In 2024, the Joint Committee remained key in analyzing cross-sectoral financial risks, publishing joint risk reports in spring and autumn. The spring report warned of elevated risks from weak growth, uncertain rates, and geopolitical tensions, with concerns over rising credit risk and potential market corrections. The autumn report emphasized ongoing economic uncertainty, market volatility, and the effects of high interest rates. It highlighted inflation risks, operational and cyber threats, and included a detailed focus on credit risk, urging financial institutions to maintain strong risk management, provisioning, and adaptability in facing evolving challenges.
EIOPA advocates for smarter, harmonized EU regulation and stronger supervision to simplify rules and reduce administrative burdens, boosting European competitiveness. This balanced approach aims to create a thriving Single Market while protecting consumers and ensuring financial stability. EIOPA has already taken steps in this direction and emphasizes that simplification should prioritize EU interests and avoid creating new national burdens.
The ESAs Spring 2025 update highlights geopolitical tensions and cyber risks as major threats to EU financial stability. Trade disputes, policy shifts, conflicts, and economic fragmentation demand increased vigilance. Financial institutions face uncertainties in international markets, liquidity, and AI's role. Proactive risk management, cyber resilience, and monitoring global linkages are crucial.
EIOPA highlights the lack of consistent regulatory treatment for crypto assets in the (re)insurance sector, raising concerns about risk sensitivity. Current capital weight options may underestimate crypto risks. To ensure prudence, EIOPA proposes a uniform 100% capital requirement for all crypto holdings. This approach balances risk management with simplicity while acknowledging that future market growth may require revisions. A review of crypto treatment under Solvency II is recommended as the sector evolves.
EIOPA issued guidance to harmonize supervisory approaches to insurers’ foreseeable dividend deductions. It acknowledges different methods—annual full deduction, quarterly accrued, and post-approval deduction. While supporting the quarterly approach, EIOPA sees annual full deduction as viable in stable environments. The guidance aims to enhance supervisory convergence amid the Solvency II review.