Bolivia Adopts New Financial Compliance Regulations for Green, Social, and Sustainable Bonds
La Paz, Bolivia - The Bolivian government has taken a significant step towards promoting transparency and integrity in the country’s financial market with the approval of new regulations governing the issuance of green, social, and sustainable bonds.
A Framework for Registration, Authorization, and Trading
The modifications to the Regulation of the Registry of the Stock Market and Related Regulations, announced by the Financial System Supervisory Authority (ASFI) through Circular 749/2022, aim to create a framework for the registration, authorization, and trading of these debt instruments in the Bolivian stock market.
Defining Green, Social, and Sustainable Bonds
- Green Bonds: fixed-income securities used exclusively to finance or refinance projects that seek specific environmental benefits.
- Social Bonds: debt obligations contracted by an issuing entity to finance or refinance projects that address or mitigate social problems.
- Sustainable Bonds: combine elements of both green and social bonds.
Disclosure Requirements
According to the regulations, issuers of these bonds must disclose detailed information about the destination of the funds, including: + Categories of eligible projects + Refinancing of specific projects + Environmental and/or social benefits
The regulations also establish a list of eligible projects, including:
- Renewable energy
- Sustainable management of natural resources
- Biodiversity conservation
- And more
Expected Outcomes
The new regulations are expected to: + Promote investment in socially responsible projects + Boost transparency + Increase confidence among local and foreign investors
Oversight and Enforcement
ASFI has oversight and control over the implementation of these regulations, ensuring that they are strictly enforced.
Contact Information
For more information on the new regulations, please contact Counselor Carla Arellano at Ferrere law firm at carellano@ferrere.com.