Compliance & Ethics

Nasdaq Futures, Inc. Slapped with $22 Million Penalty Amid Concerns Over CFTC's Regulatory Approach

The Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) has ordered Nasdaq Futures, Inc. to pay a $22 million civil monetary penalty. The penalty stems from the company's failure to adhere to core regulatory principles, its lack of full disclosure regarding incentive programs, and for providing false and misleading information to the CFTC.

New York Regulator Fines Nordea $35 Million for Compliance Failures

The New York Department of Financial Services (DFS) has reached a $35 million settlement with Nordea Bank Abp over serious compliance failures and inadequate due diligence practices. The settlement, announced on August 27, 2024, by DFS Superintendent Adrienne A. Harris, follows an extensive investigation into the bank's role in facilitating potentially illicit financial activities.

SEC Enhances Reporting Requirements for Investment Funds

The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has announced significant changes to reporting requirements for registered investment companies, aimed at improving transparency and oversight in the fund industry.

CFTC Slaps Swiss Energy Trader with $48 Million Fine for Manipulation Attempt

The Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) has imposed a $48 million civil penalty on TOTSA TotalEnergies Trading SA (TOTSA), a major Swiss energy trader, for attempting to manipulate the market for EBOB-linked futures contracts. This case serves as a critical reminder for compliance professionals across the industry of the vital role they play in safeguarding market integrity and preventing unlawful practices.

SEC Fraud Charges Against Chinese Firm Highlight Critical GRC Challenges

The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has announced fraud charges against a China-based investment adviser, its U.S.-based holding company, and their CEO. The case, involving alleged deception of hundreds of investors and misappropriation of at least $6 million, underscores the risks faced by investors in the complex world of pre-IPO investments and international finance.

U.S. Navy Shipbuilder Austal USA Pleads Guilty to Fraud

Austal USA LLC, a prominent shipbuilder based in Mobile, Alabama, has pleaded guilty to a multimillion-dollar financial accounting fraud scheme and obstruction of a Defense Department audit. Concurrently, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has announced charges against Austal USA and its Australia-based parent company, Austal Limited, for conducting a fraudulent revenue recognition scheme.

CFTC Fines Bank of New York Mellon $5 Million for Swap Reporting Violations

The Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) has taken action against The Bank of New York Mellon (BNYM), imposing a $5 million civil monetary penalty for repeated failures in swap transaction reporting and supervision of its swap dealer business. The order, issued on August 26, 2024, addresses violations of a prior CFTC order and failures to comply with the Commodity Exchange Act (CEA) and CFTC regulations.