BoB unlocks P2.3bn to boost banks� liquidity
Friday, March 27, 2015
Mohohlo
In a move aimed at augmenting funds available for lending for commercial banks, BoB governor Linah Mohohlo yesterday halved the Primary Reserve Ratio (PRR) for commercial banks from 10 to 5 percent, effective April, 2015 .
Primary reserves are the commercial banks’ deposits held in a special non-interest earning account at the Central Bank.
Whilst celebrating milestones in inclusivity, with notably P5 billion awarded to vulnerable groups, the report sounds a 'siren' on a dangerous and growing trend: the ballooning use of micro-procurement. That this method, designed for small-scale, efficient purchases, now accounts for a staggering 25% (P8 billion) of total procurement value is not a sign of agility, but a 'red flag'. The PPRA’s warning is unequivocal and must be...