BoM Updates Guideline for Write-Off of Non-Performing Assets
BoM updated the guideline for write-off of non-performing assets for banks and non-bank deposit-taking institutions in Mauritius. In the initial release of the guideline on November 14, 2019, it was mentioned that, from July 01, 2019, the scope of application of the guideline will be extended to include non-bank deposit-taking institutions. The updated guideline applies to both banks and non-bank deposit-taking institutions that are licensed under the Banking Act 2004. Non-bank deposit-taking institutions will be given a timeframe of one year, as from July 01, 2019, to be in full compliance with the guideline.
The guideline aims to provide a broad framework for the write-off of non-performing assets on the books of financial institutions if the prospects of recovery are weak. It also introduces an element of prudence by requiring financial institutions to write-off non-performing assets in a timely manner. The guideline requires all banks and non-bank deposit taking institutions to have a board-approved policy with respect to write-off of non-performing assets. It further enunciates the broad write-off principles while emphasizing that a write-off by a financial institution does not signify the forfeiture of its legal right to claim its dues. The guideline requires that the write-off policy should set forth suitable time periods for the write-off of different categories of non-performing assets, based on the individual recovery experience of a financial institution. However, the maximum time for the full write-off of exposures toward corporate and retail (including mortgages) should not exceed 7 years and 5 years, respectively.
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Effective Date: July 01, 2019 (Non-Bank Deposit Takers)
Keywords: Middle East and Africa, Mauritius, Banking, Non-Bank Deposit-Taking Institutions, Credit Risk, NPLs, NPA, BoM
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