Autoriteit Financiele Markten

About

Consumers, businesses, and the government rely on the financial markets for crucial activities such as saving, investing, borrowing, and insuring. These stakeholders face potential challenges like opaque financial products, unfair market practices, and the risks associated with market volatility or misconduct. The Netherlands Authority for the Financial Markets (AFM) was established to address these concerns directly. Our primary role is to ensure these markets operate with integrity and transparency. We understand that confidence in the financial system is paramount for economic stability and individual financial well-being. That's why the AFM is dedicated to supervising the conduct of the entire financial market sector, encompassing savings, investments, insurance, loans, pensions, capital markets, asset management, accountancy, and financial reporting. We strive to protect consumers and investors from harm and ensure they are treated fairly by financial institutions. To achieve our mission of fostering fair and transparent financial markets, the AFM employs a comprehensive approach. We actively monitor market participants to ensure compliance with regulations, investigate potential misconduct, and have the authority to enforce corrective measures and sanctions when breaches occur. This includes issuing instructions, public warnings, or even imposing fines. Our customers, the Dutch public and business sector, benefit from our commitment to sustainable financial well-being in the Netherlands. We conduct thorough analyses of market trends and risks, including those emerging from digitalisation and the increasing importance of sustainability. By setting clear standards and providing guidance, we empower financial institutions to operate responsibly and help consumers make informed financial decisions. As an independent market conduct authority, we work in conjunction with De Nederlandsche Bank and international regulatory bodies to maintain the stability and integrity of the financial system, ensuring it serves the needs of society effectively and reliably.