Ownership transparency, AML modernisation, AI in government, and digital formation surges
From legislative reforms in Bermuda and frontline AML priorities in the United States to AI led anti-corruption in Albania, governments are rethinking how registers work. Digital company creation platforms in Ethiopia and the UAE signal a faster path to market entry, while Australia, Pakistan, and the Philippines report strong business formation activity. Enforcement and integrity remain in focus across Brazil, Bahrain, Nigeria, PNG, Seychelles, and the United States.
Here are this week's highlights:
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Bermuda: House passes beneficial ownership legislation
The Beneficial Ownership Act 2025 transfers the ownership list from the Bermuda Monetary Authority to the Registrar of Companies, removing duplicate checks and consolidating oversight.
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United States: FinCEN Director cites urgent need to modernise AML
Testimony to a House subcommittee highlighted sustained growth in cyber-enabled fraud since 2013 and the need to upgrade data, tools, and rules to counter new threats.
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Albania: AI generated “minister” appointed to tackle corruption
The initiative aims to promote transparency, digital delivery, and integrity monitoring within government operations.
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Ethiopia: Online business registration and licensing platform launches
The Integrated Company Creation Journey promises faster processing and lower paperwork for applicants through a fully digital workflow.
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Australia: 104,000+ new businesses registered in August
ABN registrations rose 21 percent year on year, driven by sole traders and a sharp increase among 18–24 year olds.
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Brazil: Historic PCC bust drives crackdown on digital money laundering
A multibillion-dollar laundering scheme has prompted reforms in the digital banking sector, though enforcement gaps remain a risk.
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Nigeria: CAC ambassador unveils AI powered registration portal
The tool aims to simplify applications and improve the user experience for prospective business owners.
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United Kingdom: HMRC raises small business “phoenixing” tax loss to £836m
The updated estimate underscores the challenge of tackling abusive insolvency practices and protecting revenue.
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Bahrain: National AML strategy launched for 2025–2027
Officials say the plan will enhance Bahrain’s reputation, strengthen safeguards, and protect the wider economy.
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United Arab Emirates: Fully digital business setup platform launches in Dubai
Sharkup’s platform offers end-to-end online licensing, compliance, and banking to speed market entry for entrepreneurs.
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Papua New Guinea: 50 year review of anti-corruption outcomes
Analysis shows a decline in disciplinary actions against MPs since 2008, raising concerns about institutional capacity and political will.
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Seychelles: SCR expands international company registration services
New partnerships broaden options for offshore formation, asset protection, and cross-border structuring.
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United States: Sanctions target Southeast Asian scam centers
U.S. actions focus on companies and individuals behind large-scale fraud operations that exploit victims across the region.
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Pakistan: SECP registers 3,278 new companies in August
Fresh incorporations suggest improving sentiment, with regulatory facilitation supporting formalisation and growth.
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Philippines: One day company registration extended to foreign-owned firms
The SEC now allows corporations with foreign equity to complete incorporation within a single day, improving ease of doing business.
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Stay updated by visiting often our "Registry News Weekly" summary and the Foster Moore blog for more insights on these stories and other key registry news.
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