Regulatory Alerts2024-01-29 | FMD/DIR/PUB/CIR/001/011Circular to All Authorised Dealers - Financial Markets Price Transparency
The Central Bank of Nigeria circulates a reminder to all authorized dealers about the expectation of transparent price quoting and displaying in financial markets transactions. The bank has noticed instances of under-reporting and misleading information, which is non-compliant with ethical standards and amounts to market manipulation. The CBN warns of sanctions for such behavior and encourages stakeholders to conduct business in compliance with CBN rules and guidelines.
Central Bank of Nigeria Financial Markets Department Plot 33, Abubakar Tafawa Balewa Way Central Business District P.M.B. 0187, Garki, Abuja - Nigeria.
Email: fmd@cbn.gov.ng Website: www.cbn.gov.ng Phone: +234 700-225-5226, +234 800-225-5226 January 29, 2024 Ref: FMD/DIR/PUB/CIR/001/011 CIRCULARS TO ALL AUTHORISED DEALERS FINANCIAL MARKETS PRICE TRANSPARENCY All Authorised Dealers are reminded that the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has permitted financial markets transactions to be conducted on a 'willing buyer willing seller' basis, and therefore expects prices to be quoted and displayed in a transparent manner.
The attention of the CBN has been drawn to the practice of Authorised Dealers (and their customers) in reporting inaccurate and misleading information on transactions concluded in the financial market. Ongoing investigations have revealed instances of under reporting of transaction rates and the practice of 'second cheques" on foreign exchange and fixed income transactions.
This behaviour is not compliant with the ethical standards associated with a sound financial market, and deliberate attempts to create price distortions by reporting false transaction details amounts to market manipulation which will not be tolerated and will henceforth face sanctions.
The CBN remains committed to a transparent and well-functioning financial market and enjoins all stakeholders to carry out their legitimate business in compliance with the rules and guidelines as published by the CBN. Signed Aliyu M. Ashiru
Ag. Director, Financial Markets Department