SFMA in brief

SFMA protects creditors, investors and policyholders and helps financial markets function properly. Its protection is collective: private claims remain a matter for the courts.

What SFMA supervises

SFMA supervises banks, insurers, securities firms, financial market infrastructures, asset-management institutions and other regulated providers. It checks whether supervised institutions meet legal requirements, have suitable organisation and controls, and continue to comply with their duties after authorisation.

What SFMA can do

When there are concrete indications of a breach of financial-market law, SFMA can clarify the facts and order measures to restore compliance. Depending on the case, measures can include restrictions, organisational changes, enforcement proceedings or withdrawal of authorisation.

What SFMA cannot do

SFMA does not represent individual clients in private disputes, award damages, enforce contract claims or replace criminal prosecution authorities. Individual claims against a financial service provider usually have to be pursued through the provider itself, an ombuds office, arbitration or the civil courts.

Why reports matter

Information from clients, investors and policyholders can help SFMA recognise patterns of misconduct. Even where SFMA cannot disclose the outcome of supervisory checks, well-documented reports can contribute to market oversight.