India’s Central Bank Proposes Revised Framework for Calculating Bank Foreign Exchange Risk

Mumbai – India’s central bank has proposed a set of changes to the way banks calculate their foreign exchange risk exposure, aiming to strengthen consistency and align domestic practices with global standards.

The proposal reflects ongoing efforts to modernise financial regulation while supporting stability in the banking system.

The Reserve Bank of India outlined the draft framework in a statement, inviting feedback from stakeholders before implementation.

The revised norms are expected to come into effect from April 1, 2027, allowing banks adequate time to prepare for the transition.

Under the proposed changes, banks would no longer be required to calculate separate onshore and offshore net open positions.

Instead, a unified approach would be adopted to simplify reporting and improve clarity in risk assessment.

The central bank indicated that the move is intended to ensure consistent implementation of foreign exchange exposure rules across regulated entities.

Uniform standards can help reduce complexity and improve comparability across banks operating in diverse markets.

Another key element of the proposal allows banks to exclude certain structural foreign exchange positions from net open position calculations.

These include long-term foreign currency investments in subsidiaries, overseas branches, and affiliated but non-consolidated entities.

Such exclusions recognise the strategic nature of these investments, which are typically held for operational or expansion purposes rather than trading.

This approach aims to provide a more accurate reflection of a bank’s actual risk profile.

The Reserve Bank also proposed modifications to the shorthand method used for calculating foreign exchange risk.

These changes are designed to align domestic practices more closely with internationally accepted regulatory frameworks.

One notable adjustment involves treating open positions in gold separately within foreign exchange risk calculations.

This reflects global standards that recognise gold’s unique role and price dynamics in financial markets.

In addition, banks would be required to include all accumulated or unremitted surplus from overseas operations in their net spot positions.

This measure seeks to ensure that potential risks associated with overseas earnings are fully captured.

Regulatory experts note that these proposals reflect a balanced approach to risk management.

By refining calculation methods, the central bank aims to enhance transparency without placing undue operational burden on banks.

The proposed framework also supports improved capital planning for banks.

More accurate measurement of foreign exchange exposure allows institutions to set aside capital more efficiently against potential risks.

Foreign exchange risk management is particularly important for banks with international operations or significant exposure to global markets.

Clear and consistent rules help such institutions manage volatility arising from currency movements.

Market participants are expected to review the proposals closely and provide feedback during the consultation period.

Industry input can help fine-tune the framework before it is finalised.

The Reserve Bank has emphasised that the changes are part of its broader effort to keep India’s financial regulations aligned with evolving global norms.

Such alignment supports investor confidence and enhances the resilience of the banking sector.

Banks are likely to use the transition period to update internal systems and risk management processes.

Early preparation can help ensure a smooth shift to the revised methodology once it comes into force.

Overall, the proposed changes signal a measured and forward-looking approach to financial regulation.

They aim to strengthen risk oversight while supporting the continued growth and international integration of India’s banking system.