Belgium’s Financial Regulatory Bodies Take Center Stage: A Look at the FSMA

Introduction

Located in the heart of Brussels, Belgium, the Financial Services and Markets Authority (FSMA) plays a vital role in overseeing the country’s financial landscape. As the primary regulatory body for the financial sector, the FSMA is responsible for ensuring that financial markets and quoted companies operate within the bounds of the law.

Supervision of Financial Institutions

The FSMA approves and checks certain categories of financial institutions to ensure they are operating in compliance with the law. This includes:

• Financial Intermediaries: The authority ensures that financial intermediaries adhere to rules of conduct, providing a safe and stable environment for investors.
• Quoted Companies: The FSMA supervises quoted companies to guarantee their financial stability and transparency.

Marketing of Investment Products

A key aspect of the FSMA’s mandate is supervising the marketing of investment products intended for the general public. This includes:

• Supplementary Pensions: The authority exercises “social” control over supplementary pensions, ensuring they are managed in the best interests of savers and investors.

Financial Education

The law grants the FSMA a crucial role in contributing to the financial education of savers and investors. By promoting transparency and understanding, the authority aims to empower individuals with the knowledge necessary to make informed decisions about their financial affairs.

Contact Information

If you would like to learn more about the FSMA or reach out for assistance, please contact them at:

• Address: Rue du Congrès 12-14, 1000 Brussels
• Phone Number: 02 220 52 11
• Website: www.fsma.be