EU Regulation 596/2014, the Market Abuse Regulation (MAR), is a complex legal framework that demands substantial resources from the companies being regulated. Below is a condensed 7-bullet checklist covering some of the most important obligations to be fulfilled to ensure MAR compliance. This checklist is applicable whether your MAR processes are managed manually (e.g., through spreadsheets) or via a qualified service for more efficient handling.
1. Document Your Decisions on Inside Information
Create a process for determining what constitutes inside information and how to document justifications for delaying disclosure.
2. All Versions Should Be Retrievable in a Digital Format
Ensure you can manage the insider list digitally and that all versions are readily available upon request from the National Competent Authority (NCA).
3. Gather Personal Information
Establish routines for collecting personal information of insiders to keep the insider list up to date.
4. Remind and Chase Insiders
Develop methods to remind insiders who have not confirmed their obligations and document all confirmations to present to the NCA if required.
5. Handle Personal Data Correctly
Ensure that all personal data collected for the insider list is treated with confidentiality, kept secure, and protected from undue disclosure.
6. Archive for 5 Years
Archive the insider list in a digital format for 5 years, including all versions, justifications, and confirmations from insiders.
7. Maintain 2 Separate Lists
In addition to the insider list, maintain an up-to-date list of Persons Discharging Managerial Responsibilities (PDMRs) and their Persons Closely Associated (PCAs).
What Happens if You Fail to Comply?
In most cases, there will be no immediate consequences. NCAs do not constantly monitor all companies regulated under MAR, but they may investigate specific cases. During an investigation, an NCA would detect any inadequacies, assess the extent of the violation, and decide on appropriate sanctions. MAR sanctions are designed to act as a strict deterrent, and any sanctions imposed are made public to have further discouraging effects – see the MAR sanctions summary.
Important Internet sources
MAR contains the current legal obligations for management of the insider list and the list for PDMRs, as well as the applicable sanctions:
https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX%3A32014R0596
ESMA MAR guidelines clarifies certain interpretations of MAR:
https://www.esma.europa.eu/document/mar-guidelines-delay-in-disclosure-inside-information
FSMA vs Nyrstar: what the ruling means for delayed disclosure and insider lists
European market-abuse enforcement does not happen in isolation. Although MAR applies directly in every EU member state, day-to-day expectations are shaped by how regulators interpret and apply it in real cases. Court […]
FSMA vs Nyrstar: what the ruling means for delayed disclosure and insider lists
European market-abuse enforcement does not happen in isolation. Although MAR applies directly in every EU member state, day-to-day expectations are shaped by how regulators interpret and apply it in real cases. Court […]
The Essential Guide to Writing and Enforcing a Code of Conduct
Every successful organisation needs a strong code of conduct to set the tone for ethical behaviour and guide employees in their daily decisions. A well-crafted code of conduct isn’t just a document […]
Code of Conduct vs. Code of Ethics: What’s the Difference and Why It Matters
When organisations embark on creating policies for ethical conduct, two terms often emerge: code of conduct and code of ethics. These phrases are sometimes used interchangeably, which can cause confusion. In this […]
Conflict of Interest Explained: Types, Policies, and Real Examples
Learn how to identify and manage conflicts of interest using effective policies and compliance tools to prevent risk and ensure accountability.
