The Conference of State Bank Supervisors has set forth a series of initiatives to modernize state regulation of non-banks, including financial technology firms. Titled “Vision 2020,” CSBS is seeking to create a regulatory system that creates a more efficient supervisory system that recognizes standards across state lines. According to the press release, this will better support start-ups while protecting consumers and the financial system.
“We are committed to a multi-state experience that is as seamless as possible,” added CSBS Chairman and Texas Commissioner of Banking Charles G. Cooper. “Through Vision 2020, state regulators will transform the licensing process, harmonize supervision, engage fintech companies, assist state banking departments, make it easier for banks to provide services to non-banks, and make supervision more efficient for third parties.”
The first set of actions that CSBS and state regulators are taking, include:
- Redesign the Nationwide Multistate Licensing System (NMLS). CSBS has launched a technology effort that redesigns and expands NMLS, the common platform for state non-bank regulation. The redesign will use data and analytics to provide a more automated licensing process for new applicants, streamline multi-state regulation, and shift state resources to higher-risk cases.
- Harmonize multi-state supervision. CSBS has created working groups to establish model approaches to key aspects of non-bank supervision. The groups will work to enhance uniformity in examinations, facilitate best practices, and capture and report non-bank violations at the national level. To further streamline the process, CSBS will create a common technology platform for state examinations.
- Form an industry advisory panel. CSBS will establish a fintech industry advisory panel to identify points of friction in licensing and multi-state regulation, and provide feedback to state efforts to modernize regulatory regimes. The panel will focus on lending and money transmission, and discuss a wide range of solutions.
- Assist state banking departments. CSBS education programs will make state departments more effective in supervising banks and non-banks. Updated standards and analytics will help states determine where new expertise is most needed, identify and address weaknesses, update supervisory processes, and compare themselves to and learn from other state departments.
- Make it easier for banks to provide services to non-banks. CSBS is stepping up efforts to address regulatory uncertainty by increasing industry awareness that strong regulatory regimes exist for compliance with laws for anti-money laundering, the Bank Secrecy Act, and cybersecurity.
- Make supervision more efficient for third parties. Banks of all sizes work with a variety of third-party service providers, including fintech companies. CSBS supports federal legislation that would allow state and federal regulators to better coordinate supervision of bank third-party service providers.
