As you are aware, the outbreak of the COVID-19 (Corona Virus) epidemic has continued to disrupt doing business even in the financial markets worldwide. H. E the President has issued directives to supplement the Ministry of Health guidelines and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and all these efforts remain very vital in curtailing the spread of the virus. We urge all capital markets stakeholders to adhere to the directives, guidelines and SOPs issued to avoid further spread of this deadly disease.
During this period, the Capital Markets Authority (CMA) is focused on;
- Ensuring continuity of critical operations of the market;
- Monitoring market activity to ensure investor protection; and
- Providing appropriate regulatory guidance to intermediaries.
In furtherance of its mandate, the Authority therefore issues this advisory in view of COVID-19 and its attendant effects on capital markets operations. This advisory contains measures to be adopted during this period to ensure business continuity:
1. Applications for Renewal/ new Licenses/ Approvals
Applications for renewal of licenses should be made electronically through the email address: ms@cmauganda.co.ug
Applications for new licenses and/or approvals may also be submitted through the above email. However, please note that the Authority will not be in position to process the aspects of the applications which involve physical verification visits and meetings.
2. Filing of Regulatory Returns
All regulatory returns (e.g. Net Capital returns)shall be filed electronically through the email address: ms@cmauganda.co.ug. Market participants who are not able to submit their returns within the stipulated timelines should endeavor to seek extension before the expiry of the stipulated timelines.
3. Communications and meetings
Communications between the Authority and market participants will go on electronically through the various emails of the Authority staff. General correspondences should continue to be addressed to info@cmauganda.co.ug
Meetings, if necessary, will be held using the various digital platforms that will be agreed on between the Authority staff and responsible market participants.
4. Inspections
The Authority will not conduct any on-site inspections until the health guidelines issued permit so.
5. Complaints Handling
Complaints should continue to be submitted to the Authority through the following emails: ms@cmauganda.co.ug OR ceo-office@cmauganda.co.ug
Please note that the foregoing measures are not exhaustive, but rather represent an outline of immediate actions to sustain the actualization of our regulatory mandate as we maintain the integrity of the Ugandan Capital Markets during this period. The Authority will continue to work closely with other financial sector regulators and relevant government authorities and update stakeholders accordingly.
Ends…..
For any further clarification or general inquiry, please contact us through:
Emails: info@cmauganda.co.ug OR ceo-office@cmauganda.co.ug
Mobile No: +256-712-353339
Twitter: @CmaUganda
Facebook: CMA Uganda
LinkedIn: Capital Markets Authority – Uganda