Transfer pricing implications of the Basel II capital accord

In June of 2004, central bank governors and the heads of bank supervisory authorities in the Group of Ten (G10) countries endorsed the publication of the so called "Basel II" new capital adequacy framework. Basel II, the full implementation of which is targeted for year-end 2007, would maintain the current "capital ratio" target, but would change the manner by which the inputs to that ratio are calculated. In addition, Basel II provides for enhanced supervisory and disclosure requirements. Along with significantly impacting the lending and trading behaviour of compliant banks, Basel II has important transfer pricing implications for those institutions that adopt it, including potential tax-planning opportunities. This article highlights these implications.