Fed Adopts Final Rule Regarding GSIBs

September 1, 2017

On Friday, September 1, 2017, the Federal Reserve Board adopted a final rule to enhance financial stability by requiring U.S. global systemically important banking institutions (GSIBs) and the U.S. operations of foreign GSIBs to amend qualified financial contracts to prevent their immediate cancellation or termination if the firm enters bankruptcy or a resolution process.

 

The final rule contains two key requirements. First, the final rule requires QFCs of GSIBs, including those with foreign counterparties, to clarify that U.S. resolution laws providing for a temporary stay to prevent mass terminations apply to the contracts. Second, the final rule prohibits the QFCs of GSIBs from allowing the exercise of default rights that could spread the bankruptcy of one GSIB entity to its solvent affiliates.

 

"The final rule will reduce the threat that a disorderly unraveling of QFCs would pose to our financial system and the broader economy," said Governor Jerome H. Powell."