Compliance & Ethics

As Denmark's National Whistleblower Scheme marks its third year, the Danish Data Protection Authority has released its 2024 annual report, shedding light on a year of growth, change, and continued focus on protecting those who speak out against legal violations. Established to provide a safe space for whistleblowers, the scheme has proven to be a critical part of Denmark’s approach to safeguarding EU law and ensuring accountability across both public and private sectors.

Telenor ASA has recently come under fire for failing to properly handle its Data Protection Officer (DPO) responsibilities. The Norwegian Data Protection Authority (Datatilsynet) has slapped the telecom giant with a fine and issued a reprimand following an investigation into the company’s handling of privacy compliance.

In a courtroom drama that casts a sharp spotlight on UBS Group AG’s handling of whistleblowers, the Swiss banking giant was found guilty by a French court of retaliating against two employees who dared to expose its role in aiding wealthy clients to dodge taxes, according to a Bloomberg report.

Singapore and Vietnam have come together to strengthen the backbone of their capital markets and address the emerging complexities of digital asset regulation. The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) and the State Securities Commission of Vietnam (SSC) have signed a Letter of Intent (LOI) that sets the stage for a collaborative effort aimed at ensuring the stability, growth, and security of both countries’ financial systems.

In a move that’s caught the attention of both the tech world and regulatory watchers, the U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is pushing forward with its antitrust investigation into Microsoft, as reported by Bloomberg. Originally launched during the final months of the Biden administration, the probe has gained new traction under the leadership of FTC Chair Andrew Ferguson, appointed by President Donald Trump. The investigation, which focuses on Microsoft’s software licensing, cloud computing practices, and its evolving role in artificial intelligence, offers an unexpected glimpse into how antitrust policy might evolve under the current administration—and hints at some surprising continuity with previous approaches.

In a world where regulations are constantly evolving, businesses must stay agile and informed to maintain compliance and drive innovation. The European Union (EU) and the United States (US) are two of the largest regulatory powerhouses globally, and understanding how their frameworks shape corporate strategy is crucial for any business with global ambitions. While both regions share common goals of promoting economic growth and corporate responsibility, their approaches to achieving these goals couldn’t be more different.

PwC Singapore found itself on the wrong side of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (PCAOB) this week, as the regulator slapped the firm with a 1.5 million fine for violations related to its independence compliance process.