Insights
BCLP’s Christine Graham featured in Asset Servicing Times: Expanding FDI Regulations are Reshaping Asset Servicing
Aug 13, 2026Summary
Building on her earlier comments regarding the proliferation of global investment screening regimes from Asset Times’ previous issue, Christine highlighted how FDI reviews have evolved from a relatively peripheral regulatory consideration into a fundamental deal-risk factor influencing the structuring, timing, and execution of cross-border transactions. She noted that many jurisdictions now capture minority investments at significantly lower thresholds than in the past, resulting in investors undertaking FDI risk assessments much earlier in the transaction lifecycle.
Commenting on the practical implications for investors, Christine explained that while statutory review periods can appear manageable, securing approvals across multiple jurisdictions often adds considerable complexity and delay to transactions:
Christine also observed that investors are increasingly seeking contractual protections to manage regulatory uncertainty, particularly where target businesses operate in sensitive sectors or undertake activities likely to attract heightened scrutiny from regulators. Christine further explained that FDI compliance is no longer limited to obtaining clearance before completion, with some authorities imposing ongoing monitoring requirements that continue well beyond the initial investment.
Looking ahead, Christine suggested that growing national security concerns and geopolitical tensions are elevating the role of custodians from back-office service providers to strategically important participants within the global financial system. As governments place greater emphasis on economic security, ownership transparency, and supply chain resilience, regulatory scrutiny is expected to continue intensifying across custody networks and cross-border investment structures.
“Expanding FDI regulations are reshaping asset servicing” is found on pages 50-54.
If you have any queries relating to FDI screening regimes and their impact on your transaction, please contact Christine Graham.
Related Capabilities
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Foreign Direct Investment
