EU delays new banking rules until 2027 amid global uncertainty

The European Commission confirmed on Thursday it will postpone the implementation of new international banking regulations by a year, citing concerns over global alignment and competitiveness.

The European Union will delay the introduction of key banking rules under the Basel III framework until January 1, 2027, the European Commission announced on Thursday, extending the timeline amid ongoing global uncertainty.

The decision concerns the Fundamental Review of the Trading Book (FRTB), a core component of the post-2008 financial crisis reforms aimed at strengthening global banking regulation. The rules, which were already deferred once to 2026, are designed to improve the risk sensitivity of capital requirements for banks’ trading activities.

"Recent international developments have indicated further delays in the Basel III implementation by some major global jurisdictions," the Commission said in a statement. "Therefore, concerns regarding the international level playing field and the impact on EU banks remain high."

The delay comes as the EU awaits clarity on the United States' approach to financial regulation, with reports suggesting Washington may pursue deregulatory measures under its current administration.

Neither the U.S. nor the UK—two of the world's most influential financial centers—has yet implemented the FRTB, prompting concerns in Brussels about the potential competitive disadvantage to European banks if the bloc were to move ahead unilaterally.

Sources told Reuters last month that the Commission was likely to postpone the rules to align with international developments and avoid disrupting EU market stability.

The FRTB and broader Basel III package aim to reduce risk in global financial systems by enhancing transparency and ensuring banks hold sufficient capital to absorb losses during market shocks.

Despite the delay, the European Commission reiterated its commitment to full implementation of the Basel III framework and said it would continue working with international partners to promote regulatory convergence.

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