BPS Financial to pay $14 million in penalties over crypto Qoin Wallet
BPS Financial to pay $14 million in penalties over crypto Qoin Wallet
Sectors:
Topics:
Crypto ExchangeFintechPayment Provider
Payments & E-Money
Payment services, e-money institutions, and fintech payment regulations.
OFSI and partners clamp down on the abuse of cryptoassets
We’re working closely with the Office of Financial Sanctions Implementation (OFSI), UK law enforcement, and our regulatory partners to tackle the abuse of cryptoassets and associated money‑laundering activities. Read the full blog on the OFSI’s website.
Sectors:
Topics:
Crypto ExchangeFintechPayment Provider
Guavapay Limited enters compulsory liquidation
On 21 January 2026, Guavapay Limited entered compulsory liquidation. The Official Receiver, an officer of the Insolvency Service, is its liquidator. Guavapay is authorised by the FCA to issue E-money and provide payment services to its customers.On 17 September 2025, Guavapay agreed to a voluntary requirement with the FCA, restricting the activities it can undertake. See details on the Financial Services Register.As liquidator, The Official Receiver is responsible for:Managing customer claims...
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Payment Provider
Trade Reporting Notice 1/14/26
FINRA publishes Notices to provide firms with timely information on a variety of issues. To obtain a Notice published prior to 1995, please contact FINRA MediaSource at (240) 386-4200.
Sectors:
Topics:
Broker DealerFintechAll Firms
Consumer Duty: International payment pricing transparency – good and poor practice
Good and poor practice
AI Analysis
The FCA's guidance outlines good and poor practices in communicating costs for international money remittance and cross-border payments involving currency conversion, emphasizing transparency under the Consumer Duty to enable informed consumer decisions. It matters because non-compliance risks supervisory action, as the FCA plans future reviews to assess improvements, raising the bar on pricing clarity amid ongoing Duty enforcement. #
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Topics:
Payment ProviderBankFintech
PS25/19: Improving the complaints reporting process
Consultation papers
AI Analysis
FCA PS25/19 finalizes rules to streamline complaints reporting by replacing multiple existing returns with a single consolidated return, enhancing data quality, consistency, and vulnerability identification while reducing burdens. This matters for compliance teams as it mandates system and process updates to improve regulatory oversight and consumer protection, with implementation required within 12 months. #
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BankInsurancePayment Provider
CP25/15: A prudential regime for cryptoasset firms
Consultation papers
AI Analysis
CP25/15 proposes prudential rules and guidance for UK firms issuing **qualifying stablecoins** and safeguarding **qualifying cryptoassets**, aiming to foster a safe, competitive crypto sector while prioritizing consumer protection and market integrity. This matters for compliance professionals as it introduces tailored prudential sourcebooks (COREPRU and CRYPTOPRU) to mitigate firm failure risks, aligning with the FCA's crypto roadmap and Treasury's statutory plans. #
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Topics:
FintechCrypto ExchangePayment Provider
SAMA Licenses “Tabby finance” Company to Engage in BNPL Activity
SAMA Licenses “Tabby finance” Company to Engage in BNPL Activity
Sectors:
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FintechPayment Provider
SAMA Licenses “Darb Pay for Information Technology” to Provide Payment Services
SAMA Licenses “Darb Pay for Information Technology” to Provide Payment Services
Sectors:
Topics:
Payment Provider
SAMA Seeks Public Consultation on the Draft Update to the “Oversight Framework for Payment Systems and Their Operators”
SAMA Seeks Public Consultation on the Draft Update to the “Oversight Framework for Payment Systems and Their Operators”
Sectors:
Topics:
Payment Provider
SAMA Revokes the License of “Fas Finance Company”
SAMA Revokes the License of “Fas Finance Company”
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Topics:
BankFintech
SAMA Hosts BIS Innovation Summit
SAMA Hosts BIS Innovation Summit
Sectors:
Topics:
BankFintechCrypto Exchange
ASIC sues former Electro Optic Systems Holdings director and CEO Ben Greene for breach of director’s duties
ASIC sues former Electro Optic Systems Holdings director and CEO Ben Greene for breach of director’s duties
Sectors:
Topics:
Broker DealerFintech
Defence systems manufacturer Electro Optic Systems Holdings admits to breaching continuous disclosure requirements
Defence systems manufacturer Electro Optic Systems Holdings admits to breaching continuous disclosure requirements
Sectors:
Topics:
All Firms
Chairman Selig to Sponsor the CFTC’s Agricultural Advisory Committee
No description available.
Sectors:
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BankBroker DealerFintech
Closing of the 2025 accounts: the AMF flags up points for vigilance and issues recommendations
Financial disclosures & corporate financing Periodic & ongoing disclosures Reporting ESEF Closing of the 2025 accounts: the AMF flags up points for vigilance and issues recommendations
Sectors:
Topics:
BankBroker DealerAsset Manager
Publication of the update of the ML/FT Sub-Sector Risk Assessment on Specialised Professionals of the Financial Sector providing corporate services (trust and company service provider activities)
No description available.
Sectors:
Topics:
BankWealth ManagerPayment Provider
Regulators give clarity in relation to open banking pricing models
We have issued a joint statement with the Payment Systems Regulator (PSR) giving clarity on open banking pricing models. We and the PSR have issued the following statement (PDF).This confirms we will not, at this stage, prioritise a Competition Act 1998 (CA98) investigation into the centralised ‘access fee’ pricing model being developed by the UK Payments Initiative (UKPI) for commercial Variable Recurring Payments (cVRPs). cVRPs are an emerging open banking technology that allow consumers to...
AI Analysis
The FCA and PSR have jointly confirmed they will not prioritize a Competition Act 1998 investigation into the UK Payments Initiative's (UKPI) centralized access fee pricing model for commercial Variable Recurring Payments (cVRPs), with the CMA's concurrent agreement. This regulatory clarity provides temporary certainty for cVRP development ahead of anticipated legislation by end-2026, creating a critical window for firms to develop compliant commercial models in this emerging open banking technology.
Action Required
The FCA and PSR have issued a joint statement providing clarity on open banking pricing models, specifically regarding the centralised 'access fee' pricing model for commercial Variable Recurring Payments (cVRPs). This statement confirms that they will not prioritize a Competition Act 1998 investigation into this model at this stage. The goal is to support the development of cVRPs, giving consumers more control over their payments and lowering processing fees for businesses.
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BankFintechPayment Provider
New Circular CSSF 26/906 “Central administration, internal governance and risk management” applicable to payment and electronic money institutions
No description available.
AI Analysis
CSSF Circular 26/906, published on 20 January 2026, establishes detailed requirements for central administration, internal governance, and risk management for payment institutions (PIs) and electronic money institutions (EMIs) in Luxembourg, repealing prior circulars IML 95/120, IML 96/126, IML 98/143, and CSSF 04/155. It clarifies application of the amended Law of 10 November 2009 on payment services, emphasizing robust governance amid sector growth to ensure safety, efficiency, and trust. This matters for compliance as it mandates comprehensive reviews and updates to governance frameworks by mid-2026, addressing rising transaction volumes. #
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Payment ProviderFintech
Circular CSSF 26/906
Central administration, internal governance and risk management
AI Analysis
Circular CSSF 26/906, published on 20 January 2026, consolidates and clarifies Luxembourg's rules on central administration, internal governance, and risk management specifically for payment institutions, electronic money institutions, and account information service providers. It repeals prior circulars (IML 95/120, IML 96/126, IML 98/143, and CSSF 04/155) to address growth in transaction volumes by mandating robust governance, control functions, and risk processes, enhancing safety, efficiency, and trust in these services. This matters for compliance professionals as it strengthens defenses against financial crime, operational risks, and supervisory scrutiny in a high-growth sector. #
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Payment Provider
SAMA Updates Implementing Regulation of Finance Companies Control Law
SAMA Updates Implementing Regulation of Finance Companies Control Law
Sectors:
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BankFintechPayment Provider
SAMA Issues Fees Guide for Financial Institutions’ Services
SAMA Issues Fees Guide for Financial Institutions’ Services
Sectors:
Topics:
BankPayment Provider
SAMA Introduces Electronic Check Clearing System (ECCS) Service on its Website
SAMA Introduces Electronic Check Clearing System (ECCS) Service on its Website
Sectors:
Topics:
BankFintechPayment Provider
Identity theft: BaFin warns against offers from the email address bancosantander.es-kundenservice[at]outlook(.)com
The Federal Financial Supervisory Authority BaFin warns against fixed-term deposit offers sent from the email address bancosantander.es-kundenservice[at]outlook.com. According to information available to BaFin, the unknown providers are conducting banking transactions without the required authorisation. The offers do not originate from Banco Santander S.A. This is a case of identity theft.
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BankFintechPayment Provider
Central Bank of Ireland and Banca d’Italia launch first joint Innovation Data Challenge
Central Bank of Ireland and Banca d’Italia are launching the Innovation Data Challenge 2026, a joint initiative designed to foster cutting-edge research and innovation in the retail payments sector. The Challenge reflects the shared commitment of the two Institutions to promoting applied research, international collaboration, and the responsible use of data and technology to shape the future of payments. The initiative brings together leading Irish and Italian universities, including Universi...
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FintechPayment Provider
Publication of financial reports: Federal Office of Justice imposes disciplinary fine on pferdewetten.de AG
On 07 November 2025, the Federal Office of Justice (Bundesamt für Justiz - BfJ) imposed a disciplinary fine amounting to 50.000 euros on pferdewetten.de AG.
AI Analysis
The Federal Office of Justice (BfJ) imposed a €50,000 disciplinary fine on pferdewetten.de AG on November 7, 2025, for violations related to the publication of financial reports under German securities law (WpHG - Wertpapierhandelsgesetz). This enforcement action underscores regulatory expectations for timely and accurate financial disclosure compliance, particularly for publicly traded or regulated entities in the gaming/betting sector. #
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All Firms
WhatsApp groups and trading app: BaFin warns consumers about identity theft in connection with the app “PayDenPro”
According to information available to the Federal Financial Supervisory Authority (BaFin), unknown persons are using WhatsApp groups and chats to contact German investors. The initiators of these WhatsApp groups purport to be the US company “Payden & Rygel”. This is a case of identity theft misusing the names of real employees.
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Topics:
BankFintechPayment Provider
UK and EU regulators sign Memorandum of Understanding to strengthen oversight of critical third parties
The FCA, Bank of England and Prudential Regulation Authority have together signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the European Supervisory Authorities to enhance cooperation and oversight of critical third parties (CTPs) that fall under the UK’s CTP regime.The MoU establishes a framework for coordinating and sharing information on the oversight of CTPs under the UK regime and critical third party providers (CTPPs) under the EU’s Digital Operational Resilience Act (DORA), including du...
AI Analysis
The FCA, Bank of England (BoE), and Prudential Regulation Authority (PRA) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the European Supervisory Authorities (ESAs) to coordinate oversight of critical third parties (CTPs) under the UK's CTP regime and critical third party providers (CTPPs) under the EU's Digital Operational Resilience Act (DORA). This matters because it enhances cross-border information sharing and cooperation during incidents like cyber-attacks, reducing regulatory duplication while bolstering financial stability and operational resilience for firms reliant on these providers. #
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BankPayment ProviderAll Firms
Aktualisierte Sanktionsmeldung: Russland
Das Eidgenössische Departement für Wirtschaft, Bildung und Forschung WBF hat Änderungen der Verordnung vom 4. März 2022 über Massnahmen im Zusammenhang mit der Situation in der Ukraine (SR 946.231.176.72) publiziert.
AI Analysis
The Swiss Federal Department for Economic Affairs, Education and Research (WBF) has published updates to the Ordinance on Measures in Connection with the Situation in Ukraine (SR 946.231.176.72), aligning Swiss sanctions with ongoing international restrictions targeting Russia. This matters for Swiss financial institutions as it reinforces asset freezing and economic resource restrictions, heightening compliance risks amid prolonged geopolitical tensions, with the ordinance valid until at least November 2026. #
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BankPayment ProviderCrypto Exchange
Population concerned by the enforcement
No description available.
AI Analysis
This CSSF publication, dated January 12, 2026, identifies the specific population (likely a firm or individual) subject to an enforcement action, such as an administrative sanction, as part of the CSSF's transparency in supervisory measures. It matters because it signals CSSF's active enforcement priorities, potentially in areas like AML or reporting failures, enabling firms to assess similar risks in their operations and strengthen compliance to avoid parallel actions. Published amid rising focus on financial crime typologies like sexual extortion, it underscores the regulator's commitment to public accountability. #
Sectors:
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BankPayment ProviderAll Firms
Identity theft: BaFin warns against offers from the email address wise[at]wisefestgeldkonto(.)com
The Federal Financial Supervisory Authority BaFin warns against fixed-term deposit offers sent from the email address wise[at]wisefestgeldkonto(.)com. According to information available to BaFin, the unknown providers are conducting banking transactions without the required authorisation. The offers do not originate from Wise Europe SA. This is a case of identity theft.
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Topics:
BankFintechPayment Provider
Circular CSSF-CPDI 25/49
Survey on the amount of covered deposits held on 31 December 2025
AI Analysis
Circular CSSF-CPDI 25/49 is a **mandatory quarterly reporting requirement** for Luxembourg credit institutions and postal financial service providers to submit data on covered deposits as of December 31, 2025. This survey directly feeds into the Single Resolution Fund's annual target level calculation and the Luxembourg deposit guarantee scheme's contribution assessments, making it essential for regulatory compliance and fund management.
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Topics:
BankPayment Provider
FSTB and SFC conclude consultations on virtual asset dealer and custodian regimes, further consult on two new regimes
No description available.
AI Analysis
The Financial Services and the Treasury Bureau (FSTB) and Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) have concluded consultations launched on 27 June 2025 on licensing regimes for virtual asset (VA) dealers and VA custodians, confirming legislative proposals to regulate these activities while further consulting on new regimes for VA advisers and asset managers. This advances Hong Kong's comprehensive VA regulatory roadmap, mandating SFC licensing for core VA dealing (e.g., VA-to-VA conversions, broker-dealer services) and custody (focusing on private key safekeeping), with strict requirements for asset segregation and use of licensed custodians to mitigate risks like insolvency, fraud, and cyberattacks. It matters for compliance professionals as it closes gaps in VA oversight, enforces Type 1/Type 13-equivalent standards, and signals accelerated implementation in 2026, potentially reshaping market structures for trading, custody, and related services. #
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Crypto ExchangeBroker DealerBank
Greater flexibility to be given for setting future contactless limits
People could find it easier to pay using contactless, thanks to greater flexibility and the removal of red tape by the FCA. Banks and payment providers with strong fraud controls will be able to set their own limit for contactless payments, allowing them to better respond to changing consumer demands, inflation and new technology. They are also being encouraged to let customers set their own limit, or turn contactless off altogether, as many high street banks already do. People are using cont...
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BankPayment Provider
Open banking: a year of progress
Open banking in the UK is growing rapidly. Latest industry figures show there are more than 16 million users now benefiting from the service. The number of open banking payments has soared by 53% year on year, reflecting a significant shift in how consumers and businesses manage their finances.See the API performance statsA key driver of this transformation is the rise of variable recurring payments (VRPs), which now account for 16% of all open banking transactions. VRPs allow consumers and b...
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Topics:
BankFintechPayment Provider
Totalrevision der Verordnung über Massnahmen gegenüber der Islamischen Republik Iran
Der Bundesrat hat am 12. Dezember 2025 beschlossen, die Iran-Sanktionen dem Stand von vor dem Abschluss des Wiener Abkommens über das iranische Atomprogramm anzupassen. Dazu hat er die Verordnung über Massnahmen gegenüber der Islamischen Republik Iran einer Totalrevision unterzogen. Die neue Verordnung (SR 946.231.143.6) trat am 12. Dezember 2025 in Kraft.
AI Analysis
Switzerland has completely revised its Iran sanctions regulations effective December 12, 2025, restoring sanctions to pre-2015 levels following the automatic reinstatement of UN Security Council resolutions on September 28, 2025. This comprehensive overhaul requires Swiss financial institutions and businesses to immediately implement expanded asset freezes, trade restrictions, and sectoral prohibitions affecting Iran-related transactions and designated persons.
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BankPayment ProviderAll Firms
Aktualisierte Sanktionsmeldung: Sudan
Das Eidgenössische Departement für Wirtschaft, Bildung und Forschung (WBF) hat den Anhang 2 der Verordnung vom 25. Mai 2005 über Massnahmen gegenüber Sudan (SR 946.231.18) geändert.
AI Analysis
On December 9, 2025, Switzerland's State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO) updated Annex 2 of the Sudan Sanctions Ordinance (SR 946.231.18), requiring Swiss financial intermediaries to implement changes to their sanctions screening and compliance procedures. This update reflects ongoing international coordination on Sudan sanctions enforcement and requires immediate implementation by all Swiss-regulated financial institutions.
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Topics:
BankPayment ProviderWealth Manager
Minutes of the London FXJSC Operations Sub-Committee Meeting – 18 September 2025
The Bank of England chairs the London Foreign Exchange Joint Standing Committee (FXJSC) Operations Sub-Committee. The FXJSC is made up of market participants, infrastructure providers and the UK financial regulators.
Sectors:
Topics:
BankBroker DealerPayment Provider
Minutes of the London FXJSC Legal Sub-committee Meeting – 17 September 2025
The Bank of England chairs the London Foreign Exchange Joint Standing Committee (FXJSC) Legal Sub-Committee. The FXJSC is made up of market participants, infrastructure providers and the UK financial regulators.
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Topics:
BankBroker DealerFintech
Minutes of the London FXJSC Main Committee Meeting – 25 September 2025
The Bank of England chairs the London Foreign Exchange Joint Standing Committee (FXJSC), which is a forum for discussion of the wholesale foreign exchange market. The FXJSC is made up of market participants, infrastructure providers and the UK financial regulators.
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Topics:
BankBroker DealerPayment Provider
The Digital Euro: shaping the future while preserving trust
In this blog, Governor Gabriel Makhlouf writes about the development of the Digital Euro and how central banks foster trust and safety in the financial system and in the implementation of projects like the Digital Euro.
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BankFintechCrypto Exchange
Central Bank of Ireland launches Access to Cash consultation
The Central Bank of Ireland has today (5 December) launched a public consultation on the implementation of our new Access to Cash responsibilities. Deputy Governor Vasileios Madouros said: “Amid a rapidly evolving payments landscape, the Central Bank of Ireland is committed to making sure that cash continues to be readily available as a means of payment. Today’s consultation is an important step towards the implementation of the Central Bank’s new responsibilities under the Access to Cash leg...
AI Analysis
The Central Bank of Ireland has launched a public consultation on implementing new **Access to Cash** responsibilities under the Finance (Provision of Access to Cash Infrastructure) Act 2025, which commenced on 30 June 2025. This consultation addresses two critical areas: identifying local deficiencies in cash infrastructure and establishing minimum ATM service standards. The initiative reflects regulatory commitment to ensuring cash remains readily available as payment preferences shift toward digital channels.
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BankPayment Provider
FCA recognises the revised FX Global Code and UK Money Markets Code
The Bank of England welcomes the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) recognition of the 2024 versions of the FX Global Code and UK Money Markets Code under its code recognition scheme.
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BankBroker DealerPayment Provider
CP23/25 – Regulatory fees and levies: policy proposals for 2026/27 – Joint PRA and FCA consultation
Consultation paper 23/25
AI Analysis
This joint PRA-FCA consultation (CP23/25 from PRA and Chapter 4 of FCA's CP25/33) proposes policy updates to regulatory fees, levies, and invoice processes for 2026/27, including new fee blocks for emerging activities like PISCES operators and targeted support, alongside adjustments to FOS/FSCS levies and payment timelines. It matters for compliance teams as it directly impacts budgeting, fee calculations, and cash flow management for fee-payers, with potential cost increases and procedural changes effective from April 2026. #
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BankFintechPayment Provider
TIBER-EU guide - How to implement the TIBER-EU framework for the DORA TLPT of significant institutions
No description available.
Sectors:
Topics:
BankFintechCrypto Exchange
Minutes of the Market Participants Group meeting – 12 November 2025
This was the first meeting of the Market Participants Group (MPG), a senior-level forum for financial market participants to share their views on relevant themes and narratives in financial markets with members of the Bank of England’s Monetary Policy Committee.
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BankBroker DealerPayment Provider
Minutes of the CBDC Engagement Forum - February 2025
Meeting of the CBDC Engagement Forum
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BankFintechCrypto Exchange
PS22/25 – Leverage Ratio: Changes to the retail deposits threshold for application of the requirement
Policy statement 22/25
AI Analysis
The PRA's PS22/25 finalizes an increase in the retail deposits threshold for the leverage ratio requirement from £50 billion to £75 billion, introducing a three-year averaging mechanism for calculations, effective 1 January 2026. This adjustment reflects nominal UK GDP growth since 2016 to maintain the Financial Policy Committee's original risk appetite while smoothing cliff-edge effects for firms like building societies. It matters for major UK banks and similar firms as it alters capital planning and leverage ratio applicability, potentially reducing immediate compliance burdens for those nearing the old threshold. #
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BankPayment ProviderAll Firms
Bank of England launches consultation on regulating systemic stablecoins
The Bank of England (the Bank) has today published a consultation paper (CP) setting out its proposed regulatory regime for sterling-denominated systemic stablecoins.
AI Analysis
The Bank of England has published a consultation paper (issued November 10, 2025) proposing a comprehensive regulatory regime for **sterling-denominated systemic stablecoins**, establishing requirements for backing assets, capital, redemption procedures, and operational safeguards. This represents a pivotal step toward implementing the UK's stablecoin framework, with the regime designed to maintain financial stability while enabling viable business models for systemic stablecoin issuers.
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BankFintechPayment Provider
The Central Bank takes enforcement action against Coinbase Europe Limited for anti-money laundering failures
The Central Bank of Ireland has fined Coinbase Europe Limited €21,464,734 for breaching its anti-money laundering and counter terrorist financing transaction monitoring obligations between 2021 and 2025. The Central Bank of Ireland (the Central Bank) has fined Coinbase Europe Limited (Coinbase Europe) €21,464,734 for breaching its anti-money laundering (AML) and combatting terrorist financing (CFT) obligations with respect to transaction monitoring as required by the Criminal Justice (Money L...
AI Analysis
The Central Bank of Ireland (CBI) fined Coinbase Europe Limited €21,464,734 for AML/CFT transaction monitoring failures under the Criminal Justice (Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing) Act 2010 (CJA 2010), involving over 30 million unmonitored transactions worth €176 billion from April 2021 to March 2025. This marks CBI's first enforcement against a crypto firm, highlighting regulators' focus on robust real-time monitoring and timely Suspicious Transaction Reporting (STR) for virtual asset service providers (VASPs). It matters as it sets a precedent for EU crypto compliance amid MiCA and AMLA implementation, signaling increased scrutiny and potential multimillion-euro penalties for similar lapses. #
Sectors:
Topics:
Crypto ExchangeFintechPayment Provider
Minutes of the CBDC Engagement Forum - May 2025
Meeting of the CBDC Engagement Forum
Sectors:
Topics:
BankFintechCrypto Exchange
Aktualisierte Sanktionsmeldung: Belarus
Die Schweiz schliesst sich den weiteren Massnahmen des 18. Sanktionspakets der Europäischen Union (EU) gegenüber Russland sowie den zusätzlich zum 18. Sanktionspaket erlassenen Massnahmen gegenüber Belarus an. Dies hat der Bundesrat am 29. Oktober 2025 beschlossen. Im Fokus stehen Massnahmen im Güter-, Finanz und Energiebereich. Der Bundesrat hat dafür die Verordnung über Massnahmen gegenüber Belarus (SR 946.231.116.9) geändert.
AI Analysis
Switzerland has aligned with additional EU measures from the 18th sanctions package against Russia and specific Belarus measures, amending the Ordinance on Measures against Belarus (SR 946.231.116.9) to focus on goods, financial, and energy sectors. This strengthens the sanctions regime against Belarus to mirror Russia's more closely, aiming to enhance effectiveness and prevent circumvention. Compliance teams must prioritize asset freezes, transaction prohibitions, and reporting to avoid enforcement risks from FINMA and SECO. #
Sectors:
Topics:
BankPayment ProviderAll Firms
Aktualisierte Sanktionsmeldung: Russland
Die Schweiz schliesst sich den weiteren Massnahmen des 18. Sanktionspakets der Europäischen Union (EU) gegenüber Russland sowie den zusätzlich zum 18. Sanktionspaket erlassenen Massnahmen gegenüber Belarus an. Dies hat der Bundesrat am 29. Oktober 2025 beschlossen. Im Fokus stehen Massnahmen im Güter-, Finanz und Energiebereich. Der Bundesrat hat dafür die Verordnung über Massnahmen im Zusammenhang mit der Situation in der Ukraine (SR 946.231.176.72) geändert.
AI Analysis
On October 29, 2025, the Swiss Federal Council (Bundesrat) adopted comprehensive sanctions measures aligned with the EU's 18th sanctions package against Russia and additional measures against Belarus, effective October 30, 2025. This enforcement action significantly expands financial transaction prohibitions, export restrictions, and asset freezes, requiring Swiss financial intermediaries to immediately implement new compliance obligations across banking, goods trade, and energy sectors.
Sectors:
Topics:
BankPayment ProviderAll Firms
PS20/25 – The Strong and Simple Framework: The simplified capital regime for Small Domestic Deposit Takers (SDDTs) – near-final
Policy Statement 20/25
AI Analysis
**PS20/25** represents the second and final phase of the PRA's "Strong and Simple Framework," establishing a significantly simplified capital regime for Small Domestic Deposit Takers (SDDTs) while maintaining their resilience. This near-final policy statement, published on 28 October 2025, fundamentally restructures capital requirements, liquidity rules, and operational frameworks for SDDTs—a critical development for smaller deposit-taking institutions seeking regulatory relief from disproportionate compliance burdens.
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Topics:
Bank
Aktualisierte Sanktionsmeldung: Islamischen Republik Iran
Am 20. Oktober 2025 hat das Eidgenössische Departement für Wirtschaft, Bildung und Forschung WBF die Liste der in diesem Kontext sanktionierten Personen, Unternehmen und Organisationen geändert. Das WBF hat die für die Schweiz massgebliche Sanktionsdatenbank SESAM (SECO Sanctions Management) angepasst und die Anpassung auf seiner Internetseite dringlich veröffentlicht. Die Änderung tritt am 21. Oktober 2025 23:00 Uhr in Kraft. Die Finanzintermediäre werden gemäss den Vorschriften der Verordnu...
AI Analysis
This FINMA publication notifies Swiss financial intermediaries of updates to the Swiss sanctions list against the Islamic Republic of Iran, as amended by the Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research (WBF) on October 20, 2025, via the SESAM sanctions database. It matters because financial firms must immediately screen clients, freeze assets, and report matches to comply with Swiss sanction ordinances, amid escalating global Iran sanctions following UN snapback mechanisms. Failure to act risks enforcement by FINMA or SECO. #
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Topics:
BankAll Firms
Advancing settlement: central bank money for the next era of payments − speech by Victoria Cleland
Given at the Bank of England and Bank for International Settlements Innovation Hub’s DLT Innovation Challenge Showcase
Sectors:
Topics:
BankFintechCrypto Exchange
Effective practices: Cyber response and recovery capabilities
Publication from the Bank, PRA and FCA to firms and financial market infrastructures highlighting observed effective practices of cyber response and recovery capabilities.
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BankFintechPayment Provider
Minutes of the London FXJSC Main Committee Meeting - 26 June 2025
The Bank of England chairs the London Foreign Exchange Joint Standing Committee (FXJSC), which is a forum for discussion of the wholesale foreign exchange market. The FXJSC is made up of market participants, infrastructure providers and the UK financial regulators.
Sectors:
Topics:
BankBroker DealerPayment Provider
Minutes of the London FXJSC Legal Sub-Committee Meeting - 24 June 2025
The Bank of England chairs the London Foreign Exchange Joint Standing Committee (FXJSC) Legal Sub-Committee. The FXJSC is made up of market participants, infrastructure providers and the UK financial regulators.
Sectors:
Topics:
BankBroker DealerFintech
Minutes of the London FXJSC Operations Sub-Committee Meeting - 18 June 2025
The Bank of England chairs the London Foreign Exchange Joint Standing Committee (FXJSC) Operations Sub-Committee. The FXJSC is made up of market participants, infrastructure providers and the UK financial regulators.
Sectors:
Topics:
BankBroker DealerPayment Provider
Minutes: CBDC Academic Advisory Group - June 2025
Meeting of the CBDC Academic Advisory Group
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Topics:
BankFintechCrypto Exchange
Aktualisierte Sanktionsmeldung: Russland
Das Eidgenössische Departement für Wirtschaft, Bildung und Forschung WBF hat Änderungen des Anhangs 8 der Verordnung vom 4. März 2022 über Massnahmen im Zusammenhang mit der Situation in der Ukraine (SR 946.231.176.72) publiziert.
AI Analysis
The publication announces updates by the Swiss Federal Department for Economic Affairs, Education and Research (WBF) to Annex 8 of the Ordinance on Measures in Connection with the Situation in Ukraine (SR 946.231.176.72), aligning Swiss sanctions against Russia with ongoing international restrictions. This matters for Swiss financial intermediaries as it imposes immediate obligations to block assets, report relationships, and conduct AML checks, amid escalating sanctions that heighten compliance risks and enforcement scrutiny from FINMA. #
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BankPayment ProviderAll Firms
The French, Austrian and Italian markets authorities call for a stronger European framework for crypto-asset markets
MiCA Other professionals Fintech Journalists Listed companies and issuers The French, Austrian and Italian markets authorities call for a stronger European framework for crypto-asset markets
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Topics:
Crypto ExchangeFintechBank
Building trust and supporting innovation in the multi-moneyverse − speech by Sarah Breeden
Given at the Bank of England and Warwick Business School Innovation in Money and Payments Conference
Sectors:
Topics:
BankFintechCrypto Exchange
FINMA assesses the emergency and recovery plans for PostFinance, Raiffeisen and Zürcher Kantonalbank
The Swiss Financial Market Supervisory Authority FINMA has completed its annual assessment of the emergency and recovery plans for the domestic systemically important banks. The emergency plans for Zürcher Kantonalbank and Raiffeisen fulfil the regulatory requirements. The emergency plan for PostFinance is still not ready to implement. The recovery plans for all institutions were approved.
Sectors:
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Bank
Aktualisierte Sanktionsmeldung: Islamischen Republik Iran
Das Eidgenössische Departement für Wirtschaft, Bildung und Forschung WBF hat eine Änderung des Anhangs 7 der Verordnung vom 11. November 2015 über Massnahmen gegenüber der Islamischen Republik Iran (SR 946.231.143.6) publiziert.
AI Analysis
On August 18, 2025, the Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (WBF) published an updated sanctions notification regarding Iran, specifically modifying Annex 7 of the Ordinance on Measures against the Islamic Republic of Iran (SR 946.231.143.6). This update is critical for Swiss financial institutions and businesses because it reflects the evolving sanctions landscape following the automatic reinstatement of UN Security Council resolutions on Iran's nuclear program in September 2025.
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BankAsset ManagerPayment Provider
Aktualisierte Sanktionsmeldung: Lybien
Das Staatssekretariat für Wirtschaft (SECO) hat eine Änderung der Liste der sanktionierten natürlichen Personen, Unternehmen und Organisationen der Verordnung vom 30. März 2011 über Massnahmen gegenüber Libyen (SR 946.231.149.82) publiziert.
AI Analysis
This FINMA publication announces an update by Switzerland's State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO) to the sanctions list under the Ordinance of 30 March 2011 on Measures against Libya (SR 946.231.149.82), aligning Swiss sanctions with changes in the UN Libya sanctions regime. It matters for Swiss financial institutions as it triggers immediate screening and compliance obligations to avoid violations of asset freeze and related restrictions on designated persons, entities, or organizations. Failure to act promptly risks enforcement by FINMA. #
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BankWealth ManagerPayment Provider
Circular CSSF 25/896
Adoption of the EBA Guidelines on internal policies, procedures and controls to ensure the implementation of Union and national restrictive measures (sanctions)
AI Analysis
Circular CSSF 25/896 adopts the EBA Guidelines EBA/GL/2024/14 and EBA/GL/2024/15, mandating Luxembourg financial institutions to establish robust internal policies, procedures, and controls for complying with EU and national restrictive measures (sanctions). This matters because it sets binding EU-wide standards to prevent sanctions violations and circumvention, with absolute obligations for immediate asset freezing and reporting, amid escalating geopolitical tensions. #
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BankPayment ProviderCrypto Exchange
Aktualisierte Sanktionsmeldung: Republik Irak
Das Staatssekretariat für Wirtschaft (SECO) hat eine Änderung des Anhangs der Verordnung vom 7. August 1990 über Wirtschaftsmassnahmen gegenüber der Republik Irak (SR 946.206) publiziert.
AI Analysis
The Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO) published an updated sanctions notification on August 13, 2025, reflecting modifications to the UN sanctions list targeting Iraq under the Ordinance of August 7, 1990 (SR 946.206). This update is automatically applicable in Switzerland and requires immediate compliance by all financial institutions and regulated entities, as Switzerland implements UN Security Council sanctions lists without delay through its automatic application framework.
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BankPayment ProviderAll Firms
Aktualisierte Sanktionsmeldung: Belarus
Das Eidgenössische Departement für Wirtschaft, Bildung und Forschung WBF hat eine Änderung der Anhänge 5, 13, 14 und 15 der Verordnung über Massnahmen gegenüber Belarus (SR 946.231.116.9) publiziert.
AI Analysis
The Swiss Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research (WBF) published updates to Annexes 5, 13, 14, and 15 of the Ordinance on Measures against Belarus (SR 946.231.116.9), aligning Switzerland with additional EU sanctions imposed on July 18, 2025, in response to Belarus's involvement in Russia's war against Ukraine. This matters for Swiss financial institutions as it expands asset freezes, reporting obligations, and prohibitions, strengthening sanctions parity with Russia to prevent circumvention and enhance enforcement effectiveness. #
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BankWealth ManagerPayment Provider
Aktualisierte Sanktionsmeldung: Russland
Das Departement für Wirtschaft, Bildung und Forschung (WBF) hat die Erweiterung der Sanktionslisten betreffend Russland publiziert. Die Schweiz hat damit diverse Änderungen übernommen, welche die EU im Rahmen ihres 18. Sanktionspakets beschlossen hatte.
AI Analysis
This FINMA publication announces Switzerland's adoption of the EU's 18th sanctions package against Russia, expanding the sanctions lists with new designations and restrictions via the Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO/WBF). It matters because Swiss financial institutions must immediately screen and freeze assets of newly listed parties, aligning with heightened FINMA enforcement on Russia sanctions risks amid ongoing geopolitical tensions. Compliance teams face elevated legal, reputational, and secondary sanctions exposure from US/EU measures. #
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BankWealth ManagerAll Firms
The ACPR and AMF publish the summary of responses to the consultation conducted by the Working Group on Smart Contract Certification
Crypto-assets Innovation The ACPR and AMF publish the summary of responses to the consultation conducted by the Working Group on Smart Contract Certification
AI Analysis
The ACPR and AMF have published a summary of responses to a public consultation on a 2024 Working Group report exploring smart contract certification in DeFi, addressing technical standards, audit practices, and potential regulatory frameworks. This matters for compliance as it signals preparatory steps toward possible EU-level DeFi regulation, emphasizing risk reduction and trust-building without immediate mandates, influencing future operational and audit strategies for crypto firms. #
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Crypto ExchangeFintechAll Firms
The future of the multilateral economic system, and some news on the UK payments infrastructure - speech by Andrew Bailey
Given at the Financial and Professional Services Dinner, Mansion House
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BankPayment Provider
Aktualisierte Sanktionsmeldung: Haiti
Das Eidgenössische Departement für Wirtschaft, Bildung und Forschung WBF hat eine Änderung des Anhangs der Verordnung vom 16. Dezember 2022 über Massnahmen betreffend Haiti (SR 946.231.139.4) publiziert.
AI Analysis
The Swiss Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research (WBF) has published an update to Annex 2 of the Ordinance on Measures concerning Haiti (SR 946.231.139.4), dated December 16, 2022, aligning Switzerland's sanctions regime with recent UN Security Council decisions. This matters for Swiss financial institutions as it mandates immediate screening against potentially updated lists of designated persons and entities, reinforcing asset freezes, travel bans, and an expanded arms embargo to address Haiti's instability. Non-compliance risks FINMA enforcement actions under anti-money laundering and sanctions frameworks. #
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BankPayment ProviderAll Firms
Synchronisation and beyond: enabling the next wave of financial innovation − speech by Victoria Cleland
Given at the 15th annual edition of City Week
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BankFintechPayment Provider
Aktualisierte Sanktionsmeldung: Guatemala
Das Eidgenössische Departement für Wirtschaft, Bildung und Forschung WBF hat eine Änderung des Anhangs der Verordnung über Massnahmen betreffend Guatemala (SR 946.231.137.6) publiziert.
AI Analysis
The Swiss Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research (WBF) has published an update to Annex 2 of the Ordinance on Measures concerning Guatemala (SR 946.231.137.6), aligning Swiss sanctions with international developments targeting threats to democracy and rule of law in Guatemala. This matters for Swiss financial institutions as it mandates immediate screening and blocking of newly designated persons/entities to prevent sanctions violations, reinforcing Switzerland's commitment to international sanctions regimes amid ongoing geopolitical tensions in Central America. https://www.finma.ch/en/news/2025/06/20250626-sr-946-231-137-6/ #
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BankWealth ManagerPayment Provider
RTGS 2: a launchpad for innovation − speech by Victoria Cleland
Given at UK Finance Digital Innovation Summit 2025
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BankFintechCrypto Exchange
The ACPR and the AMF publish the findings from the Working Group on Smart Contract Certification, and launch a Public Consultation
Crypto-assets Innovation The ACPR and the AMF publish the findings from the Working Group on Smart Contract Certification, and launch a Public Consultation
AI Analysis
The ACPR and AMF have published findings from their 2024 Working Group on Smart Contract Certification in DeFi, launching a public consultation on February 3, 2025, to explore certification frameworks for smart contracts, focusing on standards, audits, and regulatory options. This matters as it signals proactive French regulatory preparation for potential EU-level DeFi rules under MiCA, aiming to enhance security, governance, and compliance without immediate mandates, while industry feedback favors voluntary schemes. #
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Crypto ExchangeFintechBank
Markets in crypto-assets: publication of the MiCA regulation
MiCA Crypto-assets Innovation Markets in crypto-assets: publication of the MiCA regulation
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Crypto ExchangeFintechBank
The AMF publishes a discussion paper on Decentralised Finance (DeFi)
Crypto-assets Innovation Fintech Journalists The AMF publishes a discussion paper on Decentralised Finance (DeFi)
AI Analysis
The Autorité des Marchés Financiers (AMF), France's financial markets regulator, published a discussion paper on June 19, 2023, outlining preliminary thoughts on regulatory challenges posed by Decentralised Finance (DeFi) activities on crypto-assets, inviting stakeholder feedback by September 30, 2023. A summary of responses was released on July 10, 2024, highlighting key themes like defining DeFi, distinguishing protocol types, and applying a "same activity, same risk, same regulation" principle. This matters for compliance professionals as it signals AMF's intent to develop proportionate DeFi oversight, balancing innovation with investor protection, AML/CTF risks, and market integrity amid evolving EU frameworks like MiCA. #
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FintechCrypto ExchangeAll Firms
The AMF publishes its proposals for an open finance framework
Innovation The AMF publishes its proposals for an open finance framework
AI Analysis
The Autorité des Marchés Financiers (AMF), France's financial markets authority, has published proposals for an **open finance framework** via a public consultation, extending open banking principles to broader financial data sharing for enhanced innovation and competition. This matters for compliance professionals as it signals upcoming regulatory requirements for secure data access, APIs, and customer consent mechanisms, aligning with EU trends toward open finance while prioritizing consumer protection and market resilience. Firms must engage early to shape the final rules and prepare systems for compliance. #
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BankAsset ManagerFintech