Non-bank financial intermediation in Malta

Abstract

The paper presents a first estimate of the size of the non-bank financial intermediation (NBFI) in Europe's smallest member state as well as the regulatory implications for its monitoring. The assessment is based on the narrowing-down approach introduced by the Financial Stability Board. Results show that although the broad measure of NBFI is large, the actual NBFI perimeter is rather small, dominated by the locally-based investment funds. The paper also provides an extensive review of the EU and national regulatory framework within which NBFI entities operate, listing also the challenges arising from this sector. Based on extensive research and analysis of information from various reports, articles, web-sites and other sources referenced throughout the paper, it transpires that NBFI in Malta is not only small, but also subject to significant EU and national regulation. Given the benefits that the real economy could gain from NBFI, the main challenge for the regulators is to strike a balance between the optimisation of their benefits and the minimisation of potential losses due to the build-up of risks emanating from this sector.