Capital Adequacy Regulatory Framework for Banks Operating in Lebanon

Circular No. 760
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To Banks and Supervisory Appointees

We enclose for your reference a copy of Interim Decision No. 13814 dated May 4, 2026, concerning the amendment of the Basic Decision No. 6939 dated March 25, 1998 (the Regulatory Framework for Capital Adequacy of Banks Operating in Lebanon) attached to Basic Circular No. 44.

Beirut, May 4, 2026

Governor of the Central Bank of Lebanon

Karim Saeed

Interim Decision No. 13814
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Amending Basic Decision No. 6939 dated March 25, 1998

The Governor of the Central Bank of Lebanon,
Pursuant to the Monetary and Exchange Act, particularly Articles 70, 174, and 175 thereof, And pursuant to Basic Decision No. 6939 dated March 25, 1998 and its amendments concerning the Regulatory Framework for Capital Adequacy of Banks Operating in Lebanon, And pursuant to the resolution adopted by the Central Council of the Central Bank of Lebanon in its meeting held on April 29, 2026,

Has decided the following:

Article One: Paragraph (5) of "Article Ten" of Basic Decision No. 6939 dated March 25, 1998 is repealed and replaced with the following text:
« -5. Contrary to the provisions of Paragraph (4) of this Article and as a temporary exception, the ratio for "Liquidity Reserves" may be reduced from the required ratio (i.e., 2.5%) during the years 2023, 2024, 2025, and 2026, provided that this shortfall is gradually restored in accordance with instructions to be issued by the Central Bank of Lebanon at a later date on this matter.»

Article Two: This Decision shall take effect upon its issuance.

Article Three: This Decision shall be published in the Official Gazette.

Beirut, May 4, 2026

Governor of the Central Bank of Lebanon

Karim Saeed