Foreign Banking Organizations

Foreign banking organizations operating in the United States typically find that a greater focus is placed on regulatory issues in this country than is the case in the home country. Head office may find it difficult to appreciate the significant differences between the two regulatory environments. As a result, many foreign banks may not respond proactively in their relationships with U.S. regulators. The more complex U.S. regulatory framework may make it difficult for foreign bank management to remain current and understand sufficiently U.S. regulatory directives and expectations.

The U.S. regulatory environment requires domestic and foreign banking organizations to develop and maintain an integrated and effective risk management function. The federal and state interagency Examination Manual for U.S. Branches and Agencies of Foreign Banking Organizations, the development and implementation of the Foreign Banking Organization supervisory program, and the design of the ROCA foreign bank rating system place a high premium on how a foreign bank identifies, monitors and controls all risks undertaken in its U.S. operations.

Secura works with foreign bank management to ensure the organization's regulatory risk management function responds to and anticipates regulators' expectations. Secura assists in the evaluation of an institution's overall U.S. operations to help management minimize risks and identify and seize new business opportunities. Secura's foreign bank consulting services provide our clients with the knowledge, tools and techniques needed not only to comply with U.S. laws and regulations, but also to develop a plan for their U.S. operations that supports and promotes their organization's global business strategy.

The Secura Group has significant expertise in dealing with issues involving foreign banks and the U.S. regulatory environment. Many of the firm's consultants have served as senior regulatory officials and are experienced in domestic and international supervisory issues. As a result, Secura is uniquely qualified to help foreign banks negotiate the processes required to establish foreign bank branches, agency or representative offices in the U.S. and conduct their business in compliance with U.S. laws and regulations.