ESMA has launched the selection procedure for the position of ESMA Chair. This key leadership role offers the opportunity to shape the future of Europe’s financial markets and steer the organisation through an evolving regulatory and supervisory landscape. As a full‑time, independent professional based in Paris, the Chair leads ESMA’s strategic direction and represents the Authority at the highest institutional level.

The briefing sets out ESMA’s supervisory expectations for how counterparties should comply with and report on the AAR representativeness obligation. It provides guidance and promotes supervisory convergence for the supervision of counterparties subject to the AAR, an issue which has attracted particular scrutiny.

ESMA published a second thematic note on sustainability-related claims, focusing on ESG strategies. The note concentrates on ESG integration and ESG exclusions, as references to these strategies are often made by market participants and widely referenced in marketing communications directed to retail investors. 

ESMA published its Position Paper on “Building more effective and attractive capital markets in the EU”. The Paper includes 20 recommendations to strengthen EU capital markets and address the needs of European citizens and businesses.

ESMA will focus on strengthening supervision, enhancing the protection of retail investors, fostering effective markets and financial stability, enabling sustainable finance, as well as facilitating technological innovation and effective use of data.