Central Bank of Russia proposes new methodology for identifying systemically important banks, to revise list in 2027

MOSCOW. May 22 (Interfax) - The Central Bank of Russia is proposing a new methodology for identifying systemically important banks (SIBs), categorizing them into five groups, with different systemic importance surcharges applied depending on the group, according to a consultation paper published by the Central Bank.

"The current surcharge is the same for all SIBs, which implies an equal contribution to systemic risk. However, Russian banks vary significantly - in terms of size and asset structure, business models, client base, regional presence and other factors. To avoid systemic risks, it is necessary, first, to differentiate SIBs from each other, and second, to set higher surcharges for more significant organizations. Such banks should have a greater buffer in the event of stress," the CBR said.

Among the shortcomings of the current methodology, the CBR said that the data (not the most up-to-date) is calculated on a solo basis, only the total size of assets and household deposits is considered (a significant portion of funding is overlooked), the client base is not accounted for, nor are investments in ecosystems.

To collect information on non-financial companies (including ecosystem entities) within the scope of a banking group, the CBR plans to introduce a new reporting form. It is expected to include both quantitative and qualitative performance indicators of non-financial companies. This report will be compiled by banks with assets exceeding 300 billion rubles. In addition, an expanded methodology for assessing the significance of ecosystem companies will be developed.

The new methodology will consist of two blocks of systemic importance assessment. Ultimately, the regulator will rank banks into five groups. Preliminary calculations suggest that surcharges for the first group will be 2.5%, the second group - 2%, the third - 1.5%, the fourth - 1% and the fifth - 0.5%.

The Central Bank plans to gradually introduce differentiated surcharges for SIBs starting in 2028.

The first revision of the SIB list under the new methodology is planned for 2027.

In 2025, the Central Bank intends to assess the feasibility of differentiated regulation for other ratios and requirements, develop changes to the law, instruction no. 199-I and other regulatory acts, and prepare reporting adjustments. The CBR expects relevant legislative amendments and reporting changes to be introduced in 2026.