meta_id 3325320

On July 2, 2026, the National Bank of Moldova (BNM) Executive Committee approved Decision No. 162 establishing a regulation on credit risk treatment under the internal ratings-based approach. The regulation was published in the Official Monitor of the Republic of Moldova on July 7, 2026, and takes effect on July 1, 2027, with certain provisions becoming effective earlier. The regulation establishes a framework for how credit institutions operating in Moldova must treat credit risk when using internal ratings-based models. This approach aligns with international prudential standards and reflects Moldova's ongoing implementation of Basel III requirements. The regulation sets out requirements for banks to develop, validate, and maintain internal rating systems that assess the creditworthiness of borrowers and exposures. It specifies governance requirements, including the need for adequate oversight structures, risk management procedures, and independent validation mechanisms. Banks must ensure their internal models accurately measure credit risk across their portfolios and comply with minimum standards for model development, testing, and ongoing monitoring. The regulation applies to all licensed credit institutions in Moldova that use or intend to use internal ratings-based approaches for calculating capital requirements. This represents a significant step in strengthening the prudential framework governing the banking sector. The BNM continues to align its regulatory framework with European Union standards as part of Moldova's broader integration efforts. Banks must prepare for compliance with the new requirements ahead of the July 1, 2027 effective date. The full text of Decision No. 162 is available on the BNM website and in the Official Monitor.