Commentary on Judgment No. 20949 of 2024: Consob Sanctions and the Retroactivity of Lex Mitior

The recent ruling of the Court of Cassation, with order No. 20949 of July 26, 2024, raises important questions regarding the nature of the sanctions imposed by Consob and their applicability in the context of the principle of retroactivity of lex mitior. This issue is crucial for those operating in the financial intermediation sector, as the distinction between administrative and punitive sanctions has a direct impact on the rights of the parties involved.

The Nature of Consob Sanctions

The Court clarified that the administrative pecuniary sanction imposed by Consob should not be considered exclusively as a means to restore the status quo ante or as a deterrent for the future. On the contrary, it has a punitive charge that brings it closer to a criminal sanction. This aspect is fundamental, as it implies that the guarantees provided by the Constitution and international human rights norms also apply in this context.

  • Main regulatory references: Legislative Decree No. 58 of 1998, art. 193-ter.
  • Application of Regulation (EU) No. 236 of 2012.
  • Principle of retroactivity of lex mitior.

The Principle of Retroactivity of Lex Mitior

A crucial point of the order concerns the retroactivity of lex mitior. According to the Court, punitive sanctions, such as those imposed by Consob, must comply with the principle of retroactivity in favor of the offender. This means that if a new norm is more favorable than the one applied at the time of the commission of the offense, the individual must benefit from the new regulation.

Consob sanctions under art. 193-ter of Legislative Decree No. 58 of 1998 - Nature - Applicability of the principle of retroactivity of lex mitior - Existence - Foundation. In the context of financial intermediation, the administrative pecuniary sanction imposed by CONSOB for violations of the provisions of Regulation (EU) No. 236 of 2012, pursuant to art. 193-ter of Legislative Decree No. 58 of 1998, is not exclusively administrative in nature as merely restorative of the status quo ante, nor simply preventive regarding the commission of new offenses, but, in relation to its high punitive charge exceeding the profit obtained by the offender, it is characterized as a punitive sanction comparable to that of a criminal nature, and as such, the guarantees that the Constitution and the international human rights system provide to criminal matters apply, including the retroactivity of lex mitior.

Conclusions

In conclusion, order No. 20949 of 2024 highlights fundamental aspects regarding the regulation of Consob sanctions. Its interpretation of the punitive nature of sanctions and the affirmation of the principle of retroactivity of lex mitior represent a step forward towards greater protection of the rights of those involved in financial intermediation. It is essential for operators in the sector to be aware of these provisions to ensure the correct application of current regulations.

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