What is Statutory Liquid Ratio (SLR)?

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) wields a crucial tool to manage the Indian financial system: the Statutory Liquidity Ratio (SLR). This ratio dictates a minimum percentage of a bank's deposits (Net Demand and Time Liabilities, or NDTL) that must be held in highly liquid assets like cash, gold, or government securities. Unlike the Cash Reserve Ratio (CRR) deposited with the RBI, SLR assets are managed by the banks themselves. The current SLR in India stands at 18%.

How the SLR Functions

Banks are mandated to maintain a specific portion of their NDTL in readily available assets by the end of each business day. The SLR determines the minimum ratio of these liquid assets to the total NDTL. This ratio empowers the RBI to influence the money supply in the economy.

Impact of SLR on Money Supply

1. Tightening the Tap: An increased SLR reduces the portion of deposits available for lending. This restricts the money circulating in the economy, potentially curbing inflation.
2. Stimulating Growth: Conversely, a lowered SLR allows banks to lend more, potentially boosting economic activity.

Components of Statutory Liquidity Ratio

According to Sections 24 and 56 of the Banking Regulation Act 1949, all scheduled commercial banks, local area banks, primary (urban) co-operative banks (UCBs), state co-operative banks, and central co-operative banks in India must maintain the Statutory Liquidity Ratio (SLR). Below are the key components of the SLR.

Liquid Assets

Liquid assets are those that can be easily converted into cash. These include:

1. Gold
2. Treasury bills
3. Government-approved securities
4. Government bonds
5. Cash reserves
6. Securities eligible under Market Stabilization Schemes
7. Securities under Market Borrowing Programmes

Net Demand and Time Liabilities (NDTL)

NDTL represents the total demand and time liabilities (deposits) held by the banks.

1. Demand Deposits: These are liabilities that must be paid on demand, such as current deposits, demand drafts, overdue fixed deposits, and the demand liabilities portion of savings bank deposits.
2. Time Deposits: These are deposits repayable on maturity, not immediately withdrawable by the depositor. Examples include fixed deposits (FDs), the time liabilities portion of savings bank deposits, and staff security deposits. Bank liabilities also encompass call money market borrowings, certificates of deposit, and investment deposits in other banks.

Objectives of Statutory Liquidity Ratio

Preventing Over-Liquidation

The SLR helps prevent banks from becoming overly liquid, which could happen if the Cash Reserve Ratio increases and banks urgently need funds. By implementing SLR, the RBI maintains control over bank credit, ensuring commercial banks remain solvent and invest in government securities.

Regulating Bank Credit Flow

The RBI adjusts the SLR to manage bank credit flow. During inflation, the SLR is increased to restrict bank credit. Conversely, during a recession, the SLR is lowered to boost bank credit.

SLR vs CRR: What are the Differences?

Both the Statutory Liquidity Ratio (SLR) and Cash Reserve Ratio (CRR) are integral parts of monetary policy, but they serve different purposes and have distinct characteristics. The table below outlines their differences:

Does SLR impact investors?

The Statutory Liquidity Ratio (SLR) doesn't directly set borrowing costs for investors. However, it can indirectly influence lending rates. Here's how:

1. Limited Lending Pool: A higher SLR shrinks the pool of money banks can lend.
2. Potential Rate Increase: To maintain profitability, banks might raise lending rates to compensate for the reduced lending pool. 
3. Investor Impact: This potential rise could lead to higher borrowing costs for investors seeking loans.

Banks must report their Net Demand and Time Liabilities (NDTL) to the RBI every two weeks for SLR calculation and adherence. This ensures they maintain enough liquid assets (cash, gold, government securities) to meet customer withdrawal demands.

Failing to meet the SLR triggers penalties like:

1. Initial Non-Compliance: 3% annual penalty above the bank rate.
2. Continued Default: Penalty escalates to 5%.
3. These measures ensure banks prioritize liquidity, safeguarding depositors' access to their funds.

FAQs