Background

A healthy banking system is an essential ingredient for all economies.  A smooth and efficient banking system provides funds for both the normal functioning of the economy and for investment needs.  These are typically controlled by the laws and regulations of the country.  However, there are a great many services that can be provided by banks which can impact on the health of the economy and on the standard of living of the population. 

How can the CEI program help?

A CEI economic development mission can help by introducing banking leaders to efficient methods and services offered in the West.  A well-run banking system can speed up financial transactions in the country, lower the cost of borrowing, and improve the overall business climate for both domestic producers and potential investors. 

Benefits of a banking operations program

Participants will gain the information needed to evaluate the laws, practices, and procedures used in their banks.  We expect that the participants will be able make modifications which will increase the financial health of their economy.  

A economic development mission program is more effective and economical than the use of high priced consultants who are not familiar with the industry practices in the developing country and do not understand the cultural climate. 

Topics to be covered

The key topics to be covered by the mission include:

• How efficient banking practices increase economic development and increased employment

• Operations and responsibilities of the State Banking Commissions

• Front-counter and back-office operations

• Services provided to businesses

• Branch offices

• Money-lending practices

• Customer oriented practices and services

• Marketing banking services

• Use and processing of credit cards

• International banking services

• Operation of the Federal Reserve System

• Use of the Internet in banking

• Checking and savings accounts and check processing

• Employee relations within a bank

• Currency exchange

• Banking efficiency and profitability

• Other services including trust management and accounting and investment management

• Savings and loan operations

• Credit unions

• Consumer finance companies

• Mortgage brokers and other financial service providers

Where will the mission travel?

The banking mission will visit U.S. regional and money-center banks in the Eastern and Midwestern states, as well as various government offices. 

The program will visit many different organizations in different U.S. states and communities.  As a result participants will be able to see “best practices” and be able to select those that best meet their needs at home.