Restructuring of debt securities not to be treated as default, clarifies SEBI

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-Financial Services Division (finserv@vinodkothari.com)

Unprecedented crises call for unprecedented measures; the good thing is that all regulators are responding soon enough to the need for tweaking regulations, valuation rules, provisioning norms, accounting norms, and so on, to allow companies to adjust themselves to the new world that we are being ushered in.

SEBI has come up with a Circular no SEBI/HO/IMD/DF3/CIR/P/2020/70 dated 23rd April, 2020[1] (Circular), to the effect that mutual funds will not have to treat restructuring of a debt security as a case of “default”. With this, the funds have been able to avert having to make as much as 50% provision for what was deemed as a case of default.

It is notable that there have been court rulings whereby companies have evoked the “force majeure” clause to seek breather to repayment of debt securities[2].

Given the sensitiveness of the situation, this Circular has come as breather for a lot of financial sector entities, especially the ones actively engaged in securitisation, and ofcourse mutual funds. This write-up intends to first set a context to the Circular and then discuss the potential impact of the Circular.

Deemed Default in Case of Restructuring and Valuation Rules

A circular on valuation of money market and debt securities[3] issued by SEBI stated that “Any extension in the maturity of a money market or debt security shall result in the security being treated as “Default”, for the purpose of valuation”.

As per the valuation norm, mentioned above, mutual funds are required to take a haircut on the value of debt securities declared as default. In this regard, AMFI[4] has issued benchmarks for haircuts, based on which the valuation agencies are required to consider haircut as high as 50%, thereby reducing the value of the securities to half.

This circular turned out to be a major stumbling block for the mutual funds while extending the tenure of PTC transactions vis-à-vis the RBI’s moratorium on term loans in the wake of COVID 19 pandemic. The same has been discussed at length in the following section.

Restructuring of Pass Through Certificates

On March 27, 2020, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) introduced COVID-19 Regulatory Package[5]  which provided for moratorium on payment of instalments for term loans falling due between 1st March, 2020 and 31st May, 2020[6]. The moratorium has to be extended to all the loans, irrespective of whether they have been sold off by the originators by way of securitisation or direct assignment.

The moratorium as per the RBI’s framework, forced the originators to alter the payout structures originally agreed with the investors under PTC/ DA transactions, so as to pass on effect of moratorium to the investors as well. However, the problem arose when the matter was placed before mutual funds. The mutual funds are major investors in PTCs, representing approximately 43% of securitisation issuances in India[7]. The mutual funds became wary of any extension or modification in the terms of the PTCs, due to apprehensions on valuation losses due to reasons discussed earlier in this write-up.

This created a deadlock between the originators and mutual funds (as investors). On one hand, there was a pressure on the originators to extend moratorium across all the borrowers, on the other hand, the mutual funds were apprehensive in accepting the revised terms due to a potential valuation loss.[8]

Considering the situation, the SEBI issued the Circular to address the issues with respect to valuation of debt securities.

Restructuring of Debentures

Restructuring by deferral of the maturity is something that may be done in case of debentures as well. Debentures may have been (a) private placed; or (b) publicly offered. The former is the more common route for mutual funds to invest.

Any change in the terms of issue amounts to modification of rights of debenture-holders. There is no provision under the Companies Act or SEBI regulations dealing with modification of rights of debenture-holders. Therefore, such modification can be done subject to and in accordance with the terms of issue.

Typically, in case of private placement, the consent of debenture-holders, either directly or through the debenture trustees, is required to be obtained. On the part of the Company, the power to modify the terms usually reside with the Board of Directors or are delegated by the Board to a Committee or a person or persons.

In case of publicly offered debentures, in addition to obtaining the above mentioned consent, compliance with provisions of SEBI LODR Regulations is also required to be ensured.

How can Debenture Issuers Make Use of the SEBI Circular?

  • The restructuring must be solely on account of the COVID crisis. It should be possible to demonstrate that the asset pool or ALM arrangement, but for the impact of the crisis, was adequate enough to take care of the scheduled maturity of the bond.
  • It should be possible to demonstrate that the underlying asset cover still remains healthy, and conditions such as asset cover etc. are benign complied with.
  • The necessary formalities of obtaining required consents must have been done.

If these conditions are fulfilled, a bond issuer may be able to get the consent of the investors without the investors having to provide deep haircuts on account of a deemed default.

Specific Provisions of the Circular

  • An extension of term of a security would not be considered as a default only when the valuation agency is of a view that such delay in payment or extension of maturity has  arisen  solely  due  to  COVID-19 pandemic  lockdown  and/or  in  light  of  the  moratorium  permitted  by  the RBI.
  • In case of difference in the valuation of securities provided by two valuation agencies, the conservative valuation i.e. the lower of the two values shall be accepted.
  • The relief from attraction of provision of default shall be limited to the period the moratorium is in operation.
  • AMCs shall continue to be responsible for true and fairness of valuation of securities.

Conclusion

Due to the obvious outcome of reduction in value of the assets, the mutual funds, as investors of debentures or PTCs, had been rejecting the proposals of issuers/originators/servicers as the case maybe with respect grant of moratorium to the borrowers. Mostly the Mutual Funds which are major investors in PTCs have been denying the grant of moratorium benefit to the borrowers owing to the reduction in value of AUM that would follow. With introduction of this Circular, the problem of taking deep haircuts on the value on account of deemed default stand resolved.

Mutual Funds are now expected to give a green signal on grant of moratorium by lenders. This would help to finally meet the objective of providing relief to the country at the time of the current crisis.

 

 

 

 

[1] https://www.sebi.gov.in/legal/circulars/apr-2020/review-of-provisions-of-the-circular-dated-september-24-2019-issued-under-sebi-mutual-funds-regulations-1996-due-to-the-covid-19-pandemic-and-moratorium-permitted-by-rbi_46549.html

[2] Our write-up dealing with Force Majeure clauses in agreements may be referred here: http://vinodkothari.com/2020/03/covid-19-and-the-shut-down-the-impact-of-force-majeure/

[3] https://www.sebi.gov.in/legal/circulars/sep-2019/valuation-of-money-market-and-debt-securities_44383.html

[4] https://docs.utimf.com/v1/AUTH_5b9dd00b-8132-4a21-a800-711111810cee/UTIContainer/Standard%20Hair%20Cut%20matrix__AMFI20190606-110846.pdf

[5] https://www.rbi.org.in/Scripts/NotificationUser.aspx?Id=11835&Mode=0

[6] Our detailed FAQs relating to the moratorium may be viewed here: http://vinodkothari.com/2020/03/moratorium-on-loans-due-to-covid-19-disruption/

[7] http://vinodkothari.com/2020/01/shadow-banking-in-india/

[8] Issue discussed at length in a virtual conference organised by Indian Securitisation Foundation: Agenda and minutes may be referred on the following links:

http://vinodkothari.com/2020/04/virtual-conference-on-impact-of-rbis-moratorium-on-ptc-transactions/

http://vinodkothari.com/2020/04/minutes-of-the-isf-virtual-conference/

Guidance on money laundering and terrorist financing risk assessment

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-Financial Services Division (finserv@vinodkothari.com)

Background

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) introduced an amendment[1] to Master Direction – Know Your Customer (KYC) Direction, 2016 (‘KYC Directions’)[2] requiring Regulated Entities (REs) to carry out money laundering (ML) and terrorist financing (TF) risk assessment exercises periodically. This requirement shall be applicable with immediate effect and the first assessment has to be carried out by June 30, 2020.

Carrying out ML and TF risk assessment is a very subjective matter and there is no thumb rule to be followed for the same. There is no uniformity on procedures of risk assessment, however, they may be guided by a set of broad principles. The following write-up intends to explore guidance principles enumerated by international bodies and suggest principles to be followed by financial institutions in India, specifically NBFCs, for carrying out risk assessment exercise.

Origin of the concept

The concept of ML and TF risk assessment arises from the recommendations of Financial Action Task Force (FATF). FATF has also provided detailed guidance on TF Risk Assessment[3]. Due to the inter-linkage between ML and TF, the guidelines also serve the purpose of guiding ML risk assessment. TF risk is defined as-

“A TF risk can be seen as a function of three factors: threat, vulnerability and consequence. It involves the risk that funds or other assets intended for a terrorist or terrorist organisation are being raised, moved, stored or used in or through a jurisdiction, in the form of legitimate or illegitimate funds or other assets.”

Global practices for ML/TF risk assessment

Based on FATF recommendations, many jurisdictions have prepared and published risk assessment procedures. India is yet to come up with the same.

For example, the National risk assessment of money laundering and terrorist financing[4] is the guidance published by the UK government. It provides sector specific guidance for risk assessment. The sector specific guidance is further granulated keeping in view the specific threats to certain parts of the sector.

The guidance provided by the Republic of Serbia[5] is a generalised one providing broad guidance to all sectors for risk assessment.

In Germany, financial institutions are classified on the basis of potential risk of ML/TF identified by them (considering the factors such as location, scope of business, product structure, customers’ profile and distribution structure) and the intensity of supervision by regulator is based on such risk categorisation.

Risk assessment process by NBFC

The risk assessment of a financial sector entity such as an NBFC, need not be complex, but should be commensurate with the nature and size of its business. For smaller or less complex NBFCs where the customers fall into similar categories and/or where the range of products and services are very limited, a simple risk assessment might suffice. Conversely, where the loan products and services are more complex, where there are multiple subsidiaries or branches offering a wide variety of products, and/or their customer base is more diverse, a more sophisticated risk assessment process will be required.

Based on the guiding principles provided by the FATF and specific guidance issued by FATF for banking and financial sector[6], the process of risk assessment by NBFCs may be divided into following stages:

Stage 1: Collection of information

The risk assessment shall begin with collecting of information on a wide range of variables including information on the general criminal environment, TF and terrorism threats, TF vulnerabilities of specific sectors and products, and the jurisdiction’s general AML capacity

The information may be collected externally or internally. In India, Directorate of Enforcement is the body which deals with ML and TF matters and has collection of information and list of terrorists. Further, the information may also be obtained from Central Bureau of Investigation.

Stage 2: Threat identification

Based on the information collected, jurisdiction and sector specific threats should be identified. Threat identification should be based on the risks identified on the national level, however, shall not be limited to the same. It should also be commensurate to the size and nature of business of the entity.

For individual NBFCs, it should take into account the level of inherent risk including the nature and complexity of their loan products and services, their size, business model, corporate governance arrangements, financial and accounting information, delivery channels, customer profiles, geographic location and countries of operation. The NBFC should also look at the controls in place, including the quality of the risk management policy, the functioning of the internal oversight functions etc.

Stage 3: Assessment of ML/TF vulnerabilities

This stage involves determination of the how the identified threats will impact the entity. The information obtained should be analysed in order to assess the probability of risks occurring. Based on the assessment, ML/TF risks should be classified as low, medium and high impact risks.

While assessing the risks, following factors should be considered:

  • The nature, scale, diversity and complexity of their business;
  • Target markets;
  • The number of customers already identified as high risk;
  • The jurisdictions the entity is exposed to, either through its own activities or the activities of customers, especially jurisdictions with relatively higher levels of corruption or organised crime, and/or deficient AML/CFT controls and listed by RBI or FATF;
  • The distribution channels, including the extent to which the entity deals directly with the customer or relies third parties to conduct CDD;
  • The internal audit and regulatory findings;
  • The volume and size of its transaction.

The NBFCs should complement this information with information obtained from relevant internal and external sources, such as operational/business heads and lists issued by inter-governmental international organisations, national governments and regulators.

The risk assessment should be approved by senior management and form the basis for the development of policies and procedures to mitigate ML/TF risk, reflecting the risk appetite of the NBFC and stating the risk level deemed acceptable. It should be reviewed and updated on a regular basis. Policies, procedures, measures and controls to mitigate the ML/TF risks should be consistent with the risk assessment.

Stage 4: Analysis of ML/TF threats and vulnerabilities

Once potential TF threats and vulnerabilities are identified, the next step is to consider how these interact to form risks. This could include a consideration of how identified domestic or foreign TF threats may take advantage of identified vulnerabilities. The analysis should also include assessment of likely consequences.

Stage 5: Risk Mitigation

Post the analysis of threats and vulnerabilities, the NBFC must develop and implement policies and procedures to mitigate the ML/TF risks they have identified through their individual risk assessment. Customer due diligence (CDD) processes should be designed to understand who their customers are by requiring them to gather information on what they do and why they require financial services. The initial stages of the CDD process should be designed to help NBFCs to assess the ML/TF risk associated with a proposed business relationship, determine the level of CDD to be applied and deter persons from establishing a business relationship to conduct illicit activity.

Focus on CDD procedure

While entering into a relationship with the customer, carrying out Customer Due Diligence (CDD) is the initial step. It is during the CDD process that the identity of a customer is verified and risk based assessment of the customer is done. While assessing credit risks, financial entities should also assess ML/TF risks. The CDD procedures and policies should suitably include checkpoints with respect to ML and TF.

The risk classification of the customer, as discussed above, should also be done based on the CDD carried out. The CDD procedure, apart from verifying the identity of the customer, should also go a few steps further to understand the nature of business or activity of the customer. Measures should be taken to prevent the misuse of legal persons for money laundering or terrorist financing.

In case of medium or high risk customers, or unusual transactions, the entities should also carry out transaction due diligence to identify source and application of funds, beneficiary of the transaction, purpose etc.

NBFCs should document and state clearly the criteria and parameters used for customer segmentation and for the allocation of a risk level for each of the clusters of customers. Criteria applied to decide the frequency and intensity of the monitoring of different customer segments should also be transparent. Further, the NBFC must maintain records on transactions and information obtained through the CDD measures. The CDD information and the transaction records should be made available to competent authorities upon appropriate authority.

Some examples of enhanced and simplified due diligence measures are as follows:

Enhanced Due Diligence (EDD)

  • obtaining additional identifying information from a wider variety or more robust sources and using the information to inform the individual customer risk assessment
  • carrying out additional searches (e.g., verifiable adverse media searches) to inform the individual customer risk assessment
  • commissioning an intelligence report on the customer or beneficial owner to understand better the risk that the customer or beneficial owner may be involved in criminal activity
  • verifying the source of funds or wealth involved in the business relationship to be satisfied that they do not constitute the proceeds from crime
  • seeking additional information from the customer about the purpose and intended nature of the business relationship

Simplified Due Diligence (SDD)

  • obtaining less information (e.g., not requiring information on the address or the occupation of the potential client), and/or seeking less robust verification, of the customer’s identity and the purpose and intended nature of the business relationship
  • postponing the verification of the customer’s identity
Ongoing CDD and Monitoring

Ongoing monitoring means the scrutiny of transactions to determine whether the transactions are consistent with the NBFC’s knowledge of the customer and the nature and purpose of the loan product and the business relationship.

Monitoring also involves identifying changes to the customer profile (for example, their behaviour, use of products and the amount of money involved), and keeping it up to date, which may require the application of new, or additional, CDD measures. Monitoring transactions is an essential component in identifying transactions that are potentially suspicious. Monitoring should be carried out on a continuous basis or triggered by specific transactions. It could also be used to compare a customer’s activity with that of a peer group. Further, the extent and depth of monitoring must be adjusted in line with the NBFC’s risk assessment and individual customer risk profiles

Reporting

The NBFCs should have the ability to flag unusual movement of funds or transactions for further analysis. Further, it should have appropriate case management systems so that such funds or transactions are scrutinised in a timely manner and a determination made as to whether the funds or transaction are suspicious. Funds or transactions that are suspicious should be reported promptly to the FIU and in the manner specified by the authorities. There must be adequate processes to escalate suspicions and, ultimately, report to the FI.

Internal Controls

Adequate internal controls are a prerequisite for the effective implementation of policies and processes to mitigate ML/TF risk. Internal controls include appropriate governance arrangements where responsibility for AML/CFT is clearly allocated and there are controls to test the overall effectiveness of the NBFC’s policies and processes to identify, assess and monitor risk. It is important that responsibility for the consistency and effectiveness of AML/CFT controls be clearly allocated to an individual of sufficient seniority within the NBFC to signal the importance of ML/TF risk management and compliance, and that ML/TF issues are brought to senior management’s attention.

Recruitment and Training

NBFCs should check that personnel they employ have integrity and are adequately skilled and possess the knowledge and expertise necessary to carry out their function, in particular where staff are responsible for implementing AML/CFT controls. The senior management who is responsible for implementation of a risk-based approach should understand the degree of discretion an NBFC has in assessing and mitigating its ML/TF risks. In particular, it must be ensured that the employees and staff have been trained to assess the quality of a NBFC’s ML/TF risk assessments and to consider the adequacy, proportionality and effectiveness of the NBFC’s AML policies, procedures and internal controls in light of this risk assessment. Adequate training would allow them to form sound judgments about the adequacy and proportionality of the AML controls.

Stage 6: Follow-up and maintaining up-to-date risk assessment

Once assessed, the impact of the risk shall be recorded and measures to mitigate the same should be provided for. The information that forms basis of the risk assessment process should be timely updated and the entire risk assessment procedure should be carried out in case of major change in the information.

The compliance officer of the NBFC should have the necessary independence, authority, seniority, resources and expertise to carry out these functions effectively, including the ability to access all relevant internal information. Additionally, there should be an independent audit function carried out to test the AML/CFT programme with a view to establishing the effectiveness of the overall AML/CFT policies and processes and the quality of NBFC’s risk management across its operations, departments, branches and subsidiaries, both domestically and, where relevant, abroad.

 

 

[1] https://www.rbi.org.in/Scripts/NotificationUser.aspx?Id=11873&Mode=0

[2] https://www.rbi.org.in/Scripts/BS_ViewMasDirections.aspx?id=11566

[3] https://www.fatf-gafi.org/media/fatf/documents/reports/Terrorist-Financing-Risk-Assessment-Guidance.pdf

[4] https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/655198/National_risk_assessment_of_money_laundering_and_terrorist_financing_2017_pdf_web.pdf

[5] https://www.nbs.rs/internet/english/55/55_7/55_7_4/procena_rizika_spn_e.pdf

[6] http://www.fatf-gafi.org/media/fatf/documents/reports/Risk-Based-Approach-Banking-Sector.pdf

 

Our other write-ups on NBFCs may be viewed here: http://vinodkothari.com/nbfcs/

Write-rps relating to KYC and Anti-money laundering may also be referred:

Revised Guidelines on KYC & Anti-Money Laundering Measures for HFCs

Torrid time for NBFCs as FIU-IND lays down ‘High Risk’ classification

 

The Rise of Stablecoins amidst Instability

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-Megha Mittal

(mittal@vinodkothari.com) 

The past few years have witnessed an array of technological developments and innovations, especially in Fintech; and while the world focused on Bitcoins and other cryptos, a new entrant ‘Stablecoin’ slowly crept its way into the limelight. With the primary motive of shielding its users from the high volatility associated with cryptos, and promises of boosting cross-border payments and remittance, ‘Stablecoins’ emerged in 2018, and now have become the focal point of discussion of several international bodies including the Financial Standards Board (FSB), G20, Financial Action Task Force (FATF) and International Organization of Securities Commission (IOSCO).

Additionally, the widespread notion that the desperate need of cross-border payments and remittances during the ongoing COVID-crisis may prove to be a defining moment for stablecoins, has drawn all the more attention towards the need of establishing regulations and legal framework pertaining to Stablecoins.

In this article, we shall have an insight as to what Stablecoins, (Global Stable Coinss) are, its modality, its current status of acceptance by the international bodies, and how the ongoing COVID crisis, may act as a catalyst for its rise.

Read more →

US Federal Reserve provides support to senior ABS securities

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Timothy Lopes, Executive, Vinod Kothari Consultants

finserv@vinodkothari.com

Measures to maintain and strengthen credit flow to consumers is an important part of regulatory initiatives to contain the effects of the COVID crisis. Asset-backed securities and structured finance instrument are recognised as important instruments that connect capital market resources with the market for loans and financial assets. Underscoring the relevance of securitization to the flow of credit to consumers, the US Federal Reserve has set up a USD 100 billion loan facility, called Term Asset-backed Securities Loan Facility, 2020 [TALF] for lending against asset backed securities, issued on or after 23rd March, 2020.

Note that equivalent of TALF 2020 was set up post the Global Financial Crisis (GFC) as well, in 2008[1].

It is also notable that global financial supervisors have attempted to help financial intermediaries stay firm, partly by helping structured finance transactions. The example of the Australian regulators setting up a Structured Finance Support Fund (SFSF)[2] is one such regulatory measure. Another example is the Canada Mortgage Bond Purchase Program initiated by the Bank of Canada[3].

Read more →

Asset classification standstill and other liquidity support measures- RBI Governor’s Statement of 17th April, 2020

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Team Financial Services, Vinod Kothari Consultants P Ltd. 

finserv@vinodkothari.com 

[Published on April 17, 2020 and updated as on May 6, 2020]

The nationwide lockdown was imposed by the Government of India from March 25, 2020. Since then, the RBI has taken a number of steps to ensure normal business functioning by the entire banking sector. The first address by the RBI governor on March 27, 2020[1] introduced several measures to deal with the disruption including, grant of a three months moratorium on term loans and the infusion of liquidity by way of TLTRO scheme.

The RBI Governor’s address on April 17, 2020[2] is intended to introduce further measures to maintain adequate liquidity in the financial system, facilitate and incentivise bank credit flows and ease financial stress. Subsequently, the RBI has issued a Notification on the issue.

Below is an analysis of the second round of regulatory relief granted by the RBI. As for the moratorium on loan payments provided by the March 27 notification, we have covered the same at length- see write-up here–

For the ease of reading we have divided the FAQs into broad categories. We shall keep on updating the FAQs based on the detailed guidelines and clarifications issued by RBI in this regard, from time to time.

Liquidity Measures

Targeted Long Term Operations (TLTRO) 2.0

1. What is TLTRO?

Targeted Long Term Repo Operations or TLTRO, is a variation of LTRO, launched by the RBI in order to manage the liquidity in the financial sector. The TLTRO is a much refined version of LTRO, through which the RBI attempts to extend liquidity in targeted segments, in this case, the NBFCs. TLTRO was introduced first time on February 27, 2020[3] by the RBI, where it had promised repo auctions worth Rs. 1 lakh crore. Until this press release, RBI has already conducted three repo auctions injecting a total Rs. 75,041 crores worth to ease liquidity constraints in the banking system and de-stress financial markets.

Our detailed write up on the subject can be read here.

2a. What are the avenues in which the funds availed by banks under TLTRO 2.0 can be invested?

As stated above, the main intention behind TLTRO is to inject liquidity in the financial system. As per the notification[4] issued by the RBI for TLTRO 2.0 the funds raised through TLTRO have to be invested in investment grade bonds, commercial paper, and non-convertible debentures of NBFCs. Further, the funds raised through these auctions have to be deployed within a maximum period of 1 month.

2b. What is the prescribed timeline for deployment of funds under the scheme?

Based on the feedback received from banks and taking into account the disruptions caused by COVID-19, the time available for deployment of funds under the TLTRO 2.0 scheme has been extended from 30 working days to 45 working days from the date of the operation.

2c. What happens if a bank fails to deploy the funds availed under the TLTRO 2.0 scheme in specified securities within the stipulated timeframe?

Funds that are not deployed within this extended time frame will be charged interest at the prevailing policy repo rate plus 200 bps for the number of days such funds remain un-deployed. The incremental interest liability will have to be paid along with regular interest at the time of maturity.

3a. Is there a minimum investment limit for small and medium NBFCs?

At least 50 per cent of the total amount availed must be invested in small and mid-sized NBFCs and MFIs.

3b. Will the specified eligible instruments have to be acquired up to fifty per cent from primary market issuances and the remaining fifty per cent from the secondary market?

There is no such condition applicable for funds availed under TLTRO 2.0.

4. What is the criteria to be classified as a small or medium sized NBFC?

Small NBFCs: NBFCs having an asset size of Rs. 500 crore or below

Medium sized NBFCs: NBFCs having asset size between Rs. 500 crores and Rs. 5,000 crores.

5. For the purpose of determining the aforesaid asset based criteria, the asset size shall be considered as on  which date?

The asset size shall be determined as per the latest audited balance sheet of the investee institution/company.

6. How will the 50% be appropriated among small NBFCs, medium NBFCs and NBFC MFIs?

The 50% shall be apportioned as given below:

  • 10% – securities/instruments issued by Micro Finance Institutions (MFIs);
  • 15% – securities/instruments issued by NBFCs with asset size of Rs.500 crore and below;
  • 25% – securities/instruments issued by NBFCs with assets size between Rs.500 crores and Rs.5,000 crores.

7. How will the asset size be determined for the purpose of the aforesaid limits?

The asset size shall be determined as per the latest audited balance sheet of the NBFC.

8. When will the first auction under TLTRO 2.0 be conducted?

The first auction under TLTRO 2.0 will be conducted on April 23, 2020. The auction window will open for a period of one hour from 10:30 am to 11:30 am.

9a. How will the Investments made by the banks, under this scheme be classified?

Investments made under this facility will be classified as held to maturity (HTM) even in excess of 25 percent of total investment permitted to be included in the HTM portfolio. Exposures under this facility will not be reckoned under the Large Exposure Framework (LEF).

9b. Will the specified securities acquired from TLTRO funds and kept in HTM category be included in computation of Adjusted Net Bank Credit (ANBC) for the purpose of determining priority sector targets/sub-targets?

In order to incentivise banks’ investment in the specified securities of these entities, it has been decided that a bank can exclude the face value of such securities kept in the HTM category from computation of adjusted non-food bank credit (ANBC) for the purpose of determining priority sector targets/sub-targets. This exemption is only applicable to the funds availed under TLTRO 2.0.

10. What is the maturity restriction on the securities to be acquired under the scheme?

As per the FAQs released by the RBI for TLTROs[5], there is no maturity restriction on the securities. However, the outstanding amount of securities purchased using the funds availed under TLTRO should not fall below the amount availed under TLTRO scheme. This implies that the securities purchased should be maintained in the bank’s HTM portfolio at all times till maturity of TLTR.

11. How can an NBFC apply to avail the benefit under the scheme?

The funds injected through these auctions are ultimately meant for the NBFCs. NBFCs intending to utilise the benefits of this scheme will have to apply to banks, participating in these auctions, with their proposal to subscribe to the permitted instruments issued by them.

Refinancing Facilities

12. From where can an NBFC avail the refinancing facility?

RBI has provided special refinance facilities for an amount of Rs. 15,000 crore to SIDBI for on-lending/refinancing.

13. Is there anything earmarked for HFCs?

Yes, the RBI has announced a special refinancing facility of Rs. 10000 crores for the National Housing Bank which will be used only to refinance the housing finance companies.

14a. What will be the lending rate for such a refinance facility?

Advances under this facility will be charged at the RBI’s policy repo rate at the time of availment.

14b. Can all NBFCs avail the finance under the Special Liquidity Support Scheme?

The Scheme has three segments, out of which, two segments are for NBFCs and one for SCBs and SFBs.

The first part of the Scheme is for NBFC-ICCs and the second part of the Scheme is for NBFC-MFIs. The eligibility criteria for these two categories of NBFCs have been discussed below:

  • NBFC-ICC or NBFC-MFI ( In case of MFIs, they may be registered as society, trust or section-8 company)
  • Carrying on the business of an NBFC for the past 3 years;
  • Minimum NOF- 20 crores;
  • Minimum Asset size- 50 crores;
  • Minimum investment grade rating (BBB- or above); In case of MFI, also have minimum MFI grading of “MfR5”
  • Compliance with all regulatory requirements;
  • NBFC/ any of its promoters must not be in RBI’s defaulter/blacklist list;
  • Statutory CRAR is maintained at all times during the past 24 months.

14c. For what purpose, the finance availed from such scheme can be used?

The funds availed can be used for on-lending to MSMEs by the NBFCs and microfinance borrowers by NBFC-MFIs.

14d. What will be the tenor of such facility?

The tenor for such facility shall be 90 days,with a bullet repaymentat the end. Usually, the loans to MSMEs are more than 90 days tenor, therefore, the question is – if the tenor of the loans extended by the NBFCs are more than 90 days, how will the funds obtained under this Scheme be refunded timely. The logical answer to this question is that the NBFCs will have to arrange for alternative financing sources during these 90 days and use the funds to repay the facility under this Scheme. Therefore, it seems that the intent is to provide a bridge funding facility to the NBFCs for the time being.

Further, SIDBI has vide circular dated April 24, 2020, extended the repayment period of loans to NBFCs and MFIs, to one year from the 90-day period.

14e. Whether such facility will be secured?

The nature of the loans shall be based on the existing norms of SIDBI.

14f. Is there any cap on processing fee?

The processing fee shall be 0.10 % of the sanctioned loan amount subject to a maximum of Rs. 5 lakhs (including GST).

14g. How can NBFCs apply to avail benefit of such scheme?

There is no prescribed procedure for making application to SIDBI for availing funds under such scheme. Eligible NBFCs may apply to SIDBI to avail funds from the scheme.

Regulatory Measures

Asset Classification

15. What is meant by asset classification standstill?

Asset classification standstill means there will be no movement, deterioration or upgradation, in the asset classification during a given period of time. In the given context, the ageing of the loan default, that is, the days past due (DPD) status, will remain on a standstill mode, as if the time clock has stopped running during the period of the moratorium.

Our detailed write up on the issue can be read here.

Our analysis of the Delhi HC and Bombay HC ruling in this regard may also be read here.

16. How to determine the qualifying loan accounts for relaxation under this circular?

All loan accounts for which lending institutions decide to grant moratorium or deferment, and which were standard as on March 1, 2020.

17. The loan moratorium notification came on 27th March. For many companies, the payment for March was, say, due on 5th March. Therefore, the moratorium was effectively granted only for the payments due on 5th April and 5th May. Does such NBFC still have the right to keep the NPA clock on hold for accounts which were in default on 1st March, 2020?

In our view, the moratorium period uniformly began for all financial institutions on 1st March and continues upto 31st May. The moratorium is the result of an external event – hence, it is not something which is based on entity-level payment schedules. That the borrowers have paid the instalments due on 5th March does not impact the moratorium – moratorium simply implies the customer has the option of not paying, but he has chosen to pay, that is his discretion.

Therefore, in this case in point, the NPA clock will still be on hold from 1st March to 31st May.

18. How will the asset classification be carried out?

As per the guidelines[6] provided by the RBI, the asset classification relaxation is provided only if the account was to move from standard to sub-standard category during the moratorium period from March 1, 2020 to May 31, 2020. However, if the account was within the NPA category already, the benefit of the relaxation will not be available.

Effectively the circular stalls the dip in the asset classification by 3 months.

19. To what installment dues does the relaxation apply?

The relaxation applies to:

  1. Dues payable between 1st March, 2020 and 31st May, 2020
  2. Dues payable before 1st March that are classified as standard as on 1st March
  3. Dues payable after 31st May, will be covered by the existing instructions with regard to NPA recognition unless the lender grants a voluntary relaxation in accordance with the RBI Guidelines

20. Does a standard loan account as on March 1, 2020 include SMA classified accounts?

In case of assets showing signs of distress as on March 1, 2020, such as SMA1 and SMA2, the relaxation will still be available since they are classified as standard assets.

 21. Will the standstill be applicable in case of extension of the EMI dates for installments falling due after May 31, 2020?

The standstill will be applicable for all accounts for which lending institutions decide to grant moratorium or deferment, and which were standard as on March 1, 2020.

Considering the disruption caused across the globe, the Company may consider extension of the EMI dates for installments falling due after May 31, 2020.

The reason for granting such relaxation is not related to any specific borrower’s financial difficulty because of any economic or legal reasons. The reason for such relaxation would be the disruption caused across an entire class of borrowers and not any individual borrower. Hence, this would not be considered as “restructuring” and will not require any asset classification downgrade merely because of restructuring. However, if the borrower does not pay the “restructured debt” as well, then asset classification norms will apply.

22. An NBFC has the following borrower accounts with DPDs marked, how will the NPA classification be impacted in case of non-payment

DPD as on March 01, 2020 NPA declaration (in case moratorium has been granted) NPA declaration (in case moratorium has not been granted)
0 31st August, 2020 31st May, 2020
30 31st July, 2020 30th April, 2020
60 30th June, 2020 31st March, 2020
90 1st March, 2020 1st March, 2020
120 Already NPA Already NPA

 23. Will the delayed instalments accrue in the books of accounts?

The accounting entries with regard to accrual of the instalments will depend on the grant of moratorium, that is, accrual will happen as per the modified contractual terms. However, as regards income recognition, NBFCs that have moved to IndAS recognise income based on the “effective interest rate” method. As long as the effective interest rate has been maintained after restructuring, income recognition will continue at that rate, even during the moratorium period.

24. Can a lender take enforcement action on account of non-payments during the breather period?

In case there was a default, and there were remedies available to the lender as on 1st March already, the same will not be affected.

As regards the period of moratorium, since the contractual obligation of the borrower has been modified, there is no default unless the borrower defaults on the restructured obligations.

As regards the use of powers under SARFAESI, the same depends on “NPA classification” in books of account. Since the loan will not be classified as NPA, there will be a bar on SARFAESI action as well.

Provisioning requirement

25. Para 5 of the RBI Notification talks about a provisioning requirement. This, on first reading, seems to suggest that the provisioning requirement will be applicable to all the loans which have been given the benefit of moratorium. Is this understanding correct?

No, this understanding is not correct. Note the words “In respect of accounts in default but standard where provisions of paragraphs (2) and (3) above are applicable, and asset classification benefit is extended, lending institutions shall make general provisions of not less than 10 per cent of the total outstanding of such accounts.. [Emphasis supplied].

The meaning of this is not to include every loan which was >0 DPD on 1st March. The intent of this is only such loans, which, but for the standstill of the asset classification, would have turned into NPA.

In case of March 31, 2020 quarter, only loans which were at least 60 DPD on 1st March would have become NPA. Therefore, 5% general provisioning will be required only for such loans as were >59 DPD on 1st March, 2020.

26. There are some who have argued that the 10% general provision (spread over two quarters) will be applicable to both SMA1 as well as SMA2. Do you agree with this view?

Respectfully, we do not agree with this view. This view will be counter-intuitive. There is no provisioning required until the asset reaches substandard status. An account which was SMA1 (>30 days on 1st March) would not have become NPA on 31st March. Hence, the question of any degradation to NPA would not have arisen. Nor would there have been any provisioning requirement (except for the 0.40% required for all assets). The moratorium has not made the SMA1 loans worse in any manner. Therefore, there is no question of the RBI obliging banks to make a provision, which was not required before the 17th April Notification.

The 5% provision (for Q4 of 2020) may only be applicable where, but for the 17th April notification, the account would have become NPA. That would be the case in case of those accounts which were SMA2 on 1st March, 2020.

Note: A substantial confusion was prevailing on this issue. We had given a precise reasoning for our view above. As per a Report, the RBI also eventually seems to have agreed to our view above. That is, the general provisioning requirement is applicable, as on 31st March, 2020, only to those accounts which were SMA2 on 1st March, 2020.

27. What about the quarter of 30th June, 2020?

The quarter of June 30 may be a tough one. The general provisioning requirement is to be spread over 2 quarters. Hence, the situation may be illustrated in the Table below:

Position as on 31st March, 2020

DPD as on March 01, 2020 DPD on 31st March, 2020 Whether 5% general loss provision in the Q4, 2020 required?
0 31 No question
30 61 No, because there would have been no slippage of asset classification, even in absence of the Notification
60 91 Yes, 5% general loss provision required
90 121 Account was an NPA; 10% provision required

 

Position as on 30th June, 2020

DPD as on March 01, 2020 DPD on 30th June, 2020 Explanation Whether 5% general loss provision in the Q4, 2020 required?
0 91 During the moratorium, from 1st March to 31st May, customer paid nothing. In June, customer pays one months’ payment There was no payment obligation during the moratorium since there was a loan modification. There was no default on 1st March. The customer has cleared his obligations of June. Hence, the account is completely in order – the 90 DPD is actually the obligations during moratorium, which has been deferred. No provisioning at all
30 121 The customer did not clear his default of 30 days which was past due on 1st March. When the moratorium is over, he pays one single instalment of loan. Based on FIFO principle, the obligation that was past due on 1st March has been cleared on 30th June. Nothing became due during March, April and May. Hence, this loan has not taken the benefit of standstill. Hence, no general provision required.
60 151 The customer has paid only one instalment in June, whereas, on 1st March, he has obligation to pay for 2 months. Therefore, obligation as on 1st March achieves a vintage of at least 120 days on 30th June. There was a provision of 5% already made in Q4, 2020. An additional 5% general loss provision will be required in Q1, 2021.
90 181 The account was already an NPA Not covered by general loss provisions.

 28. What is the meaning of general loss provision? How is it different from a provision for NPAs?

General loss provision is a general prudential provision. It does not cause the value of gross assets to be reduced. It does not require the asset to be classified as an NPA. The general loss provision will be treated as a part of Tier 2 capital.

29. Is it proper to say that the general provisioning requirement of the 17th April notification creates a pressure on the regulatory capital of banks?

The general loss requirement certainly hits the revenues of the banks, but it is treated as a part of Tier 2. Hence, essentially, what is happening is, the provision eats into Tier 1 capital, but fills the same in Tier 2. If the bank had inadequate or potentially weak Tier 1, the general loss provision will create an issue.

30. Will there be any impact on the provision for accounts already classified as NPA as on February 29, 2020?

The provisions for accounts already classified as NPA as on February 29, 2020 as well as subsequent ageing in these accounts, shall continue to be made in the usual manner.

31. Will the reporting to CICs also come to a standstill due to the standstill of asset classification?

There will be no reporting to CICs since the SMA status, where applicable, as on March 1, 2020 will remain unchanged till May 31, 2020.

32. What are the disclosure requirements to be ensured by the lender?

The lending institutions shall suitably disclose the following in the ‘Notes to Accounts’ while preparing their financial statements for the half year ending September 30, 2020 as well as for FY 2019-20 and 2020-2021:

(i) Respective amounts in SMA/overdue categories, where the moratorium/deferment was extended;

(ii) Respective amount where asset classification benefits is extended;

(iii) Provisions made during the Q4FY2020 and Q1FY2021;

(iv) Provisions adjusted during the respective accounting periods against slippages and the residual provisions.

Impairment requirement for NBFCs

33. What is the relevance of para 17 of the Governor’s statement as regards NBFCs? Is it giving discretion to NBFCs regarding how much moratorium can they offer?

Para 17 of the Governor’s statement (relevant part) reads:

“NBFCs, which are required to comply with Indian Accounting Standards (IndAS), may be guided by the guidelines duly approved by their boards and as per advisories of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) in recognition of impairments. In other words, NBFCs have flexibility under the prescribed accounting standards to consider such relief to their borrowers.”

In our view, this has nothing to do with the grant of the moratorium or the standstill on asset classification.This para deals with the recognition of impairment losses, that is, ECL provisions, in the books of those NBFCs which have adopted IndAS 109.

So, to summarise:

  • Moratorium period, 1st March to 31st May, is consistent for all financial entities, including banks.
  • The standstill provisions are also the same for NBFCs.
  • As regards ECL provisions, NBFCs may be guided by accounting guidance.

34. What are the guidelines for recognition of impairments/ECL?

IFRS Foundation has given the following guidance on computation of ECL due to impact of the coronavirus:

“Entities should not continue to apply their existing ECL methodology mechanically. For example, the extension of payment holidays to all borrowers in particular classes of financial instruments should not automatically result in all those instruments being considered to have suffered an SICR”[7] (SICR stands for significant increase in credit risk).”

There have been similar statements from the Basel Committee of Banking Supervision[8] (BCBS) where they have stated the following:

“Banks should use the flexibility inherent in these frameworks to take account of the mitigating effect of the extraordinary support measures related to Covid-19.”

“Regarding the SICR assessment, relief measures to respond to the adverse economic impact of COVID-19 such as public guarantees or payment moratoriums, granted either by public authorities, or by banks on a voluntary basis, should not automatically result in exposures moving from a 12-month ECL to a lifetime ECL measurement.”

As regards ICAI, ICAI has given a common guidance on impact of the pandemic on IFRS[9]. This states: “As a guidance from Appendix A of Ind AS 109: Borrower specific concession(s) given by lenders, on account of economic or contractual reasons relating to the borrower’s financial difficulty, which the lenders would not have otherwise considered. Such a condition to be considered as evidence that a financial asset is credit-impaired.”

The restructuring as permitted by the regulators is not a case of borrower-specific concession. It is given to all borrowers across.

Hence, this by itself cannot be a reason for any movement in the DPD bucket.

Extension of Resolution Timeline

35. What are the existing timelines for resolution of stressed assets?

As per the prudential framework for resolution of stressed assets[10], once an account defaults, a Review Period[11] of 30 days becomes operational. The resolution plan is to be implemented within 180 days after the Review Period. In case of failure to implement the resolution plan within the said 180 days, an additional provision of 20% of the amount outstanding in the account has to be maintained by the lender.

36. Will there be any impact on the Review Period?

The notification[12] issued by the RBI providing extension of 90 days for implementation of resolution plan also provides for a stay on the Review Period. Accordingly, if an account was under review period on March 1, 2020, the Review Period of 30 days shall freeze until May 31, 2020. The calculation of residual Review period shall start from June 01, 2020.

Further, through another notification on May 23, 2020 the RBI extended the period of stay to August 31, 2020. Accordingly, the review period shall resume from September 01, 2020.

 37. What will happen to the accounts whose Review Period has expired but the resolution plan has not been implemented?

For accounts whose Review Period has expired, but the timeline of 180 days for implementing the resolution plan has not expired as on March 1, 2020, the timeline shall be further extended by 90 days.

 38. What will be the implication of extending the period for the resolution plan by 90 days?

Given the current circumstances, delay in implementation of the resolution plan may be due to factors beyond control of the lender. Hence, due to the extension of the said timeline by 90 days, the requirement of maintaining additional provision of 20% gets delayed.

39. Will the deferment of creation of this provision aid the liquidity position of the lenders?

Since, the requirement of maintaining additional provision of 20% gets delayed, the lenders will have relatively more liquidity in hand at this time when liquidity is needed the most.

 40. Will the lender be required to hold an additional provision of 20 per cent if a resolution plan has not been implemented within 210 days from the date of such default?

No, the lender would not be required to hold additional provision of 20% if the resolution plan is not implemented within 210 days.

However, if the resolution plan is not implemented within 210+90= 300 days, an additional provision of 20% would have to be maintained.

41. Are there any disclosure requirements in this regard?

The notification requires the NBFCs to make relevant disclosures in respect of accounts where the resolution period was extended, in the ‘Notes to Accounts’ while preparing their financial statements for the half year ending September 30, 2020 as well as for FY2020 and FY2021.

NBFC Loans to Commercial Real Estate Projects

42.Which loans are defined as loans to Commercial Real Estate Projects?

The definition of loans to Commercial Real Estate has been aligned to Basel II norms, which is based on the source of loan repayment. As per the definition, if the repayment primarily depends on other factors such as operating profit from business operations, quality of goods and services, tourist arrivals etc., the exposure would not be counted as Commercial Real Estate (CRE).

Thus, whether a loan can be defined as a loan to CRE is a subjective matter and would require understanding of the business of the borrower, use of the loan proceeds etc.

43. What are the existing parameters for considering a loan to the commercial real estate sector as restructured?

As per the existing norms, the Date of Commencement of Commercial Operations (DCCO) shall be clearly spelt out at the time of financial closure of the project and the same shall be formally documented. In case the DCCO is extended beyond a period of one year from the predetermined DCCO or the terms of the loan are revised with a motive to provide the borrower with some relief during times of stress, the account is said to be restructured.

Upon restructuring, an account classified as standard would immediately become sub-standard i.e. the asset classification of the account has to be downgraded on restructuring.

44.What do the revised guidelines propose?

In line with the guidelines for banks, the NBFCs are now allowed to extend the DCCO for reasons beyond the control of promoters by an additional one year, over and above the one-year extension permitted in normal course, provided the revised repayment schedule is not extended more than the extension in DCCO .

45. What would be the impact of such an extension?

Considering the current situation, many of the commercial real estate projects may fail to initiate operations for a while. Due to this, the DCCO is likely to extend. As per the existing guidelines, if the DCCO extends for a period above 1 year, the account would become restructured and thus the asset classification would degrade. This would result in accumulation of lower grade assets into the books of NBFCs.

Allowing a time period of 2 years from the predetermined DCCO would provide the borrower with enough time to get back into operations and at the same time the asset classification would not be downgraded in the books of the NBFC.

[1] https://www.rbi.org.in/Scripts/bs_viewcontent.aspx?Id=3847

[2] https://rbidocs.rbi.org.in/rdocs/Content/PDFs/GOVERNORSTATEMENTF22E618703AE48A4B2F6EC4A8003F88D.PDF

[3] https://www.rbi.org.in/Scripts/BS_PressReleaseDisplay.aspx?prid=49360

[4] https://rbidocs.rbi.org.in/rdocs/PressRelease/PDFs/PR2237379D65C898244520B79D8889EE42888E.PDF

[5] https://www.rbi.org.in/Scripts/FAQView.aspx?Id=134

[6] https://www.rbi.org.in/Scripts/NotificationUser.aspx?Id=11872&Mode=0

[7] https://cdn.ifrs.org/-/media/feature/supporting-implementation/ifrs-9/ifrs-9-ecl-and-coronavirus.pdf?la=en

[8] https://www.bis.org/press/p200403.htm

[9] https://resource.cdn.icai.org/58829icai47941.pdf

[10] https://www.rbi.org.in/Scripts/NotificationUser.aspx?Id=11580&Mode=0

[11] During this Review Period of thirty days, lenders may decide on the resolution strategy, including the nature of the RP, the approach for implementation of the RP, etc.

[12] https://www.rbi.org.in/Scripts/NotificationUser.aspx?Id=11871&Mode=0

The Great Lockdown: Standstill on asset classification

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– RBI Governor’s Statement settles an unwarranted confusion

Timothy Lopes, Executive, Vinod Kothari Consultants

finserv@vinodkothari.com

Background

In the wake of the disruption caused by the global pandemic, now pitted against the Great Depression of 1930s and hence called The Great Lockdown[1], several countries have taken measures to try and provide stimulus packages to mitigate the impact of COVID-19[2]. Several countries, including India, provided or permitted financial institutions to grant ‘moratorium’, ‘loan modification’ or ‘forbearance’ on scheduled payments of their loan obligations being impacted by the financial hardship caused by the pandemic.

The RBI had announced the COVID-19 Regulatory Package[3] on 27th March, 2020. This package permitted banks and other financial institutions to grant moratorium up to 3 months beginning from 1st March, 2020. We have covered this elaborately in form of FAQs.[4]

However, there was ambiguity on the ageing provisions during the period of moratorium. That is to say,  if an account had a default on 29th February, 2020, whether the said account would continue to age in terms of days past due (DPD) as being in default even during the period of moratorium. Our view was strongly that a moratorium on current payment obligation, while at the same time expecting the borrower to continue to service past obligations, was completely illogical. Such a view also came from a judicial proceeding in the case of Anant Raj Limited Vs. Yes Bank Limited dated April 6, 2020[5]

However, the RBI seems to have had a view, stated in a mail addressed to the IBA,  that the moratorium did not affect past obligations of the customer. Hence, if the account was in default as on 1st March, the DPD will continue to increase if the payments are not cleared during the moratorium period.

Read more →

Would the doses of TLTRO really nurse the financial sector?

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-Kanakprabha Jethani | Executive

Vinod Kothari Consultants P. Ltd

(kanak@vinodkothari.com)

Background

In response to the liquidity crisis caused by the covid-19 pandemic, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) through a Press Release Dated April 03, 2020[1] announced its third Targeted Long Term Repo Operation (TLTRO). This issue is a part of a plan of the RBI to inject funds of Rs. 1 lakh crores in the Indian economy. Under the said plan, two tranches of LTROs of Rs. 25 thousand crores each have already been undertaken in the months of February[2] and March[3] respectively. This move is expected to restore liquidity in the financial market, that too at relatively cheaper rates.

The following write-up intends to provide an understanding of what TLTRO is, how it is supposed to enhance liquidity and provide relief, who can derive benefits out of it and what will be its impact. This article further views TLTROs from NBFCs’ glasses to see if they, being financial institutions, which more outreach than banks, avail benefit from this operation.

Meaning

LTRO is basically a tool to provide funds to banks. The funds can be obtained for a tenure ranging from 1 year to 3 years, at an interest rate equal to one day repo. Government securities with matching or higher tenure, would serve as a collateral. Usually, the interest rate of one day repo is lower than that of other short term loans. Thus, banks can avail cheaper finance from the RBI.

Banks will have to invest the amount borrowed under TLTROs in fresh acquisition of securities from primary or secondary market (Specified Securities) and the same shall not be used with respect to existing investments of the bank.

In the current LTRO, the RBI has directed that atleast 50% of the funds availed by the bank have to be invested in investment grade corporate bonds, commercial papers and debentures in the secondary market and not more than 50% in the primary market.

Why were the existing measures not enough?

Ever since the IL&FS crisis broke the liquidity supply chain in the economy, the RBI has been consistently putting efforts to bring back the liquidity in the financial system. For almost a year, the RBI kept cutting the repo rate, hoping the cut in repo rates increases banks’ lending power and at the same time reduces the interest rate charged by them from the customers. Despite huge cuts in repo rates, the desired results were not visible because the cut in repo rates enhanced banks’ coincide power by a nominal amount only.

Another reason for failure of repo rate cuts, as a strategy to reduce lending rates, was that repo rate is one of the factors determining the lending rate. However, it is not all. Reduction in repo rates did affect the lending rate, but the effect was overpowered by other factors (such as increased cost of funds from third party sources) and thus, the banks’ lending rates did not reduce actually.

Further, various facilities have been introduced by the RBI to enhance liquidity in the system through Liquidity Adjustment Facility (LAF) which includes repo agreements, reverse repo agreements, Marginal Standing Facility (MSF), term repos etc.

  • Under LAF, banks can either avail funds (through a repurchase agreement, overnight or term repos) or extend loans to the RBI (through reverse repo agreements). Other than providing funds in the time of need, it also allows the banks to safe-keep excess funds with the RBI for short term and earn interest on the same.
  • Under MSF (which is a new window under LAF), banks are allowed to draw overnight funds from the RBI against collateral in the form of government securities. The rate is usually 100 bps above the repo rate. The amount of borrowing is limited to 1% of Net demand and Term Liabilities (NDTL).
  • In case of term repos, funds can be availed for 1 to 13 days, at a variable rate, which is usually higher than the repo rate. Further, the funds that can be withdrawn under such facility shall be limited to 0.75% of NDTL of the bank.

Although these measures do introduce liquidity to the financial system, they do not provide banks with ‘durable liquidity’ to provide a seamless asset-liability match, based on maturity. On the other hand, having funds in hand for a year to 3 years definitely is a measure to make the maturity based assets and liabilities agree. Thus, giving banks the confidence to lend further to the market.

Bits and pieces to be taken care of

The TLTRO transactions shall be undertaken in line with the operating guidelines issued by the RBI through a circular on Long Term Repo Operations (LTROs)[4]. A few points to be taken care of are as follows:

  • The RBI conducts auctions (through e-Kuber platform) for extending such facility. Banks have to bid for obtaining funds from such facility. The minimum bid is to be of Rs. 1 crore and the allotment shall be in multiples of Rs. 1 crore.
  • The investment in Specified Securities is to be mandatorily made within 30 days of availment of funds. In case the bank fails to deploy funds availed under TLTRO within 30 days, an incremental interest of repo rate plus 200 basis points shall be chargeable, in addition to normal interest, for the period the funds remain un-deployed.
  • The banks will have to maintain the amount of specified securities in its Hold-to-Maturity (HTM) portfolio till the maturity of TLTRO i.e. such securities cannot be sold by banks until the term of TLTRO expires. Further, in case bank intends to hold the Specified Securities after the term of TLTRO expires, the same shall be allowed to be held in banks’ HTM portfolio.

Impact

The TLTRO operation of the RBI is expected to bring about a relief to the financial sector. The LTRO auctions conducted recently received bids amounting to several times the auction amount. Thus, a clear case of extreme demand for funds by banks can be seen. Although, the recent auctions are yet to reap their fruits, the major benefits that may arise from this operation are as follows:

  • The liquidity in the banking system will get increased. Resultantly, the banks’ lending power would increase. Thus, injecting liquidity into the entire economy.
  • Since, the marginal cost of funds of the banks will be based on one-day repo transactions’ rate, the same shall be lower as compared to other funding options of similar maturity. A reduced cost of funds for the banks will compel banks to lend at lower rates. Thus, making the short-term lending cheaper.

The picture from NBFCs’ glasses

Barely out of the IL&FS storm, the shadow bankers had not even adjusted their sails and were hit by another crisis caused by the covid-19 disruption. While the RBI is introducing measures for these lenders to cope with the crisis such as moratorium on repayment instalments[5], stay on asset reclassification based on the moratorium provided etc. The liquidity concerns of NBFCs remain untouched by these measures.

Word has it, the TLTRO is expected to restore liquidity in the financial system. Only banks can bid under LTRO auctions and avail funds from the RBI. This being said, let us look at how an NBFC would fetch liquidity from this.

Banks would use the funds availed under TLTRO transactions to invest in Specified Securities of various entities. Let us assume a bank avails funds of Rs. 1 crore under LTRO. Out of the funds availed, the bank decides to invest 50% in Specified Securities of companies in non-financial sector and 50% in entities in financial sector. Assuming that the entire 50% portion is invested in Specified Securities of 20 NBFCs equally. Each NBFC gets 2.5% of the funding availed by the Bank.

In the primary market

For the purchase of Specified Securities through primary market, the question of prime importance is whether it is feasible for an NBFC to come up with a fresh issue in the current scenario of lockdown. It is not feasible for an NBFC to plan an issue, obtain a credit rating, and get done with all other formalities within a period of 30 days. Thus, the option of fresh issue would generally be ruled out. Primary issues in pipeline may get banks as their investors. However, existence of such issues in pipeline are very low at present.

If an NBFC decides to go for private placement and gets it done within a span of say around a week, it can succeed in getting fresh liquidity for its operations. However, looking at the bigger picture, the restriction of investing only in investment grade securities bars the banks from investing in NBFCs which have lower rating i.e. usually the smaller NBFCs (more in number though). So the benefit of the scheme gets limited to a small number of NBFCs only. Thus, the motive of making liquidity reach the masses gets squashed.

In the secondary market

Above was just a hypothetical example to demonstrate that only a fraction of funds given out under LTRO would actually be used to bring back liquidity to the stagnant NBFC sector. It is important to note here that the liquidity is being brought back through purchase of securities from the secondary market, which does not result in introduction of any additional money to the NBFCs for their operations.

The liquidity enhancement in secondary market would also be limited to Specified Securities of investment grade. Thus, as already discussed, only the bigger size NBFCs would get the benefit of liquidity restoration.

Conclusion

The TLTRO is a measure introduced by the RBI to enhance liquidity in the system. Although it provides banks with liquidity, the restrictions on the use of availed funds bar the banks to further pass on the liquidity benefit. As for NBFCs, the benefit is limited to making the securities of the NBFCs liquid and the introduction of fresh liquidity to the NBFC is likely to be minimal.

Further, the benefit is also likely to be limited to bigger NBFCs, destroying the motive of making liquidity reach to the masses. A few enhancements to the existing LTRO scheme, such as directing the banks to ensure that the investment is not concentrated in a few destinations or prescribing concentration norms might result in expanding liquidity reach to some extent and would create a chain of supply of funds that would reach the masses through the outreach of such financial institutions.

News Update:

The RBI Governor in his statement on April 17, 2020[6], addressed the problem of narrow outreach of liquidity injected through TLTRO and announced that the upcoming TLTRO (TLTRO 2.0) would come with a specification that the proceeds are to be invested in investment grade bonds, commercial paper, and non-convertible debentures of NBFCs only, with at least 50 per cent of the total amount availed going to small and mid-sized NBFCs and MFIs. This is likely to ensure that a major portion of the investments go to the small and mid-sized NBFCs, thus expanding the liquidity outreach.

 

[1] https://www.rbi.org.in/Scripts/BS_PressReleaseDisplay.aspx?prid=49628

[2] https://www.rbi.org.in/Scripts/BS_PressReleaseDisplay.aspx?prid=49360

[3] https://www.rbi.org.in/Scripts/BS_PressReleaseDisplay.aspx?prid=49583

[4] https://www.rbi.org.in/Scripts/BS_PressReleaseDisplay.aspx?prid=49360

[5] Our detailed FAQs on moratorium on loans due to Covid-19 disruption may be referred here: http://vinodkothari.com/2020/03/moratorium-on-loans-due-to-covid-19-disruption/

[6] https://rbidocs.rbi.org.in/rdocs/Content/PDFs/GOVERNORSTATEMENTF22E618703AE48A4B2F6EC4A8003F88D.PDF

 

Our write-up on stay on asset classification due to covid-19 may be referred here: http://vinodkothari.com/2020/04/the-great-lockdown-standstill-on-asset-classification/

Our other write-ups on NBFCs may be referred here: http://vinodkothari.com/nbfcs/