CM-8.2.1

The CBB favours an open, market-based approach to the operations of licensees, to the extent consistent with its regulatory objectives of ensuring a stable financial system and the fair treatment of licensees' customers.

CM-8.2.2

Bank licensees are reminded of their obligation to implement a sound internal controls framework, including an effective credit culture (see, for instance, Section CM-2.3). Bank licensees are also reminded of their obligations to display and communicate charges and APRs clearly (see, for instance, Section BC-4.3).

CM-8.2.3

The CBB has noted the growth in consumer finance as a proportion of outstanding credit facilities over the past few years. The CBB is concerned that this growth should not be at the cost of declining credit quality. Furthermore, the CBB wishes to see further improvements in licensees' transparency in their dealings with their customers, as regards the costs and terms of their lending. Strong competition in this segment of the market increases the need for licensees to be vigilant and to resist pressures to relax standards.

CM-8.2.4

The measures presented in this Chapter should be viewed as minimum standards, rather than best practice. They are aimed at encouraging prudent lending and full, frank and fair disclosures, rather than dictating comprehensively how licensees should engage in consumer finance. These measures should be read in conjunction with the "Code of Best Practice on Consumer Credit and Charging" which was agreed jointly between the CBB and the Bahrain Association of Banks (see Appendix CM-2).

CM-8.2.5

These measures will be kept under review in the light of market developments and adjusted accordingly. If the CBB assesses that credit quality and effective transparency are being significantly undermined, then additional prescriptive measures will be considered.

On-going Effort by the CBB