Europe

Anti-Money Laundering

EU-Funded Report Explores Crypto Use in Darknet Markets

By Mark Johnston | 12/04/2023

Law enforcement needs training, resources, technology and cooperation to effectively investigate darknet markets, which grew 469-fold between 2011 and 2020.

AI Risk & Governance

Italy ChatGPT Ban Prompts Broader Scrutiny of AI Tools

By Manesh Samtani | 12/04/2023

Taiwan is exploring the use of AI tools by banks. China has issued draft rules for AI development. The US is exploring accountability mechanisms for AI systems.

Reporting & Disclosures

UK’s New Rules to Raise Standards for ESG Benchmarks

By ESG Investor | 11/04/2023

Regulation vital to ensure “transparency and rigour” of ESG benchmarks that play a key role in investors’ transition to net zero.

Tokenisation

SEB, Crédit Agricole Launch Digital Bond Issuance Platform

By Editors | 11/04/2023

The platform uses a blockchain validation protocol called “Proof of Climate awaReness”, which incentivises participating nodes to improve their environmental impact.

Structural Regulation

UK FCA Outlines Next One Year of Work to Improve Markets

By Editors | 11/04/2023

The FCA will propose reforms to the listing regime, consult on the introduction of consolidated tapes, and strengthen its authorisation and assessment processes.

Cryptocurrency

ECB Official Says MiCA Still Needs Further Strengthening

By Manesh Samtani | 10/04/2023

Pre-collapsed FTX and today’s Binance would not meet the threshold for classification as ‘significant’ CASPs. Even if they did, stricter requirements wouldn’t apply.

Clearing & Post-Trade

Taiwan, Canadian Regulators Cross-border Clearing MoU

By Editors | 10/04/2023

The MoU supports TAIFEX’s application for recognition as an exempted clearing agency in Ontario, which will enable Canadian FIs to use its clearing service.

Reporting & Disclosures

EU Consults on Taxonomy Environmental Objectives

By ESG Investor | 09/04/2023

The European Commission is consulting on additional criteria in EU taxonomy delegated acts.

Fraud, Scams & Cybercrime

‘Genesis’ Darknet Market Sanctioned and Shuttered by Authorities

By Editors | 06/04/2023

Law enforcement arrested 119 people and conducted 208 property searches in connection with Genesis Market, a criminal marketplace believed to be located in Russia.