Financial Services and Markets Authority – Belgium

The Financial Services and Markets Authority (FSMA) is the regulatory body overseeing financial markets and services in Belgium. Established on April 1, 2011, the FSMA is an autonomous public institution tasked with ensuring the integrity and proper functioning of the financial markets, protecting consumers, and enhancing financial education.

Key Functions and Responsibilities

• Market Supervision: The FSMA supervises financial markets, ensuring transparency and fairness in the dissemination of financial information by companies.
• Conduct of Business Supervision: The FSMA monitors compliance with conduct of business rules, ensuring that financial service providers act in the best interests of their clients.
• Product Supervision: It oversees the marketing and distribution of financial products to ensure they are appropriate for consumers.
• Supervision of Financial Intermediaries: The FSMA regulates financial intermediaries, including brokers and investment advisors, to maintain market integrity.
• Supplementary Pensions Supervision: It also supervises supplementary pensions to ensure they are managed prudently and in the best interest of the beneficiaries.

Strategic Initiatives

The FSMA is committed to adapting its regulatory framework to address new financial challenges and innovations. This includes efforts to combat financial fraud, enhance market transparency, and improve consumer protection through financial education initiatives.

Recent Developments

The FSMA has been active in addressing issues related to unauthorized financial activities and fraudulent schemes. It regularly publishes warnings and updates to inform and protect consumers from potential financial risks.