AFSA and Hanfa sign Memorandum of Understanding to strengthen regulatory cooperation

On September 9, the Astana Financial Services Authority (AFSA) and the Croatian Financial Services Supervisory Agency (Hanfa) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen regulatory cooperation and further develop the partnership between the two authorities. The MoU was signed during Astana Finance Days 2026 by Evgeniya Bogdanova, Chief Executive Officer of AFSA, and Jurica Jednačak, Member of the Board of Hanfa. 

The agreement establishes a broader framework for cooperation between AFSA and Hanfa, including the exchange of information and regulatory experience, consultations on matters of mutual interest, and cooperation in areas related to the regulation and supervision of financial markets. It also provides opportunities for knowledge sharing and closer engagement between the two authorities. 

The new MoU builds on the established cooperation between AFSA and HANFA and reflects the authorities’ shared commitment to effective cross-border regulatory cooperation, high standards of financial supervision, market integrity, and investor protection. 

Evgeniya Bogdanova, Chief Executive Officer of AFSA, commented: “Financial markets operate beyond geographical boundaries, and addressing emerging risks requires close cooperation among regulators. Our partnership with HANFA provides a strong foundation for the exchange of regulatory expertise, enhanced cross-border supervisory cooperation, and the sharing of best practices. AFSA remains committed to strengthening its international regulatory partnerships to promote market integrity, reinforce investor protection, and foster confidence in our markets.” 

Jurica Jednačak, Member of the Board of Hanfa, commented: “In an increasingly interconnected financial environment, international cooperation among regulatory authorities plays a vital role in addressing common challenges and supporting the stability and integrity of financial markets. This Memorandum establishes a valuable framework for cooperation between Hanfa and AFSA, enabling the exchange of knowledge, regulatory expertise and supervisory best practices. Its signing marks a step in the development of a constructive relationship that will contribute to high regulatory standards, effective supervision and the protection of investors’ interests.” 

The signing took place at the Astana International Financial Centre during the Astana Finance Days 2026, the AIFC’s flagship annual financial forum bringing together regulators, policymakers, financial institutions, and industry representatives from Kazakhstan and international markets. 

Reference: 

The Astana Financial Services Authority (AFSA) is the independent regulator of the Astana International Financial Centre (AIFC), established in accordance with the Constitutional Law of the Republic of Kazakhstan “On the Astana International Financial Centre” for the purposes of regulating financial services and related activities in the AIFC. AFSA administers the AIFC Regulations and Rules and is responsible for the authorisation, registration, recognition, and supervision of financial firms and market institutions in the AIFC. afsa.kz 

The Astana International Financial Centre (AIFC) is an independent jurisdiction where investors and businesses meet emerging opportunities of Kazakhstan and Central Asia in a transparent and sustainable environment backed by the principles of English Common Law. aifc.kz 

Public Relations and Communications Division of AFSA, [email protected]