The institutional models for financial supervision : an analysis

Abstract

The paper considers the different institutional models, which aim at delivering financial supervision at national level. It critically examines the three existing models, being the three pillar sectoral model, the twin peaks model and the single financial services supervisor model. The paper delves into the rationale behind the selection of particular institutional models for financial supervision and how these have been maintained or changed. The central argument of the paper is that while the institutional model for financial supervision is likely to have an effect on the quality and effectiveness of supervision, in itself it is not an automatic recipe for success. The paper concludes that unless a financial supervisor operates within a framework built on high-level standards of internal governance, such as independent decision making, accountability, fairness, and transparency, it is doubtful whether effective financial supervision may be achieved in practice.