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2021
Application for administrator authorisation – STIBOR may continue to be used while FI evaluates the application
Swedish Financial Benchmark Facility AB (SFBF) submitted an application to Finansinspektionen (FI) on 27 December 2021 to become an authorised administrator in accordance with the EU’s Benchmark Regulation (BMR).
Recommended actions in the event STIBOR is no longer provided
The Swedish Bankers’ Association published a recommendation yesterday on the actions users of the STIBOR reference rate should take if STIBOR were no longer provided. Finansinspektionen (FI) would therefore like to clarify how we will issue statements, if necessary, in the event STIBOR ceases to be provided.
FI leaves the countercyclical buffer rate unchanged
In accordance with its assessment in the most recent stability report, FI is leaving the countercyclical buffer rate unchanged. The buffer rate of 0 per cent, which was applied starting on 16 March 2020, shall thus continue to apply. The countercyclical buffer guide is set at 0 per cent.
Updates in reporting AML
New reporting questions in 2022
European Commission approves extension of the risk weight floor for Swedish mortgages
The European Commission has announced that it does not intend to object to FI's intention to extend the current risk weight floor for Swedish mortgages. This means that FI may implement the measure.
Capital requirements of Swedish banks as of Q3 2021
Finansinspektionen publishes the capital requirements of the largest Swedish banks and credit institutions that belong to supervisory categories 1 and 2 as of the end of Q3 2021.
Resilience is needed as the risks in the commercial real estate sector increase
The economic recovery has been stronger than expected this year, in part due to strong support measures during the pandemic. At the same time, risks are building up, writes Finansinspektionen (FI) in its second stability report of the year. The report is being presented today by Director General Erik Thedéen and Chief Economist Henrik Braconier at a press conference.
IMF to assess financial stability in Sweden
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) will conduct a review of the financial sector and the work of the authorities on financial stability, a so-called FSAP (Financial Sector Assessment Program) in 2022. FSAPs are conducted regularly for countries with systemically important financial markets. In its report, the IMF will highlight any flaws and risks in the system and propose measures to deal with them.
Continued problems with credit assessments of consumer credits
Borrowers of consumer credits have higher incomes and pay less for their loans in relation to their income compared to previous years. But we are seeing deficiencies in the credit assessment, and many borrowers are still receiving collection notices. Young borrowers are still overrepresented among those that experience early repayment problems. These are the conclusions from this year’s consumer credit survey.
TRS 2 closed for maintenance 18 November
TRS 2 will be closed for maintenance the 18 November.
Erik Thedéen talks about sustainability reporting at COP26
A global standard for sustainability reporting will make it possible for the finance sector to steer investments from harmful activities to activities that contribute to the climate transition. Finansinspektionen’s (FI) Director General Erik Thedéen will be at the UN’s climate conference (COP26) in Glasgow to talk about this work.
The TRS2 test environment closed on Monday for maintenance
On Monday, 1 November, the TRS2 test environment will be closed for maintenance.
Incident in the TRS 2 test environment resolved
The incident entailing missing or incomplete feedback in the TRS2 test environment has been resolved today the 22 October. FF- and FD-files are now generated normally.
FI increases sustainability efforts with new manager
Finansinspektionen (FI) is creating a new position to strengthen its work within sustainability. Johanna Fager Wettergren will be the new Head of Sustainable Finance.
Ongoing incident in the test environment for TRS 2
There has been an ongoing incident since 18 October in the test environment for TRS 2. Submitting entities are either not receiving all expected feedback or receiving no feedback at all (neither FF nor FD files). Troubleshooting is in progress.
Danske Bank has deficiencies in its anti-money laundering work
Danske Bank has not sufficiently assessed the risk of how the bank’s products and services in Sweden may be used for money laundering and terrorist financing. Danske Bank must therefore rectify these deficiencies no later than June 30, 2022.
FI withdraws the authorisation of securities company Nordic Fondkommission AB
Finansinspektionen (FI) is withdrawing the authorisation of securities company Nord Fondkommision AB (Nord) due to severe deficiencies in the company’s advisory activities and other areas. This decision means that the company must cease all regulated activities. As a result, it may no longer provide financial advice or sell financial products. The decision will be presented by FI Director General Erik Thedéen and Chief Legal Counsel Eric Leijonram at a press conference today, Wednesday, 13 October, at 10:00 AM.
Children can understand money’s value even without cash
Cash is not necessary for children to understand the value of money. This is the outcome of a study by KTH Royal Institute of Technology that was commissioned by Finansinspektionen (FI). Parents therefore should not let the decreasing use of cash stand in the way of teaching children about money, a knowledge that children need to have for a good understanding of their personal finances as adults.
FI raises the countercyclical buffer rate to 1 per cent
Finansinspektionen (FI) has decided to raise the countercyclical buffer rate to 1 per cent. The new buffer rate will be applied as of 29 September 2022. Until then, the buffer rate will remain at 0 per cent.
FI opens investigation into EQT AB
Finansinspektionen has decided to open an investigation into EQT AB for suspected breach of the Market Abuse Regulation (MAR) in conjunction with a delayed disclosure of inside information. FI’s handling of this matter is thus entering a new phase.
TRS 2 closed for maintenance
On Friday, 24 September, until Sunday, 26 September, TRS 2 will be closed for maintenance.
New guidelines regarding consumer credit assessments
Many consumer credit assessments need to improve to fulfil the requirements of the Consumer Credit Act. Finansinspektionen (FI) is therefore now clarifying what information lenders should gather for a credit assessment and how this information should be used. The new general guidelines will go into effect on 1 November 2021.
FI reviews EQT’s handling of delayed disclosure
On 7 September, FI received a notification from EQT AB regarding a delayed disclosure of inside information. On 14 September, FI requested that the company submit an account of the circumstances that served as a basis for the delayed disclosure. FI will analyse the response from EQT AB in order to decide if there are grounds for further action.
FI intends to raise the countercyclical buffer rate to 1 per cent
Finansinspektionen (FI) intends to raise the countercyclical buffer rate to 1 per cent in Q3 2021.
FI wants the EU to comply with Basel III
During the autumn, the European Commission will publish a proposal for updated capital adequacy rules for banks within the EU. Finansinspektionen (FI) now urges the EU Commission to stick to the Basel III agreement.
New procedures for submission of Key Investor Information Document for foreign UCITS
Pursuant to Article 93 (7) and (8) of Directive 2009/65/EC, a foreign UCITS established in another Member State authorised for marketing in Sweden must submit to Finansinspektionen annual updates of KIID(s) or updated KIID(s) of share class(es) authorised for distribution in Sweden.
LEI validation in the TRS 2 system is functional again
FI has received and input all GLEIF LEI data files that were missing in the TRS 2 system due to an incident that occurred at ESMA during the period 2021-08-10–2021-08-27.
The TRS 2 system has an ongoing IT incident
ESMA has had an ongoing IT incident since 10 August 2021 that has prevented it from delivering to national supervisory authorities LEI reference data files for transaction validation.
Capital requirements of Swedish banks as of Q2 2021
Finansinspektionen publishes the capital requirements of the largest Swedish banks and credit institutions that belong to supervisory categories 1 and 2 as of the end of Q2 2021.
Proposal to repeal regulations regarding MREL reporting
FI proposes that the regulations (FFFS 2019:1) regarding periodic reporting of data on the minimum requirement for own funds and eligible liabilities (MREL) be repealed.
Mortgages must be amortised again
The rules on amortisation go into effect as normal again after 31 August. The temporary exemption that Finansinspektionen (FI) introduced due to the exceptional uncertainty in the economy during the spring of 2020 is now ending. This means that households with high loan-to-value and debt-to-income ratios must amortise their mortgages.
FI will not extend its recommendation regarding dividends
Uncertainty is decreasing, and the economy is continuing to recover. Therefore, the recommendation regarding restrictions on dividends will not be extended. The recommendation ends on 30 September 2021.
Large Swedish banks show resilience in EU stress test
The five largest Swedish banks are resilient and have the ability to withstand a sharp deterioration in market conditions, based on the stress test conducted by the European Banking Authority (EBA).
FI investigates IT incident at Klarna
FI will investigate whether Klarna violated its duty of confidentiality in conjunction with an IT incident in May when the bank’s customers were able for a limited time to access information about one another. This matter will be added to the investigation that FI has already opened into Klarna’s work with information and cyber security.
Macroprudential measures subdue household loans
The mortgage cap and amortisation requirements have had intended effect and subdued household debt. They are slowing a scenario where new mortgagors borrow more, taking larger loans in relation to the value of the home or their income. These are the conclusions of Finansinspektionen’s (FI) evaluation of the macroprudential measures implemented in Sweden.
Maiden Life receives warning and administrative fine
Finansinspektionen (FI) is issuing Maiden Life Försäkrings AB a warning. The company must also pay an administrative fine of SEK 5.5 million.
FI reciprocates Norwegian risk weight floor
Finansinspektionen has passed a decision to reciprocate the Norwegian Ministry of Finance’s decision to implement an average risk weight floor of 20 per cent for retail exposures collateralised by real estate in Norway and of 35 per cent for corporate exposures collateralised by real estate in Norway.
TRS 2 closed for maintenance
On Wednesday, 16 June, TRS 2 will be closed for maintenance.
Support measures can build up stability risks
The support measures have been important for offsetting the economic impact of the crisis and speeding up the recovery. However, they can also contribute to greater stability risks in the long run, concludes Finansinspektionen (FI) in this year’s first report on the stability in the financial system, which is being published today.
FI leaves the countercyclical buffer rate unchanged
Finansinspektionen (FI) leaves the countercyclical buffer rate unchanged. The buffer rate of 0 per cent, which was applied starting on 16 March 2020, shall thus continue to apply. The countercyclical buffer guide is set at 1.6 per cent.
Capital requirements of Swedish banks as of Q1 2021
Finansinspektionen publishes the capital requirements of the largest Swedish banks and credit institutions that belong to supervisory categories 1 and 2 as of the end of Q1 2021.
Low income the greatest risk factor for loans leading to debt with the Swedish Enforcement Authority
One fifth of all debts with the Swedish Enforcement Authority come from loans. And people with low incomes run the greatest risk of suffering repayment problems. Repayment problems often start with life events such as unemployment or illness. This is shown by a new analysis from Finansinspektionen (FI), the Swedish Consumer Agency and the Swedish Enforcement Authority.
TRS2 Test environment will be closed 19 May
On Wednesday, 19 May, the test environment of the TRS 2 system will be closed for maintenance.
Appointment of FI’s Director General has been extended
The Government has decided to extend Erik Thedéen’s employment as director general and head of Finansinspektionen by three years.
FI introduces new reporting system
FI has decided to replace several of our existing reporting systems with a new system with the aim of better meeting current and future legal requirements and enhancing user-friendliness for the companies that report via the systems. The new reporting system, FIDAC, will be used for both periodic and event-driven reporting.
New borrowers are taking larger mortgages
New borrowers are continuing to take larger mortgages in relation to their income and the value of their home, according to this year’s Swedish Mortgage Market, which is being presented today by Finansinspektionen (FI). FI also announces in the report that the temporary exemption from the amortisation requirement will end on 31 August.
FI’s approach to setting the countercyclical capital buffer
In a new memorandum, Finansinspektionen describes the general principles for the application of the countercyclical capital buffer. FI is also leaving the countercyclical capital buffer unchanged at 0 per cent.
New memorandum and level of the countercyclical buffer rate
Today Finansinspektionen (FI) publishes a new memorandum, describing its approach for setting the countercyclical buffer rate. FI also leave the countercyclical buffer rate unchanged. The buffer rate of 0 per cent, which was applied starting on 16 March 2020, shall thus continue to apply. The countercyclical buffer guide is set at 2.1 per cent.
Enhanced review of sustainability in banks
FI will include a sustainability perspective when reviewing business models and credit risks of banks, according to a report published by FI today.
Temporary lowering of notification threshold expires
The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) has decided not to renew its decision to temporarily lower the notification threshold for when net short positions are to be notified to the relevant national competent authority.
FI clarifies obligations for third-party payment service providers
Finansinspektionen would like to clarify the obligations of third-party payment service providers when gathering information about bank customers’ payment accounts via digital interfaces. FI has also contacted the banks and reminded them about their obligations as an account servicing payment service provider (ASPSP).
IOSCO takes important step towards global sustainability disclosure
An important step has now been taken towards a global standard for sustainability reporting. The Board of Directors of the International Organization of Securities Commissions (IOSCO) voted during its meeting yesterday for IOSCO to actively work to achieve a unified and comparable global standard for sustainability disclosure. IOSCO’s work in this area is being carried out within the work group led by Finansinspektionen’s Director General Erik Thedéen.
Capital requirements of Swedish banks as of Q4 2020
Finansinspektionen publishes the capital requirements of the largest Swedish banks and credit institutions that belong to supervisory categories 1 and 2 as of the end of Q4 2020.
Young adults and low-income earners face greatest risk of debt trap
Young borrowers and borrowers with low income run a higher risk of experiencing payment problems when they take non-mortgage loans, even if they only borrow small amounts. At the same time, the risk that consumers will get trapped in debt decreases if credit providers conduct thorough credit assessments. These are the conclusions of a new analysis from Finansinspektionen that is presented in conjunction with this year’s consumer protection report.
FI warns consumers of risks connected to cryptoasset products
Think carefully before buying a financial product containing cryptoassets. The risks are significant and the protections for you as a consumer are weak, FI warns today.
FI’s prioritised areas for 2021
Are the banks conducting thorough credit assessments when customers apply for consumer credit? Are smaller banks and payment service firms taking sufficient measures to prevent money laundering? What risks will the coronavirus pandemic pose in the future? These are three areas that Finansinspektionen (FI) will look more closely at in 2021.
Don’t be fooled again
Have you been the victim of investment fraud? Then there is a risk that you will be targeted again. You might be contacted with new investment offers, or you might receive a fake offer to help recover previous losses. Sometimes these offers come right after the first fraud, but other times they come several years later.
Clarification of Finansinspektionen's sanction decision against Nasdaq Clearing AB
By its decision of 26 January 2021, Finansinspektionen (FI) issued Nasdaq Clearing AB a warning for serious deficiencies in its operations. According to the decision, Nasdaq Clearing must also pay an administrative fine of SEK 300 million.
Nasdaq Clearing receives warning and administrative fine of MSEK 300
Finansinspektionen (FI) is issuing Nasdaq Clearing AB a warning for serious deficiencies in its operations, in part in conjunction with a member of the firm’s commodities market being declared in default in 2018. Nasdaq Clearing must also pay an administrative fine of SEK 300 million.
TRS 2 closed for maintenance
On Tuesday, 26 January, TRS 2 will be closed for maintenance.
2020
New procedures to enhance transparency
As of 1 January 2021, FI will implement new procedures for how it announces opened and closed supervision investigations.
Households’ finances and financial literacy 2020
Single-adult households with children continue to have a more difficult financial situation than other households. FI has measured households’ financial literacy and found that it has improved in almost all areas compared to previous surveys.
Financial firms must be restrictive with dividends until September 2021
In light of the economic uncertainty caused by the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, FI expects banks, including credit institutions and other financial firms such as insurance companies, to be restrictive with dividends and share buybacks until 30 September 2021. During this period, total dividends from and buybacks by the banks should not exceed 25 per cent of their aggregate net earnings for the two financial years 2019–2020.
Maintenance of TRS2 system planned for beginning of January 2021 in conjunction with Brexit
Due to Brexit, ESMA will have a maintenance window from 31 December 2020 through (preliminarily) 7 January 2021.
US central bank joins NGFS
FI welcomes the Federal Reserve to the Network for Greening the Financial System (NGFS), which celebrates its third anniversary today.
Reminder: what a hard Brexit will entail
What will happen in the event that the transition period ends without an agreement between the EU and the UK.
Dampened recovery can weaken financial stability
An increase in the spread of the coronavirus will dampen the recovery in European economies and, in the long run, this could impact financial stability, writes Finansinspektionen (FI) in this year’s second stability report, which will be published today.
Capital requirements of Swedish banks as of Q3 2020
Finansinspektionen publishes the capital requirements of the largest Swedish banks and credit institutions that belong to supervisory categories 1 and 2 as of the end of Q3 2020.
Decision regarding the countercyclical buffer rate
Finansinspektionen (FI) decided on 24 November not to change the countercyclical buffer rate. The buffer rate of 0 per cent, which was applied starting on 16 March 2020, shall thus continue to apply. The countercyclical buffer guide is set at 1.7 per cent.
European Commission approves extension of the risk weight floor for Swedish mortgages
The European Commission has announced that it does not intend to object to FI's intention to extend the current risk weight floor for Swedish mortgages. This means that FI may implement the measure.
Bank dividends not appropriate until the situation has stabilised
As the crisis unrolled this past spring in full force, it required fast and extraordinary measures. For example, FI lowered the countercyclical buffer requirement for the banks and encouraged them at the same time to postpone their dividend payments until the situation had become clearer. During the autumn, FI repeated its message to the banks to not make any dividend payments in 2020.
AK Nordic receives a remark and an administrative fine
Finansinspektionen (FI) is issuing credit market company AK Nordic AB a remark. The company must also pay an administrative fine of SEK 20 million.
TRS 2 closed for maintenance
On Friday, 16 October, from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM, TRS 2 will be closed for maintenance.
The new Short Selling Register is launched today
Today, FI launches a new Short Selling Register for significant net short positions.
Credit checks must be improved
Large credits are growing, but the smallest credits are growing faster. More borrowers are having difficulty making their payments soon after the credits are granted, and these payment difficulties are more prevalent among younger borrowers than older borrowers. These are some of the conclusions from Finansinspektionen's report this year on consumer credit. These conclusions indicate that lenders’ credit checks are not working as they should, and FI is therefore now reviewing the guidelines.
FI proposes amended rules and a change in the application of banks’ capital requirements
FI is proposing regulatory amendments and a change in the application of capital requirements for Swedish banks in order to adapt to the EU’s so-called banking package.
New reporting system for short selling is launched today
Today, FI launches a new reporting system for the reporting of net short positions: the Short Selling Online Reporting tool.
New reporting system for short selling to be launched this week
This week, FI will launch a new reporting system for the reporting of net short positions: the Short Selling Online Reporting tool.
FI confirms investigation into Swedbank
Swedbank has written in a press release that FI is investigating potential breaches of the Market Abuse Act. Given that the company has chosen to disclose information about the investigation, FI confirms that the information is correct. FI has opened an investigation.
Decision regarding the countercyclical buffer rate
Finansinspektionen (FI) decided on 9 September not to change the countercyclical buffer rate. The buffer rate of 0 per cent, which was applied starting on 16 March 2020, shall thus continue to apply. The countercyclical buffer guide is set at 1.3 per cent.
Reminder: New log-in method for periodic reporting replaces reporting card
Finansinspektionen would like to remind rapporteurs that FI has introduced a new log-in method for periodic reporting filed via an application on the computer that previously required a card and card reader. The new method requires users to log in using Bank ID.
Continued grounds for suspension of dividend payments for the rest of the year
Despite positive signals, there is still considerable uncertainty about how the coronavirus pandemic will develop in the next few months in both Sweden and the rest of the world. To ensure the banks’ resilience in a situation that continues to be uncertain, the banks should suspend the payment of dividends to shareholders in 2020. This was the message from Finansinspektionen’s Director General Erik Thedéen at Fastighetsdagen today.
Capital requirements of Swedish banks as of Q2 2020
Finansinspektionen publishes the capital requirements of the largest Swedish banks and credit institutions that belong to supervisory categories 1 and 2 as of the end of Q2 2020.
TRS 2 closed for maintenance
On Friday, 28 August, TRS 2 will be closed for maintenance.
New log-in method for periodic reporting replaces reporting card
Finansinspektionen has introduced a new log-in method for periodic reporting filed via an application on the computer that previously required a card and card reader. The new method requires users to log in using Bank ID.
ESRB recommendation on distribution
The COVID-19 pandemic has incurred large human and economic costs and also affected the financial sector. Maintaining own funds in financial institutions is important both for ensuring the resilience of the financial system and supporting banks' lending through this crisis.
New reporting system for short selling
In the autumn of 2020, Finansinspektionen will introduce a new reporting system for the reporting of net short positions: the Short Selling Online Reporting tool.
UCITS holdings now published
The first publication occasion covers UCITS holdings for Q1 2020 and older figures for the period Q4 2018 onward. The data will from now on be published with a two-month delay. This means that the holdings for Q2 2020 will be published on 1 September.
SEB receives an administrative fine for deficiencies in its work to combat money laundering in the Baltics
SEB has not sufficiently identified the risk of money laundering in its Baltic operations and has had deficiencies in its governance and control of the Baltic subsidiary banks’ anti-money laundering measures. SEB is therefore being issued a remark and an administrative fine of SEK 1 billion.
FI will hold press conference about SEB
Finansinspektionen (FI) will hold a press conference on Thursday, 25 June, following the Board of Directors’ decision regarding the investigation into SEB AB’s governance and control of measures to combat money laundering in the bank’s subsidiaries in the Baltic countries.
JAK Medlemsbank receives a remark and an administrative fine
JAK Medlemsbank (JAK) has been deficient in its work to prevent money laundering and terrorist financing. The bank is therefore being issued a remark and must pay an administrative fine of SEK 1.6 million.
New log-in method for periodic reporting replaces reporting card
On 18 August 2020, FI will introduce a new log-in method for periodic reporting filed via an application on the computer and that previously required a card and card reader. The new method requires users to log in using Bank ID.
Measures stabilised the financial situation
Governments, central banks, and authorities around the world have taken powerful measures to mitigate the economic impact of the coronavirus pandemic. These measures also helped dampen uncertainty on the financial markets. By utilising available buffers and continuing to lend to firms and households, the financial sector can dampen the impact of the crisis. It is also important to remember that the economic crisis is not over, and uncertainty is therefore high, notes Finansinspektionen (FI) in its first stability report of the year.
Decision regarding the countercyclical buffer rate
Finansinspektionen (FI) decided on 3 June not to change the countercyclical buffer rate. The buffer rate of 0 per cent, which was applied starting on 16 March 2020, shall thus continue to apply. The countercyclical buffer guide is set at 0.48 per cent.
FI withdraws the authorisation of investment firm Exceed
Finansinspektion (FI) immediately withdraws the authorisation for Exceed Capital Sverige AB. Under FI’s decision, the company loses all its authorisations and may no longer conduct regulated business. The decision will be presented by FI Director General Erik Thedéen and Chief Legal Counsel Eric Leijonram at a press conference today, Tuesday, 2 June, at 2:00 PM.
Global sustainability network NGFS publishes status report and guide for supervisors
The global sustainability network NGFS (Network for Greening the Financial System) is publishing today a report on how banks around the world consider climate-related risks in their lending. The report shows that this is occurring more frequently, but it is at the same time difficult to see which loans constitute a lower risk. This is because, for example, there is no international classification and a shared perception of which assets are “green” and “brown”.
Capital requirements of Swedish banks as of Q1 2020
Finansinspektionen publishes the capital requirements of the largest Swedish banks and credit institutions that belong to supervisory categories 1 and 2 as of the end of Q1 2020.
New collection of data in EIOPA’s ongoing impact assessment of the Solvency II Review
The European Insurance and Occupational Pensions Authority (EIOPA) will collect new data for its ongoing impact assessment to assess the effects of the coronavirus pandemic.
FI resumes work on supervision investigations
FI decided on 1 April given the acute stage of the coronavirus pandemic to extend the freeze on new supervision investigations until 3 May. This decision will not be extended again, which means that the freeze on ongoing supervision meetings, investigations and information gathering will be lifted starting on 4 May.
EU authority publishes consumer guides on insurance
Due to the coronavirus pandemic, the European Insurance and Occupational Pensions Authority (EIOPA) has published a consumer guide with tips that target insurance customers.
EIOPA on principles for mitigating the effects of the coronavirus pandemic in the occupational pensions sector
The European Insurance and Occupational Pensions Authority (EIOPA) has published a statement on principles that national competent authorities should consider to mitigate the impact of the coronavirus pandemic on the occupational pensions sector.
FI issues Skandia Liv a warning
Skandia Liv has not calculated its capital need and commitments to its customers realistically or correctly for several years. This has entailed that the company’s customer protection and the company’s solvency have not been fairly assessed. Skandia Liv is therefore receiving a warning and an administrative fine of SEK 35 million.
The Swedish Bankers’ Association transfers administration of STIBOR to Swedish Financial Benchmark Facility
The Swedish Bankers’ Association has announced that the association is transferring the administration of the Swedish benchmark STIBOR to Swedish Financial Benchmark Facility (SFBF), whereupon the task of adapting STIBOR to the requirements set out in the EU Benchmarks Regulation falls to SFBF. Finansinspektionen will assess the application for authorisation of SFBF as administrator of STIBOR when it is submitted.
ESMA’s guidelines on alternative performance measures – questions and answers on COVID-19
Due to the coronavirus pandemic, the European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) has published new Q&As on its guidelines for alternative performance measures (APMs). ESMA aims with this document to continue to promote common application of the guidelines in the EU countries.
Minutes of the Financial Stability Council Meeting on 16 April
The minutes from the Financial Stability Council’s extraordinary meeting on 16 April have now been published on the Council’s website.
Financial Stability Council convenes an extraordinary meeting on 16 April
On Thursday, 16 April, the Minister for Financial Markets and Housing Per Bolund, Finansinspektionen, the Riksbank, and the Swedish National Debt Office will convene an extraordinary meeting of the Financial Stability Council.
FI’s view on the application of the EBA’s new guidelines on moratoria
The European Banking Authority (EBA) published guidelines on 2 April on the criteria that must be fulfilled in order for measures taken to be viewed as general moratoria. FI considers exemptions from amortisation requirements for mortgages and payment reliefs for small and mid-sized firms in accordance with the Swedish National Debt Office’s loan guarantees to be measures that can be viewed as general moratoria under the guidelines.
Banks may now grant amortisation exemption
FI’s Board of Directors has decided that the proposal communicated on 2 April will go into effect as of today. This means that banks will now be able to grant both new and existing mortgagors exemption from the requirement on amortisation. The exemption gives mortgagors greater financial manoeuvrability in these uncertain times during the spread of COVID-19.
ESMA statement on publication of periodic reports for investment funds
The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) has published a statement on the coronavirus pandemic’s impact on the possibilities for managers of different types of funds to fulfil the requirements on when publication of periodic reports is to occur according to their respective regulations.
Proposed general guidelines for exemption from amortisation requirements on special grounds
The proposal provides mortgage undertakings with the possibility of granting all new and existing mortgagors a temporary exemption from amortisation requirements. The exemption possibility applies during a severe downturn in the Swedish economy. The current situation due to the spread of the corona virus is a clear example of when the exemption may be granted to all mortgagors amortising in accordance with the amortisation regulations.
Banks may grant all mortgagors amortisation exemption
Banks will have the possibility of offering all new and existing mortgagors an exemption from the amortisation requirements due to the spread of the coronavirus and its effects on the Swedish economy. The exemption will be in force until the end of June 2021. This enables Finansinspektionen to provide all mortgagors with greater manoeuvrability in these uncertain times.
Reporting on money laundering postponed
Due to the current situation with the ongoing spread of the coronavirus, Finansinspektionen has postponed the deadline for the annual reporting on money laundering and financing of terrorism. The deadline has been pushed forward from 31 March 2020 to 30 April 2020.
ESMA statement on extended deadlines for publishing financial statements
The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) has published a statement on the coronavirus pandemic’s impact on the possibilities of listed companies to fulfil the requirements on when publication of financial statements is to occur according to the Transparency Directive. The Directive has been implemented into Swedish law through the Securities Market Act.
FI expects banks and credit market companies to stop dividend payments
The spread of the coronavirus has created immediate challenges for society and caused economic disruptions throughout Sweden and the global economy. The forecasts for the Swedish economy are rapidly deteriorating. Therefore, it is important the we safeguard a stable supply of credit to households and firms and maintain good resilience in the system. Banks and credit market companies play a crucial role in this respect.
FI delays decision on SEB until June
FI is delaying the decision that will conclude the ongoing sanction assessment in the investigation into the governance and control of anti-money laundering measures at Skandinaviska Enskilda Banken AB (SEB). FI is now planning to pass its decision in June.
EBA’s statement on payment delays linked to COVID-19
The spread of the coronavirus has introduced considerable challenges for society as a whole, and even the financial system. We find ourselves in an exceptional situation, and uncertainty is widespread. These extraordinary circumstances demand appropriate application of existing regulations, including rules for forbearance and assessment of a significant increase in credit risk.
Swedbank fined for serious deficiencies in its measures to combat money laundering
Swedbank AB has had serious deficiencies in its management of the risk of money laundering in its Baltic operations. This is the conclusion of parallel investigations into parent company Swedbank AB and its subsidiary bank Swedbank AS in Estonia that were conducted by Swedish Finansinspektionen (FI) and Estonian Finantsinspektsioon.
FI will hold a press conference related to Swedbank
Finansinspektionen (FI) will hold a press conference on Thursday, 19 March, following the decision by FI’s Board of Directors regarding the investigation into Swedbank’s measures to combat money laundering.
Loss of income due to corona-virus a cause for exemption from amortisation
Due to the spread of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19), many households and firms may be exposed to economic stress. Even if the crisis is expected to be temporary, its effects can be far-reaching. Banks and borrowers may agree to reduce or suspend amortisation payments temporarily given special grounds. FI considers the loss of income linked to COVID-19 to qualify as special grounds.
Decision by FI’s Board of Directors: the countercyclical buffer rate is lowered to zero
During an extraordinary meeting today, Monday, 16 March, FI’s Board of Directors decided to adopt a countercyclical buffer rate of 0 per cent in accordance with the proposal presented on Friday, 13 March 2020.
FI on liquidity coverage ratios (LCR) for Swedish banks
Given the current circumstances, FI would like to clarify that it will temporarily allow banks to fall below the liquidity coverage ratio (LCR) for individual currencies and total currencies.
Proposed amendment to regulations due to reduction in countercyclical buffer rate
Finansinspektionen proposes that the buffer rate be lowered by 2.5 percentage points and set at 0 per cent.
FI lowers the countercyclical capital buffer to zero
The spread of the coronavirus disease is sending serious economic shocks throughout the world and in Sweden. There is currently widespread uncertainty about the future course of events and how far-reaching the economic impact will be. The economic disruptions and the greater uncertainty are also affecting the financial system. Finansinspektionen (FI) will therefore lower the countercyclical capital buffer requirement for banks from 2.5 per cent to 0 per cent. This corresponds to a reduction of around SEK 45 billion. The buffer is being lowered pre-emptively to ensure a well-functioning supply of credit, which helps firms and households maintain production, consumption and investments.
FI comments on COVID-19 and the banks
The spread of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is having a financial impact on firms and households around the world. There is considerable uncertainty about how much the disease will impact the global economy. This economic uncertainty also affects the financial system.
Capital requirements of Swedish banks as of Q4 2019
Finansinspektionen publishes the capital requirements of the largest Swedish banks and credit institutions that belong to supervisory categories 1 and 2 as of the end of Q4 2019.
Extra Board Meeting on 19 March at 9:00 AM
The agenda for this meeting includes the investigation into Swedbank AB’s governance and control of anti-money laundering measures in the bank’s subsidiaries in the Baltic countries.
Decision regarding the countercyclical buffer rate
Finansinspektionen (FI) decided on 29 January not to change the countercyclical buffer rate. The buffer rate of 2.5 per cent, which has applied since 19 September 2019, shall thus continue to apply. The countercyclical buffer guide is set at 0.18 per cent.
Increased capital requirements on bank loans for commercial real estate
Finansinspektionen (FI) considers there to be elevated risks in the banks’ lending for commercial real estate. The banks should hold more capital for these exposures, which is why FI is raising the capital requirements.
Finansinspektionen is changing SFTP connection for TRS 2
The IP addresses for the production and test environment will change for TRSII SFTP. This change will go into effect on 24 February.
Increased transparency on carbon pricing can strengthen the financial system
FI will explore the possibility of advocating both nationally and internationally increased disclosure of firms’ internal carbon pricing.
New log-in for reporting stock exchange information and major shareholding notifications
On 17 February 2020, FI is introducing a new portal for reporting stock exchange information (previously called “financial reports”) and major shareholding notifications. The new log-in requires BankID and will completely replace the old method of logging in. However, the reporting procedure itself has not been altered and reports are submitted exactly the same way as before.
2019
Clarification on the impact for Swedish banks from revised Basel standards
In relation to the report published by the European Banking Authority (EBA) in August Finansinspektionen would like to make the following clarification on the impact for Swedish banks of the revised Basel standards. According to Finansinspektionen’s calculation, the increase in tier 1 minimum required capital would be about 30 per cent instead of 53 per cent as shown in the report from the EBA (keeping the assumptions and methodology set by EBA, but taking into account the current Swedish mortgage floor for the current risk-weighted assets).
FI opens sanction case in SEB investigation
FI is opening a sanction case in the investigation into Skandinaviska Enskilda Banken AB’s (SEB) governance and control of measures to combat money laundering in the bank’s subsidiaries in the Baltic countries.
Planned service disruptions in FI’s reporting systems
From Monday, 2 December, to Tuesday, 10 December, all of FI’s reporting systems will experience service disruptions or closures due to planned maintenance and updates. The extent to which individual systems will be affected will vary.
Capital requirements of Swedish banks as of Q3 2019
Finansinspektionen publishes the capital requirements of the largest Swedish banks and credit institutions that belong to supervisory categories 1 and 2 as of the end of Q3 2019.
FI opens sanction case in Swedbank investigation
FI is opening a sanction case in the investigation into Swedbank AB’s governance and control of measures to combat money laundering in the bank’s subsidiaries in the Baltic countries.
Decision regarding the countercyclical buffer rate
Finansinspektionen (FI) decided on 24 October not to change the countercyclical buffer rate. The buffer rate of 2.5 per cent, which has applied since 19 September 2019, shall thus continue to apply. The countercyclical buffer guide is set at 0.16 per cent.
ESRB recommendation to Sweden for vulnerabilities in the residential real estate sector
The European Systemic Risk Board (ESRB) has issued warnings to five EEA countries and recommendations to six EU countries for medium-term vulnerabilities in their respective residential real estate sectors. Sweden is one of the countries that receives a recommendation. The recommendation suggests appropriate actions to address the identified vulnerabilities. In 2016, the ESRB issued a warning to Sweden regarding risks in the residential real estate sector.
Martin Noréus resigns from FI
FI’s Deputy Director General and Executive Director of Banking, Martin Noréus, has resigned from his position at FI to become Chief Compliance Officer at Handelsbanken.
Reinhold Europe AB must pay administrative fine
Finansinspektionen (FI) has decided that Reinhold Europe AB must pay an administrative fine of SEK 750,000.
StrateVic Finance Group AB must pay administrative fine
Finansinspektionen (FI) has decided that StrateVic Finance Group AB must pay an administrative fine of SEK 1,500,000.
New rules on contingency mechanisms for a dedicated interface
New rules enter into force in the EU on 14 September 2019 on contingency mechanisms for a dedicated interface. Finansinspektionen would therefore like to provide the following information for firms under supervision.
New rules on strong customer authentication
FI is publishing a Q&A on new rules that will go into effect on 14 September.
Comments to questions about conflict of interest in the supervision of Swedbank
Due to the announcement that Folksam’s CEO Jens Henriksson has been named President and CEO of Swedbank, FI has received questions about whether this gives rise to a conflict of interest since FI’s Director General Erik Thedéen was previously Managing Director of KPA, which Folksam owns together with SKL.
Timeframe for investigations into Swedish banks’ management of money laundering risks in the Baltics
During the month of July, FI sent notification letters to SEB and Swedbank as part of the investigations into the banks’ management and control of money laundering risks in Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania.
Capital requirements of Swedish banks as of Q2 2019
Finansinspektionen publishes the capital requirements of the largest Swedish banks and credit institutions that belong to supervisory categories 1 and 2 as of the end of Q2 2019.
New Chief Legal Counsel
Eric Leijonram named Chief Legal Counsel at Finansinspektionen.
FI’s Director General Erik Thedéen reappointed to ESMA’s Management Board
FI’s Director General Erik Thedéen was reappointed to the Management Board of the European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) for a further 2½ year term.
Decision regarding the countercyclical buffer rate
Finansinspektionen (FI) decided on 5 July not to change the countercyclical buffer rate. The buffer rate of 2.5 per cent, which will be applied as of 19 September 2019, shall thus continue to apply. The countercyclical buffer guide is set at 0.04 per cent.
Hoylu AB receives an administrative fine
Finansinspektionen (FI) has decided that Hoylu AB (Hoylu) must pay an administrative fine of SEK 2.1 million due to deficiencies in following the EU Market Abuse Regulation (MAR). Hoylu, a company in the field of communication, is an issuer listed on Nasdaq First North.
Banks’ lending to commercial real estate firms requires more capital
Finansinspektionen (FI) considers the firms in the Swedish financial system to have sufficient resilience for withstanding a weaker economy. However, commercial real estate firms are vulnerable to shocks. FI therefore makes the assessment that the banks need more capital for these exposures. This is one of the conclusions in FI’s first stability report for the year, which is being presented today.
Capital requirements of Swedish banks as of Q1 2019
Finansinspektionen publishes the capital requirements of the largest Swedish banks and credit institutions that belong to supervisory categories 1 and 2 as of the end of Q1 2019.
Nordic and Baltic financial supervisors enhance cooperation to fight money laundering
Heads of the Nordic and Baltic financial supervisors met today in Stockholm. They agreed on measures to enhance the cooperation between the authorities with the aim of fighting money laundering and terrorist financing.
Decision regarding the countercyclical buffer rate
Finansinspektionen (FI) decided on 6 May not to change the countercyclical buffer rate. The buffer rate of 2.5 per cent, which will be applied as of 19 September 2019, shall thus continue to apply. The countercyclical buffer guide is set at 0.15 per cent.
FI’s comments following publication in the media of extracts from verification letters
FI sends verification letters at an early stage of its investigation process, and the aim of this letter is to verify the facts of the case. Verification letters may at times also include preliminary assessments, but these assessments assume that the information FI received is correct and has been understood correctly.
TRS2 Test environment will be closed for an upgrade
On Wednesday, 29 April 2019, the test environment of TRS2 will be closed and not available due to an upgrade to a new version of the system. Finansinspektionen will announce when the system is available again.
FI comments on the recent events involving Swedbank
Over the past few weeks, the media has reported on potentially major problems related to money laundering primarily in Swedbank’s Estonian operations. These reports have caused the bank’s share price to fall and had a negative impact on the bank’s reputation.
More households are amortising, but households still have high debt
New mortgagors are amortising, borrowing less and buying less expensive homes, but many still have high debt. These are FI’s conclusions in this year’s mortgage report. FI is also publishing an FI Analysis that shows the stricter amortisation requirement has reduced the percentage of borrowers with high debt in relation to their income.
Report from Forensic Risk Alliance is part of FI’s investigation
FI has received a copy of Swedbank’s external review that was initiated by reports in the media of suspected money laundering in the Baltics.
FI has received report on suspected money laundering
FI confirms that it received a report from Swedbank on 1 March regarding suspected money laundering.
FI’s liquidity coverage ratio requirements in individual currencies and diversification of covered bonds in the liquidity buffer
In this memorandum, Finansinspektionen (FI) develops its view on several specific areas of the EU regulatory framework for liquidity regulation.
FI’s comments regarding customer relationships and confidentiality
SVT’s investigative journalism program Uppdrag Granskning has reported on certain transactions that occurred through Swedbank’s operations in the Baltics.
Capital requirements of Swedish banks as of the fourth quarter 2018
Finansinspektionen publishes the capital requirements of the largest Swedish banks and credit institutions that belong to the supervisory categories 1 and 2 as of the end of the fourth quarter 2018.
FI’s comments on the supervision of anti-money laundering activities in the Baltics
Due to the reports in the media regarding suspected money laundering in Swedbank’s Estonian operations, FI is issuing the following comments.
Joint statement by the Estonian and Swedish Financial Supervisory Authorities
Eesti Finantsinspektioon (the Estonian FSA) and Finansinspektionen (the Swedish FSA) consider the reports regarding suspected money laundering that yesterday were made public yesterday on Swedish television (SVT) to be very serious. It is extremely important that the banks’ senior management and boards of directors view these matters seriously and take all necessary actions to ensure compliance with laws and regulations.
FI’s comments on Uppdrag Granskning’s disclosures regarding suspected money laundering
FI considers the disclosures regarding suspected money laundering presented by SVT’s program Uppdrag Granskning to be very serious. FI’s Director General Erik Thedéen has made the assessment in several interviews in conjunction with the events in Danske Bank that the possibility of Swedish banks being involved in money laundering cannot be ruled out entirely, but that the scope is most likely more narrow than what has been identified in Danske Bank.
FI's comments regarding the supervision of money laundering
We consider the recent disclosures regarding money laundering and other regulatory infringements in Swedish banks to be very serious. It is extremely important for the banks' management teams and boards of directors to take these matters seriously and ensure that the banks are following the laws and regulations.
Avanza Pension receives warning and administrative fine
FI is issuing Avanza Pension a warning for insufficient management of technical provisions and reporting. Avanza Pension must also pay an administrative fine of SEK 35 million.
TRS 2 will be closed for servicing
On Wednesday, 20 February, the TRS 2 system will not be available at the beginning of the day due to a service window. The system is planned to reopen after 4 p.m.
ESMA postpones changes to transaction reporting
The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) has announced that the transition to the new XML Schema and updated validation rules will not occur on Monday, 18 February 2019, as earlier planned. It will now be postponed until Q3 2019.
Request for the release of documents, FI’s decision and the rulings of the Administrative Court of Appeal
FI would like to clarify which decisions FI has made, which decisions were appealed and which rulings the courts announced with regard to a number of investigations into money laundering at Swedish banks.
Statement regarding Nordic-Baltic financial crisis simulation, January 2019
The Nordic and Baltic financial stability authorities have conducted a joint financial crisis management exercise. The exercise was held from 22 to 23 January 2019 and involved 31 authorities from Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway and Sweden as well as relevant European Union authorities. A staff member of the International Monetary Fund observed the simulation.
Decision regarding the countercyclical buffer rate
Finansinspektionen (FI) decided on 30 January not to change the countercyclical buffer rate. The buffer rate of 2.5 per cent, which will be applied as of 19 September 2019, shall thus continue to apply. The countercyclical buffer guide is set at 0.29 per cent.
The Administrative Court of Appeal rejects Svenska Dagbladet’s appeal
The newspaper Svenska Dagbladet previously appealed FI’s decisions regarding drafts of assessments in investigation matters. The Administrative Court of Appeal of Stockholm announced its ruling in the case today. The Administrative Court of Appeal upholds FI’s decision and thus rejects Svenska Dagbladet’s appeal.
Banks need to prepare for new requirements on the IRB approach
Finansinspektionen (FI) is encouraging institutions that apply the IRB approach to analyse their rating systems to ensure that these systems meet forthcoming new requirements. Under the new requirements, Swedish institutions will need to change their rating methods. Such changes require FI’s approval.
How FI will continue to handle the event where a member was declared in default on the commodity market
FI is continuing to analyse the event that occurred in September 2018 when a member on the commodity market was declared in default. We describe here several of the issues that FI is currently analysing. We are also publishing a discussion paper that FI wrote to contribute to an ongoing international discussion on auctions as a method to manage a default in a central counterparty.
2018
FI has not manipulated public documents
2018-12-18 | News
“The assertion that Finansinspektionen (FI) supposedly manipulated public documents related to money laundering investigations and that were requested by the newspaper Svenska Dagbladet is incorrect,” says FI’s Director General Erik Thedéen. An internal legal assessment that FI is publishing today shows that the documents and their release have been handled correctly. FI’s Board of Directors convened for an extraordinary meeting to receive information about this matter and how it will be handled.
The TRS 2 system is unable to create FD files at the moment
At the moment, Friday, 7 December, the TRS 2 system is unable to create FD files (daily feedback).
Higher interest rates test resilience
Low interest rates have contributed to high risk-taking, rising asset prices and increasing debt. Higher interest rates in the next few years could reduce risk-taking and thus dampen the build-up of risk. However, unexpectedly large interest rate fluctuations and uncertain global developments could also test the financial sector’s resilience. These are some of the conclusions Finansinspektionen (FI) draws in this year’s second report on the stability in the financial system. The report will be presented at a press conference today.
TRS 2 upgraded to a new system version
On Monday, 26 November, TRS 2 was upgraded to a new system version.
