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Begin New Search Topic Economics Author Liliana Rojas-Suarez

11. Can International Capital Standards Strengthen Banks in Emerging Markets?

Author:
Liliana Rojas-Suarez
Publication Date:
11-2001
Content Type:
Working Paper
Institution:
Peterson Institute for International Economics
Abstract:
Who should determine banks' capital standards: authorities or markets? What is the right definition of core capital: equity only or equity plus subordinated debt? Can the assessment of banks' individual credit risks by external rating agencies be of equal or better quality than the assessments derived from banks' own internal rating systems? These are some of the key financial regulatory issues currently being discussed by analysts in industrial countries, especially in the context of the proposed modification to the Basel Capital Adequacy Accord: Basel II is expected to replace the original 1988 Accord.
Topic:
Economics, International Trade and Finance, and Political Economy

12. Rating Banks in Emerging Markets: What Credit Rating Agencies Should Learn From Financial Indicators

Author:
Liliana Rojas-Suarez
Publication Date:
05-2001
Content Type:
Working Paper
Institution:
Peterson Institute for International Economics
Abstract:
The rating agencies' and bank supervisors' records of prompt identification of banking problems in emerging markets has not been satisfactory. This paper suggests that such deficiencies could be explained by the use of financial indicators that, while appropriate for industrial countries, do not work in emerging markets. Among the conclusions, this paper shows that the most commonly used indicator of banking problems in industrial countries, the capital-to-asset ratio, has performed poorly as an indicator of banking problems in Latin America and East Asia. This is because of (a) severe deficiencies in the accounting and regulatory framework and (b) lack of liquid markets for bank shares, subordinated debt and other bank liabilities and assets needed to validate the “real” worth of a bank as opposed to its accounting value.
Topic:
Economics, International Trade and Finance, and Political Economy
Political Geography:
East Asia and Latin America