Knowledge is Power

Learn what the Central Bank of Ireland's 2025 Gatekeeping Report means for investment fund authorisations, processing timelines and regulatory expectations.

Stay up to date with the latest global fund distribution developments for June 2026, including the UK's new CCI regime, Liechtenstein's updated UCITS notification process and Italy's revised UCITS annual fee reporting requirements.

The Central Bank of Ireland's 2026 Thematic Assessment sets out clear expectations for MiFID Investment Firms regarding the compliance function. We highlight the key findings, regulatory expectations, and practical steps firms should take to strengthen governance, monitoring, and board oversight.

Stay up to date with the latest global investment fund regulatory developments, including AIFMD II, Taiwan ESG disclosure rules, Bulgaria UCITS notification fees, Germany’s investment services exemption regime and Ireland’s Consumer Protection Code 2025.

Stay up to date Global Knowledge Hub's April 2026 updates, including AIFMD II implementation, UCITS simplification in Hong Kong, and Belgium’s updated regulatory fees.

A recent SEC enforcement action is a clear warning to investment managers: misleading marketing materials (whether intentional or not) can lead to serious regulatory and reputational consequences. Scott Parkin details what firms need to know and how to stay ahead of the risk

The hardest part of generative AI isn’t building, it’s knowing when to say no. Our Head of Innovation Lab explains how to evaluate use cases, avoid hype, and make smarter decisions.

Explore recent regulatory updates on fund distribution in Saudi Arabia, Guernsey, and Italy to understand key changes affecting global investment managers.

The EU Market Integration proposal reshapes cross-border UCITS and AIF marketing, consolidating rules and expanding ESMA’s role.

Most legal AI tools rely on static law. Discover how AI trained on real-world regulatory experience improves compliance for investment managers.

CSSF aligns fund rules with MiCAR and clarifies UCITS/AIF crypto exposure, while the FCA launches a full FSMA crypto regime. What funds and firms need to know.

Explore key regulatory developments and 2026 fee changes impacting fund registrations, private placement and investment services across Europe, the UK, Switzerland and the UAE.

On 15 January 2026, the SEC updated its Marketing Rule FAQs. Scott Parkin shares why nuance, disclosures, and human judgment still matter, especially in AI-driven compliance tools.

ESMA has published its 2025 report on cross-border fund marketing. Learn what UCITS and AIF managers need to know to stay compliant in the EU.

What does AIFMD II change for fund distribution? Explore Article 20(6a), distributor independence and what AIFMs should assess now.

On 30 December 2025, the European Commission published a notice on the application of the sustainable finance framework and the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive to the defence sector.

Explore how investment management firms can adopt AI responsibly with human oversight, governance, and regulatory awareness.

Explore GKH December 2025 regulatory updates in Italy, France and Australia, with practical guidance on investment services, reporting frameworks and licensing relief.

Emerging markets are tightening offshore marketing rules. Kuwait and Vietnam’s latest regulatory shifts show why global fund managers can’t afford to look away. Our latest GKH update unpacks the key regulatory changes fund managers need to be aware of.

The European Commission’s 20 November 2025 proposal marks the biggest overhaul of the Sustainable Finance Disclosure Regulation to date. With SFDR shifting from Articles 8 and 9 toward a new, clearer product-categorisation framework, firms will need to reassess product strategies, data sources, and disclosures. Explore our expert insights and practical next steps.

As 2025 draws to a close, new regulatory developments across Europe and Latin America are reshaping the cross-border fund distribution landscape. Our latest Global Knowledge Hub update explores revised fees, simplified procedures, and new investment restrictions impacting UCITS and AIFs.

Stay ahead of evolving cross-border fund distribution regulations with the latest updates from Italy, Saudi Arabia, Israel, and New Zealand. Discover how the Global Knowledge Hub helps fund managers navigate registrations, marketing rules, and compliance obligations across 80+ jurisdictions.

At Zeidler Group, we sit at the intersection of AI, law, and regulation. By focusing on simplicity in software architecture and AI systems, we build legaltech solutions that help the investment fund industry navigate complexity with clarity and confidence.

GenAI is powerful, but in law and compliance, human oversight isn’t optional, it’s essential. At Zeidler Group, we know success comes from expert input and accountability, not hype. AI can accelerate processes, but only humans can sign off.

In August 2025, the European Supervisory Authorities (ESAs) released a set of new Q&As under the Sustainable Finance Disclosure Regulation (SFDR). These clarifications directly impact the way managers prepare periodic reports for Article 8 and Article 9 products.

The main objective of the Accessibility Directive is to increase the availability of accessible banking and investment products and services. It sets out the main requirements for clear and accessible information regarding investment services, as well as making the services accessible. To achieve this, the Accessibility Directive outlines what “accessible” means, sets principles and imposes obligations on Investment Firms.  

The FCA has confirmed updated application and annual fees under the Overseas Fund Regime (OFR) for UCITS funds. For managers distributing Alternative Investment Funds (“AIFs”) under the National Private Placement Regime (“NPPR”), fee changes will also take effect from 1 July 2025.

On 13 June 2025 BaFin published the launch of a new specialised procedure concerning the prior notification of the appointment, change and dismissal of the money laundering officer and its deputy in accordance with Section 7(4) of the German Money Laundering Act. From 13 June 2025, all obligated entities must fulfil their notification obligations under Section 7(4) GwG via the MVP portal. 

As the first half of the year draws to a close, ESMA has released its Final Report on the 2023–2024 Common Supervisory Action (CSA) on sustainability-related disclosures, providing timely insights for fund managers and compliance teams navigating the complexities of the SFDR.

Our latest updates to the Global Knowledge Hub unpack two timely developments: Hungary’s AIFMD passporting in practice and the UK’s move from TMPR to OFR, equipping fund managers with the insights they need to navigate cross-border marketing with confidence.

The herd mentality has its limits. See how fund marketers are quietly banding together to tackle compliance challenges with smarter, lawyer-educated LLM powered tools.

ESMA’s latest research confirms that ESG-related fund names significantly sway investor behavior, with environmental terms driving the strongest inflows. As scrutiny intensifies, accurate and transparent naming is critical to maintain investor trust and regulatory compliance, Katrina Crampton explores in our latest blog.

The future of compliance isn’t just automation, it’s AI-augmented legal intelligence. As global marketing rules grow more complex, discover how Zeidler Group is helping asset managers scale with confidence.

Learn how to evaluate AI-powered technology vendors with a practical framework from our Head of Innovation Lab. Alexander Mercer.

Stay updated on the latest cross-border fund distribution insights from our Global Knowledge Hub team covering UCITS, AIFMD, and more.

In April 2025, the European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) introduced two pivotal updates under the MiFID II framework, shaping how investment firms and asset managers approach order execution and research payments.

With SFDR now firmly embedded in the industry, asset managers are turning their focus to the next big compliance milestone: periodic disclosures under Articles 8 and 9. We explore the reporting deadlines asset managers must meet for both UCITS and AIFs.

As part of our ongoing commitment to keeping the Knowledge Hub practical, current, and comprehensive, we’ve introduced new content and made several key updates across multiple jurisdictions. These changes reflect regulatory amendments, newest market practice, and updated regulatory fees relevant to investment fund managers distributing UCITS and AIFs internationally.

On 8 November 2024, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced plans to introduce an initiative aimed at ‘reducing bureaucracy and the regulatory burden’ associated with sustainability reporting. Following this, the Omnibus Package was published on 26 February 2025. Read our full analysis.

With the 11 April 2025 deadline approaching, financial institutions under BaFin’s supervision must submit their Information Registers detailing all ICT agreements. BaFin’s latest article outlines compliance steps, submission requirements via the MVP platform, and how to avoid double reporting.

The AMF has updated its Doctrine (DOC-2020-03) to align with ESMA’s fund naming guidelines, introducing key changes for funds marketed in France.

Our investment fund lawyers and regulatory specialists continuously update the Global Knowledge Hub (GKH) with key insights to keep clients informed. This month, we cover impactful updates, including the UK’s Overseas Funds Regime (OFR), Hong Kong’s FASTrack UCITS approval, and revised regulatory fees in Italy and Andorra.

2024 was a transformative year for generative AI, our Head of Innovation Lab, Alex Mercer shares some key insights from 2024 that can help businesses harness AI effectively while staying compliant.

On January 13, 2025, BaFin, Germany’s financial regulator, released a detailed report on its AML special audits, shedding light on regulatory expectations and common shortcomings. Here’s what firms need to know.

Explore the Platform on Sustainable Finance's proposed framework to the European Commission, designed to classify sustainable finance products, enhance transparency, and unify practices across the financial sector. Learn how these steps may shape the future of sustainable investing.

Discover the key regulatory updates and fee adjustments for cross-border fund registrations in 2025. From UCITS marketing fees in Croatia to AIF charges in Sweden, stay ahead with insights from Zeidler Group's Global Knowledge Hub (GKH) team.

The European Securities and Markets Authority (“ESMA”) has today announced Q&As with further details on certain aspects of the practical application of the Guidelines on funds' names using ESG or sustainability-related terms (the “Guidelines”). 

Are your sustainability disclosures up to SFDR standards? The 2024 ESA Report reveals where Financial Market Participants are excelling—and where they’re falling short. Discover the key findings, best practices, and critical gaps that could impact your transparency and compliance. Read more to stay ahead.

Explore the "build vs. buy" decision for generative AI in asset management, with key insights from Zeidler Group on costs, time, and strategic benefits for AI-driven compliance solutions.

Stay ahead of the SEC's 2025 Examination Priorities with insights on fiduciary standards, compliance programs, private fund adviser exams, and the growing focus on artificial intelligence.

Unlock the full potential of AI with a customized usage policy. Learn how to maximize benefits and mitigate risk.

In September 2024, the Central Bank of Ireland provided clarifications as to the process for UCITS and AIFs seeking compliance with ESMA’s guidelines on using ESG or sustainability-related terms in fund names. These guidelines, published on August 21, 2024, will apply from November 21, 2024, for new funds, and from May 21, 2025, for existing funds.

From 1 October 2024, Norway will implement the EU’s Cross-Border Distribution Framework (CBDF), introducing key changes to the marketing and distribution of UCITS and AIFs. This includes new pre-marketing rules and investor facilities, aligning Norway’s regulations with EU standards.

Discover how a recent greenwashing fine imposed on a leading investment management firm serves as a wake-up call for ESG compliance.

Learn how the SEC's recent $1.2 million fines highlight the importance of Marketing Rule compliance for investment managers. Discover common compliance mistakes and how the Zeidler MMR Tool can help prevent costly penalties and reputational damage

The FCA has extended the deadline for asset managers to comply with its new sustainability-related naming and marketing rules to 2 April 2025.

As the UK transitions from the TMPR to the Overseas Funds Regime (OFR), fund managers must stay informed to ensure continued UCITS distribution in the UK. Our team covers the application processes under the OFR, critical regulatory developments, and upcoming deadlines for market access. With insights on regulatory frameworks and expert guidance, fund managers can avoid disruptions and navigate the evolving UK fund regulation landscape effectively

ESMA has published translations of its Guidelines on using ESG or sustainability-related terms in fund names across all official EU languages, marking the commencement of these rules. Discover the key updates and compliance deadlines

Discover BaFin's updated Guidance Notices for EU UCITS and AIFs marketing in Germany, including new fee payment processes and regulatory compliance details.

Discover the key points of Regulation (EU) 2024/1689, the AI Act, effective 1 August 2024. This regulation sets harmonised rules for AI systems in the EU, focusing on safety, transparency, and fundamental rights. Learn about AI classification, compliance requirements, and penalties for non-compliance.

Understand the critical importance of complying with AML laws and the severe consequences of non-compliance and how Zeidler's expert guidance and due diligence solution can safeguard your business from risks.

Discover key insights from the AMF’s July 2024 audit on promotional literature for UCIs, highlighting issues in ESG compliance among French and foreign funds. Learn about the AMF Doctrine, findings on non-compliance, and best practices for improving ESG marketing materials.

Discover key insights from the AMF’s July 2024 audit on promotional literature for UCIs, highlighting issues in ESG compliance among French and foreign funds. Learn about the AMF Doctrine, findings on non-compliance, and best practices for improving ESG marketing materials.

Discover key insights from the AMF’s July 2024 audit on promotional literature for UCIs, highlighting issues in ESG compliance among French and foreign funds. Learn about the AMF Doctrine, findings on non-compliance, and best practices for improving ESG marketing materials.

Discover the latest updates in European Long-Term Investment Funds (ELTIF) with ELTIF 2.0. Peter Sherwood explores the new regulatory standards, including eligible assets, and liquidity management. Read now to understand how these changes enhance long-term investment opportunities.

Explore the implications of recent legal setbacks for the SEC on investment management. Understand the changes in regulations and their potential long-term effects.

Discover how investment managers can revolutionize vendor due diligence with the Zeidler Due Diligence Tool. Learn about upcoming SEC regulations, enhanced oversight, and the future of due diligence in the investment management industry. Future-proof your processes today.

On 5 July 2024, the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) published an important update on the Overseas Funds Regime (OFR), detailing new information about landing slots for firms currently under the Temporary Marketing Permissions Regime (TMPR). We detail the key highlights of the update.

L’ordonnance n° 2024-662 du 3 juillet 2024, suite à la loi d’habilitation 2023-973, vise à mieux intégrer les possibilités offertes par le règlement européen ELTIF 2.0 dans le droit français. L’objectif est de renforcer l’attractivité de Paris face à d’autres centres financiers européens. Le cabinet de la première ministre a souligné que le régime actuel n'était pas compétitif pour attirer les ELTIF 2.0 en France.

Explore the latest on greenwashing in the financial sector from the European Supervisory Authorities' June 2024 reports. Learn about increased scrutiny, enforcement challenges, and how Zeidler's Marketing Material Review Tool can helps firm to ensure compliance with global sustainability standards.

Explore the ESAs' recent opinion on the SFDR framework review, highlighting potential future changes, recommendations for better investor information, and the implications for sustainable finance.

Discover the European Securities and Markets Authority's (ESMA) new guidance on using Artificial Intelligence (AI) in retail investment services. Learn about the potential impacts, benefits, risks, and essential compliance requirements for investment firms under MiFID II.

The Senior Executive Accountability Regime (SEAR), effective July 2024, mandates clearer accountability within firms by delineating specific responsibilities for senior executives. Part of the Individual Accountability Framework (IAF) under the Central Bank Act 2023, SEAR initially applies to specific financial institutions and aims to improve oversight and regulatory compliance in the financial sector.

Explore the key points of CSSF Circular 24/856, published on 29 March 2024, which addresses NAV calculation errors, investment rule compliance, and other types of errors in undertakings for collective investments (UCIs). Learn about the updated guidelines, the scope of application, and the implications for UCIs and investment fund managers, aimed at enhancing investor protection.

Discover how the UK Financial Conduct Authority's new anti-greenwashing rule, effective from 31 May 2024, mandates transparency in sustainability claims by financial firms. Learn about compliance requirements and Zeidler's solutions to help firms navigate these regulations.

There is common misconception among US and other non-EU investment managers that selling their funds into the EU is risky or prohibitively complicated.  While this may have been partially true in the past, it is simply no longer the case.

Updated trade reporting rules under EU EMIR are going live on Monday 29 April 2024, and equivalent rules are going live in the UK on Monday 30 September 2024 under UK EMIR. But what does it mean in practice?

Explore the latest developments in AI regulation and its impact on the legal sector in the UK. From the UK Government's regulatory framework to the Law Society's guidelines on Generative AI, learn about key considerations and risk management strategies for integrating AI in legal practices.

Explore the latest updates in loan origination regulations under AIFMD II. Learn about the new requirements, risk management measures, and implications for alternative investment funds. Stay informed with our comprehensive guide

Patricia Nitschke dives into the German government's recent strides towards digitalising Germany financial markets designed to bring national regulations in line with European standards. Uncover key insights, including revisions to existing laws, the introduction of the German Crypto Markets Supervision Act (KMAG), and implications for financial institutions.

Explore the SEC's recently adopted Climate Disclosure Rules designed to combat greenwashing in investments. Dive into the enhanced standards for ESG transparency, understanding the required disclosures, and their impact on registrants. Learn more about the complexities, omissions, and compliance deadlines.

Stay informed and navigate AIFMD II with confidence. Explore the legal intricacies of the AIFMD II and its impact on open-ended funds' liquidity management. Serena Goldberg details the revised Liquidity Management Tools (LMTs), mandatory selections, notification requirements, and the role of ESMA in harmonisation. Understand the implications for asset managers and gain insights into the transitional provisions.

ETF actifs bientôt admis à la cotation sur Euronext Paris : retrouvez l’explication de Valentin Chantereau sur le lien suivant

Get a comprehensive guide to Germany's Future Financing Act for startups and SMEs. Patricia Nitschke explores streamlined access to the German capital market, digitalisation of communications with BaFin, and the introduction of blockchain-based electronic stocks. Stay informed and navigate the evolving landscape with our insights.

Explore the latest ESG developments as the SEC decides on the proposed Climate Risk Disclosure. Understand the impact on investors and compliance.

Explore the key changes introduced by AIFMD II, amending AIFMD and UCITS Directive, focusing on delegation arrangements. Gain insights into new disclosure requirements, controversial extraterritorial provisions, exemptions for distributors, and enhanced disclosure obligations for EU third-party AIFMs and UCITS ManCos.

Explore the latest SEC updates on fund performance marketing compliance in our insightful blog. Learn about the newly added question on gross and net performance calculations, how private funds should present Gross IRR and Net IRR, and essential insights on subscription facilities.

Unravel the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA) and discover if your company must comply with the Beneficial Ownership Information Report (BOI Report). Learn about key deadlines, reporting requirements, exemptions, and how our expert team can guide you through the compliance process.

Explore the impact of the recent Ordinance on remuneration systems for medium-sized investment firms, issued by the German Federal Financial Supervisory Authority (BaFin) on January 11, 2024.

2024 regulatory fee updates across Nordic markets. Stay informed about changes impacting UCITS, AIFs, and compliance requirements for financial institutions

Our ESG legal team provides an overview guide on the Enhanced European ESG Template (EET) version 1.1.2 – your essential companion in navigating the intricate world of European financial compliance.

Stay updated on the recent ESMA Q&A clarifications regarding investment firms' disclosure obligations under MiFID II and MiFIR, specifically focusing on indicating foreign currency costs in ex-ante and ex-post disclosures.

Explore our guide to Sustainable Finance, featuring a curated collection of laws, interpretive Q&As, and essential resources.

The new UK rules on sustainability for financial products have been published! Learn about key obligations, managing sustainability risks, distributor responsibilities, exemptions, and expert insights from Zeidler's ESG Legal Team.

Find out whether your firm is required to take into consideration the requirements of the German Supply Chain Act.

Explore the impact of Decree 2023-813 on the French definition of RTO.

Explore the SEC's recent amendments to the Fund Name Rule, addressing ESG-related regulations. Find out what funds need to do to align with the new 80% investment policy and stay in line with the SEC's guidelines.

Explore the SEC's new rules for Private Fund Advisers in the US, designed to enhance oversight and transparency. Learn about key rules, such as the Quarterly Statement Rule and Private Fund Audit Rule, and the impact on the financial services industry.

Luxembourg, a global financial hub, is once again at the forefront of innovation in fund regulations. The recently approved Bill of Law No. 8183 is set to revolutionize the country's financial landscape, modernizing its fund toolbox and boosting its competitiveness on the world stage.

With the 1 August deadline for implementation fast approaching, our ESG legal experts examine the requirements for sustainability risks.

Katrina Crampton explores a recent update from the Central Bank of Ireland (the “Central Bank”) regarding changes to the list of pre-approval controlled functions (“PCFs”) applying to Irish Regulated Financial Service Providers (“RFSPs”) other than credit unions.

Zeidler Group's ESG glossary contains a list of ESG and industry-related terminologies, regulations and definitions to help you better navigate the ESG landscape.

On 3 May 2022, the German Federal Financial Supervisory Authority (Bundesanstalt für Finanzdienstleistungen – “BaFin”) stated that it will now apply certain principles from the draft Guideline for Sustainable Investment Funds (the “draft Guideline”) in Germany, whilst not formally issuing it.

Regulation (EU) 2016/679 (“GDPR”) requires that in certain circumstances entities, which are not established in the EU, appoint a “data representative”. The failure to appoint a data representative in circumstances where an entity is required to do so is a breach of GDPR.  Peter Sherwood provides an overview of the role of a data representative, when it is required, and the requirements in the UK.

On Monday, 28 February, the EU Platform on Sustainable Finance presented the publication of its final report on Social Taxonomy. Elisa Forletta-Fehrenberg, Head of ESG, provides a brief outline of the key takeaways and next steps.

BaFin updated their FAQ on MIFID II Conduct of Business Rules on 15 February 2022. This update provided specific clarification in relation to the topic of inducements.

On 23 February 2022, the European Commission unveiled a proposal for a Directive on corporate sustainability due diligence, whose aim is to encourage sustainable and responsible corporate behaviour as well as to put human rights and environmental considerations at the core of companies’ operations and corporate governance.

The ESMA Guidelines on marketing communications under the Regulation on cross-border distribution of funds apply from today, Wednesday, 2 February 2022. Fund managers who have not already done so should review their marketing communications for compliance with the Guidelines.

Senior Associate, Gemma Capelo shares her perspective on the latest PRIIPs legal update.

On 7 September 2021, the European Commission published an updated Delegated Regulation and supporting Annexes to amend the regulatory technical standards (RTS) for packaged retail and insurance-based investment products (PRIIPs). Senior Associate, Gemma Capelo provides her view and analysis of what to expect in the latest update of the UCITS to PRIIPs KID transition.

The Cross-Border Distribution Regulation sets out requirements for marketing communications in relation to UCITS and AIFs. This blog focuses on the Regulation’s requirements for UCITS’ marketing communications.

On 2 August 2021, Directive (EU) 2019/1160 with regard to cross-border distribution of collective investment undertakings (the “Directive”) came into force in many EU jurisdictions. One of the important changes introduced by the Directive is the new harmonised pre-marketing regime for AIFs across the EU. Kunal Grover and Sarah Noville provide a concise summary of the new pre-marketing regime.

On 20 July 2021, the Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) published a consultation paper (CP 21/23) on the post-Brexit scope rules under the Packaged Retail and Insurance-based Investment Products (PRIIPs) regulation and amendments to the supplementary UK Regulatory Technical Standards (“RTS”).

The topic of diversity and inclusion has become an international conversation that continues to challenge society on how we treat people who belong to different groups. As a dynamic international law firm working across different cultures and practices, it is important to us that every member of our team feels welcome and safe. Our Head of Recruitment & Talent, Fola Oguntoye, shares why and how Zeidler invests in a positive work culture.

The Belgian Financial Services and Markets Authority (FSMA) recently published a settlement agreement agreed with a large Belgian retail bank.

The European Commission confirmed yesterday (8 July 2021) that it intends to delay the full implementation of the Sustainable Finance Disclosure Regulations (SFDR) by 6 months.

Under the Investment Firms Directive and Investment Firms Regulation, MiFID firms will be subject to a new prudential regime from 26 June 2021.

On June 1 2021, the HM Treasury announced intentions to extend the current five year exemption for Undertakings for the Collective Investment in Transferable Securities (UCITS) funds from requirements of the Packaged Retail Investment and Insurance-based Products (PRIIPs) Regulation.

The key provisions of the Cross-Border Distribution Directive and Regulation will take effect from 2 August 2021, at the latest. The directive and regulation contain provisions that should improve and simplify cross-border distribution of investment funds within the EU. Kunal Grover analyses the directive and regulation and provides a breakdown of the advantages and disadvantages on cross-border distribution of AIFs and UCITS within the EU.

ESMA recently updated its Q&A on MiFID II and MiFIR investor protection and intermediaries topics. The update concerns one of the conditions specifying when an inducement can be considered as designed to enhance the quality of the relevant service to the client. Brigid Dolan discusses 3 elements of Article 11(2)(a) , ESMA has outlined.

The asset management industry has been discussing Brexit and its impact on the investment funds industry since 2016. Brexit and its many uncertainties has led to a multitude of different approaches within the investment funds industry. Kunal Grover examines the various approaches taken, the current status and future possibilities of Brexit and its impact on the asset management industry.