Branch Offices of Credit Institutions: New Admission Policy Introduced
Introduction
The Central Bank of Aruba (CBA) has introduced a new admission policy for branch offices of credit institutions not established in Aruba. This policy aims to ensure the sound development of the banking industry and protect the interests of depositors.
Eligibility Criteria
According to the new policy, international banks with a balance sheet total of at least US$ 10 billion and an “A” rating from Standard & Poors or a comparable agency will be considered for a licence. Additionally, these banks must be subject to comprehensive and effective consolidated supervision by their home country supervisor(s).
Financial Requirements
Applicants must provide certified financial statements over the last three years to prove the financial soundness of their parent company. The CBA will assess the financial strength of the applicant based on:
- Capitalization
- Profitability
- Liquidity
Prohibition of Parallel-Owned Banking Structures
The policy prohibits the creation or expansion of parallel-owned banking structures, where banks operate in different jurisdictions but have the same beneficial owner(s) and often share common management and interlinked businesses.
Condition for Major Shareholders
Furthermore, the CBA has introduced a condition that requires credit institutions established in Aruba to have a major shareholder with solid financial strength and reputation subject to comprehensive and effective consolidated supervision by their home country supervisor(s).
Implementation Date and Grace Period
The new policy will enter into force as of January 1, 2018. Banks whose shareholders’ structure is not in compliance with the condition mentioned above are granted a grace period of one year to comply with the requirements.
Sale of Shares by Major Shareholders
In related news, the CBA has also announced that it will only approve the sale of shares by major shareholders of already licensed banks if the requirements regarding shareholder structure are met.
Contact Information
For more information on the new admission policy and its requirements, please contact the Central Bank of Aruba.