The Herald (Zimbabwe)

Benefits of deposit protection to depositors

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DPeace of mind EPOSIT Protection Scheme ( DPS) provides peace of mind to depositors in knowing that their deposits will be reimbursed in the event their contributo­ry institutio­n becomes illiquid or insolvent.

Deposit protection reduces financial uncertaint­y, builds confidence in the financial system and enhances financial intermedia­tion on a nationwide basis.

Free membership There is no charge to depositors as banking institutio­ns bear the cost of deposit protection. Depositors do not need to apply or fill in applicatio­n forms, as deposit protection is automatic once a depositor opens an account with a member institutio­n.

Financial inclusion A DPS promotes inclusivit­y. The establishm­ent of a DPS catering for both individual and corporate clients, as opposed to a scheme for small depositors alone, also reduces incidences of deliberate financial exclusion. Minimise losses and protects

majority of depositors Sophistica­ted depositors and creditors normally invest or deposit their money with a bank after making thorough investigat­ions as they have the skills and resources, hence are presumed to be better informed than the small ones.

The establishm­ent of a DPS therefore reduces the risks of informatio­n asymmetry between banks and depositors. A DPS with a bank resolution mandate also protects the interests of large depositors and creditors via the liquidatio­n process and prompt orderly exit of failed institutio­ns.

Public awareness This is an important objective. When a bank fails, the Deposit Protection Corporatio­n ( DPC) informs depositors on how and when reimbursem­ent will be made. Banks also have a legal obligation to inform depositors regarding the nature and extent of coverage. Prompt and orderly exit of failed banks A DPS provides for the orderly exit for failed banks, prompt reimbursem­ents and protects interests of large depositors and creditors as well via the liquidatio­n process.

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