Science & Tech
AN economist, Mr Johnson Chukwu, has urged the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to leverage existing infrastructure and Bank Verification Numbers (BVN) to address delays in verifying bank transactions.
Chukwu, the Chief Executive Officer of Cowry Asset Management Ltd., raised the concern at the annual workshop of the Capital Market Correspondents Association of Nigeria (CAMAN) in Lagos.
The theme of the workshop is: “Banks’ Recapitalisation: Bridging the Gap Between Investors and Issuers in the Nigerian Capital Market”.
He noted that leverage existing infrastructure and BVN was to ensure speedy conclusion of the verification process.
According to him, the delay in the apex bank’s verification process, four months after the closure of some offers, has continued to raise concerns among investors.
Chukwu said the deployment of high level of IT available at the CBN and the use of the BVN would fastrack the process of accepting or rejecting the offers.
He added that this would enable investors get their allotment or deploy their funds in other profitable economic activities.
He noted that while the apex bank’s role in verifying the source of the capital invested was important, the longer period for completion of the verification process was dampening investor confidence.
Chukwu said that this was particularly worrisome for investors whose funds may be returned where the offers may be oversubscribed, as they would miss reinvestment opportunities.
He also stated that the current CBN requirements for investors investing in banks shares were seen by many as overly stringent and creating barriers for both issuers and investors.
Chukwu cited the provision of three-year audited financial statements, board resolution authoring the investment and tax clearance certificates for the past three years for corporate investors.
He noted that these requirements were disincentive to investment in the capital market.
According to him, while regulation is necessary for maintaining the stability and integrity of the financial system in ensuring that unqualified capital is not invested in the banks.
He added that there was need to leverage on existing customer information in the banking system to avoid imposing onerous conditions on investors.
Chukwu described banks’ recapitalisation as a key strategy for strengthening the Nigerian banking sector and fostering economic growth.
He, however, argued that the success of these efforts would hinges on effectively bridging the gap between investors and issuers in the capital market.
Chukwu said banks capital raise through successful IPOs, rights issues and bonds strengthens investor confidence and sends a positive signal to the broader financial market on the role of the capital market.
He said: “A well-capitalised bank is perceived as financially stable, reducing risk for investors and enhancing market confidence.
” This encourages further investment in the banking sector, which is essential for the sustainable growth of the industry.
He, however, called for concerted efforts from both banks and investors, supported by regulators in ensuring that the Nigerian banking sector remains resilient, competitive, and capable of driving the country’s economic growth for the future.
Chukwu also urged the CBN and other regulatory bodies to work together in creating a more predictable regulatory environment for banks and investors.
“The frequency of regulatory policy changes need to be moderated to allow for better planning for both banks and the investing public, as well as reduce the regulatory and operational risks associated with these frequent changes.
“Banks must commit to improving their transparency and disclosure standards. This includes the publication of detailed and accurate financial statements, risk disclosures, and forward-looking guidance,” he said.(NAN)
9th December, 2024.C.E
Tags:
