The regulation framework for the banking sector: The EMU, European banks and rating agencies before and during the recent financial and debt crisis

In this article, I present a holistic regulation framework for the banking sector. The article is based on European banks that are part of the European Monetary Union (EMU). Initially, I focus on the timelines and review the integration of the EMU, relevant legislation and information on member countries’ banking sectors. This information creates the framework for my analysis. A regulation framework for the banking sector should be characterised by transparency, responsibility and performance in several important areas. These areas are the global and European framework for corporate financial reporting, risk management, stockholder value creation, corporate governance, corporate social responsibility and sustainable development. The regulation framework for the banking sector must also consider the fiscal and monetary environment in which a banking institution operates. The global rating system and the rating agencies will also have an important impact on any regulation framework for the banking sector. These two factors play a key role when a financial, credit or debt crisis occurs. The article considers all of the above factors in creating a holistic regulation framework for the banking sector to present in the context of the recent financial, credit and debt crises that have taken place in the EMU.