Global Banking Update: Russia-Related Regulatory Actions and Strategic Developments
Claire Trythall
12,000+ Followers | LinkedIn Top Voice | Director, Global Banking Hub | BTRM Faculty
This week's banking news highlights significant regulatory actions and strategic milestones impacting major financial institutions across the globe. From Revolut's new UK banking licence to US banks' obligations under the REPO Act and the US Treasury's warning to Indian banks, these events reflect the dynamic and ever-evolving nature of the banking industry.
Revolut Secures UK Banking Licence After Three-Year Wait
Revolut has received a UK banking licence after a prolonged three-year application process, marking a significant milestone for the fintech company. This licence allows Revolut to hold customer deposits and offer loans, including mortgages, under its own brand. Although the Bank of England has granted tentative approval, Revolut is still in the mobilisation phase, where it must build up its banking operations to fully comply with regulatory requirements. This achievement sets the stage for a potential stock market listing and may influence regulators in other countries to grant similar approvals.
Four Major High Street Banks Found in Breach of CMA Rules
The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has found that HSBC, Lloyds, TSB, and Allied Irish Bank (AIB) breached the Retail Banking Market Investigation Order 2017. These banks failed to comply with rules requiring accurate information disclosure about their products and services. Notably, HSBC was directed to take additional corrective measures due to extensive breaches, including inaccuracies regarding branch statuses and incorrect information about business loans and overdrafts. The CMA has issued public letters to these banks and will continue to monitor compliance to ensure customers receive reliable information for their financial decisions.
US Banks to Report Russian Assets for Forfeiture Under New Law
Under the recently enacted REPO Act, the US Treasury Department has mandated that banks report their holdings of Russian assets, with the aim of eventually seizing and selling these assets to support Ukraine's economy. This requirement, which took effect on July 23, 2024, could involve up to $6 billion in Russian assets held by US banks. Banks must report these holdings to the Office of Foreign Assets Control by August 2, and any new Russian assets discovered thereafter must be reported within 10 days. This move is part of broader G7 efforts to address the economic fallout from Russia's war in Ukraine, which has caused extensive damage estimated at $486 billion.
US Treasury Warns India's Banks About Business with Russia
The US Treasury has cautioned Indian banks about the risks of engaging with Russia's military industrial base, warning that such activities could result in losing access to the US financial system. In a letter to the Indian Banks' Association, Deputy Treasury Secretary Wally Adeyemo highlighted concerns over transactions involving sensitive goods for the Russian military. This follows an executive order by President Biden authorising sanctions against foreign financial institutions involved with Russia's military. The letter underscores the US commitment to curtailing Russia's capacity to sustain its war in Ukraine through stringent financial and export controls.
These developments underscore the importance of regulatory compliance and strategic decision-making in the banking sector. Revolut's progress towards becoming a full-fledged bank, the CMA's enforcement actions, and the US Treasury's measures against Russian asset holdings and dealings with Indian banks highlight the global regulatory landscape's complexity. Financial institutions must navigate these challenges to maintain trust and stability in the global banking system.
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