Regulation of Banking Activities in Moldova

Key Requirements for Opening a Bank in Moldova

To open a bank in Moldova, several key requirements must be met. These include:

Initial Capital Requirement

• The minimum initial capital requirement is MDL 100 million (approximately EUR 5 million).
• The share capital of the bank shall be exclusive of establishment costs.

Registration and Licensing

• The bank’s articles of association must be registered with the National Trade Registry.
• Additionally, the National Bank of Moldova (NBM) must be notified and register the bank.

Regulation of Bank Licensing

The National Bank of Moldova regulates bank licensing through the Banking Law and its implementing regulations. To obtain a banking license, an applicant must meet the following conditions:

Initial Capital Requirement

• The initial capital requirement is MDL 100 million (approximately EUR 5 million).

Own Funds and Risk Management

• The bank’s own funds must be at least equal to the required level for credit risk, operational risk, market risk, settlement/delivery risk, and foreign exchange risk.
• Banks are also subject to liquidity requirements, which include maintaining a minimum level of liquid assets that can be used to cover potential losses.

Role of the National Bank of Moldova

The National Bank of Moldova (NBM) plays a crucial role in regulating and supervising commercial banks operating in Moldova. The NBM is responsible for:

Licensing and Monitoring

• Licensing and monitoring banking activity.
• Ensuring compliance with banking laws, regulations, and international standards.

Regulation of Banking Activities

• Regulating banking activities, including lending practices, capital adequacy, liquidity management, and risk management.

Basel III Implementation

• Overseeing the implementation of Basel III requirements in Moldova.