STRUCTURAL REFORMS OF THE BANKING SECTOR - REGULATORY APPROACHES AND IMPLICATIONS

Abstract

This paper analyzes alternative regulatory approaches for structural reforms of the banking sector, triggered by the global financial crisis. The structural bank regulation measures proposed or adopted in several jurisdictions are based on the Volcker Rule in the United States, Vickers Commission's proposals in the United Kingdom and Liikanen Report in the EU. Despite the different approaches by legislaturess, structural reforms have the same goal – a more resilient financial system. Their common element is to draw a line between commercial banking and certain investment banking activities,, whose combination is seen as a source of systemic risk. Structural reforms are designed to reduce the implicit government guarantees and moral hazard of banks.