FINMA performs its supervisory activities for the benefit of the Swiss financial centre, as well as investors, creditors and insured persons.

The primary objective of financial market supervision is to ensure the proper functioning of the financial markets and to protect clients as a group against insolvency.

Economic activity of a free target-oriented zone in Dubai is regulated by the DFSA.

Management of resources and securities, execution of banking and trust services, Islamic finance, exchange of international equities and derivatives, as well as insurance matters fall within the competence of the DFSA.

Activity of DFSA is based on a principle of risk-related regulation and avoidance of unnecessary regulatory implications. Besides, the agency made it clear that the obligations liable to fulfillment should comply with optimization of risks in order for such obligations to be successfully met.

Under the circumstances, the priorities include generation of a cycle of risk optimization that aims at identification, evaluation and assessment of risks in order to enhance local and international markets and their patterns.

According to DFSA, the reality of efficient risk-based regulation is more important than the way of its achievement.

MFSA is the single regulator for financial services activities in Malta. It regulates and supervises credit and financial institutions, investment, trust and insurance business and also houses the country's Companies Registry.

The MFSA issues guidance notes, monitors local and international developments, works with relevant parties on legislative matters, and plays a major role in training. It encourages high standards of compliance and runs a consumer complaints unit.