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Press Releases |
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STATEMENT OF FDIC CHAIRMAN RICKI TIGERT HELFER ON GAO REPORT ON BANK AND THRIFT PREMIUMS
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE PR-15-95 (3-2-95) |
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I agree with the GAO's conclusion that there are substantial risks
going forward in taking no action in response to the continued
undercapitalization of the Savings Association Insurance Fund
(SAIF). In addition, the FDIC recognizes that the current proposal
to reduce bank insurance premium rates would pose a competitive
disadvantage for institutions whose deposits are protected by the
SAIF as long as their premiums remain at current levels. Without
solving the fundamental problem represented by the continued drain
on the SAIF caused by debt service obligations on Financing
Corporation (FICO) bonds, however, it is difficult to lower
substantially insurance rates for SAIF institutions.
I commend Senator D'Amato and Congressman LaFalce for their far- sightedness in requesting the GAO's report. It contains a very useful analysis of the available policy options, which the FDIC will study closely. The GAO acknowledges that the FDIC is limited by law in its authority to set insurance rates. Virtually all options for dealing with the undercapitalization of the SAIF would require legislative action. The FDIC is currently studying all the options. It will make recommendations to the Congress and the Administration on ways of dealing with the undercapitalization of the SAIF and will work closely with all interested parties in an effort to develop constructive solutions. The current FDIC proposals on BIF and SAIF deposit insurance premium rates are out for public comment and will be the subject of public hearings on March 17. |
| Last Updated 07/14/1999 | communications@fdic.gov |