A selection of what could happen during 2026 in the field of European Union competition law is summarised in this insight. Read more.
EU, Competition & ProcurementOn 20 January 2026, Ireland’s Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) announced that it is investigating suspected anticompetitive behaviour in the small/household electric appliances sector in Ireland.
EU, Competition & ProcurementOn 12 January 2026, the Central Bank of Ireland published the findings of a thematic assessment of operational resilience in the MiFID investment firm sector, focusing in particular on firms’ implementation of the Central Bank’s Cross Industry Guidance on Operational Resilience.
Financial Regulation AdvisoryFollowing a public consultation in 2025, Ireland’s Department of Finance has published the decisions of the Minister for Finance in relation to the national discretions in Directive 2024/1619 (CRD 6), which amended Directive 2013/36/EU (CRD 4).
Financial Regulation AdvisoryDomestically, the CBI publishes roadmap to deliver a more effective and efficient domestic regulatory framework. At European level, the European Commission launches package to fully integrate EU financial markets.
Financial Regulation AdvisoryAt European level, ESMA announces launch of common supervisory action with NCAs on conflicts of interest in the distribution of financial instruments and finalises technical standards on derivative transparency and OTC derivatives tape.
Asset Management & Investment FundsDomestically, the CBI issues final quarterly insurance newsletter of 2025. At European level, EIOPA proposal for natural catastrophe risk prevention tool.
FinanceAt European level, revised guidelines on LMTs under AIFMD and UCITS Directive and new UCITS and AIFMD Q&As.
Asset Management & Investment FundsDomestically, the CBI issues first edition of Payment and E-Money Newsletter. At European level, the EBA consults on amendments to RTS on prudential requirements and follows up on review on authorisation of payment and e-money institutions.
FinanceA High Court ruling confirms that “Smash and Grab” adjudications don’t apply under Ireland’s Construction Contracts Act 2013. Payees must prove entitlement on the merits, even where payment claim notices go unanswered, reshaping adjudication strategy.
ConstructionNew minimum standards for pension schemes to qualify as exempt from MyFutureFund take effect 1 Jan 2026. Many existing plans will qualify, but employers with low or basic‑pay‑only contributions may need updates. NAERSA will focus on support over penalties.
Pensions & IncentivesThe Guidelines provide greater clarity for companies operating, investing or bidding for public contracts in the EU who are in receipt of support from non EU countries.
EU, Competition & Procurement
