NASSAU, BAHAMAS: The Securities Commission of The Bahamas referred two matters for criminal prosecution, concluded 23 investigations, and levied $142,650 in civil penalties during 2025 as part of its ongoing efforts to strengthen regulatory compliance and protect investors in the country’s financial services sector.
According to the Commission’s 2025 Enforcement Report, the Enforcement Department also issued five warning notices and had 20 ongoing enforcement matters at the close of the reporting period, reflecting continued oversight of regulated entities and individuals operating within the jurisdiction.
The $142,650 in civil penalties imposed during 2025 related entirely to anti-money laundering and counter-financing of terrorism (AML/CFT) enforcement actions. By comparison, the Commission reported $222.2 million in total civil penalties in 2024, largely driven by the previously disclosed $221.5 million penalty imposed on FTX Digital Markets Ltd. under the Digital Assets and Registered Exchanges (DARE) Act.
The Commission said the FTX enforcement matter was resolved through a settlement agreement. However, because the company entered the winding-up process, payment of the penalty was subordinated to prioritize the distribution of client funds. The Commission said the approach underscored its commitment to protecting clients’ interests while continuing to enforce compliance within the digital assets sector.
The report also highlighted the successful completion of another settlement involving a licensee regulated under the Financial and Corporate Service Providers Act, 2020 (FCSPA). That matter was negotiated in 2024, avoiding prolonged litigation, and the licensee fulfilled its payment obligations in early 2025, demonstrating cooperation with the Commission and a commitment to regulatory compliance.
In addition to its enforcement work, the Commission continued to expand its investor protection initiatives through public education.
The Enforcement Department delivered fraud and scam prevention presentations aimed at helping members of the public recognize and avoid fraudulent schemes. These efforts were supported by the Commission’s Scam Proof Toolkit, which provides practical guidance on identifying warning signs, understanding common scams and taking appropriate action to avoid becoming victims of financial fraud.
The Commission also strengthened collaboration with other government agencies during the year, partnering with the Royal Bahamas Police Force, the Financial Intelligence Unit and the Department of Inland Revenue to host an interactive workshop on key provisions of the Financial and Corporate Service Providers Act.
As part of World Investor Week 2025, the Enforcement Department participated in the “Watch Ya Money” fraud and scams awareness campaign, making five radio appearances to promote safe investing practices and raise awareness of investment fraud.
The report underscores the Commission’s continued emphasis on enforcement, interagency collaboration and investor education as it works to uphold the integrity of The Bahamas’ financial services sector through investigations, regulatory action and public outreach.
