Compliance & Ethics

OCC Takes Action to Address Unsafe Practices in the Banking Sector

The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) is back in action this month, rolling out a series of enforcement decisions that highlight the agency’s ongoing commitment to ensuring the health and safety of financial institutions. The agency’s latest actions range from enforcing accountability at individual banks to taking decisive steps against those who breach trust.

EU Commission Turns the Spotlight on Alphabet & Apple’s Digital Practices

The European Commission is cracking down on two of the tech world’s biggest names, Alphabet and Apple, under the Digital Markets Act (DMA). These actions come as part of a larger effort to ensure that the digital marketplace stays fair, competitive, and innovative—especially for the smaller players who rely on these platforms to reach customers. Let’s dive into what’s happening with both companies.

Denmark’s National Whistleblower Scheme Sees Significant Growth in 2024

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 Faces Sanctions for Deficiencies in Data Protection Officer Scheme & Internal Controls

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.

UBS Found Guilty of Harassing Whistleblowers in France, Court Rules

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 & Vietnam Take a Step Toward Strengthened Capital Markets & Digital Asset Regulation

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.

FTC Advances Antitrust Probe into Microsoft Signaling Ongoing Scrutiny of Big Tech

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.