The Reserve Bank of New Zealand (RBNZ) published Competition Assessment Guidelines for Prudential Policy to help its policy teams identify and assess competition impacts earlier in the prudential policy development process and apply a clearer framework for when competition should be considered. The guidelines set out key concepts underpinning competition analysis, aiming to ensure prudential decisions support a sound and efficient financial system. Their publication responds to recommendations from the Commerce Commission’s market study into personal banking services and aligns with the Minister of Finance’s December 2024 letter of expectations calling for RBNZ to develop a competition assessment framework for prudential policy. RBNZ expects the guidelines to be particularly relevant as it completes a multi-year programme to introduce the Deposit Takers Act 2023, with standards due to be issued by 31 May 2027 and to take effect on 1 December 2028.
Reserve Bank of New Zealand 2025-10-10
Reserve Bank of New Zealand publishes Competition Assessment Guidelines for Prudential Policy
The Reserve Bank of New Zealand published Competition Assessment Guidelines for Prudential Policy to enhance competition analysis in policy development, aligning with recommendations from the Commerce Commission and the Minister of Finance's expectations. These guidelines are pertinent to the ongoing implementation of the Deposit Takers Act 2023, with standards expected by 31 May 2027 and effective from 1 December 2028.