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Regulatory Blog

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ESMA launches Call for Evidence on European equity market structure: Key takeaways for market participants
On 30 April 2026, the European Securities and Markets Authority published a Call for Evidence 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 structural trends and their potential regulatory implications, with responses due by 30 June 2026.
Simplifying the retail investor journey: ESMA's latest actions
On 12 March 2026, the European Securities and Markets Authority released findings and proposed actions to enhance the retail investor journey, based on its 2025 Call for Evidence. The initiative aims to address barriers faced by retail investors in accessing EU capital markets, focussing on both regulatory and non-regulatory challenges.
CySEC aligns with ESMA on cloud outsourcing for non-DORA entities
On 13 March 2026, the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission issued Circular 759, to inform relevant entities about the adoption of the European Securities and Markets Authority’s guidelines on outsourcing to cloud service providers. This replaces Circular 457 from July 2021.
ESMA reinforces investor protection in CFD compliance
On 24 February 2026, the European Securities and Markets Authority issued a statement reminding firms of their obligations under the national product intervention measures for Contracts for Differences. This follows an increase in the offering of derivatives, such as perpetual futures or contracts, which provide leveraged exposure to assets, including cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin.
ESMA clarifies MiFID II remuneration rules for tied agents
On 23 February 2026, ESMA clarified the application of MiFID II remuneration rules to tied agents under Article 27 of Regulation (EU) 2017/565.
ESMA finalises rules for open-ended loan-originating AIFs
The European Securities and Markets Authority, in October 2025, published its final draft Regulatory Technical Standards for open-ended loan-originating Alternative Investment Funds under the AIFMD. These standards focused on liquidity management, stress testing and redemption policies for open-ended AIFs.
ESMA outlines key technical requirements under MiCA
At the end of last year, the European Securities and Markets Authority issued a statement in relation to the technical specifications to support the smooth implementation of Markets in Crypto-Assets standards. Key highlights include:
ESMA guidance on MiCA transitional periods: What CASPs and investors need to know
The European Securities and Markets Authority recently issued guidance regarding the transitional periods under the Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation. These transitional measures allow crypto-asset service providers operating before 30 December 2024, to align with MiCA requirements. However, Member States may choose to limit or forgo these transitional periods to enhance financial stability and investor protection.
Cross-Border fund marketing: ESMA's findings report
On 6 January 2025, the European Securities and Markets Authority published its third report on the marketing requirements and communications under the Regulation on cross-border distribution of funds. This report, for the first time, includes statistical insights into cross-border fund marketing notifications, offering a comprehensive overview of the regulatory landscape and its practical implications.
Enhancing proportionality and consistency in investment firms’ prudential rules
The European Banking Authority and the European Securities and Markets Authority recently issued a joint report recommending targeted revisions to the Investment Firms Regulation and Directive. This follows a Call for Advice from the European Commission to assess the prudential framework for investment firms.
ESMA's second consolidated sanctions (enforcement) report: Key insights
On 16 October 2025, the European Securities and Markets Authority released its second consolidated report on sanctions and measures imposed in Member States for 2024. Here are the highlights:
ESAs designate critical ICT third-party providers under DORA
On 18 November 2025, the European Supervisory Authorities officially designated critical Information & Communication Technology third-party providers under the Digital Operational Resilience Act. This milestone strengthens the EU's financial sector's operational resilience by ensuring robust oversight of key ICT service providers.
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