ESG regulations continue to evolve rapidly. A key development this quarter is the proposed draft of the EU’s revised Sustainable Finance Disclosure Regulation (SFDR 2.0) on 7 November. This signals a major shift toward clarity, usability, and global alignment. ACA’s ESG Horizon Q4 2025 newsletter offers a concise overview of key ESG requirements, deadlines, and […]
Your Guide to Critical ESG Updates in Q4 2025 Read More »
The FCA’s latest consultation, CP25/32, proposes a major overhaul of the UK MiFIR transaction reporting regime designed to streamline obligations and reduce compliance costs for firms. This marks a pivotal shift toward a more proportionate, UK-focused, and streamlined regime that reduces complexity, cuts costs, and improves clarity. Transaction reporting has long been a source of
The FCA Signals a Major Shake-Up in Transaction Reporting Read More »
Company: Large mutual fund company with over $100 billion in assets under management Locations: Multi-regional presence across North America Industry: Equity and fixed income markets Background Fixed Income Oversight Gaps Identified by Regulators A leading mutual fund manager with a diverse portfolio across asset classes had long maintained robust transaction cost analysis (TCA) and best
How TCA Exposed a Hidden Conflict of Interest in Fixed Income Trading Read More »
On November 20, 2025, the European Commission proposed changes to the Sustainable Finance Disclosure Regulation (SFDR 2.0). These changes signal significant reforms to EU sustainability disclosure rules. The proposal will move to the European Parliament and Council for approval, with implementation expected between 2027 and 2028. This revision is part of the European Commission’s broader
SFDR 2.0 Proposal Signals a Major Overhaul of ESG Rules Read More »
Following the recent government shutdown, the SEC moved quickly to resume examinations and initiate several enforcement actions in federal court. The release of the 2026 SEC Examination Priorities reflects this renewed activity and reinforces its continued commitment to active oversight. The Priorities also reflect a more collaborative tone from the SEC’s Division of Examinations (the
Key Themes Shaping the 2026 SEC Examination Agenda Read More »
Company: Investment FirmLocation: U.S.Industry: Financial Services: Multi-Strategy Investment Management Background An established investment firm engaged ACA to conduct a mock SEC exam following two difficult regulatory examinations that had taken place nearly a decade earlier. Since those exams, the firm has grown significantly and expanded its legal and compliance infrastructure with experienced personnel, ACA technology
Rebuilding Confidence and Readiness After Challenging SEC Exams Read More »
Allocator needs are evolving rapidly in the Middle East, driven by a surge in capital deployment and a sharpened focus on governance. This shift is not only reshaping investment priorities but also elevating compliance as a strategic differentiator for investment managers operating in the region. Allocator Priorities With sovereign wealth funds and family offices in
Turning Allocator Priorities Into a Strategic Advantage in the UAE Read More »
Personal trading oversight has moved far beyond a back-office formality; it is now a strategic compliance priority. In an era of heightened regulatory scrutiny and reputational risk, firms can no longer afford to treat personal trading policies as optional. These policies form the foundation of a strong compliance program, safeguarding against conflicts of interest and
Why Your Personal Trading Policy Matters Read More »
At ACA, we understand that preparation is key, especially when facing the complexities of SEC examinations. Our new AdviSEColumn provides insights from former SEC examiners and co-heads of ACA’s  SEC Mock Exams team, Robert Baker and Michele Foldenauer, to provide you with perspective into the regulator’s exam process. Dear ACA, how can firms build a
ACA AdviSEColumn: Practical Advice for Firms – November Issue Read More »
In an era of heightened regulatory scrutiny and complex market dynamics, surveillance is evolving from a reactive compliance function into a strategic enabler. Firms that treat surveillance as a lifecycle, spanning pre-trade, trade, post-trade, and cross-trade activities, are better positioned to manage risk, demonstrate control, and drive operational resilience. From Fragmented Monitoring to Holistic Oversight
Surveillance as Strategy Across the Full Trade Lifecycle Read More »
