LEI and compliance: India’s regulatory requirements in focus

10 July 2024

The Legal Entity Identifier (LEI) number is increasingly important in the global financial sector. In India, regulators have introduced specific requirements and compliance measures to promote the use of LEI numbers and increase transparency in the financial sector. This article highlights the regulatory requirements, the role of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), and the impact on compliance and the financial sector.

Overview of regulatory requirements for LEIs in India

In India, using LEI numbers is mandatory for certain financial transactions and institutions. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has introduced these requirements to identify all market participants uniquely. This is an essential step towards improving financial transparency and combating financial crime. Here are some specific requirements:

Financial institutions:

Banks and other financial institutions must have an LEI number and provide it for certain transactions.

Large companies:

Companies with a high financial volume or significant financial connections must register an LEI number.

Transactions:

Certain financial transactions, such as derivatives and cross-border payments, require an LEI number to be provided.

Role of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and other regulators

The RBI is the lead regulator for implementing and supervising LEI regulations in India. It collaborates closely with other national and international regulators to ensure compliance and protect the financial sector. Concrete tascs of the RBI are:

Monitoring and enforcement:

The RBI monitors financial institutions’ and companies’ compliance with LEI regulations. Penalties are imposed for non-compliance.

Data management:

The RBI ensures the proper management of the LEI database, which contains the identification data of all registered companies.

Information and training:

The RBI provides information and training resources to educate businesses and financial institutions about the importance and requirements of the LEI number.

Impact on compliance and the financial sector

The introduction and enforcement of LEI requirements will have a profound impact on compliance and the entire financial sector in India.

Increased transparency:

The use of the LEI number significantly increases transparency in the financial sector. The unique identification of legal entities improves transaction traceability, strengthening confidence in the market

Improved security

With the LEI number, financial institutions and regulators can more easily and quickly identify potential risks and take action, reducing the risk of financial fraud and money laundering.

Compliance with international standards

With the introduction of the LEI number, India fulfils international standards and contributes to global financial stability. This strengthens India’s position in the international financial market and facilitates cross-border business.

Conclusion

The regulatory requirements and compliance measures related to LEIs in India are crucial for improving transparency and security in the financial sector. The Reserve Bank of India plays a central role in ensuring that all concerned institutions and businesses comply. Organisations need to be aware of the importance of the LEI number and take the necessary steps for registration and regular renewal to ensure their compliance and help protect the financial market.

Visit the Reserve Bank of India’s official website for more information on the regulatory requirements and the process of LEI registration in India.