Global Financial Stability at Risk: FSB Sounds the Alarm
The global financial landscape is undergoing a significant shift, with non-bank financial intermediaries now holding almost half of global financial assets. This rapid growth, which has seen the sector expand by 130% between 2009 and 2023, has introduced new complexities and vulnerabilities into the system.
A Growing Threat to Financial Stability
The Financial Stability Board (FSB), the G20’s financial risk watchdog, warns that this growth has increased the risk of stress events in the financial system. “If not properly managed, the complexity and interconnectedness of the financial system can pose substantial risks to financial stability,” cautions FSB Secretary General John Schindler.
Enhancing Oversight and Regulation
To mitigate these risks, the FSB has proposed a series of recommendations for governments and institutions. These include the creation of domestic frameworks to identify and monitor financial stability risks related to non-bank leverage, as well as the selection and implementation of policy measures to address identified risks.
Strengthening Counterparty Credit Risk Management
The FSB also emphasizes the importance of timely and thorough implementation of the Basel Committee on Banking Supervision’s revised guidelines on counterparty credit risk management. This will help ensure that non-bank financial intermediaries are adequately managing their credit risks.
Improving Disclosure and Regulatory Consistency
Furthermore, the FSB recommends enhancing private disclosure practices in the non-bank sector and addressing regulatory inconsistencies by adopting the principle of “same risk, same regulatory treatment.” This will promote greater transparency and consistency in the regulation of non-bank financial intermediaries.
Cross-Border Cooperation is Key
Finally, the FSB stresses the need for improved cross-border cooperation and collaboration to address the global nature of financial stability risks. By working together, governments and institutions can better identify and mitigate risks, ensuring a more stable financial system.
A Call to Action
The FSB is inviting comments from member governments and institutions on its policy recommendations, with a final report planned for release in mid-2025. As the global financial system continues to evolve, it is essential that policymakers and regulators take proactive steps to address the growing risks posed by non-bank financial intermediaries.
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