Cryptocurrency Assets And Banks: Why EU Is Establishing Capital Requirements

Cryptocurrency is taking the European Union (EU) into uncharted territory as it introduces a groundbreaking bank capital policy that includes regulations specifically tailored for cryptocurrencies.

This policy has been meticulously crafted through collaborative efforts involving the European Parliament, Member-State governments, and the European Commission, reflecting a comprehensive approach to address the challenges and opportunities presented by the digital currency landscape.

A crucial aspect of this policy revolves around the endorsed incorporation of Basel III, an internationally recognized banking standard that was officially embraced by the European Parliament earlier this year.

Within the provisions of this policy, a significant guideline has been established, stating that financial institutions must allocate a risk weight to their exposures to crypto-assets when calculating their own funds requirements.

This progressive step taken by the EU underscores its proactive stance in adapting to the rapidly evolving digital currency market.

EU Sets Stringent Regulations For Cryptocurrency

Under the new bank capital policy of the EU, a significant development is the introduction of a risk weight of up to 1,250% for cryptocurrencies. This implies that banks would be required to possess more than one euro in capital for every unit of crypto assets of equivalent value.

Such a measure aims to establish a clear distinction among various categories of crypto-assets based on their risk profiles and specific compliance conditions. 

Furthermore, the policy outlines distinct capital and liquidity requirements for each category, enabling supervisors to effectively monitor exposure levels and calculate appropriate capital requirements. Additionally, the policy sets forth specific disclosure obligations.

As part of the negotiations, there is a concerted effort to establish a standardized “fit and proper” framework. This framework seeks to regulate the suitability of key function holders and members of the management body within financial institutions.

By implementing this framework, negotiators aim to ensure an organized and accountable structure within institutions, promoting transparency and effective risk management.

Positive Reception And Ensuring Resilience

The chair of the talks, Swedish Finance Minister Elisabeth Svantesson, hailed the proposed bank capital policy as a “major step forward” in an official statement. Svantesson emphasized that this agreement would play a vital role in enabling banks to continue their operations even in the face of external shocks, crises, or disasters. 

By setting stringent regulations for cryptocurrencies and enhancing risk management practices, the EU is reinforcing the resilience of its banking sector and paving the way for a more secure and stable financial landscape.

Featured image from Metaverse Post