In a recent economic note, researchers have analyzed shifts in the primary drivers of export and import volumes. The study utilized an error correction model to assess changes in elasticities over time.
The National Treasury Employees Union (NTEU) has expressed concerns over the Office of Personnel Management's (OPM) proposed directive, known as Directive-BA 200. The union believes that this directive could negatively impact federal employees' rights and working conditions.
Elevated commodity prices have played a crucial role in mitigating structural challenges within the South African economy. From mid-2020 to late 2022, key export commodities such as rhodium, palladium, thermal coal, and iron ore experienced significant price increases. These surges helped maintain the South African Reserve Bank (SARB) Index of Commodity Prices (ICP) at high levels.
The Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) has announced a proposed rule that aims to improve the capital planning practices of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. This proposal, known as the Enterprise Capital Planning Rule, is designed to ensure these entities are well-prepared for financial challenges.
South African Reserve Bank Economic Notes are concise analyses crafted for internal discussion and to foster debate. These notes are authored by staff members of the South African Reserve Bank or visiting fellows and are occasionally made available to the public.
The South African Reserve Bank's (SARB) Monetary Policy Committee announced a shift in its preferred inflation target in July 2017. Before the third quarter of 2017, the committee maintained an inflation targeting range of 3–6%. However, from that point onward, the focus shifted to the midpoint of this range, setting 4.5% as the preferred target.
The latest Composite Business Cycle Indicators report for April 2024 has been released. According to the data, there are no significant changes from previous months.
The Monetary Policy Review for April 2024 has been released. The document outlines the current economic conditions and the measures being taken to address them.
The U.S. Department of the Treasury has announced a proposed directive regarding Form BA 400, aimed at enhancing transparency and efficiency in financial reporting. This proposal seeks to update the current regulations governing the submission of this form.
In 2013, South Africa aligned its bank regulatory framework with the Basel III accord. This move introduced capital and liquidity adequacy requirements to manage the financial cycle through macroprudential policy. The regulations aim to enhance banking system resilience but may also alter lending behaviors, impacting loan availability and terms for specific credit market segments. This issue is particularly relevant in emerging markets like South Africa, where market segmentation and inequality are pronounced.
The South African Reserve Bank (SARB) has announced a proposed guidance note on Form BA 400. The aim is to enhance the accuracy and reliability of data reported by banks.
The Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) has issued a proposed guidance note on bank capital adequacy. The guidance, identified as BA410 and BA420, aims to provide clarity on the application of prudential standards for banks in Australia.
The South African Reserve Bank (SARB) has published the Digital Payments Roadmap. This roadmap aims to achieve the goals and strategies outlined in the National Payment System Framework and Strategy: Vision 2025. The objectives include promoting competition and innovation, ensuring cost-effectiveness, enhancing interoperability, and advancing financial inclusion.
The European Commission has proposed a directive aimed at establishing minimum regulatory requirements for mutual banks concerning covered deposits. The directive is part of a broader effort to enhance the stability and resilience of the banking sector within the European Union.
The European Banking Authority (EBA) has announced the launch of a public consultation on its draft Guidelines regarding minimum regulatory requirements relating to covered deposits. This initiative is part of the EBA's ongoing efforts to ensure harmonization across the EU in the application of these requirements.