ESMA has issued a statement regarding the transition to a T+1 settlement cycle in EU financial markets, scheduled for October 11, 2027. The regulator emphasizes that 2026 is a crucial year for market participants to finalize their preparations for this change. Key milestones include a December 7, 2026, deadline for allocations and confirmations processes. Market participants are urged to test their own readiness and that of their entire trading and settlement ecosystem.