

4 December 2025

- European Commission publishes market integration legislative package; legislative process expected to take at least one year

23 December 2025

- Newsletter publication date

Compliance Impact

Urgency: Medium - The newsletter highlights finalized standards (e.g., RTS, CTP) and imminent actions (e.g., CSA, DORA designations) that require proactive preparation, but lacks hard deadlines or immediate mandates. It matters because it previews intensified supervision on transparency, conflicts, and resilience, aligning with EU Capital Markets Union goals; firms delaying reviews risk findings in upcoming CSAs or audits, especially amid ESMA's push for convergence.

References

AI-generated analysis. May contain errors or omissions — verify with the original ESMA source before acting. Full disclaimer.

Sectors:

Capital Markets & Trading Investment Management

Topics:

Reporting & Disclosure Market Abuse / Surveillance Operational Resilience / Outsourcing

Asset ManagerBroker DealerAll Firms

View Original

🇪🇺 ESMA News low

December 22nd 2025

ESMA publishes 2024 data on cross-border investment activity of firms

ESMA publishes 2024 data on cross-border investment activity of firms 22 December 2025 Investor protection The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA), the EU’s financial markets regulator and supervisor, in cooperation with National Competent Authorities (NCAs), completed an analysis of the cross-border provision of investment services in 2024 . Data was gathered from investment firms across 30 jurisdictions in the EU/EEA. The main findings include: Around 370 financial firms provid...

Sectors:

Investment Management Capital Markets & Trading Wealth & Private Banking

Topics:

Reporting & Disclosure Consumer Protection / Conduct Authorisation & Licensing

Asset ManagerBroker DealerWealth Manager

View Original

🇪🇺 ESMA Guidance high

December 19th 2025

New Q&As available

New Q&As available 19 December 2025 Digital Finance and Innovation Fund Management Market Abuse Prospectus Sustainable finance The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA), the EU's securities markets regulator, has published or updated the following Questions and Answers: Alternative Investment Fund Managers Directive (AIFMD) Directive Exclusion related to UNGC/OECD Guidelines (2734) Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) rating activities Regulation Group-affiliated small ESG ra...

AI Analysis

ESMA published new Q&As on December 19, 2025, addressing practical implementation questions across multiple regulatory frameworks including AIFMD, ESG rating activities, and sustainable finance rules. These guidance documents clarify regulatory expectations and promote consistent supervisory approaches across EU member states, making them essential for firms operating in affected areas to ensure compliant implementation.

AI-generated analysis. May contain errors or omissions — verify with the original ESMA source before acting. Full disclaimer.

Sectors:

Investment Management Capital Markets & Trading

Topics:

ESG Reporting & Disclosure Market Abuse / Surveillance

Asset ManagerBroker DealerAll Firms

View Original

🇪🇺 ESMA News medium

December 19th 2025

ESMA selects EuroCTP to become the first Consolidated Tape Provider for shares and ETFs

ESMA selects EuroCTP to become the first Consolidated Tape Provider for shares and ETFs 19 December 2025 Press Releases Trading The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA), the EU’s financial markets regulator and supervisor, has selected EuroCTP as the first Consolidated Tape Provider (CTP) for shares and exchange-traded funds (ETFs) in the EU, in a step forward for the transparency of equity markets in the EU. Natasha Cazenave, ESMA’s Executive Director, said: “Today’s announcement...

Sectors:

Capital Markets & Trading Investment Management

Topics:

Market Abuse / Surveillance Reporting & Disclosure

Asset ManagerBroker Dealer

View Original

🇪🇺 ESMA News medium

December 17th 2025

ESMA reviews impact of Guidelines on ESG or sustainability related terms in fund names

ESMA reviews impact of Guidelines on ESG or sustainability related terms in fund names 17 December 2025 Risk monitoring Sustainable finance The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA), the EU’s financial market regulator and supervisor, released research today assessing the impact of its fund naming guidelines on ESG and sustainability-related terms. The study found that ESMA’s Guidelines have: Improved consistency in the use of ESG terms by increasing alignment of fund names and the...

Sectors:

Investment Management Wealth & Private Banking Capital Markets & Trading

Topics:

ESG Reporting & Disclosure

Asset ManagerWealth ManagerAll Firms

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