Europe

AML / KYC

All Crypto ATMs Operating in the UK Are Illegal: FCA

By Editors | 18/02/2023

No crypto ATM operators currently have FCA registration, but the locations of several such machines have been established by authorities.

Crypto / Digital Assets

Siemens Issues First Blockchain-based Digital Bond

By Editors | 17/02/2023

Siemens said it sold the bond directly to investors without engaging CSDs, and the transaction was completed within two days.

Fintech / Regtech

UK Proposes Draft Legislation to Regulate BNPL Products

By Editors | 15/02/2023

The legislation will bring BNPL products under the FCA’s regulatory remit, and require BNPL providers to conduct affordability checks.

Crypto / Digital Assets

EU Commission Launches Regulatory Sandbox for DLT Innovators

By Editors | 15/02/2023

The sandbox establishes a pan-European framework for regulatory dialogue to increase legal certainty for innovative blockchain solutions.

AML / KYC

EU Adds Four Countries to List of Uncooperative Tax Jurisdictions

By Editors | 15/02/2023

BVI, Costa Rica, Marshall Islands and Russia were added to the list. Hong Kong and Malaysia were granted an extension to complete reforms.

Big Picture

ECB Concerned with Russia Exposures, Bad Debt Risks

By Editors | 14/02/2023

The ECB says it would welcome more exits from Russia by eurozone banks, and that higher borrowing costs could lead to a build-up of bad loans.

Market Infrastructure

Japan, EU Establish Cooperation Framework on Insurance Supervision

By Editors | 14/02/2023

The cooperation framework promotes mutual understanding, exchange of information and technical assistance between the FSA and EIOPA.

AML / KYC

FCA Investigating Barclays for KYC and AML Incidents

By Editors | 14/02/2023

The FCA reportedly directed Barclays to undergo an independent review due to concerns about a large volume of KYC and AML incidents.

ESG / Sustainability

UK FCA Moots New ESG Regulation

By ESG Investor | 14/02/2023

The FCA is seeking feedback on introducing regulatory expectations or guidance on senior management responsibilities for regulated firms’ sustainability-related strategies.