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Our policy on access to Exchange Settlement accounts

Information about our policy for access to Exchange Settlement Accounts and what we consider when assessing applications for an account.

Why we provide ESAS accounts

The goal of our settlement account policies is to promote the development of a payments system which:

  • is efficient, open and flexible
  • has a high level of integrity
  • is robust in the face of financial crises.

We also see our role in providing exchange settlement accounts as similar to a 'wholesale' activity as distinct from a 'retail' activity. We don't anticipate many applications for an ESAS account, given its very limited features.

How ESAS accounts work

Section 32 of the Reserve Bank Act 1989 allows us to provide settlement account services for financial institutions.

Exchange Settlement (ESAS) accounts are basic current accounts only. An ESAS account holder can conduct settlements with other account holders in central bank funds, which lets the receiver of those funds have absolute faith in the quality of the funds received. However,

  • no credit is provided; the account must be in funds at all times
  • we calculate interest for each account holder on a daily basis. Account holders receive the official cash rate (OCR) on balances up to a maximum balance that we determine.  Balances in excess of this amount are remunerated at the OCR less zero basis points. We may from time to time vary these arrangements
  • there is no right of access to: 
    • lender of last resort (LLR) facilities
    • intra-day or inter-day liquidity. Access to intra and inter-day liquidity is a separate decision based on the creditworthiness criteria used to determine acceptable domestic counterparties
  • no other rights or status are conferred.

Access to an ESAS account is a separate application to the process to access a clearing system operated by Payments New Zealand (PNZ). You can find more information about PNZ clearing systems on their website.  

The Commerce Commission is mainly responsible for competition policy.

Criteria for new applicants

When deciding on an application for an ESAS account, we consider whether:

  • the applicant fits the definition of financial institution in the Reserve Bank Act 1989
  • providing an ESAS account to the applicant might detract from the soundness or efficiency of the financial system
  • a legitimate business interest can be served by access to an ESAS account
  • providing an ESAS account would adversely affect our reputation and any other matters we consider relevant to the application. 

Applicants will be expected to address each of these criteria in their application.

Read the ESAS Application Policy (PDF 533KB)

Who can apply for an ESAS Account

Registered banks can apply for an ESAS account. Our application policy has the information needed to start this process. If you need help with your application, email us at [email protected]

We're currently reviewing ESAS Access. New applications for ESAS accounts may be submitted, but we won't be processing new applications until this review is completed and the new access policy and criteria are in place. Prospective applicants may therefore consider holding off on making new applications until after the review. 

Registered banks are exempt from this hold on processing new ESAS account applications. 


Account terms and conditions

Any new ESAS account holders would be subject to the same contractual terms and conditions as existing account holders. This is as agreed and provided for in the existing terms and conditions. In particular, applicants should note the provisions of clause 2.7 of the account terms and conditions.