Explainers

The savings and investments union aims to connect savings and investments in the EU to create financial opportunities for citizens and businesses.

The economic and monetary union involves the coordination of member states’ economic and fiscal policies alongside a single monetary policy for member states that have introduced the euro. It contributes to economic stability and growth.

The EU has defined a number of basic rights to protect consumers when they use financial products and services, for example when opening a bank account, transferring money, making an investment, taking out a mortgage loan or a consumer credit or setting up a pension plan.

The EU banking framework applies to all banks, other credit institutions and investment firms operating within the EU. Its aim is to ensure stability and integrity while maintaining public confidence in the financial system.

The EU has developed a robust framework to manage the orderly resolution of failing banks in order to protect financial stability, ensure the continuity of critical banking functions, and minimise the impact on the economy and taxpayers.

The single supervisory mechanism is an EU-level system to ensure enhanced supervision of Europe's banking sector.

A healthy banking system is essential for the lives of all EU citizens and for the stability and prosperity of the European economy. Since the 2007–2008 financial crisis, European and international leaders have implemented international banking standards to ensure that banks are sound and can weather the storm of any potential future crises.

EU rules on markets in crypto-assets better protect consumers and investors, regulate risks against financial crime and boost innovation.

The banking union is the European Union’s policy for the integration of the banking sector of the euro area member states.