RBI finalises the framework for recognising Self-Regulatory Organisations (SRO) for its Regulated Entities - (21 Mar 2024)

Banking

Reserve Bank of India has finalised the Omnibus Framework for recognising Self-Regulatory Organisations (SRO) for its Regulated Entities. SROs enhance the effectiveness of regulations by drawing upon the technical expertise of practitioners and also aid in framing/ fine-tuning regulatory policies. SROs can also help in fostering innovation, transparency, fair competition, and consumer protection. The SRO is expected to adhere to a set of overarching objectives for betterment of the sector they represent, foster advancement and address critical industry concerns within the broader financial system.

The omnibus framework contains broad parameters viz., objectives, responsibilities, eligibility criteria, governance standards, application process and other basic conditions for grant of recognition, which will be common for any SRO proposed to be recognized by the RBI. Other sector-specific guidelines like number of SROs, membership, etc., shall be issued separately by the respective departments of the Reserve Bank wherever a sectoral SRO is intended to be set up.

The primary responsibility of the SRO towards its members would be to promote best business practices. The SRO shall establish minimum benchmarks and conventions for professional market conduct amongst its members. In the interest of its members, the SRO should aim to protect interests of the customers/ depositors, participants and other stakeholders in the ecosystem. The process of seeking recognition as an SRO shall be robust so as to ensure adherence to a set of stringent parameters essential for the critical role it is required to play. Membership criteria of the SRO shall be as prescribed by the Reserve Bank at the time of inviting the application for each category/ class of REs.

Tags : SRO RES FRAMEWORK