Blog

Our vision is to revolutionize and automate the loan servicing workflow of the global financial community.

Understanding Current Expected Credit Loss (CECL)

current expected credit loss

Businesses and investors must stay informed about the latest standards and regulations. One such standard that has gained prominence in recent years is Current Expected Credit Loss (CECL). But what is CECL, and why is it important?

What is Current Expected Credit Loss (CECL)?

CECL is an accounting standard introduced by the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) in response to the 2008 financial crisis. It replaces the previous standard, known as the incurred loss model. CECL requires financial institutions to estimate and set aside reserves for expected credit losses over the life of a financial asset from its inception.

How Does CECL Work?

Under the CECL model, lenders are required to consider all relevant information, including historical experience, current conditions, and reasonable forecasts, to estimate expected credit losses. This forward-looking approach contrasts with the previous practice of recognizing credit losses only when they have been incurred or are probable to occur.

The process involves several key steps:

  • Data Collection and Analysis: Lenders gather historical data on credit losses, economic conditions, and other relevant factors. They then analyze this data to identify patterns and trends to help forecast future credit losses.
  • Economic Forecasting: CECL requires lenders to incorporate economic forecasts into their credit loss estimation process. This involves assessing factors such as GDP growth, unemployment rates, and industry-specific trends to predict potential credit losses.
  • Probability Weighting: Lenders assign probabilities to various credit loss scenarios based on their assessment of the likelihood of occurrence. These probabilities are then used to calculate the expected credit losses.
  • Setting Aside Reserves: Based on the estimated expected credit losses, lenders set aside reserves on their balance sheets to cover potential future losses associated with financial assets.

    • Why is CECL Important?

    CECL represents a significant shift in accounting standards, requiring financial institutions to take a more forward-looking approach to credit risk management. By incorporating economic forecasts and other relevant information into the credit loss estimation process, CECL aims to provide investors and stakeholders with a more transparent view of a lender’s financial health and credit risk exposure.

    CECL promotes early recognition of credit losses, which can help financial institutions better prepare for potential economic downturns and mitigate associated risks. By setting aside reserves based on expected credit losses, lenders can strengthen their balance sheets and enhance their overall financial stability.

    CECL is a significant accounting standard that has reshaped how lenders account for credit losses. By adopting a forward-looking approach to credit risk management, CECL aims to enhance transparency, improve risk assessment, and promote financial stability. While implementing CECL may pose challenges for some organizations, the benefits of early recognition of credit losses and better-informed decision-making far outweigh the challenges.

    If you'd like to learn more about our loan servicing software or how we can help you, email us at solutions@shawsystems.com. Follow us on LinkedIn for more blog posts.



    Subscribe to our blog

    Return to Blog