The MIAX Options Exchanges have filed with the SEC to amend the Short Term Option Series Program of each exchange to permit the listing of up to two Monday and Wednesday expirations for options on certain individual stocks or Exchange-Traded Fund (ETF) Shares (“Qualifying Securities”).  On January 26, 2026, the MIAX Options Exchanges plan to begin listing Qualifying Securities with the following 2026 expiration dates: February 2nd, 4th, 9th, and 11th.  Please note that GOOGL will be excluded from the February 4th date because of an earnings announcement. A Qualifying Security is an individual stock or ETF that, on a quarterly basis: (1) has an underlying security, as measured on the last day of the prior calendar quarter, with: (A) a market capitalization of greater than 700 billion dollars for an individual stock based on the closing price, or (B) Assets under Management (“AUM”) greater than 50 billion dollars for an Exchange-Traded Fund Share based on net asset value (“NAV”); (2) has monthly options volume, as measured by sides traded in the last month preceding the quarter end, of greater than 10 million options; (3) has a position limit of at least 250,000 contracts; and (4) participates in the Penny Interval Program.  A Qualifying Security expiration would not be listed on a day when there will be an earnings announcement that takes place after market close.The following securities are anticipated to be Qualifying Securities for 1st Quarter 2026: Alphabet, Inc. (GOOGL) Apple Inc. (AAPL) Amazon.com, Inc. (AMZN) Broadcom Inc. (AVGO) iShares Bitcoin Trust ETF (IBIT) Meta Platforms, Inc. (META) Microsoft Corporation (MSFT) NVIDIA Corporation (NVDA) Tesla, Inc. (TSLA) Each calendar quarter, the above criteria will be reassessed to determine eligibility for the following quarter as a Qualifying Security.  The MIAX Option Exchanges will make the list of Qualifying Securities that meet the above criteria available on our website by the close of business on the first trading day of each quarter. Please contact MIAX Options Listings with any questions at Listings@MIAXOptions.com or (609) 897-7308. 

The Securities and Exchange Commission today announced the senior team from the Division of Corporation Finance responsible for advising division Director James Moloney on all matters the division has before the Commission. These include rulemaking efforts, corporate disclosure matters, and all day-to-day operations needed to fulfill the SEC's mission. “I am pleased that we have assembled such a dedicated and talented group of public servants with such a wide range of experience in the public and private sectors," said James Moloney, Director of the Division of Corporation Finance. "With their sage advice and leadership, and the work of the rest of the dedicated staff in the division, I am confident that we will effectively and efficiently further the SEC’s mission.” Luna Bloom, Associate Director, Legal and Regulatory Policy Duc Dang, Deputy Director, Disclosure Operations Gabriel Eckstein, Associate Director, Disclosure Review Program Tomeka Gilbert, Managing Executive Sebastian Gomez Abero, Deputy Director, Legal and Regulatory Policy Jessica Kane, Associate Director, Disclosure Review Program   Heather Rosenberger, Chief Accountant Michael Seaman, Chief Counsel    Brad Skinner, Associate Director, Disclosure Review Program Christina Thomas, Deputy Director, Chief Advisor on Disclosure, Policy and Rulemaking Ted Yu, Associate Director, Specialized Policy and Disclosure   

Please refer to the Regulatory Circulars listed below for newly added symbols and the corresponding market for the underlying security used for openings on the MIAX Exchanges. The newly listed symbols will be available for trading beginning Wednesday, January 21, 2026. MIAX Options Regulatory Circular 2026-06 MIAX Pearl Options Regulatory Circular 2026-06 MIAX Emerald Options Regulatory Circular 2026-06 MIAX Sapphire Options Regulatory Circular 2026-06

CFTC's Weekly Swaps Report has been updated, and is now available: http://www.cftc.gov/MarketReports/SwapsReports/index.htm.Additional information on the Weekly Swaps Report. Archive Explanatory Notes Swaps Report Data Dictionary Release Schedule Released: Weekly on Mondays at 3:30 p.m.

The Securities and Exchange Commission today announced that Christina M. Thomas will rejoin the Division of Corporation Finance in February as deputy director and chief advisor on disclosure, policy, and rulemaking. “Christina brings her deep technical experience in disclosure, compliance, and international securities law back to the Commission at a critical time,” said SEC Chairman Paul S. Atkins. “Her expertise will contribute meaningfully to the Division’s goals of facilitating capital formation and protecting investors in the modern operating environment.” “Christina is a talented attorney with a deep understanding of corporate disclosure matters,” said James Moloney, Director of the Division of Corporation Finance. “Her experience, intellect, and practical ideas will be wonderful assets to our work in the Division and will support the Commission’s mission.” Ms. Thomas returns to the SEC from private practice, where she represented public companies on capital markets transactions, SEC disclosure and compliance, and corporate governance matters. She previously served as counsel to SEC Commissioner Elad L. Roisman and was detailed to the Office of International Affairs and Office of the General Counsel at the U.S. Department of the Treasury. Ms. Thomas started her legal career as an attorney-adviser in the Division of Corporation Finance. Ms. Thomas received her J.D. from New York Law School and her B.A. from Fordham University. Ms. Thomas said, “I am thrilled to return to the SEC at this exciting time. I look forward to working with Chairman Atkins, the Commissioners, Director Moloney, and the staff to advance reforms that will improve the markets for both companies and investors. Serving in this role is an honor and a privilege.”

The attached option classes will begin trading on the MIAX Options Exchange, MIAX Pearl Options Exchange, MIAX Emerald Options Exchange, and MIAX Sapphire Options Exchange on Wednesday, January 21, 2026.Market Makers can use the Member Firm Portal (MFP) to manage their option class assignments.  All LMM and RMM Option Class Assignments must be entered prior to 6:00 PM ET on the business day immediately preceding the effective date.  All changes made after 6:00 PM ET on a given day will be effective two trading days later.MIAX Options and MIAX Emerald Options Primary Lead Market Maker (PLMM) assignments and un-assignments will not be supported via the MFP.  MIAX Pearl® Options Exchange MIAX Sapphire™ Options Exchange MIAX Emerald® Options Exchange MIAX Options® Exchange

We are at a pivotal moment in the evolution of American financial markets. Advances in technology are enabling the creation of entirely new products, platforms and business models, in turn transforming the financial services landscape as we know it. And thanks to President Donald Trump’s leadership, Congress is now on the cusp of enacting the Digital Asset Market Clarity Act, which would provide long-overdue regulatory clarity to an American industry that embodies the promise of the future. The Commodity Futures Trading Commission has an important role in developing the rules for this new frontier of finance. The CFTC was initially formed to promote orderly operations in markets for the future delivery of agricultural products. But as innovation has enabled capital to reach ever greater efficiencies, policymakers have recognized that the agency with experience regulating everything from pork bellies to credit default swaps is uniquely capable of overseeing novel and emerging markets. Today, innovators are leveraging technologies such as blockchain and artificial intelligence not just to modernize legacy financial systems, but also to build new ones. The same spirit that drove American farmers to cultivate the Great Plains inspires today’s entrepreneurs to leave traditional finance behind and conquer new, unexplored territories. Anyone with a smartphone and an internet connection can access blockchain-native financial markets that are peer-to-peer and open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year. Meanwhile, advancements in artificial intelligence are making it possible to uncover methods for hedging risk even the savviest professionals would overlook. These technologies are lowering barriers to entry, expanding risk-management tools and allowing market participants to tailor strategies to their individual needs and preferences. The excitement surrounding the infinite possibilities created by these technologies is palpable, and we are witnessing increased participation in markets the prior administration sought to overlook—or eliminate altogether. Instead of developing guardrails that foster ingenuity, the Biden administration focused on regulation by enforcement—subjecting novel products such as digital assets and perpetual futures to legacy rules that could not fit the product, but could fit the prosecutor. This aversion to innovation sent many of the most enterprising businesses offshore, and everyday Americans paid the price. Under my leadership, the CFTC is charting a new course. Despite the prior administration’s missteps, America is still home to the greatest innovators, and our markets remain the deepest and most liquid in the world. Legacies like these are built over decades, but they cannot stand on their own. The CFTC and other financial regulators must develop clear and fit-for-purpose regulations that allow entrepreneurs to build new things, while continuing to protect the public from fraud, scams and market manipulation. To future-proof the CFTC for tomorrow’s innovations, the agency’s regulations must adapt to meet our nation’s builders where they are. That is why I have launched the “Future-Proof” initiative. While decades-old rules designed for agricultural futures contracts may still suit those markets today, they do not contemplate nascent products or trading venues. Just as American businesses are modernizing legacy financial systems by harnessing new technologies, the CFTC must upgrade its approach to unleash innovation. As part of this initiative, the CFTC’s staff will undertake a comprehensive review of the agency’s existing rules and regulations and modernize these requirements to ensure a level playing field for new entrants and incumbents alike. As new asset classes emerge and the CFTC’s role evolves, guidelines we establish should not just fit the product, but also serve a tailored regulatory purpose. Prediction markets have exploded in popularity as broad swaths of market participants seek to hedge portfolio risks and test their abilities to forecast truth. Similarly, the digital asset economy has grown from a mere experiment in cryptography to a more than $3 trillion market with ever greater types of assets being generated on blockchain networks. Should Congress deliver on making America the crypto capital of the world and send digital asset market structure legislation to the president’s desk, the CFTC will have a broad set of new responsibilities. Pass us the torch, and we will ensure that these markets flourish at home with tailored regulatory frameworks that keep American markets the best in the world. Arbitrary, cumbersome and opaque rules will not stand the test of time. The CFTC’s approach should be to deliver the minimum effective dose of regulation—nothing more and nothing less. This means an end to policymaking through enforcement. And this means the agency’s policymaking divisions will develop clear rules of the road for market participants that will be codified through notice-and-comment rulemaking to ensure that the regulatory requirements do not change wildly from administration to administration. The president has assembled a remarkable team in the financial regulatory space, of which I am humbled to be a part. To achieve the golden age of American financial markets, as the president might call it, regulators must break with the rigid and restrictive regulatory practices of the past. The CFTC will seize this generational opportunity to modernize and future-proof its approach to regulation and ensure that the great innovations of today and tomorrow are made in America. *This article first appeared in the Washington Post.

The Luxembourg Stock Exchange (LuxSE) today announced the acquisition of a business line from Tetrao International, specialised in the extraction of large amounts of sustainable bond data points from a wide range of sources. “This acquisition is a strategic move for the Luxembourg Stock Exchange and demonstrates our unwavering commitment to providing structured and meaningful sustainable bond data. Investors need access to reliable data to make informed investment decisions, and given our long-term strategy in this field, we consider it important to have full oversight of the data collection process and strategy. We have successfully worked with Tetrao for a number of years and see great potential in its technology and expertise,” commented Julie Becker, CEO of LuxSE. Large scale data collection powering the LGX DataHub Tetrao powers its technology with artificial intelligence to provide data services including data point extraction, data collection and automatic browser agents. Using proprietary machine learning algorithms combined with generative AI large language models and powerful computer vision, Tetrao’s technology implements agents that simulate human behaviour to identify, read and understand complex information from websites and documents, while ensuring the highest quality standard thanks to processes that seamlessly blend human expertise, AI predictions and end-to-end auditable data decisions. LuxSE initially acquired a minority stake in Tetrao in January 2021 and has relied on the start-up’s data collection services to accelerate the development of its market-leading sustainable bond data offering since then. As part of the acquisition, Tetrao’s highly experienced ESG data analytics team will join the LuxSE Group and continue to extract and collect sustainable bond data points for the Luxembourg Green Exchange (LGX), using the specialised knowledge, technology and proprietary tools developed by Tetrao. Tetrao will remain a key technology provider for the LuxSE Group. Pierre Schoonbrodt, CFO of LuxSE, served as board member of Tetrao International: “We look forward to bringing Tetrao’s ESG data analytics unit into the LuxSE Group. The team offers unique expertise in the field of data collection and has a deep understanding of our processes and business needs. Thanks to the advanced technological solution which was developed for our specific area of activity, this acquisition will strengthen our data services and open opportunities to expand into new areas.”  A natural next step for Tetrao Tetrao was created by Christian Gillot in Luxembourg in 2014 and started its commercialisation in 2017. In 2019, Tetrao launched an R&D project for the investment fund industry that collected daily documentation and relevant metadata on 85,000 instruments of the fund industry. The start-up then went on to develop specialised services in the field of sustainability data collection. Since 2020, Tetrao has consistently fed LuxSE’s sustainable bond database, the LGX DataHub, with multiple datapoints on bonds identified by LuxSE’s sustainable finance expert team. Today, the LGX DataHub offers up to 200 data points on 23,000+ green, social, sustainability and sustainability-linked bonds, close to the entire universe of sustainable bonds listed worldwide. Tetrao International will continue to operate and develop new AI-empowered services under the leadership of its founder and CEO Christian Gillot. “We are grateful for the trust that LuxSE has placed in Tetrao over the years and we are proud of the robust and efficient data collection processes we have developed and operated for the LGX DataHub. Through this partnership, we have refined our ability to collaborate with and deliver seamlessly for corporate stakeholders. As artificial intelligence continues to progress rapidly in capabilities, our proven track record positions us well to deliver tangible value to innovative clients seeking to extract greater value from data and future-proof their businesses,” stated Christian Gillot, CEO and Founder of Tetrao. The transaction is expected to close by the end of February, subject to obtaining the required regulatory approvals. 

Daymer Group, a leading independent fiduciary and consulting company providing services to the Asset Management industry, is expanding its footprint and opening an office in the Dubai International Financial Centre, UAE. The Dubai office is regulated by the DFSA and will be led by senior finance professional Mike Davis.  Headquartered in the Cayman Islands, Daymer Group’s core business is sourcing experienced, highly competent Independent Non-Executive Board Members for the Asset Management industry (funds, structured products, corporate structures and family offices). In addition, Daymer Group provides consulting and fractional CEO/CFO/COO services. The firm’s clients manage over USD 12Bn in AUM. Daymer Group’s directors and consultants include former C-suite executives, partners and senior leaders from multiple sectors, providing independent insight and advice, ensuring improved governance standards and credibility for its clients. The Daymer Middle East team includes Martin Homberger, who led Barclays Bank's ME regional Compliance and Financial Crime functions, with previous experience at Deutsche Bank and Clifford Chance, Mark Emmerson with over 40 years of banking and trade finance experience, and Simon Calder who recently served for six years as the Deputy CEO and Chief Operating Officer for HSBC in the UAE. They are joined by Cybersecurity leader Tom Gamali, who previously served on the European Advisory Council of ISC² and healthcare strategist Yoko Shimada who has contributed to pioneering projects such as the World Bank, UNAIDS, WHO and the Gates Foundation. Daymer Group Founder Richard Scott-Hopkins said: “With existing offices in London and Cayman, Dubai was the logical third location for Daymer Group. New and established Asset Managers are moving to the UAE to take advantage of the attractive tax regimes, developed regulatory network and to be closer to their current and potential investors. Several of our existing clients are moving people or opening offices in the UAE and they have asked Daymer to support them.” Director Mike Davis commented: “As the Middle Eastern asset management industry continues to evolve, managers and their investors are putting a higher value on truly independent advice and support. Daymer team members are not only highly qualified themselves, but they can also call on the experience and know-how of the wider, global Daymer Director Network.”

Multiplier: 2XReason: In maintenance of a fair and orderly market.Time: OPENING and INTRADAYSubject Summary: Please be advised, effective for trade date January 20, 2026, the MIAX Regulatory Department has granted 2 times OPENING and INTRADAY quote parameter relief for all symbols on MIAX Options and MIAX Emerald Options. Please note, standard quote width is $5 wide, two (2) times width is $10.  The quote width listed in the following will be two (2) times the listed width.https://www.miaxglobal.com/markets/us-options/miax-options/market-maker-requirementshttps://www.miaxglobal.com/markets/us-options/emerald-options/market-maker-requirementsFor questions or comments, please contact the Regulatory Department at regulatory@miaxglobal.com. 

Fiserv, Inc. (NASDAQ: FISV), a leading global provider of payments and financial services technology solutions, will announce its fourth quarter financial results before the market opens on Tuesday, February 10, 2026. The company will discuss the results in a live webcast at 7 a.m. CT (8 a.m. ET) on February 10. The webcast, along with supplemental financial information, can be accessed on the investor relations section of the Fiserv website at investors.fiserv.com. A replay will be available approximately one hour after the conclusion of the live webcast.

Record 2.4BN Derivative Contracts Traded in 2025 with Record ADV of 9.3M, +13% and +14% vs Previous Records Set in 2024 Record NYSE Equities ADV +40% at 3.35BN shares and Record NYSE Options ADV of 10.5M Open Interest Across ICE Ends 2025 +17% vs 2024 With Highest OI in ICE’s History set on December 11, 2025, of 113.4M Single Day trading records at NYSE Equities and NYSE Options set in 2025 of 7BN and 18M, respectively ICE’s NYSE systems process single day records of 1 trillion+ messages twice in 2025 showing strength of ICE’s world-leading technology and infrastructure Intercontinental Exchange, Inc. (NYSE: ICE), a leading global provider of technology and data, today announced record milestones reached in 2025 across its world leading derivative and NYSE equity and NYSE options markets. A record 2.4BN futures and options were traded across ICE’s global derivatives markets in 2025, surpassing the previous record trading volumes set in 2024 by 13%. ICE also saw record average daily volumes (ADV) across its markets in 2025 of 9.3M, +14% versus 2024. Open interest (OI) across ICE’s markets ended 2025 at 102.7M, +17% versus the end of 2024. ICE’s markets reached their highest open interest in ICE’s history on December 11, 2025, at 113.4M, with ICE’s benchmark Brent futures market hitting record open interest on December 22, 2025, at 3.2M and ending the year with OI across Brent futures and options +22% at 6M and with record volume of 383.6M. In 2025, ICE experienced record volumes across its benchmark commodity, energy and interest rate markets, with a record 1.4BN, 1.3BN and 891M contracts traded respectively, with record commodities ADV +13% at 5.4M, record energy ADV +15% at 5M and record interest rates ADV +19% at 3.5M vs 2024. ICE’s markets are the largest and most liquid in the world to trade commodities, energy and European interest rate derivatives, routinely offering the most capital efficient venues to trade these products due to the margin offsets available when customers have a well-diversified portfolio. Offsets can be as high as 99% for a well-balanced trading portfolio across energy. Meanwhile in 2025, ICE’s New York Stock Exchange equity and options markets experienced their single highest trading days in NYSE history with 7BN shares and 18M NYSE Options traded respectively on a single day, as well as setting new record ADV across NYSE Equities of 3.35BN, +40% vs 2024 and record ADV across NYSE Options of 10.5M, +12.6%. "ICE’s derivatives markets and its equity markets at NYSE set multiple milestones in 2025 reflecting the strength, resilience and capacity of ICE’s technology and infrastructure,” said Ben Jackson, President of ICE. "For over 25 years, ICE has continually invested in building its technology and markets for the benefit of its customers, methodically building a network of markets to provide the breadth of tools, the supporting data and the infrastructure our customers need to manage their risk as precisely and extensively as they wish.” 2025 Benchmark volume highlights set on ICE included: Brent, WTI, Gasoil, Total Oil, TTF, Total Natural Gas, Environmentals, Euribor and SONIA all traded at record levels across futures and options, with Brent ADV +11% in 2025 at 1.5M, ICE WTI ADV +10% and ICE Gasoil ADV +8%. Total Natural Gas ADV +18% at 1.9M in 2025, with TTF ADV +22% and North American Natural Gas ADV +15% vs 2024. ICE’s U.S. Financial Gas markets traded at record levels in 2025 surpassing the previous record year set in 2024 by 17% with 61.5M traded, and reaching the highest open interest in ICE’s history on October 31, 2025, of 12.7M. ICE’s U.S. Power markets traded at their highest levels in ICE’s history during 2025 with a record 7.8BN MWh traded, with volumes + over 30% vs 2024. ICE’s NGL markets traded at record volumes through 2025, +39% vs 2024 with 12.5BN barrels traded, with open interest ending 2025 +29%. Record Interest Rates ADV in 2025 at 3.5M, +19% vs 2024, with record Euribor ADV of 2M +8% and record SONIA ADV of 921K, +28% vs 2024, with Euribor OI ending 2025 +40% vs 2024. 2025 highlights across ICE’s equity markets at the New York Stock Exchange -- the world’s largest equities exchange and the gold standard for trading technology -- included: 4 of the top 5 highest volume days in NYSE Equities trading history occurred in 2025, setting new single day trading record of 7BN shares. 25 highest NYSE message traffic days occurred in 2025 - on two occasions ICE’s NYSE systems processed over 1 trillion messages in a single day. 19 of the top 20 highest volume days in NYSE Options trading history occurred in 2025, setting new single day record of over 18M. 3 largest closing auctions in NYSE history occurred in 2025, setting new single day auction record of over $205BN in value traded. The NYSE Closing Auction remains the single largest daily liquidity event in U.S. cash equities trading, combining the NYSE's state-of-the-art Pillar trading technology with direct market maker facilitation to produce key anchor prices for listed companies which are used for a variety of applications including valuation benchmarks, index calculations, and regulatory reporting.

The FCA has issued a joint statement with the Payment Systems Regulator (PSR) giving clarity on open banking pricing models.  We and the PSR have issued the following statement (PDF).  This confirms we will not, at this stage, prioritise a Competition Act 1998 (CA98) investigation into the centralised ‘access fee’ pricing model being developed by the UK Payments Initiative (UKPI) for commercial Variable Recurring Payments (cVRPs).   cVRPs are an emerging open banking technology that allow consumers to give trusted third parties secure, recurring access to manage payments on their behalf. They have the potential to offer consumers and businesses control and convenience, while enabling lower-cost, more flexible payment options for businesses. After engaging with the funders of the UKPI, we and the PSR worked at pace to clarify our enforcement position on the UKPI’s proposal for a commercial model and consulted with the CMA about our planned non-prioritisation statement given concurrency arrangements. The statement will give UKPI certainty to continue developing its cVRP product – including for certain regulated financial services, utilities and public sector payments – without delay.   This supports our strategy to make cVRPs a reality, giving people more control over their payments and lower processing fees for businesses.   On 15 January 2026, we and the PSR wrote to the CMA (PDF) to set out our position.   On 16 January 2026, the CMA confirmed to us and the PSRLink is external  that, based on the information available to it, it does not intend to take a different position on CA98 prioritisation to that of us and the PSR.  The CMA is keen to ensure that businesses are not deterred from collaborating in ways that may be beneficial to consumers or the wider economy because of uncertainty about how competition law applies.   Bridge to a long-term framework This is a temporary measure ahead of the government’s anticipated legislative framework, expected by the end of 2026. It applies until that framework is in place or until July 2027, whichever comes first. During this period, we and the PSR will continue to: Monitor market developments Review any changes to the pricing methodology. Expect UKPI to submit its finalised governance documents.   All 3 competition authorities – the FCA, PSR and CMA – may revise their prioritisation approach if new information emerges or if the expected legislative framework is not implemented by July 2027.

New industry champions to turn rapid AI adoption into safe, scalable growth.   Around three-quarters of UK financial firms already use AI, with the technology expected to boost the economy, cut costs for firms and transform services for customers.  Champions will focus on helping firms seize opportunities at pace while protecting consumers and financial stability, reporting directly to the Economic Secretary.  AI is already widely used across financial services, with around three-quarters of UK firms now deploying AI, up sharply from just over half in recent years. Independent analysis suggests AI could add tens of billions of pounds to the financial and professional services sector by 2030, as well as transforming services for consumers, underlining both the pace of adoption and the scale of the opportunity ahead.    The new Champions, Harriet Rees from Starling Bank and Dr Rohit Dhawan from Lloyds Banking Group, will help turn this momentum into practical delivery through their extensive experience of working in this field. They will report directly to the Economic Secretary Lucy Rigby - helping firms seize the huge potential of AI in financial services, and exploring ways to accelerate safe adoption at scale, identify where innovation can move faster, and tackle barriers holding firms back.   Their focus will be on ensuring firms can seize the opportunities AI presents with confidence — improving customer outcomes, boosting productivity and competitiveness, and maintaining trust, resilience and strong consumer protection — while reinforcing the UK’s position as a global hub for financial services, technology and investment.   Economic Secretary to the Treasury Lucy Rigby KC MP said:  Harriet and Rohit bring deep, real-world experience of deploying AI safely at scale, and they will help turn rapid adoption into practical delivery – unlocking growth while keeping our financial system secure and resilient.  Harriet Rees, Group Chief Information Officer – Starling Bank, said: Being appointed AI Champion for Financial Services is an exciting opportunity as the sector faces a pivotal moment to become a world leader in AI. I look forward to working with HM Treasury and the industry to create a world-class ecosystem in which innovation exceeds customers’ expectations and the transformative power of AI unlocks growth. In turn, this will reinforce the UK’s status as the world’s most technologically advanced financial centre. Dr Rohit Dhawan, Head of AI and Advanced Analytics – Lloyds Banking Group, said: It is a privilege to have been asked by HM Treasury to take on the role of AI Champion for financial services. AI has the potential to reshape the industry and at Lloyds Banking Group we are already seeing how thoughtful and responsible adoption of AI can transform customer experience and the way a large organisation operates. I look forward to working with HM Treasury, regulators and industry partners to accelerate the trusted and effective use of AI across financial services and support the UK’s ambition to remain a global leader in financial innovation.  Harriet Rees is Group Chief Information Officer at Starling, where she leads data, engineering, information security and product development. Having joined Starling in 2018 to found its Data Science practice, she now defines and delivers the Group’s technology strategy, including oversight of information and technology assets and ensuring operational resilience at scale. Harriet also plays a leading role in shaping the future of AI in financial services as Co-Chair of the Bank of England’s AI Taskforce and a member of the AI Consortium.   Dr Rohit Dhawan is Group Director and Head of AI & Advanced Analytics at Lloyds Banking Group, a role he has held since 2024. He is responsible for shaping the Group’s strategy and roadmap for AI, machine learning and advanced analytics. He leads multidisciplinary teams across data science, behavioural science, machine learning engineering and AI ethics, focused on transforming customer experience and operational processes. He is also a member of the AI Consortium.  The appointments take effect from 20 January 2026. The roles are unpaid, direct ministerial appointments reporting to the Economic Secretary to the Treasury.   Further information Established processes for the declaration and management of interests have been followed in respect of this appointment.   The Terms of Reference for this appointment can be found here:  AI Champions – Financial Services Terms of Reference (PDF, 75.7 KB, 2 pages)

Leading regulated digital prime broker GCEX (GCEX Group) serving institutional and professional clients across the UK, EU and UAE, has added Gold Futures CFDs to its product range. Offering Futures CFDs further strengthens GCEX’s multi-asset capabilities, supporting clients seeking greater flexibility in how they manage market exposure. Additional Futures CFDs will follow shortly, marking the next step in GCEX’s continued expansion across traditional and digital asset classes. This addition provides an alternative structure to rolling spot instruments and non-expiring CFDs by offering exposure within a clearly defined contract period. The initial release includes the GCG26 contract (February 2026 Gold Future), giving clients access to CFDs that reference the price of underlying exchange-listed futures. Lars Holst, CEO of GCEX, said: “The introduction of Gold Futures CFDs reflects the ongoing development of our product suite and our commitment to supporting client requirements across both traditional and digital markets. Our focus is on offering institutional-grade instruments underpinned by robust regulatory governance across all GCEX entities.” Futures CFDs carry a defined end date (the expiry date), viewable in GCEX’s XplorTrader platform. Priced according to the futures curve, these products embed cost-of-carry elements directly into the contract structure, eliminating overnight financial charges. Clients must close their positions before expiry; otherwise GCEX will automatically close the position at the final settlement price to ensure seamless outcome. GCEX Group empowers institutional and professional clients to access deep liquidity in CFDs on digital assets and FX, alongside spot trading and conversion of digital assets. The company also offers a comprehensive range of Forex brokerage and crypto-native technology solutions under its XplorDigital suite. XplorDigital features innovative plug-and-play solutions, ‘Crypto in a Box’ and ‘Broker in a Box’ which encompass technology-agnostic platforms addressing regulation while covering regulated custody solutions, staking solutions, safety of funds, tier 1 and deep liquidity, connectivity to the biggest price makers, advanced risk management, and innovative technology partnerships. Headquartered in London, with multiple offices across the globe, GCEX is regulated by the UK’s FCA, authorised and regulated as a CASP under the EU MiCA regulation, and has a Virtual Asset Service Provider license by the Dubai Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority. True Global Ventures are investors in GCEX.  For further information, please visit www.gc.exchange or LinkedIn  

Capital.com, the global fintech group and online trading platform has selected AI-powered operational data automation platform Duco to transform its critical client and payment reconciliations. Duco’s modern, AI-powered flexible platform will provide Capital.com with a future-proof, scalable solution to strengthen its control environment and effectively manage the growing volume and variety of data inputs inherent in complex reconciliations. Duco’s approach will help Capital.com increase efficiency, reduce operational risk, and build a robust foundation to access new markets sustainably across multiple jurisdictions. Duco, a leader in operational data automation across the financial services sector, is well-positioned to support cutting edge trading platforms like Capital.com. Rupert Osborne, CEO, Capital.com UK, said: “As we continue scaling our multi-jurisdictional business, establishing a strong reconciliation capability, deployable for a wide array of use cases and regional requirements, will be vital. Duco has proven to be a flexible, forward-looking partner who can meet our needs both today and into the future. Michael Chin, Chief Executive Officer of Duco, said: "We are pleased to welcome Capital.com as a Duco client. Reconciliation is not just a task, but a strategic capability. We’re proud to support their operations with automation and strategic AI capabilities that delivers transparency, control, and the flexibility to grow across markets and regulatory regimes." 

Key insights from the Sanctioned Securities Data File (SSDF): Majority of sanctions‑linked instruments remain active, underscoring the ongoing operational burden for trading, investment and post‑trade teams. Rights and entitlements, debt instruments and structured products account for 80% of sanctions‑linked issuance, demonstrating how sanctions exposure concentrates in capital formation and corporate restructuring mechanisms. Russia represents 60% of global sanctions‑related issuance, with regulatory regimes from the EU, US, New Zealand and Ukraine also materially shaping the landscape. LSEG Risk Intelligence has unveiled its new Sanctioned Securities Data File (SSDF), a granular, instrument-level dataset engineered to help financial institutions identify and manage securities with direct or indirect links to sanctioned entities. Developed in partnership with BIGTXN, a recognised leader in advanced data analytics, the SSDF links global sanctions designations and ownership and control relationships directly to financial securities, providing a structured view of how sanctions translate into real exposure at the instrument level. Early analysis from the dataset shows that approximately one-third of all sanctions-linked instruments are captured through ownership and control pathways, rather than explicit legal designations. For example, a company may not be sanctioned itself, but if a sanctioned parent owns or controls it, the securities it issues still fall within scope. Further analysis indicates that sanctions exposure is not confined to historic or inactive positions. Around six in ten sanctions-linked instruments identified through the SSDF remain active, underscoring that sanctions risk represents an ongoing operational challenge for trading, investment and post-trade teams. At the instrument level, sanctions impact is concentrated in the mechanisms of capital formation and corporate restructuring. Rights and entitlements, debt instruments and structured products collectively account for approximately 80% of sanctions-linked issuance, demonstrating that exposure is embedded within market infrastructure rather than isolated to traditional equity listings. From a jurisdictional perspective, Russia-imposed measures continue to dominate the sanctions-instrument landscape, accounting for approximately 60% of affected issuance. Sanctions regimes administered by the European Union, United States, New Zealand and Ukraine also contribute materially to the volume of impacted instruments, highlighting the growing importance of managing sanctions exposure across multiple jurisdictions simultaneously. A structured approach to mapping sanctions to real financial instruments As global sanctions regimes expand, diverge and update at increasing frequency, firms face mounting complexity in determining whether the securities they trade, hold or service fall within regulatory scope. The Sanctioned Securities Data File systematically links sanctions designations from LSEG’s World-Check platform to real, tradable instruments enabling compliance teams to: Detect exposure beyond simple name‑based lists Screen across multi‑asset‑class portfolios Embed structured sanctions intelligence into front‑to‑back workflows React faster to evolving geopolitical and regulatory developments Chris Moyser, Head of Strategy at LSEG Risk Intelligence, comments: “Sanctions regimes today extend far beyond simple lists of designated names. Financial institutions need a systematic way to understand how those designations translate into real exposure across securities, ownership structures and corporate actions. The Sanctioned Securities Data File is designed to bring that clarity - helping firms identify risk that is often difficult to detect using traditional screening approaches.” A solution designed for integration and scale Delivered via a centralised, structured data feed, the dataset supports high-frequency updates and integrates directly into existing compliance, risk and trading infrastructures. It enables institutions to maintain continuous alignment with evolving sanctions frameworks and to strengthen controls across screening, surveillance, and transaction monitoring programme. Frequently Asked Questions What is the Sanctioned Securities Data File (SSDF)?The Sanctioned Securities Data File (SSDF) is an instrument-level dataset from LSEG Risk Intelligence that links global sanctions designations and ownership and control relationships directly to financial securities. It is designed to help financial institutions identify and manage sanctions exposure across global markets. Why does ownership and control matter for sanctions exposure?Sanctions regimes increasingly apply through ownership structures and control relationships, not just through direct designation of issuers. This means a security may be linked to sanctions even if the issuing company is not explicitly sanctioned, provided it is owned or controlled by a sanctioned entity. What does “ownership and control relationships” mean in practice?Ownership and control relationships refer to situations where a sanctioned entity owns, controls or exerts influence over another company. In these cases, the securities issued by the non-sanctioned company may still fall within sanctions scope due to that relationship. What proportion of sanctions-linked securities are connected through ownership and control?Early analysis from the Sanctioned Securities Data File shows that approximately one-third of sanctions-linked securities are connected through ownership and control pathways, rather than direct legal designation alone. Are sanctions-linked securities still actively traded?Yes. Analysis indicates that around 60% of sanctions-linked instruments identified through the SSDF remain active, highlighting that sanctions exposure is an ongoing operational consideration rather than a purely historical issue. Which types of financial instruments are most affected?Sanctions-linked exposure is concentrated in rights and entitlements, debt instruments and structured products, which together account for approximately 80% of sanctions-linked issuance identified in the dataset. Which jurisdictions contribute most to sanctions-linked securities exposure?Russia-imposed measures account for the largest share of sanctions-linked securities identified. Sanctions regimes administered by the European Union, United States, New Zealand and Ukraine also contribute materially to the affected instrument universe. How does the SSDF differ from traditional sanctions screening?Traditional sanctions screening typically focuses on matching names against sanctions lists. The SSDF goes further by systematically linking sanctions designations and ownership and control relationships to financial instruments, enabling firms to identify indirect exposure that may not be visible through name-based screening alone. Who is the Sanctioned Securities Data File designed for?The SSDF is designed for financial institutions involved in trading, investment management, custody, clearing, settlement and risk management that need to identify and manage sanctions exposure across securities and portfolios. How is the Sanctioned Securities Data File delivered?The dataset is delivered via a centralised, structured data feed that can be integrated into existing compliance, risk and trading workflows. It supports screening across a broad range of asset classes and is updated in line with evolving global sanctions designations. What does this analysis show about the future of sanctions risk?The findings highlight that sanctions risk is increasingly embedded in the structure of financial markets through ownership, control and instrument design. This underscores the need for more granular, instrument-level approaches to sanctions screening and exposure management.

Digital asset investment products saw their largest weekly inflows since October 2025 at US$2.17bn, though sentiment weakened on Friday amid geopolitical tensions, tariff threats, and policy-related uncertainty. Bitcoin dominated asset-level flows but we saw continued strength across Ethereum, Solana, and a wide range of altcoins. Blockchain equities also performed strongly, attracting US$72.6m of inflows and underscoring sustained investor interest across the digital asset ecosystem. The full research features in CoinShares’ weekly newsletter, which can also be found here.

LSEG announces it has purchased the following number of its ordinary shares of 679/86 pence each from Citigroup Global Markets Limited ("Citi") on the London Stock Exchange as part of its share buyback programme, as announced on 04 November 2025. Date of purchase: 19 January 2026 Aggregate number of ordinary shares purchased: 110,386 Lowest price paid per share: 9,104.00p Highest price paid per share: 9,222.00p Average price paid per share: 9,149.65p   LSEG intends to cancel all of the purchased shares. Following the cancellation of the repurchased shares, LSEG has 509,058,881 ordinary shares of 679/86 pence each in issue (excluding treasury shares) and holds 21,451,599 of its ordinary shares of 679/86 pence each in treasury. Therefore, the total voting rights in the Company will be 509,058,881. This figure for the total number of voting rights may be used by shareholders (and others with notification obligations) as the denominator for the calculation by which they will determine if they are required to notify their interest in, or a change to their interest in, the Company under the FCA's Disclosure Guidance and Transparency Rules. In accordance with Article 5(1)(b) of Regulation (EU) No 596/2014 (the Market Abuse Regulation) (as such legislation forms part of retained EU law as defined in the European Union (Withdrawal) Act 2018, as implemented, retained, amended, extended, re-enacted or otherwise given effect in the United Kingdom from 1 January 2021 and as amended or supplemented in the United Kingdom thereafter), a full breakdown of the individual purchases by Citi on behalf of the Company as part of the buyback programme can be found at: http://www.rns-pdf.londonstockexchange.com/rns/5083P_1-2026-1-19.pdf This announcement does not constitute, or form part of, an offer or any solicitation of an offer for securities in any jurisdiction. Schedule of Purchases Shares purchased:       110,386 (ISIN: GB00B0SWJX34) Date of purchases:      19 January 2026 Investment firm:         Citi Aggregate information: Venue Volume-weighted average price Aggregated volume Lowest price per share Highest price per share London Stock Exchange 9,149.65 110,386 9,104.00 9,222.00 Turquoise        

The Alberta Securities Commission (ASC) today published information on the top three scams and misleading tactics Alberta investors should watch out for this year and how they can protect themselves.  In 2026, investors now face an ever-evolving landscape of online threats that can put their hard-earned money at risk: deepfakes, finfluencers, and the growing use of private messaging apps. According to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre research, Canadians lost more than $310 million to investment scams in 2024.   “The tools and technology scammers use are rapidly evolving – from sophisticated deepfake impersonations to encrypted group chats – making fraud increasingly harder to detect at first glance,” said Hilary McMeekin, Director of Communications and Investor Education. “We urge investors to slow down, check registration, and ensure any advice aligns with their investment goals and risk tolerance before investing.” Top three harmful investment tactics to watch out for Deepfakes or AI-Impersonations: The ASC has seen deepfake content – images, video and audio created with artificial intelligence (AI) – often used to impersonate prominent political figures and select well-known Canadians in promotions for fraudulent investment and crypto schemes. Albertans should be aware of: Advertising, websites and social media posts that appear to feature credible public figures endorsing an investment opportunity, especially offerings that promise quick or guaranteed returns.  Attempts by scammers to impersonate local individuals, including deepfakes of Alberta-based business leaders, industry experts, and other credible provincial public figures.  The potential for a more sophisticated AI-driven approach that uses cloned voices and realistic likenesses of well-known financial advisors, finfluencers and virtual public speakers for seminars and online presentations.   Private messaging apps: Private messaging platforms, like WhatsApp and Telegram, are often used by fraudsters to engage with investors and build trust. After grabbing the victims’ attention through an ad or social media post, scammers use these channels to bring people to group chats where they share promises of exclusive trips as investment incentives and guaranteed investment returns.  Once these groups are established, scammers can often exploit the trust that already exists within personal networks by encouraging individuals to invite their contacts to join the chat. When family members or friends pass along invitations to investment groups, it creates a built‑in sense of credibility and lowers skepticism, allowing scammers to reach new victims without having to seek them out directly. Many of these interactions lead investors to harmful investment schemes such as pump-and-dumps or crypto scams. Finfluencers and unregistered advice: Digital creators typically seek monetization of their content through affiliate links, paid agreements, and other strategies that can blur the line between education and unregistered advice.  The Canadian Securities Administrators and the Canadian Investment Regulatory Organization (CIRO) recently issued guidance so that finfluencers and the firms they work with can understand and follow securities laws when posting investment information online. Generally, anyone offering investments or personalized investment advice must be registered with the ASC or another provincial securities regulator.  How can Albertans protect themselves? Investors can easily access all kinds of advice and information online and many of these marketing tactics leverage trust, urgency and perceived credibility to pressure investors into acting fast. The ASC encourages Albertans to pause, step back and take the time to do their own research and make sure an investment opportunity is right for them: Verify that the investment professionals, firms and online trading platforms they plan to use are registered by visiting the Check Registration page on CheckFirst.ca. Ask questions when something doesn’t feel right, and report suspicious activity to the ASC by calling 403.355.3888 or online. Early reporting helps the ASC act faster and protect others. Access CheckFirst.ca for unbiased information and resources designed to help investors stay informed and avoid fraudulent schemes. The ASC is the regulatory agency responsible for administering the province's securities laws. It is entrusted with fostering a fair and efficient capital market in Alberta and with protecting investors. As a member of the Canadian Securities Administrators, the ASC works to improve, coordinate and harmonize the regulation of Canada's capital markets.