Mongolia’s Financial Sector Seeks to Improve Compliance Standards
Strengthening Financial Stability
The Mongolian financial sector, which has faced numerous crises in the past, is working to strengthen its compliance standards and improve overall stability. The country’s banking sector, which dominates the financial landscape, underwent significant restructuring following a severe crisis in the late 1990s.
Challenges Facing the Banking Sector
According to a recent report by Resource Investment Capital, as of January 2011, the Mongolian banking sector faces several challenges:
- Non-performing loans remain high, with arrears in principals accounting for 17% of total outstanding loans.
- Real interest rates have plummeted, resulting in negative returns on depository accounts due to inflationary pressure.
Efforts to Improve Financial Stability and Supervision
Despite these challenges, the country’s authorities are working to improve financial stability and supervision. The Bank of Mongolia, Financial Stability Council, and Financial Regulatory Commission are responsible for ensuring compliance with prudential regulations and promoting sound bank management practices.
The Supervision Department has implemented several initiatives aimed at reducing financial risks and improving risk capacity, including:
- Consolidating supervision arrangements
- Conducting information technology inspections
- Monitoring proper management practices
- Amending supervisory regulations
Improving Deposit Guarantee Law
In addition to these efforts, the country is working to improve its Deposit Guarantee Law. The law, which was amended recently, no longer provides unlimited guarantees for deposits.
Prioritizing International Standards
The Mongolian financial sector’s ability to comply with international standards is a major priority in the coming years. As the economy continues to grow and demand for credit increases, it is essential that the sector maintains high levels of compliance to ensure stability and confidence among investors.
Regulatory Requirements
The Bank of Mongolia has set a minimum capital requirement of MNT 8 billion ($6.4 million) for commercial banks, while non-bank financial institutions (NBFI) are required to meet specific prudential regulations.
Improving Financial Discipline
In an effort to improve financial discipline, the country’s authorities have implemented measures to strengthen market incentives and promote sound bank management practices, including:
- Improving the Bank of Mongolia’s ability to enforce compliance with prudential regulations
- Enhancing risk-based supervision
Progress and Challenges Ahead
The Mongolian financial sector has made significant progress in recent years, but challenges remain. The country’s authorities are committed to ensuring that the sector maintains high levels of compliance to support economic growth and stability.