The Financial Markets Authority (FMA) has identified operational resilience and cyber risks as key priorities in its 2026 action plan. It said financial firms must be better prepared to confront rapidly evolving digital threats, especially those linked to artificial intelligence.
The Arab Monetary Fund warns that artificial intelligence is accelerating cyber threats
The regulator warned that new AI models could speed up the discovery of system vulnerabilities and make cyberattacks more efficient. She added that AI tools may also contribute to the “manufacturing of malicious campaigns.” Meanwhile, the report noted that AI can improve detection and response capabilities, but stressed that companies must adapt their risk management frameworks accordingly.
The AMF said it would remain active in international coordination through the International Organization of Securities Commissions (IOSCO), the Financial Stability Board, the European Systemic Risk Board, and the G7 Cyber Expert Group. She also co-chairs the Financial Stability Engagement Group of the International Organization of Securities Commissions (IOSCO) with the UK Financial Conduct Authority.
Regarding supervision, the AMF enforces the Digital Operational Resilience Law, in effect since January 2025. The regulation sets requirements for cyber risk management, incident reporting, resilience testing, and third-party oversight.
Companies face more stringent controls in the field of artificial intelligence
The Arab Monetary Fund will later publish its own assessment focusing on companies subject to French supervision, highlighting key lessons and areas for improvement.
In 2026, the regulator will expand outreach and monitoring, including a webinar on July 1 and a survey on how companies manage cyber risks related to artificial intelligence. Results are expected in the fall.
And it will continue too
Cyber security Inspections covering data protection, incident response, and resilience controls, with a focus on AI-driven threats.
The Arab Monetary Fund urged senior management to ensure that cyber risks are properly identified, monitored and tested. It recommended alignment with ANSSI best practices, DORA requirements and European supervisory guidelines.
Key measures include maintaining inventory of critical systems, enhanced encryption, faster patching, regular backups, employee training, incident testing, technical auditing, crisis simulation, and incorporating AI-related scenarios into cyber risk planning.
The European Union reports on rising cross-border ICT risks
At the same time, European supervisory authorities published The first annual overview of major ICT-related events Under the Digital Operational Resilience Act. Issued by EBA and EIOPA Emirates Authority for Standardization and MetrologyThe report recorded 3,383 incidents, about a third of which showed a cross-border impact.
She said ICT risks were becoming increasingly “borderless and interconnected” due to shared infrastructure and outsourcing. Cybersecurity incidents accounted for about 10% of cases. Authorities also noted that AI-driven tools could increase future operational risks in financial systems.
This article was written by Tariq Sikdar at www.financemagnates.com.
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