2014年-EBA欧洲银行管理局_EBA_Consumer_Trends_Report_2014_40页_1mb

EBA Consumer Trends Report 2014 Summary

Core Content

The European Banking Authority (EBA) publishes an annual Consumer Trends Report to monitor and address consumer-related issues in the financial sector. The 2014 report builds on the 2013 findings and outlines the EBA's actions and priorities for the coming year.

Main Trends and Issues Identified in 2014

The EBA identified the following eight key trends and issues for 2014:

• Household borrowing
• Bank accounts and fees
• Traditional payment methods
• Non-traditional payment methods
• Virtual currencies
• Crowdfunding
• Mis-selling
• Comparison websites
• Financial literacy

These issues were identified through a combination of data from national supervisory authorities (NSAs), complaints data, research reports, and input from the Banking Stakeholder Group (BSG).

Key Information and Actions

1. Household Borrowing

• The topic remains a major concern due to the lingering effects of the global financial crisis and the challenging economic environment.
• The EBA will evaluate whether to convert its 2013 Opinions on responsible mortgage lending and treatment of borrowers in payment difficulties into more binding legal instruments, such as guidelines.
• The Mortgage Credit Directive (MCD) continues to be a focus, with the EBA monitoring the implementation of the RTS on professional indemnity insurance for mortgage intermediaries, set to be finalized in mid-2014.

2. Bank Accounts and Fees

• The Payment Accounts Directive (PAD) and revised Payment Services Directive (PSD2) are under review.
• The EBA will monitor ongoing discussions and launch initiatives if needed.
• NSAs have taken steps to address overdraft fees and transparency issues, with some introducing new legislation.

3. Traditional and Non-traditional Payment Methods

• Traditional methods (cash, debit/credit cards, cheques, bank transfers) continue to be used, but non-traditional methods such as mobile payments and e-wallets are gaining prominence.
• The EBA is integrating all payment-related topics into a single initiative, with a focus on security.

4. Virtual Currencies

• The popularity of virtual currencies (e.g., Bitcoin) has increased significantly, raising questions about the need for regulation.
• The EBA will assess whether these currencies can and should be regulated to protect consumers and ensure market integrity.

5. Crowdfunding

• Crowdfunding has emerged as a significant alternative to traditional lending, with various models such as lending, donations, and equity.
• The EBA will conduct further analysis with ESMA to determine if a European regulatory framework is necessary to address risks for fund seekers and providers.
• A joint survey of the 28 EU Member States was conducted in autumn 2013 to assess the scale and risks of crowdfunding.

6. Mis-selling

• Mis-selling remains a key concern, with self-placement (selling financial instruments to depositors without proper disclosure) being a particular variant.
• The EBA will continue phase 2 of the Product Oversight and Governance initiative, developing more detailed requirements for the banking sector.
• A Joint Position on product oversight and governance was published in 2013, outlining eight high-level principles for manufacturers.

7. Comparison Websites

• These websites are becoming more influential in helping consumers choose financial products.
• The EBA will support a JC initiative to develop a 'How to' guide for consumers, aiming to improve transparency and reduce conflicts of interest.

8. Financial Literacy

• Improving financial literacy is a cross-cutting issue that contributes to reducing consumer detriment and increasing confidence in financial markets.
• The EBA will assess how best to fulfill its mandate on financial literacy and ensure that consumers are better informed about financial products and services.

Data Sources and Methodology

• The report uses a broader range of data sources compared to previous years, including:
  • NSAs and national Ombudsmen complaints data
  • BSG input
  • Statistical datasets from independent research institutes
• The methodology is detailed in Annex 1, which outlines the sources and approaches used to gather and analyze data.

Conclusion

The EBA's 2014 Consumer Trends Report reflects an ongoing commitment to consumer protection, financial innovation, and market transparency. By addressing issues such as household borrowing, mis-selling, new technologies, and crowdfunding, the EBA aims to enhance consumer confidence and ensure fair and secure financial practices across the EU.