TITLE: European Securities and Markets Authority Issues Statement on Identifying Derivatives Within National Product Intervention Measures on Contracts for Difference BODY: The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) issued a statement providing guidance on identifying derivatives within the scope of national product intervention measures on contracts for difference (CFDs). The statement, referenced as ESMA35-243228190-8024, addresses how competent authorities and market participants should identify which derivatives fall within the remit of national product intervention rules applicable to CFDs. This guidance is significant as it clarifies the scope and application of existing national-level product intervention measures, which are designed to protect retail investors from the risks associated with CFD trading. The statement serves to ensure consistent interpretation and application of product intervention rules across European Union member states. By providing clarity on derivative identification within this regulatory framework, ESMA aims to support competent authorities in their supervisory activities and assist financial institutions in achieving compliance with applicable national measures. The guidance is applicable to investment firms, competent authorities, and other market participants engaged in or supervising CFD trading and related derivative activities across the European Union. REFERENCES: European Securities and Markets Authority. Statement on ... (1660 chars total)

TITLE: South Korea's Financial Supervisory Service Introduces Uncapped Whistleblower Rewards for Stock Manipulation and Accounting Fraud Reports BODY: On February 25, 2026, South Korea's Financial Supervisory Commission (FSC) announced a significant overhaul of its whistleblower reward programme to encourage insiders with critical information on market misconduct to come forward. The FSC will implement three key changes to the reward system. First, it will introduce uncapped financial rewards for reports of stock price manipulation and accounting fraud, removing previous limits on compensation. Second, whistleblowers will receive up to 30 percent of any recovered ill-gotten gains and administrative fines collected as a result of their reports. Third, individuals reporting to other government agencies such as the police will also be eligible for rewards, regardless of whether they report directly to the FSC or the Financial Supervisory Service (FSS). The programme aims to incentivise employees and other individuals with direct knowledge of unfair trading practices and accounting irregularities to disclose violations. The FSC has prepared amendments to the Capital Markets Act Enforcement Decree, the External Audit Act Enforcement Decree, and related reward regulations to implement these changes. The FSC initiated a legislative notice and regulatory change notice period from February 26 to April 7, 2026. Following review by the Office of Legislation, a vice-ministerial meet ... (1707 chars total)

TITLE: European Banking Authority and European Securities and Markets Authority Launch Consultation on Suitability Assessment Guidelines BODY: On 25 February 2026, the European Banking Authority (EBA) and European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) launched a joint consultation on draft guidelines for assessing the suitability of members of the management body and key function holders at financial institutions. The consultation seeks feedback on revised guidelines that establish a framework for evaluating whether individuals are fit and proper to hold senior positions within banks and investment firms. The guidelines set out criteria and assessment procedures that competent authorities and financial institutions must apply when determining suitability. Key aspects covered include the assessment methodology, competence requirements, and integrity standards for management body members and key function holders. The joint approach by the EBA and ESMA ensures consistency in suitability assessments across the European Union's banking and securities sectors. The guidelines apply to credit institutions and investment firms subject to EBA and ESMA regulatory frameworks. This update is significant as it modernises and harmonises existing suitability requirements, providing clearer standards for both regulators and institutions in evaluating senior personnel fitness and propriety. The consultation period runs from 25 February 2026 to 25 May 2026. Responses must be submitted to ... (1753 chars total)