The Dutch Authority for the Financial Markets has updated the standard amounts used in Caribbean Netherlands to calculate the maximum amount of credit that can be granted, applying to credit provided from 1 June 2025. The norms support affordability and creditworthiness assessments by providing standardised assumptions for consumers’ regular living expenses when determining whether a mortgage or consumer loan is responsible. The amounts are legally set in the Financial Markets BES Regulation 2012 and are updated annually, with the 2025 adjustment reflecting local price indexation. The underlying price increases referenced were 2.6% on Bonaire, 2.2% on Sint Eustatius and 2.3% on Saba. The creditworthiness test uses assumptions for applicants’ fixed expenses, split into a fixed component (the norm amount) and an income-dependent component, and the AFM provides a “Model maximum credit provision” calculation tool alongside guidance on applying the model.
Dutch Authority for the Financial Markets 2025-06-10
Dutch Authority for the Financial Markets adjusts standard living-cost amounts for maximum credit calculations in Caribbean Netherlands from 1 June 2025
The Dutch Authority for the Financial Markets has updated the standard amounts for calculating the maximum credit in Caribbean Netherlands, effective 1 June 2025. Set in the Financial Markets BES Regulation 2012, these amounts are adjusted annually based on local price indexation, with 2025 reflecting increases of 2.6% on Bonaire, 2.2% on Sint Eustatius, and 2.3% on Saba. The update aids affordability and creditworthiness assessments by standardizing assumptions for consumers' living expenses.