Global Entity Management: regulatory updates by jurisdiction
Law Debenture's global entity management business supports organisations with their regulatory compliance in over 120 jurisdictions. Here we share the critical regulatory updates in November.
The regulatory landscape is shifting fast. Here's what's critical across key jurisdictions:
United Kingdom – ECCTA Identity Verification
From 18 November 2025, identity verification becomes mandatory for directors and PSCs. Key phases:
- Pre-deadline (Now): Voluntary verification available; over 300,000 already verified.
- 18 Nov 2025: No incorporations without verified directors; new directors cannot act until verified.
- Post-deadline: PSCs must verify within 14 days of appointment.
Australia – AML/CTF Tranche
Major expansion of AML/CTF obligations. Key phases:
- Final guidance: December 2025.
- Enrolment: Opens 31 March 2026 with AUSTRAC.
- Compliance: Starts 1 July 2026.
- Who's affected: Lawyers, accountants, real estate agents, dealers in precious metals, trust & company service providers.
- Obligations: AML/CTF program, customer due diligence, suspicious transaction reporting.
United States – Governance Shift
Immediate changes impacting governance strategies:
- ISS halts board diversity considerations.
- Shareholder proposal exclusions broadened under revived micromanagement standards.
- State law competition intensifies (Texas vs Delaware).
- AI governance enforcement accelerates
Hong Kong – Corporate Governance Code
Deadline for Q4 compliance: 31 December 2025. Key focus areas:
- Enhanced board independence requirements.
- Mandatory director training (24 hours for first-time directors within 18 months).
- Board performance reviews every 2 years.
- Disclosure of board skills matrix and enhanced ESG reporting.
If you need help navigating these changes? Contact gems@lawdeb.com
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