I. AFSA Institutional Overview
Transcription
I. AFSA Institutional Overview
‘06 annual report © 2007 Albanian Financial Supervisory Authority Any use of data included on this publication should be subject of the reference to AFSA. Please contact us for any further information. Address : Rr. “Perlat Rexhepi”, Kati II, Tirana / ALBANIA Tel : +355-4-247148, 250686 Fax : +355-4-250686 E-mail : amf@amf.gov.al URL : www.amf.gov.al Graphic Design: Studio Grafi ke Elsi Kongo Press: PEGI Table of Contents Chairperson’s Statement 4 Executive Summary 5 AFSA Institutional Overview 6 1.1 1.2 1.3 AFSA Set Up AFSA as a Regulatory Entity AFSA Management and Organization 6 8 10 AFSA Activity 2.1 2.2 2.3 2.4 2.5 18 Regulatory Activity Licensing Activity Supervisory Activity Institutional Relations Information and Technology 18 21 27 45 49 Future Perspective 51 Appendixes 53 A. B. C. D. AFSA Organizational Structure Non- Banking Sector Legal and Regulatory Framework List of Supervised Institutions Statistical Tables A L B A N I A N F I N A N C I A L S U P E R V I S O R Y 53 54 59 63 A U T H O R I T Y 3 Chairperson’s Statement Honorable ladies and gentleman, It is a great pleasure for me to present the fi rst Annual Report of the Albanian Financial Supervisory Authority. The AFSA was established by the Parliament of Albania as a unique independent regulatory and supervisory institution of non-bank financial markets and started its operation as of October 2006. AFSA establishment demonstrated the commitment of Albanian authorities in terms of improvement and strengthening of non-bank fi nancial markets in the frame of fi nancial system in Albania and in the overall country economy. Approximation to European standards in the context of the commitment made by Albania through Stabilization and Association Agreement, dynamic development and markets best practices efficiency have laid out the need of revising the legal framework, which regulates the supervised sectors, as well as, the supervisory traditional methodology. Drafting of compliant codes concerning markets’ regulation area associated with risk based modern supervisory methodology and with increasingly improved expertise by maintaining a flexible regulatory environment will promote non-bank fi nancial market development to protect public interests. The Report focuses on two directions: the AFSA institutional establishment by means of describing the establishment, the organization structure and its functions – The following part of the Report addresses the non-bank financial markets activity over 2006 and the steps taken by the respective supervisory institutions and, further on, by AFSA in terms of regulation and supervision. Additionally, the Report presents the AFSA vision for the future. The activity, which is described in this report, has been a challenge for the AFSA staff members, who covered it with a serious commitment. In addition, Board members have, provided their contribution through their constructive and professional role to establish an efficient and modern institution. I express my gratitude to all of those who assisted and supported AFSA and, specifically, the World Bank. I hope that this report will be of interest and valuable to the readers. Ms. Elisabeta GJONI Chairperson 4 A N N U A L R E P O R T ‘ 0 6 Executive Summary The Albanian Financial Supervisory Authority (AFSA) was established in 2006. The Authority consolidated the regulatory – supervisory functions of fi nancial non-banking activities, which were previously carried out by Insurance Supervisory Authority, Albanian Securities Commission and by the Inspectorate of Supplementary Pensions Private Institutions. Protection of consumers’ interests, promotion of sustainability, transparency and reliability of non-banking fi nancial institutions as well as ensuring law enforcement constitute the goals of the Authority. World Bank has played a significant role in supporting the Government initiative regarding AFSA design and institutional establishment. Insurance market is the largest and most developed market across non-banking financial markets, whereas securities and private pensions markets are in their initial development stage. Albanian insurance market, despite challenges and issues, has recently been subject to a positive development trend and it presents a large potential in terms of quality and quantity expansion. This potential is based on the favorable economic conditions, improved regulatory and supervisory system, low market penetration rate, as well as, on business community and population, which are dynamic and easily adaptable. It is important to point out that foreign investors see the insurance market as very attractive. Premiums volume in 2006 increased by 11.95% compared to 2005, while the total assets amounted to about 11,4 billion ALL1 marking an increase to an extent of 11,69%. Although Premiums Income to GDP ratio at 0.50% and Assets to GDP ratio at about 1.3% are lower than in similar markets, they indicate potential for market development Premiums structure, although under improvement, consists of motor compulsory insurance, which takes up about 66% of it. Life insurance takes up about 7% of gross written premiums. Loss ratio for the market remains at a low rate of about 35%, which is still far from the international minimum standard consisting of a rate of 50%. Bringing loss ratio to industry standards is one of the main AFSA priorities. There are seven non-life insurance companies, two life insurance companies and one company which conducts both life and non-life activity that operate in the market. Three pensions companies operate in the private and supplementary pensions market. Range of activity in this market is limited. Pensions accumulated fund amounted to about 13.15 million ALL and the number of contributors was above 2600. Future development of this market is part of a wide reform with regard to the development of pensions’ fi rst and second pillar. Securities market is mainly focused on retail trading of the Government papers, while stocks market remains still undeveloped. Improvement of regulatory framework by ensuring an approximation to the European Union Directives for the three financial sectors under jurisdiction, transition to a risk based supervisory system associated with introduction of the IT developed platforms, as well as, promotion of the markets development along with the outputs provided by these markets constitute some of Albanian Financial Supervisory Authority future priorities. In addition, AFSA institutional consolidation pursuant to standards of a financial regulator remains a priority task. 1) Albanian Lek – ALL (as of December 29th, 2006 1 Euro=123,85 ALL) A L B A N I A N F I N A N C I A L S U P E R V I S O R Y A U T H O R I T Y 5 I. AFSA Institutional Overview 1.1 AFSA Set Up 1.1.1 Establishment of a Unified Regulatory Entity Year 2006 marked a significant step in terms of the reformation of supervision and regulation relating non-banking financial system. Based on the Government’s initiative to reform the nonbanking financial regulatory system towards unification into a consolidated regulatory entity, and based on the close consultancy and assistance of World Bank, the integration of regulatorysupervisory entities was accomplished in October 2006 including markets and legal entities performing activities in the insurance area, securities market, as well as, supplementary private pension schemes. In this context, the unification of Insurance Supervisory Authority (ISA), Albanian Securities Commission (ASC), as well as, I this led to the establishment of the Albanian Financial Supervisory Authority (AFSA) as the unique institution responsible for licensing, supervision and regulation of the overall non-banking financial sector activity in Albania. All component elements of the regulators’ unification process in the non-banking sector, including drafting of the strategy, AFSA establishment, building of institutional capacities, and selection of trained staff, as well as, Authority’s vision for the future were accomplished upon the World Bank permanent support. This cooperation continues in relation to the improvement of both, the regulatory-supervisory framework and the functions of the institution. AFSA was established pursuant to Law No. 9572, date 03 July 2006 “On the Albanian Financial Supervisory Authority”, which came into effect as of 10 August 2006 following its decreeing by the President of the Republic and its publishing in the Official Journal. The Parliament of Albania appointed 7 members of AFSA Board as of 27 September 2006, thus allowing the Albanian Financial Supervisory Authority to start its activity as of 11 October 2006. Authority is a central institution, which is independent from the Government and reports to the Parliament on its activity performed over the prior year. Financial Supervision Integration Advantages Integrated supervision is an approach, which is based on the assumption that, in a global economy, changes to institutions that provide fi nancial services are becoming decreasingly smaller and they are often causing confl icting regulative practices, which may leave room form violations or negative influences on the fi nancial markets development. Financial markets’ fast development and launching into the market of increasingly more complex fi nancial services instruments are factors, which, in several cases, have caused an overlapping of these markets’ supervisory coverage scope. A new and highlighted trend of fi nancial regulators’ unification can be observed over the last decade, which is also a characteristic of the Eastern Europe. A fully integrated supervisory structure is better than a fragmented structure due to the following reasons: • Integration ensures equivalent regulation and addressing standards across different sectors; • Integration provides synergy between different regulators’ functional areas either from the personnel or from the regulatory impartiality point of view; 6 A N N U A L R E P O R T ‘ 0 6 • Integration facilitates international cooperation better. Integration can be a complete unification, or into two regulatory structures. Albania pursued the model of two fi nancial regulators (Bank of Albania and AFSA), to be reviewed at a second stage towards a complete unification. Integration Models Relevant experiences from developed countries have demonstrated that there are two models of fi nancial system regulatory institutions integration: a. Horizontal Integration – unified regulator’s organization structure is built according to the supervisory processes functions (on site, off site supervisions, licensing), b. Vertical Integration – organization structure is built according to sectors (insurance, investments, pensions). Both to date theoretical analysis and experiences speak in favor of a functional or “horizontal” integration, which, in fact, has greater administration challenges at the initial transfer stage, although it has a series of advantages during the activity of the institution. Albania applied the “horizontal” model for a functional integration. . 1.1.2 Integration in the Case of Albania and the Chosen Model After taking into consideration the development of the fi nancial sector (especially the nonbanking sector) and the number of fi nancial institutions operating in 2006, it was concluded that Albania had too many fi nancial regulators. In addition, the fi nancial sector regulatory and supervisory function was shared among the Bank of Albania, which supervises the banking sector and a series of regulatory entities with different statuses that supervised various areas of non-banking fi nancial sector (ISA, ASC, ISPPI). This had led to fragmentation of authority and responsibilities, sharp differences in terms of standards as well as inefficient use of regulatory and supervisory skills. The establishment of the Albanian Financial Supervisory Authority, division and standardization of fi nancial sector regulation and supervision into two main pillars based on the banking sector supervised by the Bank of Albania and the non-banking sector supervised by an integrated regulatory entity (AFSA) is the best and most appropriate solution for the country’s fi nancial system. On the other hand, non-banking fi nancial system regulatory and supervisory integration will enhance the opportunities for a more rapid and sustainable development of this important sector of the economy. Albania chose the “horizontal integration”, which is a combination of the functional integration at high levels of the organization unit of AFSA structure and, inside them, a sector division. Thus, the main departments are defi ned by the key functions of the following integrated institutions: licensing department, off-site department, on-site department, legal affairs department, etc. They include the sector divisions such as, for example, insurance activities licensing, securities investment activities, etc. A L B A N I A N F I N A N C I A L S U P E R V I S O R Y A U T H O R I T Y 7 1.2 AFSA as a Regulatory Entity Mission The AFSA’s fundamental mission is to protect the consumers’ and investors’ rights closely linked with the safety of the supervised operators by means of ensuring law enforcement. Vision Promoting and fostering higher standards to protect the consumers and licensees’ integrity, non-banking fi nancial market stability and efficiency increase, as well as, improvement of professional degree by means of permanent enhancement of supervisory and regulatory level in the market make up our targets. Key Objectives Within the frame of performing its functions and exercising its authorities set forth in the law, the Albanian Financial Supervisory Authority is led by the following objectives: 1. Protection of consumers’ interests; 2. Enhancement of sustainability, transparency and reliability of non-banking fi nancial markets; 3. Ensuring law enforcement. Institutions under jurisdiction • • • • Life and Non-Life Insurance Companies; Reinsurance Companies; Brokers and Insurance Agents; Tirana Stock Exchange; • • • • Albanian Share Register; Securities Financial Intermediaries; Investments Advisers; Supplementary Pensions Private Institutions AFSA’S Main Functions AFSA’s main functions consist of the regulation and supervision of the following: a. Insurance market and the activity of this market, which includes all insurance, reinsurance, intermediary activities and operations that stem from these activities. b. Securities market and the activity of this market, which includes the activity of entities, linked with securities investments which operate in this market. c. Supplementary pensions market and the activity of this market, where all supplementary pensions’ insurance activities provided by the supplementary private pensions institutions are included. d. Other non-banking fi nancial institutions in compliance with the defi nitions set forth in special laws of the area. 8 A N N U A L R E P O R T ‘ 0 6 ACCOUNTABILITY Financial System Supervisory and Regulatory Structure in Albania Financial Supervisory Authority (Non-banking Sector) Bank of Albania (Banking Sector) Banks Insurance Market Other Institutions Securities Market Private Pensions Market Supplement Private Pensions Institutes Investments Advisors Securities Registers Securities Business Intermediaries Securities Markets Insurance Service Suppliers Insurance Business Intermediaries Insurance Companies Other Financial Institutions Foreign Exchange Offices Universal Banks MARKET OPERATORS FIELDS REGULATORS Parliament The AFSA’s regulatory and supervisory basic functions are set forth basically in Articles 2 and 13 of the Law No. 9572, date 03 July 2006 “On the Albanian Financial Supervisory Authority”, and partially in the laws of the area (Law No. 9267, date 29 July 2004, “On the Insurance, Re-insurance and Intermediary Activity in Insurance and Reinsurance”, Law No. 8080, date 01 March 1996, ”On Securities”, and in Law No. 7943, date 01 June 1995, “On Supplementary Pensions and Private Pensions Institutions”. However, a series of regulatory functions stipulated by the laws of the area are addressed in various manners as a result of the heritage of different dependencies of the three prior regulators. Legal revisions in terms of clear defi nition of authorities on standards issuance or recommendation, laws and by-laws of the areas make up an ongoing process of institutional integration. A L B A N I A N F I N A N C I A L S U P E R V I S O R Y A U T H O R I T Y 9 1.3 AFSA Management and Organization 1.3.1 AFSA Board Activity The board is the Albanian Financial Supervisory Authority’s leading and decision making organism. It is a collegial body composed of 7 members, three of which, the chairperson and two deputy chairpersons are full time executive members. The chairperson of the Board and one of the two deputy chairpersons are elected for a 5-year term, whereas the other deputy chairperson is elected for a 4-year term. The term for the four other Board members is as follows: the fi rst – 5 years, the second – 4 years and two others – 3 years. All board members are elected by the Parliament of Albania. The Council of Ministers recommends the chairperson, the two chairpersons and two members (the Bank of Albania, Ministry of Finance and National Accounting Council recommend three out of these five members), whereas the Parliament recommends two other members. The Albanian Financial Supervisory Authority Board has the following composition: 1. Ms. Elisabeta GJONI Chairperson 2. Mr. Keler GJIKA Deputy Chairperson 3. Ms. Ermela GUXHOLLI Deputy Chairperson 4. Ms. Miranda RAMAJ Member 5. Ms. Diana LAMANI Member 6. Ms. Raimonda KARAPICI Member 7. Ms. Silvana BELLO Member During 2006 the Board had conducted frequent meetings to discuss a series of legal duties connected with AFSA set-up and institutional functioning. The purpose of the meetings has been the merging and consolidation of three existing regulators into one entity. Simultaneously the Board has cautiously tracked market developments utilizing the work and experience of AFSA’s staff and WB assistance, by responsibly exercising its authorities in relation to attentive market supervision through making a series of important decisions. The Board’s activity has consisted in passing a series of regulations concerning functioning or the market, implementing a series of administrative measures targeting regulation of the market and operators which conduct their activity in this market. Non-executive members of the Board have provided a special contribution in the relevant areas by means of committing a considerable amount of time and energy. 10 A N N U A L R E P O R T ‘ 0 6 AFSA Board Members Ms. Elisabeta GJONI / Chairperson Mr. Keler GJIKA / Deputy Chairperson Ms. Miranda RAMAJ / Member Ms. Ermela GUXHOLLI / Deputy Chairperson Ms. Diana LAMANI / Member Ms. Rajmonda KARAPICI / Member A L B A N I A N F I N A N C I A L Ms. Silvana BELLO / Member S U P E R V I S O R Y A U T H O R I T Y 11 Financial Supervisory Authority Board Main Competences 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18. 19. Drafts the rules for the description and scope of work of every department and unit. Drafts and adopts key principles of its activity. Drafts and adopts rules and guidelines as set forth in the law. Hands out written guidelines concerning interpretation and enforcement of laws and by-laws. Issues, refuses, cancels or revokes licenses of exercising activity in the non-banking financial market. Limits or interrupts investments of insurance and re-insurance companies when they do not comply with regulatory rules or when they put the financial position of the company into risk. Reviews insurance contract terms before they are launched into the market by the operators. Adopts the financial statements of insurance and re-insurance companies. Adopts and distributes accounting standards and financial reporting formats, which are binding on the licensees. Defines supervisory and control policies of the supervised entities and of the non-bank financial market development. Adopts the list of accounting experts for the Companies that operate in the non-bank financial markets. Annually adopts the report on industry in connection with the condition and the prospect of the non-bank financial market. Adopts inspection handbooks. Pursuant to the law, makes a decision to start, the bankruptcy procedures for the supervised companies and appoints the liquidator. Adopts the AFSA draft budget and the annual report. Makes decisions on entering into cooperation and information exchange memorandums with authorities inside and outside the country. Makes decisions about hiring area experts to provide consultancy service. Adopts the salary and remuneration policy of AFSA staff. Adopts rules regarding staff appointment and dismissal. 1.3.2 AFSA Structure The Parliament of Albania adopts, upon the AFSA Board recommendation, the Authority’s organizational structure. The Board adopts the regulation of internal administrative organization, special functions and responsibilities of departments and directories, communication procedures among them, as well as, responsibilities of technical staff and other employees. AFSA, in the frame of its staff strucAFSA Structure turing and organization, is inclined towards ensuring the required inputs and human resources to perform a Completion of tasks and meeting the objectives is ensured by the authority’s staff, which is orhighly efficient supervision and regulation of various ganized based on a structure adopted by the non-banking fi nancial sectors. Council of Ministers Decision No. 551, date 02 August 2006 “On the Albanian Financial Supervisory Structure”. 12 A N N U A L R E P O R T ‘ 0 6 AFSA commenced its activity as of October 2006 with an organizational structure adopted pursuant to the Council of Ministers Decision No. 551, date 02 August 2006 and with a level of salaries for the executive or non-executive Board members as set forth in Law No. 9584, date 17 July 2006, “On Salaries”. The AFSA 2006 organizational structure consisted of 37 employees. The level of salaries decreased for several staff members. This did not prove to be very appropriate in terms of integration challenges and in terms of covering all regulatory functions that a regulatory entity should perform. This structure is expected to improve and the staff number is expected to increase over time, starting from 2007 , based on the needs and best practices. 1.3.3 Management Activity The AFSA management has worked towards the establishment the operation of this new regulatory entity within a short time. Initially, the attention of the executive bodies of AFSA focused on the selection of professional staff consisting essentially of specialists, who have a long experience in different sectors, subject to AFSA’s supervisory activity. In this context, a great attention has been paid to motivate the selected staff, therefore a salary and supplementary benefits policy has been drafted essentially based on the experience, training and responsibilities. Despite the efforts, it is difficult to keep the skilled employees due to the low salary ceiling. Consequently, AFSA drafted terms of reference in order to prepare a better organizational and salary structure to meet the goals of the institution. The new AFSA recommended structure has been approved by the Board and presented to the Parliament of the Republic of Albania for ratification. In order to ensure an efficient supervision, AFSA leadership has been provided with foreign technical assistance and it has enjoyed the close cooperation of international fi nancial donors and institutions like World Bank (WB), Financial Services Volunteer Corps (FSVC) regarding the drafting of a well-studied strategy concerning non-banking fi nancial market in Albania. On one hand, the AFSA has paid special attention to the institutional presentation to the public and various stakeholders. On the other hand, AFSA, although newly established, has continued its day-to-day supervisory activity by regularly monitoring the nonbanking fi nancial market and the operators, which conduct their activity in this market. 1.3.4 Human Resources Policy The human resources area bears a special importance, because the attainment of targets set by AFSA depends on the quality and motivation of every employee. The main target in the area of human resources during 2006 was the professional development of the employees and their motivation to meet the institution goals. The Human Resources Sector, as a part of a FSVC program, has received very useful as- A L B A N I A N F I N A N C I A L S U P E R V I S O R Y A U T H O R I T Y 13 sistance and support from experts with long experience in the human resources management area. This program focused on important key issues: • • • • • The drafting of Human Resources Strategy; The defi ning of policy directions in human resources area; The drafting of staff capacity building programs including training needs analysis; The drafting of job description in compliance with the AFSA organizational structure; The establishment of a salary structure that allows flexibility based on job performance. The main human resources policies in 2006 have focused on encouragement and promotion at work, selection of a well-trained staff, as well as, the professional development of staff through training. FSVC experts recommendations on important issues regarding human resources area Recruitment • Drafting of a more attractive package about staff recruitment, which, apart from the salary, must include career promotion opportunities, professional training, better work and communication conditions and means, appraisal and motivation at work (rewards) etc. • Drafting and application of uncomplicated and reasonable tests for the recruitment process. • Drafting of a plan about gradual increase of the staff number and defining of higher priority sectors where more staff is needed. Performance Appraisal Developing a simple and effective form of performance appraisal and linking this to the salary. Career Promotion Finding and offering opportunities to build professional capacities of the specialists that work for AFSA through training not only inside, but also abroad. This is also a good opportunity concerning motivation enhancement. Staff motivation at work The crucial objective of such a policy is to increase staff motivation to work and enhance the work quality. The key element of motivation at work is material remuneration in the form of salary and fringe benefits. In this context, restructuring of salary system, which will be supported by a detailed job assessment based on the performance appraisal of every staff member, will be carried out. The human resources department has focused on creating a friendly and efficient job environment which would provide a balance of the professional and private life of staff members. 14 A N N U A L R E P O R T ‘ 0 6 Employment Employment is one of the key elements that directly affect work efficiency and quality. Professional skills, communication skills and personal qualities, which help to employ skillful and motivated individuals, are considered significantly important in the employment process. Employment of young individuals, graduated with outstanding results or, who have received best training inside or abroad have been a priority in selecting AFSA staff. Such guide makes up a real source of development regarding work in this institution. In order to support the employment policy, staff shortlists procedures and rules have been drafted and they have been presented to the AFSA Board for approval. According to these rules, competition will be the main approach of attracting professionals. In addition, the aim will be to apply methods, which will allow selection of potential candidates, whose profi le would match the required job descriptions. On-job staff training Training through work is an ongoing process, which aims at conveying knowledge to ensure the continuity of professional activity. Human Resources Sector has focused its attention on short-term training either in the country and abroad, relying also on the assistance and support provided by donors such as World Bank and FSVC. Staff training has essentially consisted in attending conferences and workshops, which are linked to various sectors of the non-banking fi nancial system and whose activity is subject to AFSA supervision and regulation. Additionally, the Authority aims at promoting and funding, to a certain extent, the long term training of its staff, especially in areas that allow successful accomplishment of major tasks and goals of the institution. 1.3.5 Internal Auditing Pursuant to the duties defined by Law No. 9572, date 03 July 2006 “On the Albanian Financial Supervisory Authority”, and Law No. 9009, date 13 February 2003 “On Internal Audition of Public Sector” the Internal Auditing Unit has checked and verified the merging procedures of three prior regulatory entities. Through the audits conducted is concluded that legal requirements set forth in the effective legislation have been respected in terms of economic, financial, administrative and managerial aspects. These audits, which were conducted in the frame of special aspects of AFSA legal operation, have verified adherence to the law. 1.3.6 Financial Statements 2006 AFSA Funding and Budget Pursuant to Article 26 of Law No. 9572, date 03 July 2006 “On the Albanian Financial Supervisory Authority”, the AFSA is an independent institution, which is mainly funded A L B A N I A N F I N A N C I A L S U P E R V I S O R Y A U T H O R I T Y 15 by its own resources, except for any short-falls between fund resources and operation expenses. In that case the short-falls are funded by the State Budget up to the level when revenues are deemed sufficient to ensure its normal operation. State Budget funding allocation is approved by the Parliament of Albania in the form of an independent part of the State Budget. The budget surplus of the fi nancial year is transferred to the State Budget revenues within 4 months following the end of fi nancial year, apart from the funds set apart for investments which are in an ongoing phase. Pursuant to Articles 33 and 37 of Law No. 9572, date 03 July 2006 “On the Albanian Financial Supervisory Authority”, as well as, to Ministry of Finance Memo No. 8663/1, date 21 November 2006, the 2006 AFSA budget was drafted based on the budget of prior regulatory entities consisting of ASC, ISPPI and ISA respectively. AFSA opening balance sheet was certified by an external certified accounting expert. AFSA drafts the fi nancial statements and holds its accounts pursuant to the Council of Ministers Decision No. 248, date 10 April 1998 “On the Adoption of Local Government, State Central and Local Institutions and the Subsidiary Units Public Accounts”, as well as, the Ministry of Finances Guideline No. 14, date 28 December 2006 “On Drafting Annual Financial Statements”. The approved resources and funds covering the AFSA establishment and operation (10 October - 31 December 2006) are presented in the following table: Table 1: AFSA Revenue Resource AFSA Funds Resource (11 October - 31 December 2006) 1. Carried forward from three institutions (10 October 2006) 000/ALL 36,598 1.1. Own revenues 24,932 1.2. Budget financing 11,666 1.2.1 Operating expenses 10,666 1.2.2 Investment budget 1,000 2. Revenues generated by AFSA (11 Oct. .06 – 31 Dec. .06) 21,475 Total 58,073 Pursuant to Articles No. 26 and 27 of Law No. 9572, date 03 July 2006, “On the Albanian Financial Supervisory Authority”, revenues generated by the Authority from 11 October 2006 through 31 December 2006 includes revenues from insurance market, from trade of securities, from pensions market, 20% of the collected fi nes, as well as, other revenues. According to the fi nancial plan for 2006, expenses to cover payments for the staff members who lost their jobs in the frame of three prior institutions reforms take up 14% of sala- 16 A N N U A L R E P O R T ‘ 0 6 Table 2: Use of AFSA Funds Use of AFSA Funds (11 October - 31 December 2006) 000/ALL 1 . Funds for operating expenses 23,027 2 . Funds for investment 31,153 2.1. Completed investments 1,663 2.2. Ongoing investments 29,490 3 . Payments to State Budget 3,893 Total 58,073 ries’ fund or 9% of operating expenditures. Investments are carried out according to the adopted fi nancial plan pursuant to stipulations set forth in the Strategy for the establishment of the institution. Investments have focused on IT programs, whereas the issue of office building remains still pending for the coming year due to delays linked with the availability of office buildings. A L B A N I A N F I N A N C I A L S U P E R V I S O R Y A U T H O R I T Y 17 II. AFSA Activity 2.1 Regulatory Activity 2.1.1 Legal Changes The adoption of the Law No. 9572, date 03 July 2006 “On the Albanian Financial Supervisory Authority” led to an actual change of the non-banking fi nancial market supervision because of the regulatory functions’ unification of the three former regulatory institutions. This law defi nes the establishment, the responsibilities and the functioning of the Albanian Financial Supervisory Authority, as well as, it regulates the scope of activity of this institution. The changing of non-banking fi nancial market regulatory and supervisory structure made it necessary to also amend the entire legal and regulatory framework related to different areas of this sector. In this context, the end provisions of Law No. 9572 stipulate the changes to be made regarding relevant laws, as well as, they defi ne the responsible structures for their implementation, notably: a. In insurance area – Law No. 9267, date 29 July 2004, “On the Insurance, Reinsurance and Intermediary Activity in Insurance and Reinsurance”, b. In securities area – Law No. 8080, date 01 March 1996 “On Securities” c. In private pensions area – Law No. 7943, date 01 June 1995 “On Supplementary Pensions and Private Pensions Institutions”. Insurance Law Changes regarding the Guarantee Fund In the frame of adhering to the National Plan on Implementation of Stabilization and Association Agreement with European Union (EU), amendments to Law No. 9267, date 29 July 2004 “On the Insurance, Reinsurance and Intermediary Activity in Insurance and Reinsurance” have been prepared during 2006. These amendments reflect a very important aspect of EU directives about the insurance companies’ guarantee fund. These changes consist of the amendment of Article 98 of this law, on the increase EU Directives about Insurance of the guarantee fund to 3 million Euros, a process, Companies Guarantee Fund which has been planned to be completed in three According to EU directives on “life” activity stages in the future. 2002/12 and on “non life” activity 373 L 0239 it results that the guarantee fund has to be no less than 3 million €. Time required to meet this legal obligation is 5 years starting from the date of coming into effect of this directive. 18 A N N U A L R E P O R T ‘ 0 6 Another important change, which has come up as a need of implementing the law, is the amendment of the annual report delivery deadline by the insurance companies on their authorized accounting expert. 2.1.2 Regulatory Framework Changes Once the Law No. 9572, date 03 July 2006 “On the Albanian Financial Supervisory Authority” came into effect, all the by-laws pursuant to laws covering the respective areas, which were not in compliance with the provisions of this law, were repealed. In order to manage the lack of regulation coming as a consequence of the aforementioned abrogation in terms of internal administrative organization, specific functions, responsibilities of departments and directorates and the communication procedures among them, the following were drafted and adopted in two months time following coming into effect of the law: • AFSA internal rules, • AFSA Board functioning regulations. Regulations adopted by FSA over 2006 In Insurance Area 1. Regulation “On the Limits of Insurance Companies Capital Investment”, 2. Regulation “On the Content of Reinsurance Program of Insurance Companies and the Timeframe of its Delivery to AFSA”, 3. Regulation “On the Rules, Manners and Conditions of Insurance Companies Reporting to AFSA” 4. Regulation “ On Authorized Accounting Experts of Insurance Companies”, 5. Regulation “On the Basis, Calculation Methods and the Manners of Recording Mathematical Provisions”, 6. Regulation “On the Basis, Calculation Methods and the Manners of Recording Technical Provisions of Non Life Insurance”, 7. Regulation “On the Criteria that must be met by Individuals Elected or Appointed in the Leading Bodies of Insurance or Reinsurance Companies” 8. Guideline “On the List of Documents of Insurance and Reinsurance Companies Annual Mandatory and Regular Reporting”, 9. Guideline “On the Rules of Disclosing the Data of Insurance Companies and Broker Companies in the Frame of Transparency to the Public and Consumer Protection”, 10. Guideline “On Setting the Criteria of Reinsurance Companies, with which Insurance Companies Conduct that operate in the Republic of Albania can enter into Reinsurance Agreements”, In the Securities Area 1. Regulation “On the Financial Resources Requirements re: Licensed Individuals Who Operate in Securities Area”, 2. Regulation “On Licensing, Fees and Commissions of Subjects that Operate in the Securities Market”, 3. Regulation “On Take-Over”, 4. Regulation “On Illegal Practices of Securities Trade” , 5. Regulation “On Prospect”, 6. Regulation “On Conducting the Test of Individuals Applying for Receiving License as Dealer Agents”, 7. Regulation “On Procedures of Monitoring Retail Market on Securities of the Republic of Albania Government”, In the Private Pensions Area 1. Regulation “On Procedures of Licensing and Reviewing the Applications about Issuing the Permit to Operate as a Supplementary Private Pensions Institution”, 2. Regulation “On Supervision of and Financial Control of Supplementary Private Pensions Institutions”. A L B A N I A N F I N A N C I A L S U P E R V I S O R Y A U T H O R I T Y 19 Within a period of time of 6 months AFSA has reconsidered and adopted all relevant bylaws adopted by prior regulatory authorities according to the areas. Their revision was conducted based on the legal changes, new adopted rules and by reflecting market needs. 2.1.3 Legal Changes Plan The non-banking fi nancial market regulatory structure changed once the Law No. 9572, date 03 July 2006 “On the Albanian Financial Supervisory Authority” came into effect. However, this change was not accompanied with adequate legal infrastructure to meet the targets and responsibilities assigned by law, and therefore, resulted in difficulties in the interaction of market players. While enjoying a more independent status, the target of the regulatory entity is to play a more active role towards taking the initiatives and issuing the regulatory measures. The target of establishing the institutional infrastructure in insurance area will be to clearly defi ne the role of stakeholders’, AFSA, Minister of Finance, Bank of Albania, supervised companies and of the operators’ organizations. This process is to be associated with the proposal for legal changes and drafting of necessary legislation. The fulfi llment of commitments made in the context of the National Plan regarding Implementation of Stabilization and Association Agreement and fulfi llment of obligations deriving from it in terms of implementing similar legislation will continue to remain a priority across the three areas: insurance, securities and private pensions institutions. Regarding the securities market, besides changes made to Law No. 8080, date 01 March 1996 “On Securities”, a cooperation program with European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD which aims at drafting the necessary legislative and regulatory framework on bonds issuance by joint-stock companies and local government units), is in progress at this time. The private pension institutions are also a target of the reform and therefore, the law “On Supplementary Pensions and Private Pensions Institutions” and by-laws pursuant to it are under drafting process in compliance with the government’s national reform in pension’s area. In order to apply Risk-Based methodologies and International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS), drafts of sub-legislation regarding the insurance market are in progress. This sub-legislation will reflect, according to market developments, most recent directives. The AFSA is discussing on the following: • Draft/Regulation “On Defi ning Procedures to Attract Influential Participation 20 A N N U A L R E P O R T ‘ 0 6 in Insurance and Reinsurance Companies”; • Draft/Regulation “On Defi ning the Conditions and Criteria for Issuing and Revoking the Actuary’s Authorization ”; • Draft/Regulation “On Defi ning the Conditions and Criteria for Intermediaries in Insurance ”; • Draft/Regulation “On Defi ning the Claims Assessment Methodology”; • Draft/Regulation “On Defi ning the Criteria of Licensing Loss Adjusters” seeking here independence and better supervision; • Draft/Manual “On Inspection Procedures”; • Draft/Regulation “On Defi ning how to manage the Guarantee Fund ”; • Draft/Regulation “On Defi ning the Procedures of Prohibiting the Insurance Company Property Free Transfer”. 2.2 Licensing Activity The target of AFSA is to ensure, by means of adhering to the requirements of the Law “On the Albanian Financial Supervisory Authority” and the licensing requirements pursuant to the respective area laws (insurance, securities, and supplementary private pensions), a fair and regulated market through a process developed on the basis of justice, fairness and equality. The key principle of the Authority in the licensing process for the entities operating in the non-banking fi nancial market is to set forth requirements, which are clear, fair and transparent to the public. 2.2.1 Insurance Licensing Activity Pursuant to the effective legislation, the Authority has responded in a timely fashion to the applications for license by market operators, mainly regarding the activity expansion, or changes to the capital stock and leading staff. This has involved careful examination regarding consideration of the proper documentation, which has been presented by the interested parties. • Insurance Intermediaries Licensing The intermediary activity, as a negotiating and selling of insurance contracts by individual or juristic entities licensed by AFSA, is focused on agents’ activity. The insurance brokering activity is not present yet in the Albanian insurance market. A L B A N I A N F I N A N C I A L S U P E R V I S O R Y A U T H O R I T Y 21 The licensing of the following entities was accomplished over 2006 in the frame of insurance intermediaries licensing process: 1) “Motor Insurance Agency – ASA” S.A. - ASA was established as a joint-stock company according to Law “On Commercial Companies” and it was issued by the respective regulatory Authority with license No. 4, date 12 April 2006 to operate as an agents’ company in the area of selling non-life insurance products. Established by 7 shareholders, where each of them owns equal number of shares, ASA developed an online system, which enabled online trading of nonlife insurance products through a computerized system pursuant to the Council of Ministers Decision No. 192, date 25 March 2005 “On the Licensing Criteria and Procedures for Insurance Agents and the Rules of Supervising their Activity”. This online system provided for the fi rst time a fast and reliable service to the companies and also to their customers. In 2006, ASA operated as trading network for 7 insurance companies by applying fi xed fees according to the contracts signed with these companies. During this period, there were about 50 trading locations, which covered the entire territory of Albania. The locations were connected online with ASA central office and companies, with which contracts had been made regarding the sale of internal TPL motor compulsory policies. 2) “Albanian Post S.A. - was issued with license Nr. 2; date 10 Mars 2006 to operate as a trading agent for non-life insurance business. Additionally, Albanian Post met all requirements of effective regulatory framework for individuals, which were accepted to operate as agents at the premises of this institution. 3) 16 individual agents of Insig S.A.. – They were licensed to operate as non-life insurance agents on behalf of “Insig S.A.” insurance company on a 3-years license term with the right of renewing the license. The license validity is linked with signing the contract with the insurance company and with the installation of online trading program. • Approvals regarding insurance companies: 1) The AFSA approved, upon Decision No. 5, date 03 March 2006, the changing of the insurance company name from “Dukagjini Al S.A.” into “Eurosig S.A.”, following changes in company shareholders and leading staff. The changing of the name came as a result of the company’s strategy change in the management and operational aspect in the insurance market. 22 A N N U A L R E P O R T ‘ 0 6 2) The AFSA approved, upon Decision No. 6, date 03 March 2006, the license to perform reinsurance activity by “Sigal S.A..” insurance company. Point 3/c of Article 20 of Law No. 9267, date 29 July 2004, “On the Insurance, Reinsurance and Intermediary Activity in Insurance and re-Insurance” stipulates the case when a company can be licensed by the Authority both as an insurance and reinsurance company at the same time. 3) As of December 2006, AFSA approved establishment of representation office in Tirana for the insurance company “Intersalonika” General Insurance S.A. , which has its headquarters located in Thessalonica in Greece. The goal of establishing this office is to conduct a market research and to set up the preparatory documentary conditions to start its operation in the future as an insurance company in Albania. The establishment of foreign companies’ representation offices is a new development of the national insurance market. Table 3: List of licensed insurance companies Licensed Companies Type of Activity Ownership 1. Insig S.A. Life Insurance + Non-Life Insurance Government of Albania + EBRD + IFC 08.06.2000 2. Sigma S.A. Non-Life Insurance National Private Capital 03.02.1999 3. Sigal S.A. Non-Life Insurance National Private Capital + Albanian-American Fund 23.06.1999 4. Atlantik S.A. Non-Life Insurance National Private Capital 01.06.2001 5. Intersig S.A. Non-Life Insurance National Private Capital 13.09.2001 6. Interalbanian S.A. Non-Life Insurance National Private Capital 10.09.2004 7. Albsig S.A. Non-Life Insurance National Private Capital 10.09.2004 8. Eurosig S.A. Non-Life Insurance National Private Capital 10.09.2004 9. Sigal Life S.A. Life Insurance National Private Capital + Albanian-American Fund 10.09.2004 10. Sicred S.A. Life Insurance National Private Capital 10.09.2004 No. Time of receiving the license During the last quarter of 2006, international insurance companies showed interest in the Albanian insurance market in investing in Albanian insurance companies. Therefore, changes are accepted to happen with the shareholder-structure of “Interalbanian”, “Albsig”, ‘Sigal” and possibly other insurance companies. A L B A N I A N F I N A N C I A L S U P E R V I S O R Y A U T H O R I T Y 23 2.2.2 Licensing Activity in Securities Market In 2006, the Authority’s target in relation to securities market has been to expand Government securities (T-Bills & T-Bonds) retail market by increasing the number of licensed entities operating in this market. AFSA is the regulatory body for Government securities retail market in the Republic of Albania Government securities retail market is an OTC market where the trade is conducted through the physical or virtual counters of the banks and other entities licensed to carry out transactions, with investors who can be individual or legal entities, resident and non-resident persons. Undertaking the activity of retail trade and keeping of the analytical register is performed by the entities licensed for this purpose by the Albanian Financial Supervisory Authority. Keeping of the analytical register makes up one of the conditions regarding licensing of dealers to operate in Government securities retail market. The register ensures keeping of the records in an analytical manner for investors on Government securities ownership, transactions carried out in connection with securities or data concerning their pledging as guarantees. By end of 2006 securities market consisted of the following: • 10 licensed companies which operate as securities dealers, of which 5 banks were entitled to the right of trade also in the T-Bills retail market. • 14 licensed representatives of securities dealers. • 5 licensed registrars of Government securities. • Albanian Share Register, and • Tirana Stock Exchange. At the beginning of 2006, ALFA Bank commenced its activity as securities dealer and, at the same time as T-Bills registrar. Credins Bank, which was licensed as of 08 May 2006 was added to the list of registrars in Government securities, thus increasing to 5 the number of entities licensed for this activity. In May 2006, the relevant Authority licensed the Italian-Albanian Bank as a securities dealer. Based on the entity’s application, the license was issued for one year term. In December 2006, AFSA re-licensed as securities dealers two agents of “American Bank of Albania”, which represent the entity in the trading activities conducted in the Stock Exchange and in the Government securities retail market. The existence and development of Government securities retail market has raised the interest of several entities either inside the country and abroad, which have demonstrated their interest to become participants of this market. 24 A N N U A L R E P O R T ‘ 0 6 Table 4: Government Securities Dealers in 2006 No. Companies Description No. of Representatives License Term 1. Tirana Bank S.A. 1 No expiration term 2. Triumph Group S.A. 1 No expiration term 3. Credins Bank S.A. 1 No expiration term 4. Balkan Group-01 S.A. 2 No expiration term 5. Raiffesen Bank S.A. 1 No expiration term 6. National Commercial Bank S.A. 2 No expiration term 7. Popular Bank S.A. 1 No expiration term 8. Italian-Albanian S.A. 1 No expiration term 9. American Bank of Albania S.A. 2 No expiration term 10. Alfa Bank 2 No expiration term Pursuant to Law No. 8080, date 01 March 1996 “On Securities”, to Regulation “On Securities Registrars Licensing” and to Regulation “On the Government of the Republic of Albania Securities Retail Trade”, the following entities have been licensed to operate in the capacity of registrar: Table 5: Government Securities Registrars in 2006 No. Licensed Entity Type of License License Term 1. Raiffesen Bank S.A. Government Securities Registrar No expiration term 2. American Bank of Albania S.A. Government Securities Registrar No expiration term 3. National Commercial Bank S.A. Government Securities Registrar No expiration term 4. Alfa Bank S.A. Treasury Bonds Registrar No expiration term 5. Credins Bank S.A. Treasury Bonds Registrar No expiration term 2.2.3 Entities Operating in the Supplementary Private Pensions Market Pursuant to the Law No. 7943, date 01 June 1995, “On Supplementary Pensions and Private Pensions Institutions” and to by-laws, there are 3 companies that operate in the supplementary private pensions’ market. The law sets forth the requirements for establishing pensions’ institutions by more than one employer. According to this law, one of these employers should have at least more than 100 employees and no less than 500 employees. A L B A N I A N F I N A N C I A L S U P E R V I S O R Y A U T H O R I T Y 25 The following supplementary private pensions’ institutions, which are established and operate in the Albanian market, meet this legal requirement: • “GARANTSIG Pensions Private Institution”, was licensed by the relevant Authority upon Decision No. 1, date 01 July 2005, • “APFA – American Pension Fund of Albania”, was licensed by the relevant Authority upon Decision No. 2, date 01 July 2005, • “Pensions Private Institution CAPITAL” Company was licensed by the relevant Authority upon Decision No. 3, date 12 December 2005. 2.2.4 Corporate Governance In the frame of its efforts to increase its role in terms of improving the climate of corporate governance, AFSA has targeted promotion and implementation of the OECD White Paper “On the Principles of Corporate Governance in Southeastern Europe” through simultaneously identifying the most important areas, where reforms must be taken for proper corporate governance. In order to increase its role over corporate governance, the Authority has aimed at defi ning clear criteria about the elected persons in the Supervisory Boards of the licensed entities, in leading positions or in the auditing committee by insisting on improving integrity, professionalism, experience and training. The Albanian Financial Supervisory Authority is a member of Albanian Corporate Governance Forum. Activities and meetings of the Forum continued during 2006, where the following are worth of mentioning: AFSA - Member of Albanian Corporate Governance Forum Albanian Securities Commission (now AFSA), as a cofounder, endorsed in 14 June 2005 the resolution on the establishment of the Albanian Corporate Governance Forum. The Forum was established as an organization similar to a network of institutions and organizations with interests, impact and joint will regarding necessary improvement of corporate governance practices in Albania. The goal of the forum is to provide its contribution to the implementation of contemporary principles and standards of Corporate Governance in Albania. 26 A N N U A L R E P O R T ‘ 0 6 1) The analysis of the fi ndings of the observation conducted by OECD on the implementation status of White Paper Recommendations. 2) The involvement of the Forum in providing knowledge regarding the contemporary standards of the corporate governance. 3) The signing of a Cooperation Memorandum between the Albanian Corporate Governance Forum and International Financial Corporate (IFC) with the aim of meeting short-term and long-term objectives regarding the improvement of overall corporate governance in Albania. 2.3 Supervisory Activity The Albanian Financial Supervisory Authority performs its non-banking fi nancial markets supervisory functions through monitoring markets in general, and market stakeholders’ performance, in particular. The Supervision department is increasingly focusing on identification, measuring, prevention and elimination of the scale of risks that threaten market performance and, consequently, consumers’ interests. Risk-based supervision, as a new model of non-banking fi nancial markets supervision, constitutes a detachment from the traditional methods of static observation that included interventions only in cases of legal infringements. Risk-based supervision is moving towards a contemporary analysis system, where regulatory interventions start right after receiving early warnings that may lead to deterioration of one or several parameters of operators in the market. Risk-Based Supervision The analysis of a company’s operations has traditionally been the method of supervision to make sure that the company has adhered to the effective legislation and regulations, as well as, to make sure that fi nancial data have been prepared in compliance with appropriate reporting methods and that they accurately reflect the real fi nancial condition of the company. Risk-based supervision leads this method several steps ahead, so the supervisory process identifies and focuses on the areas, which include a high risk presence for the company and, which jeopardize company’s fi nancial progress. Risk-based supervision does not audit fi nancial outcomes of the insurance company. Its focus consists in identifying risks that impact the business and the managerial processes to prevent and minimize these risks. Risk-based supervision takes into consideration every risk that the company faces and it identifies risks through a structured process. The supervision department checks how these risks are managed and it focuses on company exposure against most critical risks. In this manner, the focus remains on the risks, managerial process, outcomes uncertainty and their impact on the company’s progress. The development and the stabilization of the market will bring, over time, a sophistication of these risk-based supervisory methods. AFSA performs its markets supervisory function through a) analyzing the documents (offsite supervision) presented by the supervised entities, regular or ad-hoc reports, and b) initiating on-site inspections of the supervised entities with the purpose of identifying the data. On-site supervision and analysis may include a large scope of issues, or it may focus on specific issues. A L B A N I A N F I N A N C I A L S U P E R V I S O R Y A U T H O R I T Y 27 Off-Site Monitoring Indicators in Albania AFSA together with Word Bank held a Conference “On Insurance Financial Indicators Analysis” on 05-06 December in Hotel Tirana. Participants had the opportunity to attend a 1 day lecture on the Off-Site fi nancial indicators, which are applied to review the fi nancial situation of non-life insurance companies. The goal of this conference was to help all participants, companies’ representatives, external audits, and AFSA staff to have substantial knowledge on the fi nancial indicators importance, how some of these indicators are calculated, and how to interpret the outcomes when assessing the activity and fi nancial situation of the insurance companies. Following the lecture, AFSA conducted a test involving all participants concerning their knowledge on the Off-Site fi nancial indicators. All participants successfully passed the test and they received a certificate of proficiency on the basic level of their knowledge on fi nancial indicators. This lecture was attended by insurance companies’ managers, heads of different AFSA sectors and by two auditing companies. In 2006, AFSA has set as priority the insurance market regulation and supervision based on the weight that this sector bears in the frame of fi nancial market, as well as based on its size and dynamics. Meanwhile, attention was not detached from cautious monitoring and support for a sound development of securities and supplementary private pensions. On Site Supervision – IAIS Standards On-site supervision is a very important part of the supervisory process, which is closely linked with the ongoing monitoring process. On one hand, inspection provides information that is supplementary to fi nancial and statistical analysis information submitted by the entities. On the other hand, On Site inspection needs to be supported by market information and statistics that stem from fi nancial statement analysis (revenues and expenses, annual balance-sheet). On-site supervision allows the supervisor to gather information and identify the issues that can be identified through continuous monitoring, notably as follows: a. In the case of companies with problems concerning the activity, accounting irregularities or weaknesses in management, on-site supervision allows the supervisor to identify problems that the company may have willingly failed to take into consideration and, some times, even hiding them; b. Provides the supervisors with the opportunity to establish a direct relationship with the company leaders, which is very important in terms of being more closely familiarized with the efficiency of leaders’ work. c. Allows the supervisors to make assessments both, in the frame of the decision making process by the company leaders’ and in internal control effectiveness; d. It may serve to advise companies to shun those types of activities, which may be illegal and inappropriate; e. Provides the supervisors with the possibility of analyzing the impact of specific regulators and, very often, gathering of information to conduct benchmarking against standards. Reporting – IAIS Reporting Standards a. Supervisory Authority: • Sets criteria regarding presentation of financial information, actuarial reports and other information from all licensed insurance companies under jurisdiction to the Authority in a regular fashion. • Defines the goal and frequency of these reports and information including criteria that determine whether 28 A N N U A L R E P O R T ‘ 0 6 • • these reports and information must become subject to auditing, or not, Requests, at least, an auditing report for every year, Requests more frequent and more detailed information as per the necessity, b. Supervisory Authority: • Asks insurance companies to present information about their financial situation on individual and group basis. It can request and gather information about every office of the supervised company, • Asks insurance companies to report every exposure outside the financial balance sheet, • Asks insurance companies to report on delegated functions as other companies outsource, • Requests that the appropriate level of insurance companies managers report on the timeframe and their accuracy, • Asks that inaccurate information gets remedied and it has authority to impose sanctions about reporting with fraudulent purposes. • Asks insurance companies to present information about their financial situation on individual and group basis. It can request and gather information about every office of the supervised company, • Asks insurance companies to report every exposure outside the financial balance sheet, • Asks insurance companies to report on delegated functions as other companies outsource, • Requests that the appropriate level of insurance companies managers report on the timeframe and their accuracy, • Asks that inaccurate information gets remedied and it has authority to impose sanctions about reporting with fraudulent purposes. 2.3.1 Insurance Market The Market Structure and Size There we ten insurance companies in the market in 2006, of which seven are non-life insurance companies, two are life insurance companies and one company offers both nonlife and life insurance products. The number of policyholders in 2006 was 507,375 marking an increase of about 9,5% compared to 2005. The increase in the number of policyholders in 2006 led to an increase of the revenues from premiums written. Insurance gross written premiums amounted to about 4,5 billion ALL, a figure 11,95% higher than that of 2005. The market still remained inclined towards non-life insurance, which provided about 93% of the premiums , thus leaving life insurance with about 7% of all the written premiums. 2006 Insurance Premiums Structure 7% 34% Life Insurance Voluntary 93% 66% Obligatory A L B A N I A N F I N A N C I A L Non-life Insurance S U P E R V I S O R Y A U T H O R I T Y 29 Monthly Progress of Insurance Gross Written Premiums in 2006 600,000 500,000 400,000 300,000 200,000 100,000 Life ec . D ov . N ct . O pt . Se Au g. Ju ly ne Ju ay M Ap ri l ar ch M Fe b. Ja n. 0 Compulsory Voluntary Non-Life Compulsory Insurance Compulsory insurance products continued to dominate Albanian market in 2006, thus generating about 66% of revenues from insurance gross written premiums. Due to development specifics, the compulsory insurance market has not been liberalized in terms of prices. The minimum and maximum prices for internal TPL and border policy are determined once a year by the Ministry of Finance following recommendations made by market specialists. Fixed prices determined several years ago are still applied to the green card business. Compulsory Insurance Monthly Premiums (in thousand ALL) 500,000 2006 2005 400,000 300,000 200,000 100,000 30 A N N U A L R E P O R T ‘ 0 6 ec . D ov . N ct . O pt . Se Au g. Ju ly ne Ju ay M ri l Ap ar ch M Fe b. Ja n. 0 • Insurance gross written premium revenues of internal TPL in 2006 was about 1,57 billion ALL. Revenues’ increase by 14,46% compared to 2005 was basically tied to the increase of the floor price since May 2006, while the number of contracts remained almost unchanged. The tendency of insurance companies to sell insurance TPL policies with prices lower than allowed floor levels decreased in 2006. This occurred as a result of the following: a) enforcement of the Council of Ministers Decisions on real time (online) insurance policies issuing and reporting and b) operators agreements concerning the functioning ways of their sale networks. These shifts were accompanied by the changes across shares of the market dominated by the operators. • Green card revenues’ increase was in line with contracts number increase. In 2006 gross written premiums amounted to about 648 million ALL, or 11,72% more than in 2005. Due to the particularities of this insurance class such as duration and unlimited liabilities, qualitative reinsurance remains a necessity for this class. In 2006, the Authority decreased from five to four the number of operators licensed to trade the green card policy. Intersig S.A. insurance company did not manage to fi nd appropriate reinsurance to meet the criteria of maximum coverage per hazard set forth in the law. Actually, the licensed companies which issue green card policies, are: Insig S.A., Sigal S.A., Sigma S.A. and Atlantik S.A. • Border insurance marked the highest increase in the group of compulsory insurance business at 25% compared to 2005. The increase in this market was a result of the increased number of policies written in 2006, the increase of prices and the functioning of a joint selling network for all market operators. In 2006 written premiums from border policies amounted to about 528 million ALL. Voluntary Insurance In 2006, number of voluntary insurance contracts increased by roughly 17%, while premiums increased by 6,25% compared to 2005, thus reaching 1,53 billion ALL. Non-life voluntary insurance business revenues remained at the level of 2005, while there was a considerable increase by 29% in life insurance business compared to the previous year. This increase in life-insurance products reflects an increasing trend of consumer awareness regarding the need of risk transfer in insurance companies. The voluntary insurance business market remains still at low levels, however, we need to point out that we have unutilized potentials in our country. Its development is closely linked not only with the economic level, but also with the level of education and consumers’ trust on market operators. • Property insurance during 2006 recorded 785 million ALL revenues. Fire and additional nature perils insurance products were ranked the fi rst with about 49% property insurance revenues followed by guarantee insurance with 17%. There was a significant increase of fi re insurance in the second half of 2006, which was linked to the banking system as the commercial banks required that their customers insure their proper- A L B A N I A N F I N A N C I A L S U P E R V I S O R Y A U T H O R I T Y 31 Voluntary Insurance Premiums Monthly Progress (in thousand ALL) 180,000 160,000 2005 2006 140,000 120,000 100,000 80,000 60,000 40,000 20,000 ec . D ov . N ct . O pt . Se Au g. Ju ly ne Ju ay M Ap ri l ar ch M Fe b. Ja n. 0 ties over the duration of the loan. Premiums and contracts increase from guarantee insurance, based also on the specifics that they demonstrate, was associated with the AFSA’s permanent monitoring and supervision towards determining the risk scale undertaken by the operators, mainly through the phenomena of risk transfer from the banks or other entities to the insurance companies.. • It is worth mentioning that, although the construction industry is well developed in Albania, the engineering insurance products were at a low level within the group of property insurance. • Despite the importance they have at the existing stage of country’s development, liability insurance also remained at low levels. Operators’ activities in the fuel, building, hotels & tourism, etc., markets are, in most cases, not insured against damages that it may cause to third parties. Professional liability in various fields also remains uncovered by insurance. • Revenues from personal accidents and health insurance in 2006 amounted to about 177 million ALL, thus marking an increase by 21% compared to 2005. Travel health insurance made up most of this group with about 82% of this group revenues. The main factor of the increase in travel health insurance written premiums is the continuous increase in the number of individuals traveling abroad. • Life insurance market in 2006 split into three following operators: Insig S.A., Sigal S.A. and Sicred S.A.. Life insurance premiums were recorded at 308 million ALL. Claims • Total claims paid by insurance companies in 2006 were about 1,28 billion ALL, or 7.5% 32 A N N U A L R E P O R T ‘ 0 6 Claims payment by non-life insurance companies in 2006 (in thousand ALL) 500,000 400,000 300,000 200,000 100,000 EU RO SI G AL I BA N T N ER IA N BS IG AL TE RS IG IN TI K AN AT L IN SI G AL SI G SI G M A 0 more than in 2005. Due to the market structure described above, majority of paid claims belong to compulsory insurance with 928 million ALL, or 73% of the total claims. • Technical provisions make up a considerable part of liabilities in all insurance companies balance sheets. They also reflect the incurred but not paid claims. • It is worth noting that the Loss ratio at 35% is low compared to other countries across the region. Moreover, this ratio is very low taking into consideration that compulsory insurance occupies the main place in insurance structure. This indicates that customers’ indemnifications are not assessed and paid at the proper extent by the insurance companies. 2006 Paid Claims Structure 1% 27% Life Voluntary 99% 73% Non-Life Mandatory • While aiming at fulfi lling its key mission to protect consumers’ interests, the AFSA is paying special attention to the addressing, assessment and payment process of insurance claims. All insurance companies became subject to on-site inspection con- A L B A N I A N F I N A N C I A L S U P E R V I S O R Y A U T H O R I T Y 33 ducted by the Authority during October-December 2006, which focused on the issue of addressing the claims and their payment. Once the conclusions from the on-site inspection were drawn, AFSA took disciplinary and penalizing measures against some companies. Meanwhile, AFSA in cooperation with Albanian Insurers Association and stakeholders’ representatives has started a program on standardizing claims reporting, handling, and payment procedures, closely tied with the review and improvement of insurance contracts terms and conditions. The establishing of a database for claims recording is a priority, which will serve not only supervision, but also insurance companies towards development of tariff differentiation systems based on claims experience. Reinsurance • The amount of premiums ceded in reinsurance in 2006 was 486 million ALL, about 11% of gross written total premiums. Insurance companies have carried out portfolios or specific reinsurance contracts in order to build capacity alleviate some fi nancial effects incurred by large claims. Insurance companies have entered into reinsurance agreements regarding the transfer of green card, property, internal TPL and debtor’s life responsibilities. Reinsurance facultative contracts have supported companies’ original insurance contracts mainly in engineering insurance, marine insurance, aviation insurance and liability insurance. The Financial Supervisory Authority has monitored the agreements and reinsurance facultative contracts in compliance with legal requirements of risk maximum retention and the criteria related to reinsurers’ quality. It is worth mentioning the quality improvement of reinsurers participating in the renewing of companies reinsurance agreements carried out during OctoberDecember 2006. • An option to increase reinsurance efficiency is the establishment of a joint scheme, or facility for reinsurance, which will serve as a tool to make qualitative reinsurance agreements having qualitative re-insurers as a target. There are different experiences across the world such as pool reinsurance, or the existence of national reinsurance companies. Such an idea is supported also by the World Bank and it can be applied in the near future, following the analyzing of potential options of administration approaches. Insurance Companies’ Ranking in 2006 • In 2006, Sigal insurance company kept on leading the non-life insurance market with 27,34% of insurance premiums total. Meanwhile, Insig recovered its position by moving up to the second position with 18,64% of premiums, thus leaving Sigma Company behind in the third place with 18,40%. Other companies continue respectively as follows: Atlantik – 11,39%; Intersig – 8,00%; Interalbanian – 7,05%; Albsig – 5,95%; and Eurosig – 3,23%. 34 A N N U A L R E P O R T ‘ 0 6 EUROSIG ALBSIG 3.23% 5.95% INSIG INSIG 18.64% 42.39% SICRED INTERALBANIAN 22.47% 7.05% INTERSIG 8.00% ATLANTIK 11.39% SIGAL 27.34% SIGAL LIFE SIGMA 35.14% 18.40% • Insig insurance company maintained it position with 42,39% in life insurance, followed by Sigal-Life with 35,14% and Sicred with 22,47% of premiums total. • Sigma insurance company was ranked fi rst since it had paid 32,12% of the total claims paid by companies. Other companies rank respectively as follows: Sigal – 25,28%; Insig – 17,63%; Intersig – 9,40%; Atlantik – 8,21%; Interalbanian – 3,61%; Albsig – 2,48% and Eurosig – 1,28%. Insurance Sector Financial Analysis The AFSA conducted in November - December 2006 with the World Bank technical assistance an insurance market due diligence by reviewing its experience and existing condition. The analysis helped with the identification of market issues and phenomena and the potential scenarios in the future. The examining of the insurance sector fi nancial condition focused on companies’ assessment through Insurance Regulatory Information System (IRIS), standards adapted to non-life insurance companies in Albania. This examining included assessment of claims administration, risk retention and insurance companies’ solvency as the initial step towards AFSA’s full strategy with the goal of drafting initial conclusions and continuation of the supervisory activity further. Financial reports of the above model are considered very important in terms of setting up an early warning system as a key element of the modern model of risk-based supervision. The target of early warning is to timely identify the issues that may affect consumers’ interests and market stability, as well as, permanent monitoring and inter- A L B A N I A N F I N A N C I A L S U P E R V I S O R Y A U T H O R I T Y 35 vention or taking of relevant measures by AFSA. Ratio Importance (IRIS financial indicators) – Ratios Value Range Ratio High End % Low end % Premium growth rate Net Retention Expense/Premiums Ratio Claims/Premiums Ratio Combined Ratio Investment revenues Other Revenues Operating Ratio Profit Ratio Capital to Gross Premiums Capital to Technical Provisions Solvency Ratio + 40 80 50 80 105 8 1 101 20 50 30 300 - 40 40 25 50 85 4 N/A 80 -1 20 10 150 • The majority of non-life insurance companies have a growth rate in compliance with industry limits. • Net retention ratio is relatively high in the market. Industry standards are values between 40%– 80%, while the ratio in the Albanian market is to an extent of degree of 87.8 %. Although this would apparently be regarded as low levels of ceding in reinsurance, large amounts in absolute values are transferred outside the territory. High rate of retention is also connected with the insurance structure in Albania. Internal TPL and border insurance prevalence certainly has an impact on the high retention rate by the companies. IRIS tests on the fi nancial condition of insurance Companies in Albania in 2006 Premiums Increase Rate 80,00% Net Retention Rate 60,00% 100.00% 40,00% 80.00% 60.00% 20,00% Albsig Eurosig Albsig Eurosig InterAlbanian Intersig Atlantik -60,00% Sigal 0.00% Sigma 20.00% Insig Eurosig Albsig InterAlbanian Intersig -40,00% Atlantik -20,00% Sigal Insig 0,00% Sigma 40.00% Expenditures Ratio Claims Ratio 36 A N N U A L R E P O R T ‘ 0 6 InterAlbanian Intersig Eurosig Albsig InterAlbanian Intersig Atlantik 0.00% Sigal 0.00% Sigma 20.00% Insig 40.00% 20.00% Atlantik 60.00% 40.00% Sigal 80.00% 60.00% Sigma 80.00% Insig 100.00% Combined Ratio Revenue Investment Ratio Other Revenue Ratio Eurosig Albsig InterAlbanian Intersig Atlantik Sigal Sigma 10.00% 5.00% 0.00% -5.00% Eurosig Albsig InterAlbanian Intersig Atlantik Sigal Sigma Insig 120.00% 100.00% 80.00% 60.00% 40.00% 20.00% 0.00% Insig 30.00% 25.00% 20.00% 15.00% Operating Ratio 8,00% 120.00% 100.00% 6,00% 80.00% 4,00% 60.00% 40.00% 2,00% 20.00% Capital Ratio vs. Gross Premiums Eurosig Albsig InterAlbanian Intersig Atlantik Sigal Sigma 0.00% Insig Eurosig Albsig InterAlbanian Intersig Atlantik Sigal Sigma Insig 0,00% Capital Ratio vs. Technical Provisions InterAlbanian Albsig Eurosig InterAlbanian Albsig Eurosig Intersig Eurosig Albsig InterAlbanian Intersig Atlantik Sigal Sigma Insig 0.00% Atlantik 100.00% Sigal 200.00% Sigma 300.00% Insig 250.00% 200.00% 150.00% 100.00% 50.00% 0.00% 400.00% Profit Ratio Solvency Ratio 2100.00% 1800.00% 1500.00% 1200.00% 900.00% 600.00% 300.00% 0.00% 50.00% 40.00% A L B A N I A N F I N A N C I A L S U P E R V I S O R Y Intersig Atlantik Sigal Sigma 0.00% -10.00% Insig Eurosig Albsig InterAlbanian Intersig Atlantik Sigal Sigma Insig 30.00% 20.00% 10.00% A U T H O R I T Y 37 • Positive trends of market indicators can be observed at fi rst sight; however, the Loss ratio and Expense ratio, in general, still continue to be at levels which are far from acceptable. This is a situation, which has been inherited over several years, and, therefore, it will be in the AFSA’s focus of attention to normalize it through drafting new risk management strategies and improving the legal framework that affects claims. • The combined ratio across the majority of companies complies with the low end and high end limits. The Authority’s goal is to maintain the combined ratios of companies within industry limits by demanding modification of the trends of its component parts. • The operating ratio for the majority of companies falls within the maximum and minimum limits set by industry. • It is noticeable that the majority of insurance companies have an investment return, which is lower than the industry minimum rate of 4% and, which is essentially linked with the size of companies’ assets rather than with the premiums’ revenues. • With regards to other income ratio, the majority of insurance companies have a higher rate return than the minimum limit of 1% set for this ratio. The monitoring of Companies Balance Sheets Elements The AFSA has monitored the balance sheets of companies based on legal requirements and accounting standards. The process was focused on verification of liabilities elements (assets and liabilities of every company) and, then, on reviewing their compliance with assets items in value and time. • The AFSA has permanently pursued adherence to the legal requirement on insurance companies guarantee fund and application of rules for its investment. Actually, insurance companies possess the guarantee fund invested in “frozen deposits” at second tier banks on 1-year term basis and T-Bills as per the law requirements; • The AFSA has verified by the end of every quarter the minimum limit of companies’ solvency margin as per the law requirements and solvency which makes up, at the same time, also their capital and the investment policies; • Companies’ fi nancial analysis has also included the auditing of database and calculations carried out in relation to technical and mathematical provisions of the companies by the end of every quarter. The AFSA audit was accompanied by the respective comments and the assessment of technical provisions’ sufficiency. Once the sufficiency has been assessed , the Authority has conducted verification of assets that would cover the technical and mathematical provisions. 38 A N N U A L R E P O R T ‘ 0 6 • Total of Insurance market assets by 31 December 2006 amounted to about 11,4 billion ALL marking an increase to an extent of 11,69%, compared to 2005. This increase was reflected mainly in investments in T-Bills and real estate by 30.89% and 23.97% respectively; • The bank deposits amounted to about 3,3 billion ALL, thus comprising also the highest item of market assets to an extent of 28.94 % of total assets. The receivables remain still high at 1.118.206.723 ALL, making up about 9% of assets in the insurance sector; • The compulsory insurance premium increase in 2006 led to a positive change of the market fi nancial situation, to an improvement of cash flow, to the increase of the companies’ investment potential. The increase in investment potential has brought about an improvement of assets quality towards liquid investments guaranteeing coverage of technical and mathematical provisions with high quality assets. Table 6: Insurance Market Balance Sheet Balance Sheet 31.12.2005 31.12.2006 (*) 3.477.332.193 3.302.423.253 Land and constructions 848.259.652 1.051.585.476 Stock and Shares 854.111.519 948.707.019 Deposits Treasury Bonds 1.752.811.221 2.294.279.103 955.121.772 1.118.206.723 2.327.975.749 2.694.262.335 1 0 .2 1 5 .6 1 2 .1 0 6 1 1 .4 0 9 .4 6 3 .9 0 9 4.917.078.725 5.378.670.605 609.889.355 300.160.934 Debtors-Receivables Other Activities Total Assets Gross Technical Provisions Other payables Own Capital Total Liabilities 4.688.644.026 5.730.632.370 1 0 .2 1 5 .6 1 2 .1 0 6 1 1 .4 0 9 .4 6 3 .9 0 9 (*) 2006 data are operational 2.3.2 Securities Market The securities’ market continues to be prevailed by trading in the primary and secondary market of the Government debt instruments (T-Bills and T-Bonds), while the securities stock market remains still undeveloped and mainly limited in the off-exchange market registered in the Albanian Share Register. In the recent years, various national and international entities have shown an increasing interest to operate in the securities market. A L B A N I A N F I N A N C I A L S U P E R V I S O R Y A U T H O R I T Y 39 The Authority’s supervisory activity in the securities domain has mainly focused on permanent follow up of market indicators development. In addition, in order to have a more confident and real assessment of these indicators, the AFSA has set as a priority the regular reporting process standardization to be performed by operators on the securities market day-to-day trading data. The Government Securities Retail Market The retail market of Government securities is the most developed securities market in the country. Even during 2006 this market was totally dominated by short-term instruments (T-Bills). The expansion of the market including other operators and deepening it further with longer maturity term Government securities is expected to also increase the transactions’ volume in the retail market of these instruments. 2006 marked a relatively satisfactory flux of transactions in the Government securities retail market, which has experienced an increase compared to the prior year. The total amount of transactions in the Government securities retail (secondary) market in 2006 was roughly about 20.912,14 billion ALL (compared to 1.518,80 million ALL in 2005). The total number of transactions carried out in this market over the same period was 6065 against 42 in 2005. Table 7: Government Securities Retail Market in 2006 Quarter I Type of Transaction (in million ALL) Nominal Value Quarter II No. Trans. Nominal Value Quarter III No. Trans. Nominal Value Quarter IV No. Trans. Nominal Value No. Trans. 1. Purchase in the Primary Market Individuals 2.058,93 992 756,97 272 695,18 239 1.649,37 686 706,76 17 880,25 13 874,64 14 1.939,81 19 2.891,33 1445 725,61 305 1.442,17 588 1.460,05 602 3. Purchase from individuals prior to maturity date 115,34 74 227,53 138 1.181,27 126 213,33 87 4. Payment of nominal value in maturity date 209,36 48 814,77 78 940,89 66 1.094,00 195 5. Pledging of Government securities as collateral 2,53 2 7,72 18 8,12 18 16,11 23 5.984,25 2578 3.412,85 824 5.142,27 1051 6.372,67 1612 Juristic Persons 2. Selling from Bank Portfolio Total 40 A N N U A L R E P O R T ‘ 0 6 Thus, the increase of the transactions’ volume in this market compared to 2005 has occurred as a result of the decentralization of the Government securities register and transferring of this activity to the banks licensed by the AFSA to exercise their activity in the retail market. This has enhanced banks inclination to provide to their customers a fi nancial product, different from deposits. Additionally, experience has indicated that also the increasing of public awareness on investing in Government securities has a special importance concerning boosting of transactions volume in this market. Stock Market The stock market still remains the most undeveloped sector of securities market in Albania. It consists of the formal market (Tirana Stock Exchange), licensed dealers to trade securities and informal market of transactions on the shares of joint-stock companies. Tirana Stock Exchange, which was established since 1996, is a state-owned company with Ministry of Finance as the single shareholder and it was licensed by Albanian Securities Commission (now AFSA) as an organized market for shares and debentures. Despite permanent efforts, this institution has not managed to become attractive for the domestic companies. Actually, there are no companies listed in Tirana Stock Exchange, while Government securities trading in this market is inexistent. Tirana Stock Exchange Tirana Stock Exchange S.A., has a license to operate as a securities organized market for 2 years until 01July 2007. The license serves for Government securities trading, companies debt and shares. 2 year licensing is conditioned with the duty of drafting and reporting to AFSA of the plan for taking steps to gradually shift from state ownership and preparing of potential public companies to register them in Tirana Stock Exchange. The existing conditions, in which the economy of the country is facing accompanied by the need for a fast and sustainable growth, which implies an increase of the demand for investments from the private and state sector, request the immediate start and not postponing of the process of stock market development. In this context, the Government may play an important role towards encouraging the development of this sector mainly through privatizing any package of shares of state-owned strategic companies in the stocks market or, by means of providing various fi scal and legal incentives to encourage domestic business to utilize this market as a fi nancing alternative by listing in the stock exchange. Off-exchange stock market is not an organized one and it mainly consists of transactions executed between shareholders of privatized companies. This market continues to be active, although it has kept declining over years as result of property consolidation these privatized companies. Pursuant to Law No. 7638, date 19 November 1992 “On Commercial Companies” all companies, which consist of more than 50 shareholders, have to be registered in a specialized independent registered. Therefore, registration together with clearing and settlement of accounts for transactions executed in shares is conducted by the Albanian Share Register (ASR). A L B A N I A N F I N A N C I A L S U P E R V I S O R Y A U T H O R I T Y 41 Albanian Share Register (ASR) ASR operates since 2002 since it was licensed having as its scope of work the registration of joint-stock companies’ shares. These companies with over 50 shareholders are subject to the legal obligation of keeping their stocks register in an independent registration center. Albanian Share Register (ASR), apart from keeping the register, also conducts its record updating on executed transactions. Likewise, ASR provides also the following services: • Announcement of general meeting of shareholders assembly, • Dividends calculation. ASR is a shareholding company registered with AFSA as a registrar of property securities. Apart from electronic registration (Book-Entry) of property rights for companies, ASR provides also other corporate actions for the registered companies. 48 companies are actually registered in the ASR, of which 15 are fi nancial institutions (4 commercial banks, 9 insurance companies, 1 securities registrar and Social Insurance Institute). The total number of registered companies in ASR during 2006 experienced a decline of 31,4% compared to 2005. Only shares of 18 companies were traded in the off-exchange market. A total of 140 transactions were executed including a total number of 1.637.755 shares compared to 554 transactions executed in 2005 with a total number of 1.002.886 shares. The number of traded shares in the off-exchange market over 2006 makes up about 8.89% of all stock of companies registered with ASR, something which indicates the low rate of liquidity that characterizes this market. Table 8: Statistics on the Off-Exchange Stock Market in 2006 No. Classification Statistic 1. Total number of companies registered in Albanian Share Register 2. Total number of stocks of companies registered in Albanian Share Register 3. Total number of companies whose stocks have bee traded 4. Total number of transactions executed over 2006 5. Total number of stocks traded over 2006 6. Percentage of transactions traded over 2006. 48 18.410.025 20 140 1.637.755 8.89 % Source of Data: Albanian Share Register It is difficult to assess the evolution of the off-exchange stock market in Albania, mainly due to the lack of information on stock trade prices, which hinders calculation of real indicators of this market assessment. In addition, lack of information on the activity and fi nancial statements of these companies leaves room for “price distortions”, because it does not present the real supply of these securities, thus leaving the minor investors who own stock of these companies, without protection. 42 A N N U A L R E P O R T ‘ 0 6 2.3.3 The Supplementary Private Pensions’ Market The Development of Supplementary Private Pensions Institutions The pensions’ system in Albania is at a low level of development compared to the region countries. This system is essentially based on state funded pillar, which is otherwise recognized as Social Insurance Scheme (PAYG or, Pay-As-You-Go System). The existence of pensions third pillar in Albania is still in its earlier stages. Regardless the adoption of the Law ”On Supplementary Pensions and Private Pensions Institutions” as of 1995, the activity of the fi rst companies in private pensions area commenced in 2006. Over this time, these companies have paid very much attention to marketing, work with employers and individuals to attracts as many contributors as possible. Regardless of this fact, the existing private pensions institutions have a number of contributors, which stands at minimum levels required by legal framework. On the other Third Pillar hand, lack of foreign companies in this market, due to legal restricIt implies individual savings and supplementary contribution by the tions, renders competition between employer. This scheme provides supplementary incomes for individuals who are willing to benefi t higher pensions when they retire. Exdomestic companies insignificant. perience from several countries has indicated that investing a part In 2006, total of supplementary priof savings in pensions private funds is a good way of investment for vate pensions market contributors retirement. The Income from supplementary schemes are a very imis about 2621, thus accumulating a portant component for the retirees. fund of about 13,15 million ALL. The Companies’ Market Data: • “Garantsig Pensions Private Institution S.A.” has started its activity as of 01 January 2006. From January to December 2006, the company had a figure of about 892 contributors with about 2,62 million ALL of contributions. • “APFA – American Pension Fund of Albania S.A.” started its activity as of 01 January 2006. From January to December 2006, the company had a figure of about 1122 contributors with about 9,27 million ALL from contributions, which were invested in T-Bills. • Private Pensions Institution “Capital S.A.” started its activity as of 01 March 2006. From March to December 2006 this institution collected 1,26 million ALL from contributions, totaling about 607 contributors. The contributions have been invested in T-Bills to an extent of 90%, while the rest were invested in bank deposits. A L B A N I A N F I N A N C I A L S U P E R V I S O R Y A U T H O R I T Y 43 Private Pensions’ Market Structure in 2006 10% CAPITAL 23% 34% CAPITAL APFA 70% 20% GRANTISIG APFA 43% GRANTISIG Pensions Private Funds Market (according to contributions) Pensions Private Funds Market (according to contributors number) Supplementary and private pensions institutions have been subject to on-site supervision by AFSA. The goal of inspections conducted on these companies has essentially consisted in the verification of the following: i) The respecting of legal requirements regarding pensions institutions in the course of performing their activity; ii) The investment of the guarantee fund; iii) The collection of revenues from contributions and their investment; iv) The members’ individual accounts; v) The implementation of the business plan drafted by private pensions’ institutions. Third Pillar Future Development Based on the importance that third pillar presents in the frame of pensions’ system, as well as, based on the limitations of the existing legal framework concerning the organization of this pillar, the conclusion is that its development needs fundamental changes basically focused on these following directions: • The full revision of legal framework. The existing law needs significant improvements, which must be brought up to international standards and, which must align with the country developments as a goal; • The stimulation and involvement of employers and individuals in these schemes through developing legal and fiscal incentives; • The enhancement and strengthening of the elements of the guarantee and the proper administration of private pensions’ institutions; • The promotion and development of stock market in the country, as this is closely connected with pensions’ market development. Taking measures to meet the aforementioned requirements will necessarily bring about positive outcomes in the Albanian market of supplementary private pensions. 44 A N N U A L R E P O R T ‘ 0 6 2.4 Institutional Relations 2.4.1 Cooperation with Domestic Institutions The Albanian Financial Supervisory Authority has an important role in development and maintenance of solid fi nancial stability for the country’s economy. In this context, efforts have been made to develop a positive climate of cooperation with important fi nancial institutions in the country, such as the Ministry of Finance and the Bank of Albania. In addition, AFSA represents a serious partner for the Government in terms of supporting acceleration of reforms, which have to do with non-banking fi nancial sector’s development. In 2006, the AFSA has cooperated also with other domestic institutions regarding improvement and coordination of work with stakeholders, which have connections with its activity. An important element of institutional cooperation is also the signing of Memorandums of Cooperation and Understanding between the AFSA and other regulatory institutions in the country. The goal of these agreements consists in coordinating the regulatory activity among regulatory entities of similar domains, as well as, the exchange of information with other important institutions, which play a determinant role in the development of the country (see Table 9). Financial Stability Advisory Group (FSAG) Article 30 of Law No. 9572, date 03 July 2006, “On the Albanian Financial Supervisory Authority” explicitly specifies the establishment and functioning of a new structure, Financial Stability Advisory Group (FSAG), which: • • • Aims at coordinating the supervisory and regulatory work and assists in the development of joint policies in the financial system of the country, Ensures exchange of information between financial institutions, which are group members. Assists in protection, stability and development of financial markets in the Republic of Albania, as well as, in the improvement and increasing of efficiency of control over the operators of these markets. FSAG Members • Minister of Finance; • Chairperson of FSA Board; • Bank of Albania Governor In December 2006, AFSA signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Competition Authority. The scope of this agreement consists in provision of bilateral assistance with regard to information exchange. The target of this agreement is to set bilateral rules to ensure a free and effective competition pursuant to nondiscrimination policies regarding entities that operate in areas, which are subject to the AFSA own regulatory and supervisory functions. A L B A N I A N F I N A N C I A L S U P E R V I S O R Y A U T H O R I T Y 45 2.4.2 Cooperation with International Institutions The rapid development of international fi nancial markets, the unification of regulatory and supervisory standards, as well as, the involvement of regulators of relevant countries in the implementation of these “general principles” has led to the intensification of the AFSA’s contacts and the exchange of experiences with its counterparts and to the consideration of participation in international organizations as priority task. International cooperation becomes more intensive due to the need of enforcement of EU Directives and implementation of Stabilization and Association Agreement. Table 9: Membership and Signed Cooperation Agreements A. B. C. Agreements Signed with Organizations Inside Albania Year Institution - Faculty of Law 2002 ASC (now AFSA) - Authorized Accounting Experts Institute (AAEI) 2003 ASC (now AFSA) - General Directorate of Road Transportation Service 2003 ISA (now AFSA) - Bank of Albania 2005 ISA, ASC (AFSA) - Competition Authority 2006 AFSA Agreements Signed with Counterpart Institutions outside Albania Year Institution - Stock Market Commission of Greece 1999 ASC (now AFSA) - Securities Commission of Quebec 2000 ASC (now AFSA) - Securities and Stock Exchanges Commission of Italy 2000 ASC (now AFSA) - Stock Market Agency of Slovenia 2003 ASC (now AFSA) - Securities and Stock Exchanges Commission of Poland 2003 ASC (now AFSA) - Stock Market Board of Turkey 2003 ASC (now AFSA) - Financial Market Supervisory Commission of Bulgaria 2003 ASC (now AFSA) - Kosovo Banking and Payments Authority 2004 ISA (now AFSA) - National Securities Commission of Rumania 2005 ASC (now AFSA) - Securities and Stock Exchanges Commission of Macedonia 2005 ASC (now AFSA) - Securities and Stock Exchanges Commission of Montenegro 2005 ASC (now AFSA) - Securities Commission of Croatia 2005 ASC (now AFSA) Membership in Regulators International Organizations Year Institution - IOSCO (International Organization of Securities Commissions) 1998 ASC (now AFSA) - IAIS (International Association of Insurance Regulators) 2001 ISA (now AFSA) - IOPS (International Organization of Pensions Regulators) 2006 AFSA 46 A N N U A L R E P O R T ‘ 0 6 Membership in International Organizations The AFSA is a full member of regulators’ international organizations in the areas of insurance and securities carried over from the respective prior authorities. Additionally, AFSA recently signed an agreement on becoming a full member of the International Organization of Pension Regulators (IOPS). The target of active participation in these organizations is to increase bilateral cooperation in support of most effective regulation of these markets at an international level. This cooperation has consisted in the exchange of information and experiences, coordination of efforts regarding setting of regulatory and supervisory standards and provision of a joint assistance in relation to protection of non-banking financial markets integrity. International Association of Insurance Supervisors (IAIS) – Membership in this organization has assisted the AFSA basically to improve the insurance area regulatory legal framework through introducing international standards and to apply this legal framework in practice. From this perspective, AFSA has had permanent contacts with various IAIS bodies through permanent participation in trainings, workshops, conferences, as well as, in annual meetings of the members of this organization. International Organization of Securities Commissions (IOSCO) – Enjoying the IOSCO member status, AFSA has, in 2006, continued its cooperation with this organization by participating in the Committees and Working Groups established on various issues. Moreover, the target of AFSA has been to become a signatory-country in the Multilateral Memorandum of Understanding and Assessment Methodology (MMoU), signed by majority of IOSCO members, which are developed countries. The goal of this agreement is to boost international cooperation, establish the information exchange system in order to achieve an increasingly efficient supervision on the operators and financial services of stock markets in a global scale. AFSA has to meet up to 2010 all legal and regulatory adjustments and become subject to an assessment in order to be qualified to sign MMoU. Same process occurs also in the case of MMoU in IAIS. Therefore, the AFSA faces major responsibilities and challenges concerning revision of the overall legal package of the areas under its jurisdiction. International Organization of Pensions Supervisors (IOPS) – Right after its establishment as new regulatory institution, the AFSA determined procedures to become e member of IOPS and it accomplished its goal by becoming its full member in December 2006. The functioning goal of this organization consists in the international promotion and cooperation in the area of pensions market regulation. In addition, IOPS serves as an open forum for the discussion of development policies of this market, as well as, for the exchange of experiences and information. Cooperation with Counterpart Institutions The AFSA has continued good bilateral relations with similar Authorities, which regulate and supervise non-banking fi nancial markets across countries. These efforts were substantiated with the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding with several coun- A L B A N I A N F I N A N C I A L S U P E R V I S O R Y A U T H O R I T Y 47 terpart Authorities. The main benefit of signing and implementation of these agreements consists of bilateral relations establishment to facilitate exchange of confidential information as a key instrument in terms of a friendly, fast and efficient functioning of best international practices in the area of fi nancial markets regulation. Pursuant to this positive situation, the AFSA is working on expanding cooperation with other similar institutions through drafting of several new agreements with some of the developed countries. Cooperation with Partners (Donors) Donors have been serious partners and a very important supporting factor in relation to institutional establishment of the AFSA, as well as, promotion and development of particular links of the activity of this institution. Cooperation with World Bank (WB) – being the key and most important partner, WB has assisted and supported the overall regulators unification process and the AFSA institutional set-up. In addition, WB has provided a real support also in connection with conducting of a series of trainings by well-known international experts and lecturers. Developing human resources and providing further training on specific issues not only involving AFSA staff, but also nonbanking fi nancial market operators has also been the goal of these trainings. Cooperation with FSVC (Financial Services Volunteer Corps) – has been efficient especially in the frame of drafting human resources management policies and training of specialists of a very specific area of insurance market such as actuary. Cooperation with European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) – has focused in the area of drafting necessary legislation for the issuance of corporate bonds, as well as, municipal bonds. Activities, Conferences and Trainings Membership in international organizations and cooperation with counterpart Authorities is considered as an opportunity to exchange experiences, brainstorm on common issues and to develop human resources through trainings, In this sense, the AFSA has demonstrated its interest through an active participation in meetings, conferences, workshops and in various trainings held at regional and international level where issues of insurance, securities and pensions markets have been addressed. 48 A N N U A L R E P O R T ‘ 0 6 2.4.3 Public Relations Policies The Albanian Financial Supervisory Authority considers public information very important in terms of protecting consumers’ interests to the best extent possible. Therefore, a special attention is paid to transparency of supervisory and regulatory activity of the AFSA as well as to the availability and accessibility of the information to the public. In this context, the AFSA, following its establishment, went on with its successful practice of prior regulatory entities in terms of publication of information and statistical reports on the development of various non-banking market sectors. A specific attention has been paid to the AFSA’s presentation in media essentially through participation in conferences and workshops where important issues, which affect development of Albanian economy, are topics of discussion. In addition, in order to stay closer to the community, work has already started on the AFSA’s official webpage, which will be an important communication tool that would link the regulatory entity with the public. 2.5 Information Technology The AFSA is working on a strategy regarding the development of Information and Technology (IT) that would apply to the institution itself and to the market. This IT strategy would meet the supervisory needs of the market through implementing a risk-based supervisory model application. In order to efficiently meet legal obligations, the AFSA needs an Integrated Information System, which completes and processes all the information needed as a part of the institution activity, while it ensures stability, certainty and continuation of work processes. Such a system has the following advantages: • The establishment of a database for the overall insurance market, which will be used not only in daily monitoring of insurance companies, or in the case of on-site inspections conducted by inspectors, but it will also be used by companies to avoid fraudulent cases and misrepresentation of facts. This database will be useful in the future in implementing more efficient methods in setting premiums based on policyholder’s background etc. A L B A N I A N F I N A N C I A L S U P E R V I S O R Y A U T H O R I T Y 49 • The minimization of technical errors by the experts due to different platforms’ application, which will make the information released by the authority more reliable. • It will provide higher efficiency of work-processes and it will decrease the time needed to process information. • It will enable the use of “software programs” in the AFSA fi nancial activities, which are recognized by the tax authorities or auditing entities. The use of such software programs will make the activity of AFSA more transparent. • The computerization of the data and of all records to facilitate and enable faster processing of paper work. • The data of non-banking fi nancial sector are in a computerization process. • It will provide higher efficiency by shortening the manual process of data input. At the same time, it will enable the experts to put in more efforts and time into other projects. • It will provide an opportunity to reconcile the statistical data from this database with the fi nancial data, as well as it will enable cooperation with counterpart institutions which operate in fi nancial markets. • Insurance risk and investment risk will be assessed more accurately; • Portfolio diversification of licensed entities will get more clarified. 50 A N N U A L R E P O R T ‘ 0 6 III. Future Perspective The AFSA’s fundamental goal is to protect consumers’ interests along with ensuring financial stability of operators in the market as well as law enforcement. The Authority’s focus in the future will be the regulation and improved supervision of non-banking fi nancial sector, which will have an impact on the significant increase of the role of insurance, supplementary private pensions and securities in fi nancial market and overall Albanian economy. This will have a positive impact in the stability of the economy of the country. The revision of legislation in compliance with development needs and its harmonization with European Union directives comprises one of basic priorities of the institution towards markets’ regulation according to international standards. The increase of the guarantee fund, already passed by the Parliament, and the introduction of international fi nancial reporting standards (IFRS) by 2008 will be followed by other AFSA initiatives such as improved legislation that would comply with EU directives. The target of improved legal framework will be to build a safer environment for the operators’ activity across supervised markets. On the other hand, the AFSA will closely cooperate with all the other structures in terms of passing legislation in accordance with market development and market demands, as well as, ensuring Compliance with such legislation. The transition from the traditional supervisory model to the risk based one relying on European countries practice will constitute AFSA’s priority in the supervisory perspective. The new risk-based supervisory approach is expected to be backed up by a new electronic reporting system, which will guarantee fast and reliable communication, improvement of analysis’ capacity, improvement of warning system and, eventually, improvement of quality and efficiency of the overall AFSA’s supervisory activity. The Authority is already cooperating with counterpart institutions in Europe in order to examine various system models and their efficiency in supervision in the respective countries. The drafting and revision of AFSA’s regulation and internal manuals, regarding on-site supervision and other risk based supervision activities, will take place at the same time of the application of the new supervisory model. The promotion and encouragement of markets’ development, and non-banking fi nancial services and products will remain in the focus of AFSA work over the next period. Such a goal will be attained not only through quality improvement of the existing services and products, but also through improving the range of the products offered in order to meet the consumers’ needs. Better quality of corporate governance is needed in the improvement of risk management and the reduction of administrative costs. The AFSA will pay a special attention to quality improvement of corporate governance. Our goal is to ensure the capability, possibility and good will in the governing of the supervised operators. Increasing consumers’ awareness and knowledge regarding the products offered will be part of a large campaign that the Authority will initiate in cooperation with market operators. The goal of this campaign will consist in making consumers aware of the role and importance of insurance, supplementary pensions and other fi nancial outputs A L B A N I A N F I N A N C I A L S U P E R V I S O R Y A U T H O R I T Y 51 in the market. This campaign will provide awareness and knowledge of products that will ensure fi nancial stability of Albanian households and businesses and will improve overall life quality in Albania. The attainment of all the AFSA’s goals regarding regulation and supervision will be based on close cooperation with all insurance, securities and supplementary private pensions market structures. The target is to conduct programs, which promote efficiency and supervised markets integrity, in cooperation with businesses. Fruitful cooperation and regular communication established with insurers organization will be further enhanced upon initiation and implementation of programs regarding expansion of businesses, insurance of nature disasters, etc. In conclusion, a solid macroeconomic development of the country and a fast growing banking sector tied with good potentials that insurance, securities and pensions markets provide in Albania, are all factors, which enable solid growth of non-banking fi nancial markets in a relatively short time. These factors, accompanied by the overall improvement of the fi nancial markets supervision , have served at this time as the basis of attracting the interest of international insurance companies and pension institutions. It is worth mentioning that some of the best European insurance companies, have begun their cooperation with Albanian insurance companies. International companies have indicated considerable interest regarding the privatization of the state-owned Insig insurance company, which is set to be completed within 2007. Incorporation of international best practices combined with a modern regulatory and supervisory approach will certainly play a very big role in non-banking fi nancial market capacity boost and its overall safety and perfection. 52 A N N U A L R E P O R T ‘ 0 6 IV. Appendixes APPENDIX A: Financial Supervisory Authority Organization Structure The Board of AFSA Internal Audit Adviser Chairperson Deputy Chairperson Inspection & Disciplinary Department Human Resources & Other Supporting Department Deputy Chairperson Licensing & Monitoring Department International & Public Relations Department Inspection Department IT Sector Licensing Department Legal Sector Actuarial Department Finance & Accounting Sector Monitoring Department International & Public Relat. Dept. Disciplinary Department Human Resources Sector A L B A N I A N F I N A N C I A L S U P E R V I S O R Y A U T H O R I T Y 53 54 A N N U A L R E P O R T ‘ 0 6 The CoMD defines the high end acceptable limits of the activities and investments of activities to recover technical and mathematical provisions in insurance companies. This order defines earned premium rates of compulsory insurance by motor vehicles owners in connection with liabilities to third parties. Te goal of this regulation is the establishment of balance for the insurance companies’ stock investment and compulsory adherence to some supervisory relations. The scope of this regulation is to determine basic rules of drafting the reinsurance needs program for every financial year of the insurance company. On determining the high end acceptable limits of the activities and investments of activities to recover technical and mathematical provisions in insurance companies. On the adoption of motor compulsory insurance premium regarding liabilities to third parties On trading and administration of border polices by Albanian Insurance Bureau On the limits of insurance companies stock investment On the reinsurance program content of insurance companies and timelines of presenting it to the Financial Supervisory Authority CoMD No. 268, date 28 April 2005 Minister of Finance Order No. 11 date 25 March 2005 Minister of Finance Order No. 14 date 06 May 2005 Regulation adopted by Decision No. 4, date 08 February 2007 of Financial Supervisory Authority Board Regulation adopted by Decision No. 5, date 08 February 2007 of Financial Supervisory Authority Board Regulation adopted by On the insurance companies reporting Decision No. 6, date 08 February 2007 of Financial rules, manners and conditions to AFSA Supervisory Authority Board The CoMD defines the professional and reliability criteria of insurance agents, as well as, it sets forth procedures regarding licensing of and rules for the supervision of agents’ activity. On the Licensing Criteria and Procedures for Insurance Agents and the Rules of Supervising Their Activity”. CoMD No. 192, date 25 March 2005 The scope of this regulation consists of the rules set by AFSA concerning the insurance companies reporting manner. The scope of this order is issuance, trading and administration of Border Insurance Policies. The Albanian Insurance Bureau is assigned to carry out these activities on behalf of insurance companies, which are members of it. The CoMD defines the Ways of estimating the required level of solvency concerning Life and Non-life Insurance of insurance companies and the elements that compose it. On the adoption of the approach on the Ways of estimating the required level of solvency concerning Life and Non-life Insurance of insurance companies and the elements that compose it. Council of Ministers Decision (hereinafter referred to as CoMD) No. 191, date 25 March 2005 The Law defines obligations concerning compulsory insurance and liability to third parties in cases of accidents by setting forth procedures in relation to meting these obligations and it also sets forth establishment of Albanian Insurance Bureau and the procedures of its functioning and activity. The scope of this Law is establishment of general principles and rules concerning insurance, reinsurance, intermediary activity in insurance and reinsurance and supervision by the state of entities which undertake to exercise the activities set forth in this law. “On the Insurance, Re-insurance and Intermediary Activity in Insurance and Reinsurance” Law No. 9267, date 29 July 2004 Decree No.295, date 15 September1992 changes by Law No. 7461, On the Insurance of Motor Vehicle Owners in connection with Liability to third parties date 01 December 992, and by Law No. 8729, date 18 January 2001 Law/Regulation Description Description Legal/Regulatory Reference In Insurance Area APPENDIX B: Non-Banking Legal-Regulatory Framework On the reinsurance program content of insurance companies and timelines of presenting it to the Financial Supervisory Authority The goal of this regulation is to define requirements in connection with professionalism and the reputation of persons, who conduct administration, leading and controlling of the insurance company, as well as, constraints to be applied in the frame of their appointment and dismissal. The scope of this regulation is listing of all mandatory documentation for regular and annual reporting of insurance companies to the AFSA. The goal of this instruction is definition of the rules of disclosure for the necessary data to enable the public to become familiar with the financial condition of insurance companies and to assess the insurance companies affordability in terms of paying the claims and meeting other obligations, as well as, defining the rules for providing information to the consumers ahead of entering into the insurance contract, or over the insurance contract validity time. The scope of this instruction consist of the regulation of insurance companies reinsurance activity, which can reinsure part of liabilities that it has contracted with insurers, with national reinsurance companies, with offices of foreign reinsurance companies licensed by the AFSA or foreign reinsurance companies that meet the criteria set forth in this instruction. Regulation adopted by On some criteria to be met by persons Decision No. 14, date 08 elected or appointed in the insurance February 2007 of Financial and reinsurance companies leading bodies. Supervisory Authority Board Instruction adopted by On the list of documents of regular and Decision No. 10, date 08 annual mandatory reporting of insurance February 2007 of Financial and reinsurance companies. Supervisory Authority Board On the rules of disclosing the insurance and brokerage companies data in the context of transparency to the public and consumer protection. On defining the criteria of reinsurance companies, with which the insurance companies that operate in the Republic of Albania may enter into reinsurance agreements. Instruction adopted by Decision No. 11, date 08 February 2007 of Financial Supervisory Authority Board Instruction adopted by Decision No. 12, date 08 February 2007 of Financial Supervisory Authority Board S U P E R V I S O R Y The goal of this regulation is definition of the time limits and the procedures of issuing the license to exercise activity as insurance and reinsurance company and as an office of a foreign company, procedures of establishing the representation office in the Republic of Albania by the foreign insurance company, as well as, the procedures of licensing and expansion of the insurance company insurance activity. F I N A N C I A L On the accepting and reviewing procedures of applications about issuing the license to exercise insurance or reinsurance activity in the Republic of Albania Regulation adopted by Decision No. 13, date 08 February 2007 of Financial Supervisory Authority Board The scope of this regulation is the manner of calculation and keeping of non-life insurance technical provisions by insurance companies. The scope of this regulation is calculation methods and the manners of keeping mathematical provisions by the insurance companies. Regulation adopted by On the basis, calculation methods Decision No. 8, date 08 and the manners of keeping February 2007 of Financial mathematical provisions. Supervisory Authority Board Regulation adopted by On the basis, calculation methods Decision No. 9, date 08 and the manners of keeping non-life February 2007 of Financial insurance technical provisions. Supervisory Authority Board The scope of this regulation is definition of criteria and procedures for authorized accounting experts companies, which will be appointed by insurance companies following the approval of the AFSA and the content of the control reports on insurance companies by the authorized accounting experts companies. The scope of this regulation consists of the rules set by AFSA concerning the insurance companies reporting manner. The scope of this regulation is to determine basic rules of drafting the reinsurance needs program for every financial year of the insurance company. Regulation adopted by On the insurance companies Decision No. 7, date 08 February 2007 of Financial authorized accounting experts Supervisory Authority Board Regulation adopted by On the insurance companies reporting Decision No. 6, date 08 February 2007 of Financial rules, manners and conditions to AFSA Supervisory Authority Board Regulation adopted by Decision No. 5, date 08 February 2007 of Financial Supervisory Authority Board A L B A N I A N A U T H O R I T Y 55 56 A N N U A L R E P O R T ‘ 0 6 This decision defines the rules in connection with entities, which enjoy the right to make announcements about securities and exemptions from this rule, rules in relation to orders that must be issued by the regulatory body in cases when it finds out that a security related announcement is fraudulent, the obligation to send a copy of announcements to the regulator’s address, and the sanctions on cases, which are verifies as running against this decision. The goal of this decision is to stipulate an ethic, a behavior of persons licensed to operate in securities market. It defines the obligations vis-à-vis customers, the obligation concerning a clear and fair communication, the obligation to explain the risk to the customer, the obligation to familiarize the customer with the fees that are applied, etc. The decision also sets forth rules about execution upon priority principle of customer’s orders, quick and fair registration of eh transaction carried out by the customer, etc. The decision defines the obligations in terms of keeping the accounting records, their renovation and maintenance, the obligation to draft financial statements and their form and content. It provides the definition “customer money” and the operations linked with them. In addition, the decision sets forth the obligation of licensed person to assign accounting experts, thus reinforcing authorities and procedures regarding their appointment and dismissal. On the rules of leading securities investment activity On the financial and accounting requirements of securities dealers CoMD No. 440 date 17 June 2001 CoMD No. 441 date 17 June 2001 CoMD No. 442 date 17 June 2001 This regulation defines rules applicable to securities public proposals, which are shares, bonds or guarantees, by providing the exceptions to the general rule. The regulation provides the prospect mandatory form and content. It defines the data that must make up the narrative part of the prospect such as responsible persons, advisors, securities data, with which the proposal is linked, general information on the issues and its capital, etc. Additionally, the regulation regulates in a detailed manner the procedures on the prospect registration; it sets forth the maximum time limit of a public proposal, the obligation of the issuer to report to the AFSA following proposal closure and the measures to eliminate irregularities during the public proposal. Regulation adopted by Decision No. 12, date 29 January 2007 of Financial Supervisory Authority Board The regulation establishes the legal basis and it applies to all proposals to take possession of the shares control package or to merge joint stock companies registered in Albania. Its goal is This regulation sets forth rules concerning minimum capital, low end liquidity limit, obligations of licensed persons, definitions with regard to approved inputs and liquid inputs and their estimate. Regulation adopted by On the requirements Decision No. 12, date 29 re: financial resources January 2007 of Financial of licensed persons Supervisory Authority Board On prospect The goal of this regulation is to define the licensing procedures and the fees that entities must pay case by case depending on the activity, for which they apply. Regulation adopted by Decision No. 12, date 29 On licensing, fees January 2007 of Financial and commissions Supervisory Authority Board Law 8080 date 01.03.1996, changed by Laws No. 8168, date 05 December 1996 and Law No. 8745, date 22 February 2001. On the rules re: form and content of announcements about investment activity in securities. Law/Regulation Description On Securities Description The Law “On Securities” is the main regulatory framework for functioning of regulatory. The object of this law is provision of investors’ protection in securities by establishing the regulatory body, by regulating securities markets and persons engaged in securities investment business, and by controlling the public issue of and trading in securities. This law establishes the regulatory entity which has supervisory and licensing authority for the securities market, and with further development of this market, the regulator will take the attributes of an independent agency. Legal/Regulatory Reference In Securities Area A L B A N I A N F I N A N C I A L S U P E R V I S O R Y A U T H O R I T Y 57 On securities registrars licensing Regulation adopted by Decision No. 12, date 29 January 2007 of Financial Supervisory Authority Board On illegal practices of trading On the retail market on Government securities of the Republic of Albania Regulation adopted by Decision No.5, date 07 December 2006 of Financial Supervisory Authority Board On licensing securities dealer, the investments advisor and their representative. On securities market licensing Regulation adopted by Decision No. 12, date 29 January 2007 of Financial Supervisory Authority Board Regulation adopted by Decision No. 12, date 29 January 2007 of Financial Supervisory Authority Board Regulation adopted by Decision No. 12, date 29 January 2007 of Financial Supervisory Authority Board Regulation adopted by Decision No. 12, date 29 On the organization of January 2007 of Financial applicants examination Supervisory Authority Board On take-over On prospect Regulation adopted by Decision No. 12, date 29 January 2007 of Financial Supervisory Authority Board Regulation adopted by Decision No. 12, date 29 January 2007 of Financial Supervisory Authority Board This regulation explicitly defines the manner of retail market functioning, the monitoring and transparency procedures with the aim of protecting investors that invest in government securities. The regulation provides an accurate definition of retail market, type of transactions on this market, trading procedures, keeping of analytical register, obligation to inform and report to AFSA. The regulation prohibits trading activity in the retail market of banks, which are not licensed by the AFSA. Banks, which operate in retail market, must also organize keeping of the Government securities analytical register by being issued with a license for this type of activity or, by making an agreement with another bank, which is licensed for The regulation reflects most recent guidance of CE re: trade violations and protection against them. The regulation provides the definition of internal information by means of clearly describing its two key elements, which are the accurate nature and influence on the price. This definition considers it a market violation even if the person, who has performed the action, did not make any profit. It is the first time that obligations such as drafting of the list of persons with access to internal information, its updating and transparency to AFSA regarding transactions carried out by company directors and persons linked with them. In addition, the regulation sets forth preventive measures, which are connected with the obligations of persons professionally involved in the transaction to condemn an illegal practice, as well as, the obligation of journalists and financial analysts to make transparent conflicts of interest in their securities related articles and analysis. This regulation explicitly stipulates the actives for which the securities dealer, investments advisor and their representative are licensed. Licensing criteria take up a considerable and special part of the regulation. These criteria define all necessary documentation that applicants must present in order to be licensed to conduct the activities, which fall under the scope of this regulation. The AFSA right to accept or refuse the applications is applied in the frame of procedures, which are followed in such a process. In addition, it sets forth fees and commissions to be paid by the licensed entities both, at the moment when issued with the license and during exercising the activity, for which they have received the license. Definition of requirements, time limits and licensing procedures to be followed by the entities applying to be provided license to operate in securities market make up the scope of this regulation. In this frame, it is defined that no entity may operate as securities dealer unless it is licensed in advance by AFSA. The securities market (stock exchange) organizes its activity based on the statute and rules of trade operation, which become subject to adoption by the AFSA. The regulation defines the examination organization procedure for the securities dealer, investments advisor and their representative. The scope of this regulation is the definition of requirements, procedures and time limits of licensing of persons who apply to be issued with license to operate as securities registrar. Securities registrar is a juristic person licensed by AFSA, which has organization and administration of securities registers as the scope of its activity. The regulation establishes the legal basis and it applies to all proposals to take possession of the shares control package or to merge joint stock companies registered in Albania. Its goal is to ensure an equal and fair treatment of all shareholders, which are affected transactions carried out to get possession of shares control package. This regulation imposes the rules of the game. Proposals to get possession of the control package must be made by the defined deadline in order to provide shareholders with the possibility of making a well-informed decision. The public enjoys the right to be informed about any significant change (more or less than 20% of the right to vote). prospect mandatory form and content. It defines the data that must make up the narrative part of the prospect such as responsible persons, advisors, securities data, with which the proposal is linked, general information on the issues and its capital, etc. Additionally, the regulation regulates in a detailed manner the procedures on the prospect registration; it sets forth the maximum time limit of a public proposal, the obligation of the issuer to report to the AFSA following proposal closure and the measures to eliminate irregularities during the public proposal. 58 A N N U A L R E P O R T ‘ 0 6 The decision defines the necessary documentation to receive the permit to operate as private institutions for pensions, the conditions of issuing and revoking the permit, as well as, the supervisory and financial control procedures. The scope of this regulation is the documentation presentation manner for licensing and the procedure followed by the AFSA when issuing the permit to operate as a supplementary pensions private institution. On Supplementary pensions and pensions private institutions. On the licensing and supervisory procedures of pensions private institutions On the procedures of licensing and reviewing the applications of issuing the permit to operate as a supplementary pensions private institution. On supervision and financial control of supplementary pensions private institutions. Law No. 7943, date 01 June 1995, changed by Law No. 8393, date 02 September 1998 and Law No. 9181, date 05 February 2004 CoMD No. 908, date 29.12.2004 Regulation adopted by Decision No. 16, date 08 February 2007 of the Financial Supervisory Authority Board Regulation adopted by Decision No. 15, date 08 February 2007 of the Financial Supervisory Authority Board The goal of this regulation is to draft the program of the control exercised by AFSA to the supplementary pensions private institutions, the control conducting procedures, drafting of the control report and setting of control standards. The scope of this law is the regulation of private pensions insurance by pensions private institutions, their establishment activity, their licensing and control. Description Legal/Regulatory Reference Law/Regulation Description Stipulation of conditions, manner and procedures of monitoring the entities licensed by the AFSA to trade and keep the register on securities of the Republic of Albania Government constitute the scope of this regulation. The target of this regulation is to protect securities investors’ interests and improvement of the functioning conditions of Government securities retail market. This regulation explicitly defines the manner of retail market functioning, the monitoring and transparency procedures with the aim of protecting investors that invest in government securities. The regulation provides an accurate definition of retail market, type of transactions on this market, trading procedures, keeping of analytical register, obligation to inform and report to AFSA. The regulation prohibits trading activity in the retail market of banks, which are not licensed by the AFSA. Banks, which operate in retail market, must also organize keeping of the Government securities analytical register by being issued with a license for this type of activity or, by making an agreement with another bank, which is licensed for this purpose. This definition considers it a market violation even if the person, who has performed the action, did not make any profit. It is the first time that obligations such as drafting of the list of persons with access to internal information, its updating and transparency to AFSA regarding transactions carried out by company directors and persons linked with them. In addition, the regulation sets forth preventive measures, which are connected with the obligations of persons professionally involved in the transaction to condemn an illegal practice, as well as, the obligation of journalists and financial analysts to make transparent conflicts of interest in their securities related articles and analysis. In Private Supplementary Pensions Area On the procedures of monitoring retail market on Government securities of the Republic of Albania On the retail market on Government securities of the Republic of Albania Regulation adopted by Decision No.5, date 07 December 2006 of Financial Supervisory Authority Board Regulation adopted by Decision No. 12, date 29 January 2007 of Financial Supervisory Authority Board On illegal practices of trading Regulation adopted by Decision No. 12, date 29 January 2007 of Financial Supervisory Authority Board A L B A N I A N F I N A N C I A L Decision No. 03 and 04, date. 08 June 2000 Date of Starting Activity S U P E R V I S O R Y A U T H O R I T Y 59 Life Insurance Scope of Activity 10. SIGAL-LIFE S.A 9. SICRED S.A Life Insurance Edvin HOXHAJ Court Decision No. 30756 date 09 September 2004 Decision No. 6, date 13 September 2001 Date of Starting Activity Genc KOXHAJ info@albsig.com.al intersig@albaniaonline.net E-mail Executive Director www.albsig.com.al Webpage +355 4 254 761, +355 4 254 764 +355 4 235614, + 355 4 232462 Tel./Fax National stock company Rr.,”Punëtoret e Rilindjes”, Nr.10, Tirana National stock company Type of Ownership Non-Life Insurance Rr. “Barrikadave” Pall. 122, Ap1/1, Tirana Non-Life Insurance Scope of Activity Gezim HUQI 6. ALBSIG S.A Decision No. 01, date 03 March 1999 sigma_sha@insurer.com www.sigma-insurance.com Office Address Vangjel BIRBO Executive Director 5. INTERSIG S.A info@insig.com E-mail www.insig.com.al Webpage +355 4 250 220 +355 4 258 254, +355 4 258253 +355 4 234 170 Bul. “Zogu I”, Nr.1 , P.O.B. No.2387, Tirana Rr “A . Frashëri”, sheshi Willson, P.O.B. No. 1714, Tirana Rr. “Dibrës” Nr. 91, Tirana Office Address Tel./Fax Domestic and foreign stock company Domestic stock company State + foreign stock company Type of Ownership Decison No. 9, date 19 July 2004 ttroqe@interalbanian.co www.interalbanian.com +355 4 229 551, +355 4 229578 Zayed Business Center, Kutia Postare Nr.277/1, Tirana National stock company Non-Life Insurance Bardhyl MINXHOZI 7. INTERALBANIAN S.A Decision No. 02, date. 23 June 1999 info@sigal.com.al www.sigal.com.al Non-Life Insurance Non-Life Insurance Life + Non-Life Insurance Avni PONARI 3. SIGAL S.A Scope of Activity Qemal DISHA 2. SIGMA S.A Saimir ZEMBLAKU 1. INSIG S.A Executive Director Insurance Market 20 September 2004 info@eurosig.al www.eurosig.al +355 4 238 899, +355 4 223 841 Rr “Lek Dukagjini”, Nr. 5, Tirana National stock company Non-Life Insurance Myslym NELA 8. EUROSIG S.A Decision No. 5, date. 13 April 2001 atlantik@atlantik.com.al www.atlantik.com.al +355 4 230 506, +355 4 235088 Rr. “Themistokli Gërmenji”, 3/1, Tirana Shoqëri me kapital vendas Non-Life Insurance Dritan ÇELAJ 4. ATLANTIK S.A APPENDIX C: List of Supervised Institutions 60 A N N U A L R E P O R T ‘ 0 6 contact@sicred.com.al E-mail Dimitris FRANGETIS Dealer Foreign Stock Company Rr. “Dëshmorët e 4 Shkurtit”, Tirana +355 4 269616, +355 4 269707 www.tiranabank .al i n f o @ ti r a n a b a n k . n e t 05.11.2002 No expiration date Scope of Activity Type of Ownership Office Address Tel./Fax Webpage E-mail License Issuance Date License Expiration Date 1. TIRANA BANK S.A. Decison No. 9, date 19 July 2004 No expiration date 05.11.2002 No expiration date 24.11.2003 +355 68 2058275 / +355 4 256081 Rr. “M. Gjollesha”, Kulla 2, ap.13, Tirana Rr. “Punëtorët e Rilindjes”, Nr.13, Tirana +355 4 233442, +355 4 233425 Domestic private stock company Treasury bonds dealer Mirela ANGJELI State stock company Corporate registrar Enton SHAHAJ 20 September 2004 info@eurosig.al 3. TRIUMF GROUP S.A. ttroqe@interalbanian.co 2. ALBANIAN SHARE REGISTER S.A. 01 March 2005 infolife@sigal.com.al www.sigal.com.al +355 4 233 308 Bul. “Zogu I”, Pall. Diplomatëve. Nr 57, Tirana National and foreign stock company Life Insurance Edvin HOXHAJ Executive Director Securities Market Decision No. 9, date 26 July 2004 www.sicred.com.al Webpage Date of Starting Activity +355 4 237 549 Tel./Fax National stock company Type of Ownership Rr. “Sami Frashëri”, Pall. 20, Tirana Life Insurance Scope of Activity Office Address Genc KOXHAJ 10. SIGAL-LIFE S.A 9. SICRED S.A Executive Director Court Decision No. 30756 date 09 September 2004 Decision No. 6, date 13 September 2001 Date of Starting Activity info@albsig.com.al intersig@albaniaonline.net E-mail A L B A N I A N F I N A N C I A L S U P E R V I S O R Y A U T H O R I T Y 61 Domestic private stock company Rr. “Donika Kastrioti”, Nr.11/1, Tirana Domestic private stock company Rr. “Reshit Çollaku”, Pall. 7-katësh tek Shallvaret, shk.2/6. Tirana +355 4 233537, +355 4 233537 Type of Ownership Office Address Tel./Fax No expiration date 11. CREDINS BANK S.A. Artan SANTO No expiration date 10. ALPHA BANK - Tirana S.A. Andreas GALATOULAS License Expiration Date Drejtor Ekzekutiv 24.11.2005 28.09.2005 www.ambankalb.com License Issuance Date www.raiffeisen.al Webpage +355 4 248753/4/5/6/7, +355 4 220160 americanbank@ambankalb.com +355 4 224540, +355 4 230013 Tel./Fax Rr. “Ismail Qemali”, Nr. 27, Tirana E-mail European Trade Center, Bul. “Bajram Curri”, Tirana Foreign stock company Type of Ownership Office Address Dealer and Registrar of Government bonds in Albania Dealer and Registrar of Government bonds in Albania Scope of Activity Foreign stock company Lorenco RONCARI 8. AMERICAN BANK OF ALBANIA S.A. 7. RAIFFEISEN BANK S.A. Steven GRUNERUD 9. NATIONAL COMMERCIAL BANK S.A. No expiration date No expiration date License Expiration Date Drejtor Ekzekutiv 01 July 2007 23 March 2005 24.11.2003 License Issuance Date Luigi MASTRAPASQUA 12. ITALIAN-ALBANIAN BANK S.A. No expiration date 21.12.2005 info@bkt.com.al www.bkt.com.al +355 4 250955, +355 4 250956 Bul. “Zhan D’ark”, Tirana Foreign stock company Dealer and Registrar of Government bonds in Albania Seyhan PENCAP LIGIL 01 July 2005 tseinfo@abcom-al.com info@bpopullore.com E-mail www.tse.com.al www.bpopullore.com +355 4 265 058 Rr. “Dora D’Istria”, Nr.2, P.O.B. 274/1, Tirana State stock company Securities organized trade Anila FURERAJ 6. TIRANA STOCK EXHANGE S.A. No expiration date Webpage +355 4 272790/1, +355 4 272781 Dealer Government bonds dealer Scope of Activity Edvin LIBOHOVA 5. POPULAR BANK S.A. 4. BALLKAN GROUP-01 S.A. Genci RAMAJ No expiration date No expiration date Executive Director License Expiration Date 62 A N N U A L R E P O R T ‘ 0 6 Issuance Date Treasury bonds Dealer and Registrar Treasury bonds Dealer and Registrar Scope of Activity info@bankacredins.com 0 13.02.2006 No expiration date E-mail License Issuance Date License Expiration Date Sheshi Skenderbej, Hotel “Tirana International”, Kati 14, Tirana Rr. “Mustafa Matohiti”, P.11 katësh, kati 2, zyra 1, Tirana + 355 4 240 207/8 www.apfa.com.al info@apfa.com.al 01 January 2006 Office Address Tel./Fax Webpage E-mail Date of Starting Activity 01 January 2006 garantsig-al@abisnet.com www.garantsig-al.com +355 4 265 521, + 355 4 265 044 Domestic private stock company Domestic private stock company + foreign stock Type of Ownership 01 March 2006 contact@capital.com.al www.capital.com.al + 355 4 348 000, + 355 4 363 003 Rr. “Dervish Hima”, Nr.2/1, Tirana Domestic private stock company Supplementary Pensions Private Fund Supplementary Pensions Private Fund Supplementary Pensions Private Fund Scope of Activity 3. Private Pensions Institution CAPITAL Themistokli ADHAMI 2. Private Pensions Institution GARANTSIG 08 May 2007 Kiço LOLI Arjan KRAJA Executive Director 1. American Pension Fund of Albania Supplementary Pensions Private Funds biatia@bia.com.al www.bankacredins.com Webpage No expiration date www.bia.com.al +355 4 234096, +355 4 258752 +355 4 240 478, +355 4 232102 Tel./Fax 08 May 2006 +355 4 233966, +355 4 235700 Rr.”Ismail Qemali”, Nr. 21, Tirana Bul. “Zogu I”, Nr. 47/1, Tirana Rr. “Barrikadave”, Nr.1, Tirana Foreign stock company Treasury bonds dealer Luigi MASTRAPASQUA 12. ITALIAN-ALBANIAN BANK S.A. No expiration date Office Address Domestic private stock company Artan SANTO Andreas GALATOULAS Drejtor Ekzekutiv Foreign stock company 11. CREDINS BANK S.A. 10. ALPHA BANK - Tirana S.A. Type of Ownership No expiration date No expiration date License Expiration Date A L B A N I A N F I N A N C I A L S U P E R V I S O R Y A U T H O R I T Y 63 17,4 % End of period Source: Ministry of Finance and INSTAT 33,2 % increase (%) Euro increase (%) 42,1 32,1 -29,3 772,3 US$ 1.092,5 0,7 increase (%) 8,7 20,9 17,3 906,0 18,7 136.487 -1,0 0,4 1.070,8 26,1 1.142,9 15,3 157.371 4,2 0,0 22,6 1.313,4 6,0 1.211,6 10,6 174.124 114.165 ALL 115.013 6,5 13,2 4.020 6,3 9,1 3.270 26,1 3.709 10,9 532.977 16,8 215 1.068 3.061 2000 % 8,6 16,6 3.490 15,2 480.581 18,4 240 1.065 3.054 1999 22,9 -10,9 -29,3 2.768 17,9 417.009 17,7 235 1.085 3.055 1998 increase (%) mln Euro increase (%) 2.375 3.360 mln US $ 353.642 0,7 351.113 mln ALL 14,9 194 1.107 3.075 1997 increase (%) 12,3 % Annual average Inflation GDP per capita Real GDP Growth Gross Domestic Product (GDP) Unemployment 158 1.116 000 Total number of employees 000 3.076 000 Population Registered unempl. persons 1996 Measuring Unit General Indicators Main Macro-Economic Indicators 1996 - 2006 3,5 3,1 13,8 1.494,8 10,5 1.338,5 10,3 192.043 7,1 14,3 4.595 10,9 4.114 10,8 590.282 16,4 181 921 3.074 2001 1,7 5,2 2,7 1.535,0 8,3 1.449,7 5,8 203.177 4,3 3,3 4.749 9,0 4.485 6,5 628.527 15,8 173 921 3.094 2002 3,3 2,2 5,7 1.622,2 26,3 1.830,6 9,8 223.071 5,8 6,3 5.047 27,0 5.695 10,4 694.018 15,0 164 927 3.111 2003 2,2 2,9 16,2 1.884,6 27,9 2.341,0 7,9 240.603 6,2 16,8 5.893 28,5 7.320 8,4 752.367 14,4 157 931 3.127 2004 2,0 2,4 11,8 2.106,7 11,9 2.619,9 8,7 261.628 5,6 12,3 6.619 12,5 8.232 9,3 822.035 14,2 154 932 3.142 2005 2,5 2,4 9,8 2.314,2 10,8 2.903 8,9 284.805 5,0 10,4 7.310 11,4 9.170 9,4 899.700 13,8 150 934 3.159 2006 General Indicators APPENDIX D: Statistical Tables 64 A N N U A L R E P O R T ‘ 0 6 23,6 323,4 9,6 Million $ % of GDP 82.785 -10,1 -35.302 % of GDP million ALL % of GDP million ALL % of GDP increase (%) million ALL 14,6 347,5 34,1 120.527 -11,8 -41.781 3,9 13.859 28,5 % of GDP 24,9 15,0 100.730 increase (%) million ALL 16,6 460,5 35,8 149.439 -9,4 -39.104 5,8 74,7 24.215 34,0 40,6 141.628 17,4 % of GDP 72.576 24,6 20,1 102.524 1998 59,2 12,9 45.579 16,7 73,9 58.949 1997 increase (%) 87.596 14,9 % of GDP million ALL 12,7 52.294 1996 increase (%) million ALL Measuring Unit Source: Ministry of Finance and INSTAT Foreign Dept Domestic Dept Overall Deficit Investments Total Expenditures Tax Revenues Total Revenues Indicators 15,8 550,1 36,9 177.490 -8,8 -42.531 7,1 40,9 34.120 34,5 17,0 165.692 17,4 15,1 83.566 25,6 6,1 123.161 1999 16,6 617,0 42,4 226.069 -7,5 -39.977 6,8 6,3 36.274 32,0 3,0 170.620 19,5 24,6 104.112 24,5 11,5 130.643 2000 17,0 697,7 40,9 241.161 -6,8 -40.410 7,4 19,6 43.397 31,5 9,0 186.049 19,4 9,8 114.294 24,7 6,1 145.639 2001 21,8 979,6 41,5 260.752 -6,0 -37.922 6,0 -12,6 37.925 30,6 3,5 192.517 20,5 12,8 128.948 24,6 8,2 154.595 2002 21,1 1.200,4 40,5 280.767 -4,9 -33.928 4,5 -17,0 31.472 29,0 4,5 201.152 20,9 12,7 145.388 24,1 10,2 167.224 2003 19,0 1.389,9 39,2 295.200 -5,1 -38.083 5,1 21,6 38.266 29,6 10,6 222.439 22,1 14,2 165.974 24,5 10,7 184.356 2004 16,5 1.356,1 39,8 327.353 -3,43 -28.176 4,7 0,3 38.375 28,3 4,5 232.339 22,4 10,7 183.816 24,8 10,8 204.163 2005 16,9 1.553,3 38,8 348.936 -3,17 -28.479 5,3 23,8 47.502 28,3 9,7 254.762 22,8 11,8 205.514 25,2 226.283 2006 Public Finances Indicators A L B A N I A N F I N A N C I A L S U P E R V I S O R Y A U T H O R I T Y 65 243,7 Million $ Month imports Reserves In % million ALL In % million ALL In % million ALL Measuring Unit Source: Ministry of Finance and INSTAT Aggregate M3 Aggregate M2 Aggregate M1 Indicators Source: Ministry of Finance and INSTAT ALL/Euro ALL/Euro Million $ Reserves Exchange rate Million $ 154.553 120.646 90.406 1996 104,50 559,4 2,7 -1,9 % of GDP % of GDP -62,3 Million $ 90,1 27,4 % of GDP Million $ 35,6 922,0 Million $ increase (%) 7,3 % of GDP 19,0 -20,2 % of GDP increase (%) -678,3 1996 Million $ Measuring Unit Transfer Direct Foreign Investments Current Accounts Balance Import Export Commercial Balance Indicators 28,5 198.547 34,5 162.221 1,4 91.667 1997 148,93 3,5 306,0 264,4 2,0 47,5 -10,7 -253,7 29,2 -24,8 693,5 6,7 -34,9 158,6 -22,5 -534,9 1997 20,6 239.526 22,8 199.264 -8,7 83.729 1998 150,64 3,7 384,0 523,9 1,6 45,0 -2,3 -65,0 29,3 17,0 811,7 7,5 31,1 208,0 -21,8 -603,7 1998 6,9 -7,2 255,4 -22,1 -821,0 2000 22,3 292.871 20,3 239.662 23,0 103.004 2001 12,0 328.101 10,4 264.497 20,4 124.041 20,2 394.316 15,4 305.302 15,2 142.926 2001 128,47 143,48 4,6 754,0 570,5 5,0 207,3 -5,3 -217,9 32,4 23,7 1.331,6 7,4 19,3 304,6 -25,0 -1.027,0 2000 132,58 143,71 4,2 608,0 533,0 3,9 143,0 -4,4 -163,1 29,0 14,8 1.076,4 1999 146,96 137,69 3,8 482,0 353,0 1,2 41,2 -3,8 -132,9 26,9 15,5 937,9 7,9 32,3 275,1 -19,0 -662,8 1999 5,7 416.685 6,4 324.727 6,9 152.741 2002 132,36 140,15 4,4 860,0 613,2 3,0 135,0 -9,4 -420,8 33,1 11,6 1.485,4 7,4 8,4 330,2 -25,8 -1.155,2 2002 7,6 448.427 7,6 349.513 -5,2 144.730 2003 137,51 121,86 3,9 1.026,0 842,0 3,1 178,0 -7,1 -406,7 31,3 20,1 1.783,4 7,9 35,4 447,1 -23,5 -1.336,3 2003 124,19 99,86 4,1 1.390 1.014 2,9 238,7 -7,0 -576,2 30,8 15,7 2.539 7,9 8,1 652 -22,9 -1.887,0 2005 123,07 98,11 4,2 1.536 1.065 3,2 293,5 -8,4 -770,3 29,2 5,3 2.674 7,9 10,6 721 -21,3 -1.953,0 2006 13,1 507.206 12,0 391.411 19,4 172.833 2004 14,0 578.036 8,9 426.150 31,7 227.684 2005 12,6 650.600 12,8 480.500 -0,1 227.500 2006 Monetary Aggregates 127,67 102,78 4,0 1.374,0 1.109,4 4,7 341,3 -4,9 -358,2 30,0 23,1 2.194,9 8,2 34,9 603,3 -21,7 -1.591,6 2004 Foreign Trade Indicators Progress of Some Important Macroeconomic Indicators (1996-2007) Gross Domestic Product and Rate of Growth (mio Euro) Gross Domestic Product and Rate of Growth (mio ALL) Foreign Debt TB 3-months 2006 3-month Treasury Bonds 66 ‘ 0 6 2007 2007 2006 2005 2004 In % 2006 4,00% 3,00% 2,00% 1,00% 0,00% c. R E P O R T 5,00% r. A N N U A L 6,00% Ap 1,38% 1,35% 1,50% 2,37% 3,08% 2,43% 3,25% 2,82% 2,55% 2,25% 2,91% 2,51% r. 5,36% 5,14% 5,13% 5,04% 5,07% 5,13% 5,19% 5,34% 5,69% 5,17% 6,23% 6,38% 3 Months T-Bills Ma 4,33% 4,28% 3,96% 3,95% 3,85% 3,74% 3,62% 3,66% 3,65% 3,85% 3,86% 3,94% TB 12-months 7,00% Fe b. Inflation Rate n. TB Yield Ja January February March April May June July August September October November December Deposits Interest % Month 2003 TB 6-months 2005 2006* 2007** v. 2005 De Internal Debt 2004 No 2003 2004 2002 t. 2001 Oc 2000 2003 15.8 1999 p. 20.2 Se 18 2002 16.5 g. 10 19 Au 15 21.1 17 16.6 2001 21.8 20 ly 25 Ju 30 2000 35 40% 35% 30% 25% 20% 15% 10% 5% 0% ne 38.1 1999 38.8 Ma y 39.8 39.2 as % to GDP Ju 40.5 1998 40.9 1997 36.9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0 Yield T-Bills Primary Market 1996 40 41.5 1995 Public Debt as % to GDP 42.4 2002 mio ALL End of period Yearly Average 2001 2007 2006 2005 2004 2003 2002 2001 2000 1999 1998 1997 1996 0 2000 10 1999 20 1998 In million ALL In % 30 80,000 70,000 60,000 50,000 40,000 30,000 20,000 10,000 0 1997 Investments 40 45 2006 0 Inflation 50 -10 In % 5 2005 0 10 1999 2007 2005 2006 2003 2004 2002 2001 1999 2000 1997 1996 0 1998 200,000 15 2004 5 20 2003 400,000 25 2002 10 9,000 8,000 7,000 6,000 5,000 4,000 3,000 2,000 1,000 0 2001 600,000 In % In million ALL 15 800,000 In milliion Euro 20 2000 1,200,000 1,000,000 Months Deposit Rates Yield Inflation Rate 2006 6-month Treasury Bonds A L B A N I A N c. De t. v. Oc No . g. pt Se ly Au ne Ju Ju r. Ma y Ap 8,00% 6,00% 4,00% 2,00% F I N A N C I A L c. De t. v. No . Oc g. pt Se Au ly 0,00% Ju 1,38% 1,35% 1,50% 2,37% 3,08% 2,43% 3,25% 2,82% 2,55% 2,25% 2,91% 2,51% Inflation Rate 12 Month T-Bills Ma y Ju ne 6,72% 6,33% 5,95% 5,62% 5,48% 5,43% 5,49% 5,72% 6,24% 6,68% 6,86% 7,06% Yield 10,00% r. 4,95% 4,71% 4,80% 4,60% 4,46% 4,35% 4,23% 4,26% 4,31% 4,50% 4,51% 4,64% Deposit Rates Ap January February March April May June July August September October November December Months Fe b. Ma r. Inflation Rate n. 2006 12-month Treasury Bonds TB Deposits Months Yield Interest 8,00% 7,00% 6,00% 5,00% 4,00% 3,00% 2,00% 1,00% 0,00% Fe b. Ma r. 1,38% 1,35% 1,50% 2,37% 3,08% 2,43% 3,25% 2,82% 2,55% 2,25% 2,91% 2,51% Ja 6,72% 6,33% 5,95% 5,62% 5,48% 5,43% 5,49% 5,72% 6,24% 6,68% 6,86% 7,06% January February March April May June July August September October November December n. 4,95% 4,71% 4,80% 4,60% 4,46% 4,35% 4,23% 4,26% 4,31% 4,50% 4,51% 4,64% Months Ja Inflation Rate % TB Yield % 6 Month T-Bills Deposits Interest Months Deposit Rates S U P E R V I S O R Y Yield A U T H O R I T Y Inflation Rate 67