International Organization of Securities Commissions February 20, 2012 The Technical Committee of the International Organisation of Securities Commissions (IOSCO) has published a consultation report on the Principles for Ongoing Disclosure for Asset Backed Securities. The report contains principles designed to provide guidance to securities regulators who are developing or reviewing their regulatory regimes for ongoing disclosure for asset backed securities. The closing date for responses is Friday April 20, 2012. Cross References: Press Release

Financial Services Authority February 27, 2012 The Financial Services Authority has published guidance on distributor-influenced funds to alert distributors and customers to the increased risks of using these funds.

Financial Services Authority February 29, 2012 The Financial Services Authority has issued guidance to alert firms to its concerns about collateral upgrade transactions and its expectations for managing the associated risks.

Financial Services Authority February 23, 2012 Tracey McDermott, acting director of the Enforcement and Financial Crime Division of the Financial Services Authority, has given a speech on the FSA's investigations and enforcement regime to the City and Financial Conference. The speech mainly reflects on the anticipated role of the Financial Conduct Authority, a new body that will take on the FSA's enforcement activities following the expected disbanding of the FSA in 2013.

European Securities and Markets Authority February 17, 2012 The Regulation of the European Parliament and Council on OTC Derivatives, CCPs and trade repositories (EMIR) introduces provisions to improve transparency and reduce the risks associated with the OTC derivatives market and establishes common rules for central counterparties (CCPs) and for trade repositories (TRs). Following feedback to this publication, ESMA will prepare draft technical standards to be included in the consultation paper which will most likely be published around summer 2012.