The much-anticipated update to the current (version 2.3.1) taxonomy (the set of definitions published by the EBA which precisely interpret the meaning/value of numerical data entered into COREP and FINREP returns) has been published. This new version (2.4.1) currently does not have an implementation date but has already superseded version 2.4 which was never implemented.

The EBA has also issued a version 2.5 which will supersede all previous versions to become the definitive taxonomy from December 31st 2016. Amongst others, one of the first reports affected will be the monthly LCR for period ending Dec 2016.

To complicate the situation even further, the recent European LCR Delegated Act, implemented by the UK regulatory authorities, requires dual reporting of the monthly COREP LCR. As version 2.3.1 does not cover the Delegated Act’s requirements, in practical terms this will mean firms using both the existing COREP taxonomy version 2.3.1 and a manual Excel spreadsheet work around until such time as version 2.4.1 (or version 2.5) is implemented.

This complicated and uncertain environment is a challenge for both financial firms, many of whom are still finding their way through the rigours of COREP and FINREP, and for service providers like ALMIS® International who must ensure their software is always compliant, regardless of the frequency and uncertainty of regulatory directives from the EBA.

ALMIS® International will continue to develop its Regulatory Reporting module to comply with the now published ‘gold standard’ of version 2.5. However, we will continue to work closely with the EBA and the PRA at UK national level so that if version 2.4.1 is implemented between now and December 31st, our software, training and support will ensure your returns remain compliant and help you navigate a smooth course.

For more information contact Jenna Haston [email protected] or call +44 131 452 8898

November 1st 2015, ALMIS® International announces the key appointment of Colin McKay as Chief Operating Officer (COO). This key appointment signals an exciting new phase in the expansion of the company, established in 1992, which has seen significant growth over the past two years. ALMIS® International now supports over 50 clients with the development of a comprehensive Asset Liability Management (ALM) and Regulatory Reporting solution for small and mid-size banking firms.

Joe Di Rollo, founder of ALMIS® International, will transition from his current roles of Managing Director and Head of Operations, to that of Chief Executive Officer (CEO), with an intention to concentrate on product development, customer relations and regulatory developments.

Already a Non-Executive Director of ALMIS® International for some time, Colin now assumes his new executive role after 25 years as a finance lawyer advising banks in domestic and international markets. During spells in London, Tokyo and Edinburgh Colin has worked in several firms including Freshfields, Eversheds and most recently Shepherd and Wedderburn. Along the way he has led service delivery teams, held various management positions and run several key financial institution accounts.

Colin said, “Joe has developed a world-class solution which the banking market needs now more than ever. With the support of a loyal and expanding client base, the prospects for growth of the business are exciting”.

In welcoming Colin to the team Joe comments,” I believe Colin has the ideal combination of banking expertise, management best practice and customer relations experience to take us forward to the next stage of growth and consolidation.”

ALMIS® International hosts its annual user group meeting later this month at which clients will have the opportunity to meet Colin and hear of his initial plans.

For more information, contact Jenna Haston by email or call on 0131 452 8898.

The imminent introduction of the new LCR and ALMM will indeed increase the volume and even frequency of reporting for many Building Societies but, after closer inspection, is it all bad news or can firms use this data to their competitive advantage?

Volume of Reporting

The amount of regulation reporting for liquidity from each individual firm is now twice the volume that the entire UK Building Society sector was producing prior to 2008. The six new ALMM reports alone contain over 15,000 data points. The new ALMM reports can be considered work in progress as the EBA gain approval from the European Commission and they add technical definitions and validations. For a temporary period, firms are reporting three different cuts of liquidity data as regulations move towards new standards.

Proportionality

There are, however, positive aspects to the new regime announced recently by the PRA.

• Daily reporting will not be a requirement for firms with >£5bn assets.
• The new LCR (liquidity under CRD IV) replaces the BIPRU 12 type A/B approach, is more rules based than principles driven and for many produces a lower minimum.
• The minimum liquidity target is therefore considered easier for most building societies.
• There is now a wider range of instruments to invest liquid assets.

Turning Compliance to Competitive Advantage

The volume and ‘work in progress’ nature reporting demand that all firms implement smart, automated and flexible systems. The up side though of getting this right will enable firms to better analyse and manage liquidity to their advantage – providing more accurate visibility over a Funds Transfer Pricing allowing understanding of the true cost of liquidity and how to best manage this.

To assist with this, we are developing auto population for four of the main reports and this auto population will be available from beginning of September 2015. We have also prepared a document that explains the reports and a more detailed ALMIS® specification.

For further information or to request an ‘ALMIS® Guide to understanding ALMM’, please contact [email protected]