COLOMBO: The Central Bank of Sri Lanka announced that it has increased the minimum capital requirements for licensed commercial banks (LCBs) and licensed specialized banks (LSBs) in order to ensure a stronger and dynamic banking sector. The capital considered for this purpose is largely represented by high quality capital, which has higher loss absorbing capacity, the Bank said in a statement.
Enhancing minimum capital requirement will support the implementation of Basel III framework in Sri Lanka to strengthen the resilience of banks, and may lead to consolidation in the banking sector. Accordingly, with immediate effect, new banks to be established or incorporated in Sri Lanka are required to meet following capital requirements: A time period of over 03 years has been granted for existing banks to enhance capital and to meet the minimum capital requirement. During this period, banks are expected to formulate and implement new capital infusion plans and to take necessary measures to re-structure or consolidate, if necessary.
Accordingly, commencing 31 December 2020 the minimum capital requirement for existing banks will be as follows: The Central Bank of Sri Lanka expects that this enhancement of minimum capital requirement will lead to stronger banks thus preserving the viability and stability of the banking system and the interest of the national economy.
