New Zealand financial regulator CEO resigns amid workplace investigation

Samantha Barrass, CEO of New Zealand's Financial Markets Authority, has resigned while under investigation into her employment, with the probe now folded into a broader workplace inquiry. The FMA board lifted Barrass's suspension upon her resignation, which took effect immediately. Chairman James Miller confirmed she will participate in the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment investigation, but did not disclose departure terms or whether she received a payout. Barrass, appointed in November 2021, previously led UK and Gibraltar financial regulators and faced past conflict-of-interest and defamation issues. A source called planned farewell events a "sham," fearing the combined investigation reduces accountability.