New-build

Recent meltdown in the financial markets reached the top of the political agenda in November when the leaders of the ‘G20’ group of nations met in Washington DC, write Chris Warren-Smith and Ian Pegram of Fulbright & Jaworski. The press release which followed confirms that changes to the regulatory landscape are on the cards. The G20 called for a strengthening in transparency and accountability; enhanced and sound regulation; the promotion of integrity in the financial markets; reinforced international cooperation; and reform of the world’s international financial institutions. In practical terms, what are these changes likely to mean for regulators and regulated?

Chris Warren-Smith is a partner and co-chair of the firm’s Global Litigation practice and Ian Pegram is a professional support lawyer in the disputes practice at Fulbright & Jaworski International LLP. Chris may be contacted on tel: +44 (0 )20 7832 3604; email cwarren-smith@ fulbright.com

Greater transparency and accountability

Regulators are likely to require enhanced disclosure of complex financial products and positions to ensure that investors (both institutional and consumer) have as much information as possible about what it is they are buying. Regulators will look to investors to investigate more carefully the investments made and the risks attached.