APRA is reviewing its licensing approach for authorised deposit-taking institutions (ADIs). They propose new entrants could gain an interim licence and operate on a conditional basis for a period before transitioning to a full licence, with a view to increasing competition in the banking sector.
The discussion paper seeks views on the proposed amendments to introduce a phased approach to authorisation, designed to make it easier for applicants to navigate the ADI licensing process.
The phased approach is intended to support increased competition in the banking sector by reducing barriers to new entrants being authorised to conduct banking business, including those with innovative or otherwise non-traditional business models or those leveraging greater use of technology. In particular, the purpose of the Restricted ADI licence is to allow applicants to obtain a licence to begin limited operations while still developing the full range of resources and capabilities necessary to meet the prudential framework.
An overview of the phased approach is depicted below.
In facilitating a phased approach, APRA still needs to ensure community confidence that deposits with all ADIs are adequately safeguarded, and that any new approach does not create competitive advantages for new entrants over incumbents, or compromise financial stability. Therefore, reflecting their relative infancy, Restricted ADIs will be strictly limited in their activity and would not be expected to be actively conducting banking business during the restricted period.
The Restricted ADI licence will be subject to certain eligibility requirements and a maximum period after which they are expected to transition to an ADI and fully comply with the prudential framework or exit the industry.
APRA invites written submissions from all interested parties on its proposals for the phased approach to licensing new entrants to the banking sector.
Submissions close on 30 November 2017.
Submissions are welcome on all aspects of the proposals. In addition, specific areas where feedback on the proposed direction would be of assistance to APRA in finalising its proposals are outlined below.
Introduction of phased approach for ADIs Should APRA establish a phased approach to licensing applicants in the banking industry? Balance of APRA‘s mandate Do the proposals strike an appropriate balance between financial safety and considerations such as those relating to efficiency, competition, contestability and competitive neutrality? Eligibility Are the proposed eligibility criteria appropriate for new entrants to the banking industry under a Restricted ADI licence? Restricted ADI Licence phase Is two years an appropriate time for an ADI to be allowed to operate in a restricted fashion without fully meeting the prudential framework? Is two years a sufficient period of time for a Restricted ADI to demonstrate it fully meets the prudential framework? Minimum requirements Are the proposed minimum requirements appropriate for potential new entrants to the banking industry? Are there alternative requirements APRA should consider? Licence restrictions Are the proposed licence restrictions appropriate for an ADI on a Restricted ADI licence? Are there alternative or other restrictions APRA should consider? Financial Claims Scheme Are the proposals appropriate in the context of the last resort protection afforded to depositors under the Financial Claims Scheme? Further refinement Are there other refinements to the licensing process APRA should consider? During the consultation process APRA may also look to arrange discussions of these proposals with interested parties
