Reasons for the LIBOR review and its effects on international interbank reference rate quotations

In 2012, news related the manipulation of LIBOR directed the attention of authorities and the general public to interbank reference rates. International reviews made it clear that a reform of LIBOR and the numerous reference rates that follow the methodology of LIBOR is necessary, because changes in reference rates influence the payment terms of thousands of billions in loans and other financial agreements. Rapid and at the same time radical changes cannot be expected in the short run, because preparation of the changes poses a regulatory challenge that requires complex, international cooperation. In order to restore confidence, as of 2013 the British authorities intend to strengthen LIBOR by the introduction of a statutory regulation, and they are also planning to designate a new, independent administrator and to drastically cut the number of quotes. Overall, our study confirms the findings of earlier analyses prepared by the Magyar Nemzeti Bank, according to which BUBOR shows the real market conditions as an average of longer periods, but at present its ability to provide a short-term forecast of interest rate steps is limited.