Manual On Concurrent Audit of Banks
Manual On Concurrent Audit of Banks
Part I: Understanding the Banking Business and Its Legal Framework Introduction Preclude Chapter 1: Banking in India Chapter 2: Banking Products and Services Chapter 3: Organizational and Operational Structure of Banks Chapter 4: Internal Control through Inspection and Internal Audit Chapter 5: Legal Framework and KYC Policies Part II: Domain of Concurrent Audit Chapter 1: Evolution of Concurrent Audits in Banks Chapter 2: General Guidelines on Concurrent Audit Chapter 3: Conduct of Concurrent Audit Chapter 4: Concurrent Audit Universe and Procedures Chapter 5: Checklists Chapter 6: Internal Control for Preventive Vigilance Part III: Various Internal Audits (Other Than Concurrent Audit) Assigned to Chartered Accountants Firms Chapter 1: Checklists of Revenue Audit: Stock and Debtors Audit and Credit Audit Chapter 2: Risk-based Internal Audit Part IV: Model Manual of Instruction with Various Reports and Checklist Annexure A A/A: Format of Weekly/Monthly Reports A/B: Audit Certificate A/C: Cumulative Leakage Statement A/C1: Statement of Revenue Leakage A/C2: Statement of Borrowing Accounts A/C3: Statement of Deposit Accounts A/D1: Statement of Irregularities in Advance Account already reported but Not Yet Rectified A/D2: Statement of Irregularities regarding other areas Already Reported But Not Yet Rectified A/D3: Statement of Irregularities Regarding Advances Noticed During the Month A/D4: Statement of Irregularities Regarding Areas Other than Advances Noticed During the month A/E1: Format of Summary of Quarterly Report A/E2: Format of Summary of Quarterly Report (Advance Part) A/F: Format of Verification of Stock and Book Debts of Borrower Accounts A/F1 & F2: Statement Showing Progress of Rectification A/G: Irregularities Requiring Immediate Attention of Management A/H1- H15: Statistical Return A/I: Guidelines for Checking of Revenue Leakage A/J: Guidelines for Checking of Investment.............. A/K: Guidelines for Checking of Foreign Exchange Annexure B: Guidelines for Revenue Audit Annexure C: Guidelines for Stock and Debit Audit Annexure D: Guidelines for Credit Audit Annexure E: Guidelines for Depository Participants audit Annexure F: Guidelines for Computer System Audit Annexure G: Guidelines for System Audit Appendices Appendix 1: Introduction of a System of Concurrent Audit in Banks Recommended by the Ghosh Committee on Frauds and Malpractices in Banks [Circular No.C: 182/16.13.100/93-94 dated 11.10.1993] Appendix 2 : Concurrent Audit System in Commercial Banks Revision of RBIs Guidelines [Circular No: C 16/08-91-021/96 dated 14.08.1996 (Revised on Concurrent Audit 3 4 7 11 13 15 21 22 30 34 42 57 60 62 73 75 76 77 77 77 78 78 78 79 79 83
ABBREVIATIONS
AAS Auditing and Assurance Standards ACB Audit Committee of Board of Directors Anti Money Laundering -- AMC Asset Management Committee ATMs Automatic Teller Machines BIF Banking Companies, Financial Institutions and Intermediaries BRs Bank Receipts -- CA Chartered Accountant CASA Control and Self-Assessment -- Cr Credit -- CBS Core Banking Solutions -- Dr Debit -- DD Demand Draft -- DDP Demand Draft Payable DICGC Deposit Insurance and Credit Guarantee Corporation ECGC Export Credit Guarantee Corporation ECB External Commercial Borrowing ECS Electronic Clearing Service EFT Electronic Funds Transfer EMI Equated Monthly Installment FCRA Foreign Contribution Regulation Act FERA 1973 Foreign Exchange Regulation Act, 1973 (replaced by Foreign Exchange Management Act, 1999) FEMA 1999 Foreign Exchange Management Act, 1999 FOREX Foreign Exchange FEDAI Foreign Exchange Dealers Association of India FDI Foreign Direct Investment GL General Ledger HO Head Office/Central Office IBA Indian Banks Association ICAI Institute of Chartered Accountants of India IS Information System PAN Permanent Account Number (issued by Income Tax Authority) PML Prevention of Money Laundering KYC Know Your Customers LC Letter of Credit LG Letter of Guarantee MICR Magnetic Ink Character Recognition MT Money Transfer ring PMLA Prevention of Money Laundering Act NABARD National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development RBI Reserve Bank of India RRB Regional Rural Bank SBI State Bank of India SIDBI Small Industries Development Bank of India SIAs Standards on Internal Audit formulated by the Internal Audit Standards Board of the ICAI SGL Subsidiary General Ledger SSI Small Scale Industries SLR Statutory Liquidity Ratio STR Suspicious Transactions Reporting TT Telegraphic Transfer TM Tailor Machine UTPS Unitary Transfer Pricing System GLOSSARY Gold Banking Business of buying, selling and dealing in bullion and specie (Section 6 of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949) Extending Credit against gold (RBI has established a framework for ongoing review of policy in gold.) Spot delivery of foreign exchange on the second working day after the day of transaction. Tom delivery of foreign exchange on a working day next to the day of transaction.
INTRODUCTION
Prelude
1. The subject audit cannot be dealt simply by enumerating various techniques and procedures. Thought needs to be devoted to the underlying philosophy of auditing and its concept. Before getting into the very process of auditing it is important to give a look at its evolution. The word audit comes from the Latin word auditus, meaning hearing. Auditing in its simple form originated with the development of organized system of accounting, as it became necessary to entrust one man with the propriety of another. Auditing began in ancient times, but modern auditing techniques originated in the United Kingdom during mid 1800s, contemporaneously with the Industrial Revolution. 2. The system of concurrent audit in banks was introduced by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) in October 1993 pursuant to the recommendations of the Ghosh Committee on Frauds and Malpractices in Banks. Since then, RBI has issued a number of circular impacting widely the scope and coverage of concurrent audit in banks. With the financial sector reforms as well as information and communication technology revolutions, the operational environment of the banks has also changed very fast, whereas deregulation has opened up opportunities for banks to diversify into new areas like investment banking, gold banking, mortgage financing, and depository services. Securitization, e-banking etc., liberalization is opening up the turf for new players, which is increasing competition among all the banks. Key words that describe the change are operational flexibility and functional autonomy, which has bestowed greater freedom to banks to take on competition. Greater stress is being laid on operational efficiency and prudent risk management. 3. In this changing scenario, the role of concurrent audit has become very crucial and important for banks in discharging their duties properly and efficiently, particularly for timely detection of irregularities and lapse, which help in minimization of irregularities as well as prevention of frauds. For best results, concurrent auditors, who are given the task of substantive checking, must be fully abreast with the changes in functioning and operational activities of the banks at all levels and at all times. 4. The scope of concurrent audit is determined, among other matters, by the respective banks within the broad framework of guidelines issued by the RBI. As these requirements vary for different types of banks, it is not possible to lay down a single set of guidelines which would act as a model to the task applicable to all banks having different size, spread and activities. 5. This Manual deals with the subject of concurrent audit in banks primarily in the context of regulatory requirements applicable to commercial banks in both the public and the private sectors on the premise that transactions entered into by different banks would generally warrant application of similar procedures except for those procedures which address any specific requirements of examination under regulatory provision and reporting thereof. 6. This Manual intends to assist the concurrent auditors in carrying out the concurrent audit of banks. It also aspires to introduce a certain measure of uniformity in the conduct and reporting practices of the concurrent auditors. The Manual has been developed following a practical, field work approach, covering almost all the areas of significance and relevance in concurrent audit of banks. 7. This Manual is divided into four parts as follows: Part I: Understanding the Banking Business and Its Legal Framework Part II: Domain of Concurrent Audit Part III: Various Other Audits (Other than Concurrent Audit) Assigned to Chartered Accountants Firms. Part IV: Model Manual of Instruction with Various Reports & Checklist 9. It is important to note, that apart from concurrent audit, members of the Institute are also engaged1 to carry out certain other types of audits as well in banks, such as: - Revenue Audit/Income-Expenditure Audit, Stock and Debtors Audit, Credit Audit, Pre-Disbursement Audit, Information System (IS) Audit and Depository Participants Audit (DP Audit) Normally Banks also have a system of inspection of branches by bank officials themselves. In addition, the RBI also conducts inspection of important branches and reviews activities of head offices of banks (called annual financial review). This manual however, concentrates on concurrent audit, including revenue audit/income and expenditure audit, stock & debtors audit, credit audit which forms an important component of concurrent audit. In view of emergence of the concept of risk management as a part of sound corporate governance of banks and the imperatives of adherence to the Basel II accord (which the banks have undertaken to implement forthwith) the basic features and components of Risk Based Internal Audit is also provided in Chapter 2 under Part III of this manual. 1 Subject to the fulfillment of any criteria lay down by the Reserve Bank of India in this regard. For example, in case of Information Systems Audit and Audit of Depository Participants.
PART I
Understanding the Banking Business and Its Legal Framework
Banking in India -
1.1 Banking on modern lines started with the establishment of banks by the English Agency Houses at Kolkata and Bombay. Bank of Hindustan, the first Bank in India on modern line was established in 1770. Bank of Bengal was established in 1786 at Kolkata. Subsequently, three presidency banks were established in Kolkata (1806), in Mumbai (1840) and in Chennai (1843). In early years, these presidency banks were allowed to issue currency notes until 1862 when the Government started issuing currency notes. Moreover, in the year 1860 the concept of limited liability for banks was accepted under Indian Law. 1.2 Till 1860, the banks which were in existence opened branches in various cities and towns like Agra, Mumbai, Chennai, Banaras, Simla, and Delhi etc. By the end of 1900 there were three classes of banks in India viz. the Presidency Banks (which were three in number); the Joint Sector Banks (nine in number); and Exchange Banks or Foreign Banks (eight in number). Some of the prominent joint sector banks were the Allahabad Bank, the Alliance Bank of Simla, the Oudh Bank and the Punjab National Bank. 1.3 1900-1950: The Swadeshi movement, which started in the early phase of 1900s, gave stimulus to growth of banking system in India. It resulted in establishment of joint stock banks by Indians. The more prominent of them were the Peoples' Bank of India; the Bank of India; the Bank of Baroda; the Central Bank of India, etc. During this period, Indian Joint Stock Banks specializing in short term credit for trade in the form of cash credit and overdraft started operation. The Indian banks did not undertake foreign exchange business, and the monopoly remained with foreign banks. In 1921, the Presidency banks were merged and the Imperial Bank of India was created. Subsequently, the same Bank was converted into the State Bank of India. The period of 1900 to 1925, however, saw failure of many banks. The phenomenon attracted attention of the Government of India and a committee, Central Banking Enquiry Committee, was constituted by the Government in 1929 to trace reasons behind failure of banks. The Committee highlighted some important reasons responsible for bank failures including. Insufficient capital, poor liquidity of assets, combination of non-banking activities with anking activities, irrational credit policy, incompetent and inexperienced directors, etc. 1.4 The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Act was passed in 1934 and the RBI came into existence in 1935 on the basis of major recommendations of Central Banking Enquiry Committee. In 1949, the Banking Regulation Act was passed which gave wide powers to the RBI with regard to establishment of new banks, mergers and amalgamation of banks, opening of new branches, closing of existing branches, shifting of existing new branches to other locations, etc including inspection of banks. The Banking Regulation Act gave wide powers to RBI to regulate, supervise and develop the banking system. The period after 1949 was marked by the efforts of RBI towards institutionalization of savings, to adapt the credit system to the emerging needs of the economy. The Banking Regulation Act was landmark legislation. The Act thus provided the framework for RBI's supervision of banks. In 1947, India got independence and the partition thereafter affected Indian banking system. 1.5 1950-1969: This period in history of banking industry in India was marked by important events including constitution of the State Bank of India {the State Bank of India (SBI) became successor to the Imperial Bank of India under the State Bank of India Act, 1955}, the creation of a state partnered/state sponsored Bank in order to have effective control over the Imperial Bank of India and integrating it with the former state owned banks of princely states. Later, the State Bank of India (Subsidiary Banks) Act was passed in 1959 enabling the SBI to take over eight state associated banks as its subsidiaries, of which the State Banks of Bikaner and State Bank of Jaipur were merged into one Bank, viz. State Bank of Bikaner and Jaipur and the other state owned banks were, the State Bank of Indore, the State Bank of Mysore, the State Bank of Patiala, the State Bank of Saurashtra, the State Bank of Hyderabad, and the State Bank of Travancore. The conversion of Imperial Bank of India into the State Bank of India and the reconstitution of Associate Bank in 1959, were intended to accelerate the pace of extension of banking facilities all over the country. 1.6 1969-1990: To bring about a wider diffusion of banking facilities and to change the uneven distribution of pattern of lending, schemes for social control for banks was announced in the Parliament in December 1967, to ensure an equitable and purposive distribution of credit within the resources available keeping in view the relative priorities of developmental needs. The social control measures were designed to achieve a social orientation of banking within the framework of existing ownership. National Credit Council was set up in 1968 to assess the
demand for bank credit from various sectors of the economy and to determine the priorities. In July 1969, the Government of India nationalized 14 major banks, which became one of the important events in the history of Indian Banking. Banks were nationalized to achieve social objectives so that they effectively played the role of catalytic agents for economic growth by extending banking facilities in all parts of the country. Six more Banks were nationalized thereafter termed as Corresponding New Bank (the body corporate specified against an existing Bank in column 2 of the First Schedule of Banking Companies Act, 1980). With a view to develop the rural economy with development of agriculture, trade, commerce, industry and all other productive activities in the rural area RRBs were established under the Regional Rural Banks Act, 1976. 1.7 Presently there are four types of banking institution in India. These are: - Commercial Banks, Regional Rural Banks, Co-Operative Banks and Development Banks more commonly known as term-lending institutions and Exim Bank
Commercial Banks
1.8 Commercial banks are by far the most widespread banking institutions in India. Commercial banking in India passed various phases.
Prior to Nationalization
These were mostly owned by large business houses resulting in flow of commercial credit to selected enterprises mostly within the same group of companies thereby suffering concentration risk. The beneficiaries were a select few and credit was utilized for a limited number of activities pursued by those houses. This resulted in increase in stressed assets and in certain cases to bankruptcy. In order to retrieve the situation, and to assure the safety of depositors money, various control measures of RBI on banks followed. By this time, a large number of depositors lost their money.
Foreign Banks
1.15 These banks have been functioning long in this country having access to substantial capital funds. They operate on a global basis and make use of the latest technology to provide enhanced customer services.
Co-operative Banks
1.19 As a part of the financial structure prevailing in the country over a century, co-operative banks are functioning. While we have State Level Co-operative Banks, District Level Co-operative Banks as well as the Urban Co-operative Banks throughout the country, some of the Urban Co-operative Banks especially in the western and southern part of the country have done substantial business to carve out niche markets for them. 1.20 These are banks in the co-operative sector which cater primarily to the credit needs of the farming and allied sectors. Cooperative banks include central co-operative banks, state cooperative banks, primary co-operative banks and land development banks. Of these, primary co-operative banks operate in metropolitan cities, urban and semi-urban centres to cater principally to the credit needs of small industrial units, retail traders, etc.
Development Banks
1.23 As, these banks were started with the objective of providing only long term finance for development purposes, they are referred to as 'development banks' or 'term-lending institutions'. These institutions provide facilities for the setting up of units in any part of the country. Of late, some of these institutions have sponsored commercial banks also. Besides, these all-India level institutions, every state has a State Financial Corporation and a State Industrial Development Corporation (though they may be known by different names) to cater to the needs of that particular state.
former play an active role in financing of small and medium enterprises in the states and the later provide term loan and also participate in the equity of the industrial enterprises of the state. Normally, state-level institutions have a monetary ceiling on the quantum of finance they can grant to a single unit.
Chapter-2
Granting of Advances
2.2 This again is an important function of commercial banks. Advances granted by commercial banks take various forms such as cash credit, overdrafts, purchase or discounting of bills, term loans, etc. Apart from granting traditional facilities, banks are also providing facilities like issuance of commercial papers, ECB on behalf of bank/borrower, securitization of credit sales, housing loan, educational loan, and car loan etc.
Remittances
2.3 This involves transfer of funds from one place to another. Two of the most common modes of remittance of funds are drafts and Telegraphic/Mail Transfers (TT/MT). Drafts are issued by one branch of the Bank and are payable by another branch of the Bank (or, in case there being no branch of the Bank at the place of destination, branch of another Bank with which the issuing Bank has entered into necessary arrangement). The drafts are handed over to the applicant. In the case of telegraphic/mail transfer, no instrument is handed over to the applicant; the transmission of the instrument is the responsibility of the branch. Generally, the payee of both the TT and the MT is an account holder of the paying branch. Electronic Funds Transfer is another mode of remittance which facilitates almost instantaneous transfer of funds between two centres electronically.
Collections
2.4 The customers can lodge various instruments such as cheques, drafts, pay orders, travelers cheques, dividend and interest warrants, tax refund orders, etc. drawn in their favour and the trade bills drawn by them on their buyers with their Bank for collection of the amount from the drawee (the bank or the drawee of the bill). They can also lodge their term deposit receipts and other similar instruments with the Bank for collection of the proceeds from the Bank with which the term deposit, etc. is maintained. Banks also collect instruments issued by post offices, like national savings certificates, postal orders, etc.
Clearing
2.5 The instruments mentioned above may be payable locally or at outside centre. The instruments payable locally are collected through the clearing house mechanism, while the instruments payable outside are sent by the Bank, with which instrument has been lodged, for collection to the branches of the issuing Bank at those centre or, if there is no such branch, to other banks. Clearing house settles the inter-Bank transactions among the local participating member banks. Generally, post offices are also members of the house. There may be separate clearing houses for MICR and non-MICR instruments. The clearing house is managed by the RBI, State Bank of India or any other Bank nominated by RBI. In case a bank has many branches within the area of a clearing house, it nominates one branch to act as the 'nodal' branch of that Bank for all the branches within that area. This nodal branch collects instruments to be presented to other branches also. This nodal branch is called Service Branch in some banks. 2.6 The accounts of all member banks are maintained by the clearing house. All member banks have to pay an agreed sum to the Bank managing the clearing house for meeting the cost of infrastructure and services it provides to them. In addition to the regular clearing houses as discussed above, Electronic Clearing Services (ECS) is also in vogue. ECS takes two forms: ECS credit or ECS debit. In the case of ECS credit, there is a single receiver of funds from a large number of customers, e.g., public utilities, mutual funds, etc. The beneficiary (i.e., the receiver of funds) obtains mandate from its customers to withdraw funds from their specified Bank accounts on a particular date. These customers may have accounts with different banks in the same clearing house area. Before the specified date, the beneficiary compiles Bank-branch-wise particulars of the accounts to be debited and furnishes the details in the electronic media like a floppy disc to its own Bank which, in turn, arranges to provide them to the banks concerned, through the clearing house, for verification of particulars of accounts. Any discrepancies are rectified and, on the specified date, the accounts are debited by the respective banks and the beneficiary gets the credit. In the case of ECS debit, there is a single account to be debited against which a
number of accounts with a number of banks in the same clearing house area are credited. This system is useful for distribution of dividend/ interest, payment of salaries by large units, etc 2.7 The Bank/Branches, who have adopted Core Banking System (CBS), can honour instruments even of other branches beyond their clearing zone payable at par by the designated branch of that centre. This system facilitates easy payment mechanism from any centre particularly to the customers eligible and opting for the same.
Treasury Function
2.8 This is the second most important and vital department of a bank immediately, after the Advances Department. It handles purchase and sale of various types of securities (mainly government bonds, treasury bills and non-SLR bonds, debt securities commercial papers, etc) in the shape of investment for SLR (statutory requirement) and other for investment purpose mainly for earning interest for the banks. Such department also handles fund management of the bank (borrowing and lending of funds) as also collection of interest on various investments on different dates.
Credit Cards
2.12 The processing of applications for issuance of credit cards is usually entrusted to a separate division at the central office of a bank. The dues against credit cards are collected by specified branches. Many of them also act as 'cash points' to provide cash to the cardholder on demand up to the specified limits. Most credit cards issued by banks are linked to one of the international credit card networks like VISA, Master, or Amex.
Technology-based Services
2.13 Some banks have started providing internet banking services and phone banking services. Some banks, acting as stock brokers, also provide facility to their customers to buy or sell securities on stock exchanges through the internet. The fast changing technology has synchronized banking facility in such a way that the customer need not physically attend for any transactions. The banks are now providing the facility of payment of utility bills, railway reservation, and tax deposition through ATM/internet banking and are also providing value added services like recharge facility to mobile phone users.
Dividend/Interest/Refund Warrants
2.14 Many entities require facilities for distribution of funds to their shareholders and others. For this purpose, they issue warrants in favour of shareholders/others payable at designated branches of specified banks, with a prior arrangement with the banks concerned. The aggregate amount of the warrants or other instruments issued is deposited by the entity with a nodal branch. The designated branches pay the warrants at par when presented to them.
Safe-keeping Services
2.15 Banks provide services for safe keeping of the scrips and valuables of customers in their vaults. A receipt is issued to the customer by the branch at the time of deposit of the items and an acknowledgement is obtained from him at the time of delivery. Each transaction - a receipt or delivery - is duly recorded in appropriate register(s) and periodically, the items physically available are cross checked with the balances as per registers.
Lockers
2.16 This facility is provided to customers for protecting their valuables, in lockers. The branch has no knowledge of the contents of the locker. Only the account holder (the hirer) or his representative, duly authorized by the account holder, can operate on the locker. Each access to the locker is properly recorded in the appropriate registers.
Exchange of Notes
2.20 Banks exchange mutilated notes from the public for good quality notes. These mutilated notes are periodically sent to the RBI which gives equivalent credit to the branch concerned.
Debit Cards
2.21 Debit cards are issued by the bank where customer is having his /her account. The debit cards are generally issued from central office of the bank. The Debit Card facilitates the customer to pay at any authorized outlet as well as to withdraw money from ATM from his account. The debit cards are sometimes networked with interbank network.
Derivatives
2.25 Financial derivatives are gaining importance in India. Banks are offering derivative options against exchange fluctuation losses.
Reverse Mortgage
2.26 Reverse mortgages are powerful tools that help eligible homeowners obtain a tax-free cash flow. Over two hundred thousand people have already used Reverse mortgages to enhance their income after retirement. A reverse mortgage is a government sponsored and insured loan that requires no payments during the period of time borrowers live in their home. Reverse mortgages enable eligible homeowners to access the money they have built up as equity in their homes. Conceptually, a reverse mortgage seeks to monetize the house as an asset and specifically the owner's equity in the house.
Para-banking Activities
2.27 Banks also undertake certain eligible financial services or para-banking activities either departmentally or by setting up subsidiaries. However, banks can set up subsidiary for undertaking such activities only with prior approval of RBI. Some of those activities are given in foregoing paras Equipment Leasing, Hire Purchase and Factoring Services: Banks also undertake equipment leasing, hire purchase and factoring services as departmental activities. Mutual fund business: Banks are not permitted to directly undertake mutual fund business but sponsor mutual funds, subject to the RBI guidelines in this regard. Banks normally refer clients to these mutual funds and earn a commission in return. Money Market Mutual Funds (MMMFs): Banks can also sponsor MMMFs business subject to the prior approval of the RBI. The MMMFs are, however, subject to regulation by the Securities and Exchange Board of India. Banks also, at time, provide cheque writing facilities for MMMFs subject to the RBI guidelines in this regard. Insurance Agents: Though banks are prohibited from undertaking insurance business, yet in terms of the RBI guidelines in this regard, banks can act as agents of insurance companies on fee basis, without any risk participation. The , RBI in July, 2005 issued a Master Circular (No.DBOD.FSD.No.10/ 24.01.01/2005-06) containing instructions/guidelines issued by it to banks on Para banking activities. This is in appendices under Part II, Domain of Concurrent Audit. Acting as referee: to financial status, business reputation and respectability of their customers. Tax Matters: As add-on services banks recently have started advising select customers on their income tax, wealth tax and allied matters and to fill the returns with proper disclaimer.
Authorized Person
2.29 Authorized person means a person who is entitled by or under the Foreign Exchange Regulation Act, 1973 to buy, or the case may be, to sell, the foreign exchange to which the demand relates (section 40 of RBI Act, 1934).
Authorized Dealers
2.30 The Bank does not deal with the customers, importers, exporters, or individuals, popularly called merchants, directly. Section 6 of the Foreign Exchange Regulation Act, 1973 (since modified as Foreign Exchange Management Act), authorizes some banks and institutions to transact in foreign exchange. Such banks and institutions are called Authorized Dealers (ADs), and the merchants will transact only with them, and none other. RBI is also empowered to lay down guidelines to the ADs with regard to their quotations of exchange rates to the merchants. The Foreign Exchange Dealers Association (FEDAI) frames the rules of conduct. The rates quoted to these merchants are known as merchant rates. Authorized Dealers may quote both spot or ready rates and forwards without intervention of the RBI. Forwards may be for any future period without restriction, so long as the banks cover each operation by an opposite transaction for same duration so as to hedge exchange risk. 2.31 Services normally rendered by banks in Foreign Exchange Business are: Acting as dealer being authorized in terms of section 6 of the Foreign Exchange Regulation Act, 1973 (since modified as Foreign Exchange Management Act)
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Financing export by way of: Packing Credits. Loans against duty drawbacks, cash subsidy etc. Advance against bill for collection Purchase of export bills Post shipment finance Guidance in exchange control formalities Export promotion measures Documentation-shipping documents, uniform customs etc. Issuing Letter of credits, circular notes, banker draft, travelers cheque. Performance and other guarantees. Miscellaneous others in the scope of banking and Para banking services.
Chapter-3
11
the activities of commercial and other banks. No bank can commence business of banking or open new branches without obtaining license from RBI. The RBI also has the power to inspect any Bank. 3.7 RBI is empowered under section 21 of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949, to control advances by banks in general or by any Bank in particular. Among the measures that the RBI can adopt for this purpose are to prescribe purposes and extent of advances, margin requirements, maximum exposure to a single borrower, rate of interest and other terms and conditions, etc. Besides these measures, it also controls the total volume of bank credit by varying bank rate through open market operations or by varying cash reserve and statutory controls. 3.8 Bank rate refers to the rate of interest at which the RBI rediscounts the first class bills of exchange or other eligible instruments from banks. Variations in Bank rate affect the interest rates charged by banks generally, interest rates of banks move up or laying down in accordance with movements in Bank rate. 3.9 Open market operations involve sale or purchase of government securities in the bourses. When RBI buys government securities from banks in the open market, the funds in the hands of selling banks increase, enabling them to expand credit, and vis-vis. 3.10 Banks are also required to maintain a prescribed minimum percentage of their demand and time liabilities in India in the form of cash and/or current account balances with the RBI (called 'cash reserve'). Additionally, they are required to maintain a further percentage in the form of cash and/or other liquid assets (called 'statutory liquidity ratio'). Varying the cash reserve ratio and/or statutory liquidity ratio enables the RBI to increase or decrease (as the case may be) the funds available to banks for lending and other similar purposes. 3.11 Apart from directions relating to operational matters, RBI periodically issues guidelines, on accounting matters to be followed by banks. These guidelines have a profound effect on the annual accounts of banks. The text of the notifications/circulars/ guidelines, etc., issued by RBI is normally also available on its website (www.rbi.org.in).
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Chapter-4
Inspection
Branch Inspection
4.3 Such inspection is much broader in scope than revenue audit and covers all important areas of functioning, including efficacy of systems and procedures, compliance with head office directions, customer service, maintenance of books and- records, etc. Most banks have a fixed schedule of branch inspection.
RBI Inspection
4.5 The RBI also carries out inspection of currency chest branches to review chest balances and other functions that are being performed by the branches as its agent. Besides, the RBI also carries out inspection of branches under section 35 of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949, to examine compliance of various policies and norms about credit and other functions laid down by the RBI from time to time. RBI inspections, however, are not in the nature of internal audit.
Revenue Audit
4.6 Revenue audit is usually conducted at large and medium sized branches and is aimed at identifying cases of leakage of revenue due to wrong computation of interest, non-application of interest on time, application of incorrect rates of interest, exchange commission, non application of penal interest, non-recovery or short-recovery of service charges on guarantees and letter of credit etc. This type of audit is also known as income and expenditure audit and revenue/income leakage audit. 4.7 As already stated, revenue audit exercise is to detect leakage of revenue, but this is not the sole purpose of this audit. Auditors are also required to examine the reasons for any leakage of revenue and should suggest measures to avoid its recurrence. A separate report for intentional mistakes of revenue leakage is annexed to the main report by the auditor.
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4.9 The essentials of this audit should not be confined, merely to checking physical existence of stocks and the book debts as appearing from the book of account (ledger balance) but would encompass a general over view of the borrowing unit's operations which can be summarized as under: To check existence at security cover. To check correctness of data declared in the Stock Statements. To check quality of goods, in particular to detect the slow moving or non-moving goods inclusive of rejection imbalanced inventory etc. To check validity of primary securities. To check book-keeping whether updated. To check system of stock issues/ reconciliation with physical quality. To check conformity with other records, i.e. for excise purpose with Excise Register. Pricing of materials including WIP, F/Goods etc. and how for they are reasonable based on the consistent practice followed. Confirmation of the balances of book debts by the respective parties. Verify creditors figures to ascertain unpaid stock
Credit Audit
4.10 This audit is conducted: To verify whether loans and advance have been sanctioned properly (scrutiny at appropriate level). To verify whether credit limits are reviewed or not. To verify the security documents held with the banks vis--vis stipulation in the sanction letter. To verify whether the documents are being received well in advance. To verify whether the advance is being followed up and supervised regularly. To verify whether the advance have been classified as per RBI guidelines. 4.11 Main objectives of the credit audit are normally as under: Improvement in the quality of the credit portfolio of Bank. Review of sanction process and compliance status of large loans. Feedback on regulatory compliance. Independent review of credit risk assessment. Pick up early warning signals at the early stage of loan period i.e. immediately after loan disbursement/fixation of credit limits and suggest remedial measures. Recommend corrective action to improve credit quality credit administration and credit skills of employees. Review of compliance with fair practice code and best practices code.
Internal Audit
4.12 The scope of the internal audit, ordinarily, includes: Examination and evaluation of the adequacy and effectiveness of the internal control systems. Review of the application and effectiveness of risk management procedures and risk assessment methodologies. Review of the management and financial information systems, including the electronic information systems. Review of the accuracy and reliability of the accounting records and financial reports Review of the control mechanism of safeguarding assets. Appraisal of the system and efficiency of the operations. Testing of both transactions and the functioning of specific internal control procedures . Review of the systems established to ensure compliance with legal and regulatory requirements, code(s) of conduct and the implementation of policies and procedures. Testing of the reliability and timeliness of the regulatory reporting. 4.13 Internal audit is a necessary concomitant of the principle of good corporate governance. It ensures that the freedom of management is exercised within the framework and with appropriate checks and balances. It ensures an effective internal control environment that provides assurance on the efficiency of operation and security of assets. 4.14 Internal audit process monitors the adequacy and effectiveness of the internal control environment across the bank and the status of compliance with operating systems, internal policies, validation of IT security regulatory requirements etc. 4.15 The banking industry is involved in dealing with public money. The very nature of this business demands proper checks and balances to ensure that the dealings are closely monitored and the risks arising out of the banking business are minimized. Towards this end, the internal audit function in a bank assists the senior management of the Bank in providing an objective assurance that all the controls are well designed and effectively operated. The Bank's internal audit report is the primary source of information about the effectiveness of the risk management and internal control systems in the Bank. Thus, it can be seen that internal audit has a crucial role to play in a Bank's existence and growth. Therefore, it needs to be effective. The Basel Committee on Banking Supervision of the Bank for International Settlements has also pronounced certain principles required to be followed for an effective internal audit in banks. 4.16 In India, each bank, normally, has a separate internal audit/inspection department that inspects the bank's functioning periodically and reports to the Audit Committee of the Board of Directors. Banks are expected to have sufficient resources and invest in training their staff to conduct internal inspections.
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4.17 Additionally, banks either maintain in-house departments for carrying out "systems audits" or outsource this. Systems Audit focuses on whether the internal procedures and controls are being adhered to at the operational level and whether the existing systems are adequate and commensurate with the requirement of the changing business environment. 4.18 The effectiveness of internal audit function of a Bank is assessed during the course of on-site inspection by RBI. Supervisory concerns thrown up by internal audit/ inspection provide pointers or indicators for on-site inspection by RBI.
Chapter-5
Banking Companies
5.3 A banking company means "any company which transacts the business of banking in India" [section 5(c) of the Banking Regulation Act]. The term 'company' for this purpose covers companies registered in India as well as foreign companies, i.e., companies incorporated outside India and having a place of business within India [section 5(d)].
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Nationalized Banks
5.17 Nationalized banks are governed by: a) Banking Companies (Acquisition and Transfer of Undertakings) Act, 1970/1980; and b) Specified provisions of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949. 5.18 Fourteen banks were nationalized under the Banking Companies (Acquisition and Transfer of Undertakings) Act, 1970 while another six were nationalized under the Banking Companies (Acquisition and Transfer of Undertakings) Act, 1980. The provisions of these two enactments are identical and deal, inter alia, with such matters as the following: Authorised and paid-up capital Annual accounts Qualifications, appointment, powers and duties of auditor (including contents of audit report) Disposal of profits Special audit at the instance of the Central Government Time and place of annual general meeting and business to be transacted thereat Restrictions on payment of bonus to officers and other employees Powers of the Board of Directors to make regulations in consultation with the RBI and with the previous sanction of the Central Government 5.19 Apart from all the provisions of the aforesaid Act of 1970/1980, the following provisions of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949, also apply to nationalized banks by virtue of section 51 of the latter Act: Section 10 Prohibition of employment of managing agents and restrictions on certain forms of employment Section 13 Restriction on commission, brokerage, discount, etc., on sale of shares Section 14 Prohibition of charge on unpaid capital Section 14 A Prohibition of floating charge on assets Section 15 Restrictions as to payment of dividend Section 17 Reserve Fund Section 19 Restriction on nature of subsidiary companies Section 20 Restrictions on loans and advances Section 20 A Restriction on power to remit debts Section 21 Power of RBI to control advances by banking companies Section 21 A Rate of interest charged by banking companies not to be subject to scrutiny by Courts Section 23 Restrictions on opening of new, and transfer of existing, places of business Section 24 Maintenance of a percentage of assets Section 25 Assets in India Section 26 Return of unclaimed deposits Section 27 Monthly returns and power to call for other returns and information Section 28 Power to publish information Section 29 [excluding sub-section (3)] Accounts and balance sheet Section 30 [excluding subsection (1) (1A) and (3)] Audit Section 31 Submission of returns Section 34 Accounting provisions of the Act not retrospective Section 35 Inspection Section 35 A Power of the RBI to give directions Section 36 [excluding clause D of sub-section (1)] further powers and functions of RBI Section 45 Y Power of Central Government to make rules for the preservation of records Section 45Z Return of paid instruments to customers Section 45 ZA Nomination for payment of depositors' money Section 45 ZB Notice of claims of other persons regarding deposits not receivable Section 45 ZC Nomination for return of articles kept in safe custody with banking company Section 45 ZD Notice of claims of other persons regarding articles not receivable Section 45 ZE Release of contents of safety lockers Section 45 ZF Notice of claims of other persons regarding safety lockers not receivable Section 46 Penalties Section 46 A Chairmen, director, etc., to be public servants for the purposes of Chapter IX of the Indian Penal Code Section 47 Cognizance of offences Section 48 Power of RBI to impose penalty Section 48 Application of fines Section 50 Certain claims for compensation barred Section 52 Power of Central Government to make rules Section 53 Power to exempt in certain cases
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5.21 The provisions of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949, applicable to State Bank of India and its subsidiaries are specified in section 51 of the said Act and are the same as those applicable to nationalized banks.
Banking Companies
5.22 Section 2 of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949, provides that the provisions of the Act shall be in addition to, and not, save as expressly provided there under, in derogation of the Companies Act, 1956, and any other law for the time being in force. Thus, banking companies attract the provisions of both the Banking Regulation Act, 1949, as well as the Companies Act, 1956. In case the provisions of these enactments are at variance, the provisions of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949, shall prevail.
Co-operative Banks
5.25 Co-operative banks are governed by: a) the Co-operative Societies Act, 1912, or the Co-operative Societies Act of the state concerned, as the case may be; and b) Part V of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949. 5.26 Part V of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949, modifies certain provisions of the Act in their application o cooperative banks and omits certain others. The sections which have been significantly modified in their application to co-operative banks are sections 2, 5-A, 8, 9, 11, 18, 19, 20, 22, 23, 24, 27, 29, 31, 35, 35A, 36, 36A, 49A, 54 and 55. Besides, the First Schedule to the Act is not applicable to co-operative banks while the Third and the Fourth Schedules to the Act have been replaced by a schedule applicable only to co-operative banks.
Scheduled Banks
5.27 These are the banks included in the Second Schedule to the Reserve Bank of India Act, 1934. The Reserve Bank includes a Bank in this Schedule if it fulfils certain conditions. 5.28 The Reserve Bank gives certain facilities to scheduled banks including the following: a) Purchase, sale and rediscounting of certain bills of exchange (including foreign bills of exchange) or promissory notes. b) Purchase and sale of foreign exchange. c) Making of loans and advances to scheduled banks. d) Maintenance of the accounts of scheduled banks in its banking department and issue department. e) Remittance of money between different branches of scheduled banks through the offices, branches or agencies of the Reserve Bank free of charge or at nominal charges.
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h) Inter-branch reconciliation (quarterly) i) Reconciliation of outstanding inter-branch accounts (annual) j) Reconciliation of clearing differences (annual) k) Position of balancing of books (quarterly) l) Returns relating to frauds, robbery, etc. including fraud involving Rs. one crore and above (quarterly) m) Return of Capital Adequacy (quarterly) n) Return on Asset Quality (quarterly) o) Asset-liability management (monthly)
5.31 Money Laundering in plain meaning is an activity involved in washing and ironing illegal/black earning as legitimate/white earning. 5.32 E-Banking/Cyber Banking strengthened with global reach of internet and www are considered Vulnerable, as it facilitates fast movement of fund across the global within short span of time
Indian Initiative
5.33 In view of an urgent need for the enactment of a comprehensive legislation inter alia for preventing money laundering and connected activities, confiscation of proceeds of crime setting up of agencies and mechanisms for coordinated measures for combating money-laundering etc., the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002 (PMLA, 2002) enacted with an amendment by the Prevention of Money Laundering (Amendment) Act, 2005
Terrorist Financing
5.35 Terrorist financing is the reverse procedure of Money Laundering. Here the money earned from legitimated sources is used for illegitimate activities i.e. financing terrorism. Funds earned by Political boss Industrial organizations etc interested if such activity is supplied to extremist organizations for carrying out their motive.
KYC Policies
5.36 KYC refers to the policies and procedures established by the Banks, Financial Institutions, and Intermediaries to ensure that the Bank System is not used by malafide people. The objective is that due care should be taken before any business relationship is entered. 5.37 In todays world of advanced technologies, once the money enters the banking channels it is difficult to check its movement alone, forget Origin. The best way to check money laundering is to check it at placement stage itself by effective KYC techniques.
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The Cooperative banks having paid up capital of less than 1 lakh rupee which are not covered under the
definition of Banking Company are covered under the Financial Institution category.
Rules Prescribed under the PMLA (Notification GSR 444(E) dated 1.7.05)
5.39 Rule 2 contains the definition of important terms used in the Rules. Suspicious Transactions has been defined in clause (g) of sub-rule (1) as transactions whether or not made in cash, which to a person acting in good faith- live rise to a reasonable ground of Suspicion that it may involve proceeds of crime; or appears to be made in circumstances of unusual or unjustified complexity; or appears to have no economic rational or bonafide purpose. 5.40 Transactions for which records are to maintain under rule 3(1)-All cash transactions of the value of more than rupee ten lakhs or its equivalent in Foreign Currency. All series of cash transactions integrally connected to each other taking place in a month exceeding above limit. All cash transactions where forged or counterfeit currency has been used or any forgery of a valuable security has taken place. All suspicious transactions in cash or not as listed in Sub clause I to V. 5.41 Rule 4 describes the details of records to be kept. Nature of the transaction. Amount and currency of the transaction. Date of the transaction. Parties to the transaction. 5.42 Rule 5 describes the manner and procedure for maintenance of information. In HARD and SOFT copies in accordance with the procedure and specified by RBI and SEBI. Evolve an internal mechanism to keep these records as per the RBI and SEBI guidelines. Follow RBI and SEBI guidelines. 5.43 Rule 6 requires BIF to maintain the records as required by these rules for ten (10) years after the date of Cessation of transaction between the BFI and the client. 5.44 Rule 8 lays down the time limit for furnishing records to the director- in case of transaction exceeding the specified limit, within seven days of end of the month in which they occur. In case of forged currency or security transactions and Suspicious transactions, within 3 days of transaction. 5.45 Rule 9 provides for the verification of the records of the identity of the clients. Sub-rule 1 provides that at the time of opening an account of every client, the Bank shall procureRecord of identity of the client. Current address and permanent address. Nature of business and his financial status. Sub-rules (2) to (6) of Rule 9 deals with records to be submitted by different type of client. This requires things like officially valid documents, photographs, proof of the nature of business or the financial status, certificate of incorporation, MOA and AOA, resolution of governing Body, trust deed, etc. Officially Valid Documents has been defined under Rule 2(l)(d) as follows: The passport; or The driving license; or The PAN; or The voter ID card; or Any other document as may be required by the BIF of the client. Sub-rule (7) of Rule 9 requires that every BFI shall formulate and implement a client identification programme which shall incorporate the given requirements and such other things as it may things as it considers appropriate to enable it to determine true identity of its clients. A copy of the program is to be forwarded to the director. 5.46 Rule 10 contains requirements similar to that of Rule 6 but in respect of records relating to the Identity of the client instead of that relating to the transaction.
KYC Guidelines issued by RBI Circular No. DBOD/AML/BC.18/ 14.01.001/2002-03 dated 16.08.2002
5.47 Customer identification for new customers includes: Verification by- Introductory reference by an existing account holder; or Other person known to Bank; or Documents provided by the customer. Board of the directors to have in place adequate policies that establish possesses and procedure. To monitor the transaction of suspicious nature in accounts and have system conducting due diligence and reporting. Know Your Customer procedures for existing customer to be completed at the earliest. Ceiling and monitoring of cash transaction. Ceiling limit for issue of DD, TT, mail transfers made by cash Rs.50,000/-. Identification of Customers through PAN the Rs.10,000/- limit for above transactions. Risk Management and Monitoring procedures. Internal Control Systems. Terrorism Finance Internal Audit/Inspection. STR. Adherence to FCRA. Record Keeping for 5 years, including message generated in wire transfers Training of staff and management It is Crucial to train operating and Management staff, so that they fully understand the need for strict adherence to KYC norms. All institution are required to run ongoing training program.
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measuring the risk, prioritization of audit area, periodicity, and allocation of audit resources in accordance with the risk assessment of the bank /branches.
Chapter-2
Scope of Planning
8. Internal audit plan should cover areas such as: (i) Obtaining the knowledge of the legal and regulatory framework within which the entity operates. (ii) Obtaining the knowledge of the entity's accounting and internal control systems and policies. (iii) Determining the effectiveness of the internal control procedures adopted by the entity. (iv) Determining the nature, timing and extent of procedures to be performed. (v) Identifying the activities warranting special focus based on the materiality and criticality of such activities, and their overall effect on operations of the entity.(vi) Identifying and allocating staff to the different activities to be undertaken.(vii) Setting the time budget for each of the activities. (viii) Identifying the reporting responsibilities.
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The internal audit plan should also identify the benchmarks against which the actual results of the activities, the actual time spent, the cost incurred would be measured. 9. The scope of an internal audit is normally affected by factors such as:(ix) Terms of the engagement.(x) Nature of accounting system - manual or IT-based - and the degree of reliance placed by the auditor on the same.(xi) Accounting policies adopted by the entity (xii) Nature of information technology system used by the client in the various business processes and the exception reports generated by the system.(xiii) Authorization and delegation of authority in the systems environment and data entry checks and data security measures including generation of day end logs of security and authorization violations.(xiv) The nature of management information system in vogue and the extent to which the management information system reports are used by the client in establishing and reviewing internal controls(xv) Expected audit coverage, including identification of areas of audit requiring special attention, number and locations to be included, nature of business segments to be audited and the need, if any, for specialized knowledge(xvi) Materiality thresholds established in respect of various areas of audit especially, those areas requiring special attention.(xvii) Nature and extent of audit evidence to be obtained (xviii) Experience and skills of the staff and the need for supervising, directing, coordinating and reviewing their work. (xix) Requirements of the applicable pronouncements of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India.(xx) Statutory or regulatory framework in which the entity operates. Planning process as formulated in SIA 1, therefore, involves the following: - Obtaining knowledge of the business Establishing the audit universe Establishing the objective of the engagement Establishing the scope of the engagement Deciding the resource allocation Preparation of Audit Programme
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Brief Outline - Basic Feature (relevant for the Concurrent Auditor) in the RBI Directives on Concurrent Audit (Revised and Communicated vide Circular dated 14.08.1996)
Scope of Concurrent Audit
2.6 The concept of Concurrent Audit as directed by RBI conceived on the recommendation of a high level committee setup by RBI to enquire into various aspects of fraud and malpractices in Banks. It found that the process of examination is conducted either simultaneously with the transaction or in the earliest possible period after the transaction. In the reporting system it was desired that the Concurrent Auditors may report the minor irregularities, wrong calculation, etc., to the branch manager for immediate rectification and reporting compliance. According to the study, this may shorten the intervening period of the transaction and remedial measures and will ultimately prevent fraud.
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Ensure proper follow up of overdue bills of exchange. Verify whether the classification of advances and income booking has been done as per RBI guidelines. Verify whether the submission of claims to DICGC and ECGC are in time. Verify that instances of exceeding delegated powers have been promptly reported to controlling/Head Office by the branch and have been got confirmed or ratified at the required level. Verify the frequency and genuineness of such exercise of authority beyond the delegated powers by the concerned officials. Verify Balance Sheet items of the borrower unit. Stock verification/security verification. Mortgages Whether properly documented. Registration of charges with Registrar of Companies and Resolution passed by appropriate authorities. Guarantees obtained and documents of net worth statement. Latest audited accounts of the borrower. Non-corporate borrowers audited accounts where credit facilities exceed cut off amount. QMR statements. Withdrawal within limit/ Advance Value (Drawing Power Limit). Documents for Term Loans. Verification of Interest calculation to ensure that there is no revenue leakage. Suggestions for legal action in respect of sticky advances and status of cases, where legal action has been initiated. Classification of loans and advances.
Import transactions Collection of Bills Direct Bills Bills under L/C Export transactions Bills under L/C Bills for collection Remittances Inward Outward L/Cs Opened by the branch Advised and confirmed by the Bank Guarantees Financing of Import and Export under various types of credit facilities Indian Rupees Foreign Currency Facilities Reporting of foreign currency transactions to authorized branch 'A' category. Submission of Statements Authorities in the Bank Other authorities Deposit A/cs. of Non-resident and Special Currency A/ c of Resident. Booking, utilization and cancellation of Forward Contracts. Reconciliation of Nostro and Vostro A/cs. and test checking of transactions in Nostro ledger in terms of Reserve Bank of India's RBI guidelines. Check the foreign bills negotiated under letters of credit. Check FCNR and other non-resident accounts whether the debits and credits are permissible under rules. Check whether inward/outward remittance has been properly accounted for. Examine extension and cancellation of forward contracts for purchase and sale of foreign currency. Ensure that they are duly authorized and necessary charges have been recovered. Ensure that balances in Nostro accounts in different foreign currencies are within the limit as prescribed by the Bank. Ensure that the overbought/ oversold position maintained in different currencies is reasonable, taking into account the foreign exchange operations. Ensure adherence to the guidelines issued by RBI/HO of the Bank about dealing room operations. Ensure verification/reconciliation of Nostro and Vostro account transactions/ balances. Some of the activities are listed below to facilitate the Concurrent Auditor to detail their audit programme relating to foreign exchange transaction. The list of the activities, it is reemphasized, is merely to facilitate them in their task and should be treated as illustrative list and not as activities limiting the scope of Concurrent Audit. 1. RBI Guidelines in dealing room 1 Selection, training and rotation of dealers. 2. Segregation of activities to ensure internal check. 3. To check dealing room operation in-depth. 4. To assess availability of proper and adequate infrastructure and its utilization. 2. Access to Dealing Room 5. Entry to the dealing room should be restricted to authorized persons only Whether Bank has given any guidelines, and if so, implemented or otherwise 3. Limits 6. To check whether guidelines of RBI/Senior Management are adhered to a) Daylight 7. To check if proper sanctions were obtained b) Overnight 8. To evaluate risk management i.e. to ensure that the policies adopted for optimizing the risk exposure are properly adopted. c) Gaps- Mismaturities 9. To check whether outstanding are within the sanctioned limit d) Inter-Bank Limits 10. To check whether spot/forward limits are interchanged e) Country Limits 11. Are used as per serial number. Records are kept of cancelled deal slips f) Inter-Bank Deal Slips 12. To check authorization g) Inter-Bank Deals 13. To verify rates, broker notes, telex/SWIFT confirmation 14. To check data entry accuracy and subsequent effects on
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various positions, gaps and limits etc 15. To check correct posting in various mirror ledgers 16. To cross-verify (in select cases) timings of the deal, reasons for swap deals etc 4. Exchange Rates/Card 17. The exchange rate of merchant transactions take into account guidelines given by the RBI, Foreign Exchange Dealers Associations of India, as also policy guidelines conveyed in writing by International Division of the Bank. Rates-Customer Transaction 5. Nostro Account Funding, 18. Approximate funds position, availability of funds in each currency in the Nostro a/c is made available to the dealers as and when they require the same 6. Inter-Bank Transactions Settlement 19. Records are adequate to ensure that all cases of delay in receipts/payments are properly noted, so that there is no instance of claim receivable/payable. 20. Where compensation is done by adjustment in value, date, suitable notation is made and claims (receivable/ payable) is treated as settled. Such cases too have to be verified in the context of income leakage 21. To check authorization in case of payment fee by foreign Bank for value date 22. To cross tally with cash book section 23. To check whether it is within prescribed limit 7. Counter Party Confirmations or Branch Deals 24. Confirmation is a well established practice and must be adhered to 25. Broker's note, by itself, does not substitute confirmation by counter party 26. To check the system adopted for regularizing instances where there are differences between deal slip data and counter party confirmation. Records kept for this activity should be adequate.27. Compliance with RBI guidelines and Bank's guidelines for this activity 8. Brokerage for Forex Inter Bank Deals 28. Compliance with RBI and the Bank's own guidelines for this activity 29. Check whether brokerage rate is as per FEDAI guidelines and that foreign currency Rupee rate for cross currency deals is as per FEDAI guidelines 9. Nostro Ledgers Mirror A/c Checking 30. Foreign Exchange and equivalent rupee value checking, to ensure that the system is in order (as per RBI guidelines) 31. Mirror ledger is not debited/credited towards cancellation/early utilization charges under forward contracts 32. To check authenticity of transaction having rupee debit/credit without having corresponding foreign currency 10. Returns 33. To verify whether necessary returns/ reports are filed within prescribed due dates 11. VOSTRO Accounts The auditors may ensure the following: 34. Exchange Control Regulations regarding the operations in the account. 35. Authorization of transactions in the account. 36. Recovery of interest for overdrafts in the account. Housekeeping Ensure that the maintenance and balancing of accounts, ledgers and registers including cash book is proper. Prompt and regular reconciliation of entries outstanding in the inter-branch and inter-Bank accounts, suspense account, sundry deposit account, DDP account, Drafts Account etc. Ensure early adjustment of large value entries. Carry out a percentage check of calculations of interest, discount, commission, and exchange. Check whether debits in income account have been permitted by the competent authorities. Check the transactions of staff members. In case of difference in clearing, there is a tendency to book it in an intermediary suspense account instead of locating the difference. Examine the day book to verify as to how the difference in clearing has been adjusted. Such instances should be reported to Controlling Office in case the difference persists. Detection and prevention of revenue leakages through close examination of income and expenditure. Check cheques returned/bills returned register and look into reasons for return of those instruments.Checking of inward and outward remittances (DDs, MTs and TTs). Reconciliation of bankers accounts. Other items - High value transactions. In case the branch has been entrusted with Government Business; ensure that the transactions are done in accordance with the instructions issued by Government, RBI and Controlling Office. Study internal inspection/audit reports and ensures that the branch gives proper compliance thereto. Ensure that customer complaints are dealt with promptly. Verification of statements, controlling office returns, Statutory Returns.
Reporting System
2.9 In respect of the reporting system, RBI has prescribed as under: i) The concurrent auditor should be attached to the branches and not the zonal offices. ii) Minor irregularities pointed out by the concurrent auditor should be rectified on the spot. Serious irregularities should be straightaway reported to the controlling offices/Head Offices for immediate action. iii There should be zone-wise reporting of the findings of the concurrent audit to ACB and an annual appraisal/report of the audit system should be placed before the ACBs. iv) Whenever fraudulent
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transactions are detected, they should immediately reported to Inspection & Audit Department (Head Office) as also to the Chief Vigilance Officer as well as Branch Managers concerned (unless the branch manager is involved). v) There should be proper reporting of findings of the Concurrent Auditors. For this purpose, each bank should prepare a structured format. The major deficiencies/ aberrations noticed during audit should be highlighted in special note and given immediately to the Banks branch/controlling offices. A quarterly review containing important features brought out during the concurrent audit should be placed before the ACB. vi) Follow-up action on the concurrent audit reports should be given high priority by the controlling office/inspection and audit department and rectification of the features done without any loss of time. vii) A special cell in the inspection and audit department may be created in each bank to: - Review the selection of auditors Initiate and operate a system for the appraisal of the performance on Concurrent auditors Ensure that the work of Concurrent Auditors is properly documented Be responsible for the follow-up on audit reports and the presentation of the quarterly review to the ACB 2.10 The administrative powers, be it for lending or for any others function are normally well defined by the respective banks in its guidelines/manual/circulars. The powers of the authorities at the branches are expected to be exercised accordingly. A concurrent auditor should take note of the same and verify whether all the systems and procedures laid down are followed in the branch. Audit of vouchers, recording transactions should be done to verify authenticity, accuracy and the fact that they are within the delegated authority of branch personnel and also that the revenue leakage is prevented and any loophole in the system is plugged. 2.11 The extent of checks to be carried out by the concurrent auditor would depend primarily on the professional judgment of the concurrent auditor, the following points are worth noting in this regard: In case of balance sheet items, investment portfolio, foreign exchange transactions, fraud prone/sensitive areas, outstanding advances more than a specified amount and also in accounts with less than a specified amount, if any unusual feature is found, it would be better for the concurrent auditor to increase the coverage of the items checked. In case of income and expenditure items, inter bank, inter branch transaction, interest paid and interest received, clearing transactions and deposit accounts, the check may use test checks. At a branch with poor performance in certain areas such as monitoring on house keeping, advances, investment, the concurrent auditor may carry out a more detailed checking of such areas. The concurrent auditor should concentrate on high-value transactions having financial implication for the Bank, rather than those involving lesser amount although number-wise, they may be large. The concurrent auditor should verify accuracy of statements and returns, compliance with internal inspection/audit reports and aspects relating to customer service. The concurrent auditor should identify problem areas at branch level and offer his suggestions to overcome them. In case of any shortcomings, where an adverse remark is required to be given, the concurrent auditor should give reasons therefore and also suggest steps that may be taken to avoid their recurrence. The concurrent auditor should make maximum efforts for removal/rectification of irregularities on the spot. List of irregularities should be given on a daily basis to the Section In-charge against his receipt under intimation to the Controlling Officer and it is suggested that their rectification should be monitored by the Controlling Officer to avoid unnecessary bulky report by the Concurrent Auditor.
Reporting Systems
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2.16 The idea behind a concurrent audit is an examination that is conducted either simultaneously with the transactions or within the earliest possible period after the transaction. The audit is a regular affair i.e., the deficiencies or lapses in the normal working get rectified at the earliest. 2.17 The findings of irregularities are first to be reported to the branch and if rectifications or appropriate steps thereof are not taken these are to be brought to the notice of an appropriate higher authority in the form of the report. This would help in minimization of irregularities as well as prevention of fraud. The reporting format may be monthly, quarterly, half-yearly and annually as per the terms of engagement.
Monitoring
2.24 While the basic responsibility of monitoring the activities of the branch rests with the branch in-charge, the concurrent auditors work would supplement the process with proper and timely reporting.
Removal of Irregularities
2.25 To supplement the process of removal/rectification of irregularities in the earliest possible period, the concurrent auditor will bring his finding of the irregularities/ deficiencies/discrepancies to the notice of the branch officials. The outstanding deficiencies/irregularities need to be discussed with branch officials and their viewpoints also need to be reflected. The concurrent auditor should maintain an appropriate record of the irregularities observed as well as the discussions held with the branch officials. Pending irregularities not rectified would be included in the final report of the concurrent auditor. Materiality of these pending irregularities should be clearly spelt out in the final report. The Controlling Officers view on these final queries should also be noted down. 2.26 The irregularities pointed out in the previous monthly/quarterly concurrent audit reports may be dropped by the concurrent auditor with proper disclosure if the same have been rectified.
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2.27 The concurrent auditor should get the guidelines implemented in respect of following sensitive areas on priority basis to avoid the occurrence of these irregularities: Morning checking i.e. checking of all computers generated supplementary, checksum generation checking, previous days G.L. Day Book, Exceptional Transaction Report, Day beginning by System Administrator as per Computer Manual etc., Tellers reconciliation. Custody, checking and use of scrutiny forms. Balancing and checking of books. Safekeeping of AOFs, ledgers, teller cards etc.. Use of password by the password holder himself and initialing each entry in Audit Trail/Transactions list by, the password holder, and the same appears in the printout. Post sanction and periodic verification of securities. Correct provisioning of interest on deposits and advances and proper maintenance of the Interest Register. 2.28 Certain irregularities like excess cash, suspense entries, defects in AOFs supplementary ledger checking, bills, insurance etc., find place in many of the reports. Cash Ratio limit in terms of percentage and/or amount is fixed by the higher authorities. Variations, if any, should be reported by the concurrent auditor. The concurrent auditor should, however, permit a reasonable time for the completion of the formalities. In case the branch officials do not co-operate in rectification of the irregularities, the concurrent auditor may contact/write to the higher authorities.
2.34 The record should be made available to the officer in charge of the controlling office or their representatives as and when they visit the branch to apprise them of the state of working of the branch, removal/rectification of irregularities by the branch, compliance of systems and procedures by the branch.
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Reporting Frauds
2.35 The concurrent auditor, while carrying out concurrent audit of the branches will ensure that the laid down guidelines and systems, and procedures are followed by the branch to obviate the possibilities of frauds/irregularities taking place. Wherever any irregular fraudulent transactions are detected by the concurrent auditor, such matters should be immediately reported to the concerned officer of the controlling office through a Special Report.
Confirmation Required
2.39 The Concurrent Auditor would normally report only the irregularities not rectified And confirm that all the areas mentioned in the check list/ guidelines have been checked by them. He also needs to confirm compliance of these instructions by the branches. The Concurrent Auditor would verify and confirm that provisions made at the branch on account of interest payable on deposits and receivable on advances are realistic and regular and make an appropriate report thereon. While the officials of the branch continue to be responsible for any over or under provisioning, the concurrent auditor should verify that all monthly Income and Expenditure vouchers are passed correctly before the date so that profit/loss of the branch is reflected correctly. 2.40 The concurrent auditor will also ensure that the interest charged on advances and interest paid on deposits is as per the guidelines issued from controlling office and is checked regularly to plug any revenue leakage. The Concurrent Auditor will also need to point out instances where rotation of employees has not been done e.g. employees performing same duty/job for more than one year or as the administrative policy of the Bank stipulates.
Chapter-3
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interest in the Bank. This appointment is the agreement between Bank and auditor describing terms of contract, scope of audit and other related terms of reference, such as time allotted, frequency of checking etc. The concurrent auditor must mention the reference of this appointment letter in audit programme and letter covering the report. 3.5 In pursuance of RBI circular of September 26, 1995, a Bank is required to constitute an Audit Committee of its Board. The membership of the audit committee is restricted to the Executive Director, nominees of the Central Government and the RBI, Chartered Accountant director and one of the non official directors. One of the functions of this Committee is to provide direction and also oversee the operations of the entire audit function in the Bank. The Committee also has to review the internal inspection/audit function in the Bank, with special emphasis on the system, its quality and effectiveness in terms of follow up. The Committee may also review the system of appointment and remuneration of the concurrent auditor. 3.6 Considering the coverage of this audit assignment and the specialized nature of work there is also a need for training to be imparted to the staff of the auditors. This training has to be given in specialized fields such as foreign exchange computerization, areas of income leakage, fraud prone areas, determination of credit rating and other similar specialized areas. The Bank can organize such training programmes so that it can ensure the quality of audit.
Programme
3.9 The audit programme sheet should emphasize verification of transactions by the concurrent auditors in view of the principal objectives. The concurrent auditor should not confine their areas of functioning to instructions on subject matter already given to them in writing, but should also use their own judgment and wisdom to cover such other matters which might lead to a financial loss subsequently. Each concurrent auditor has to draw his own audit programme. To facilitate them in this task, various items to be verified/audited are listed separately under the handout Concurrent Audit- Induction material. The list is only illustrative and should not be treated as exhaustive. It should be ensured that all other areas (not covered in the Audit Sheet) are comprehensively covered in the Concurrent Audit Report. 3.10 Understanding the Branch Business Profile is essential for successful Concurrent Audit of the branch. A model of profile is given below: -
PROFILE OF BRANCH
i) Name of the Branch :ii) Date of Opening of Branch : iii) Area Classification M/U/SU/R : iv) Category of Branch EL/VL/M/S : v) Risk H/M/L : vi) Whether Branch is provided with : a) Currency Chest : Yes/No b) SDV : Yes/No c) SDL : Yes/No d) ATM Facility : Yes/No vii) Whether Branch is provided with : a) Foreign Exchange Business : Yes/No b) Govt. Business: Yes/No c) Merchant Banking Business : Yes/No d) Mechanized with CBS (Core Banking System : Yes/No viii) Particulars of the Manager incharge of the Branch : Tenure in the Branch: Name Scale From To Existing Previous ix) Date of last internal inspection: Date of submission of Rectification Confirmation: x) Date of last concurrent audit: Date of submission of Compliance Report /Rectification Confirmation:
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a) Synopsis of Assets & Liabilities Rs./Lacs Assets Cash Balance with Bank Investment Advances Inter Branch Transaction (Net Dr) Other Assets P/L/ A/c (Dr. Balance) Total Liabilities Deposits Borrowing from Banks Inter Branch Transaction Other Liabilities P/L/ A/c Total As on last day of the Financial year Position As of last Friday of the previous month/quarter As of last Friday of Current month/quarter
b) Business Parameters Particulars Deposits of which low cost deposits Advances Non performing Assets (NPA) % to total advances of which cash recovery Other than cash Recovery Priority sector advances Export Credit Profit Staff Productivity As of last Friday of the previous month/quarter Position As of last Friday of current month/ quarter
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Observations on sudden spurt or fall in Deposits and Advances. 3.11 The concurrent auditor would therefore need to the following documents in particular before the commencement of the audit. The appointment letter together with the management circular/ instruction on the
subject. Acceptance Letter Communication to previous auditor 3.12 A checklist or flow till commencement is given below: A. On receipt of appointment letter: Write for No Objection to the immediate previous auditor Send Acceptance letter along with statement of Fidelity, Confidentiality etc. Contact the respective Branch Manager for programme, arrangement and status report B. To carry with branch during their visit to the branch: Authorization Letter Necessary guidelines Various Formats Letter head of the branch C. Audit Programme Allocation of work Commencement of the work as per schedule given in subsequent paragraphs
Cash
3.14 The concurrent auditor should physically verify the cash in hand. While doing this he should ensure that there is no accumulation of large stocks of heavy cash and cut/mutilated/ soiled notes, which otherwise need to be reported. If cash holdings are beyond the prescribed cash retention limit, the same also need to be reported. The concurrent auditor would also need to verify whether cash is promptly remitted to the currency chest or to RBI And report the same is it is not being so deposited. The concurrent auditor would also need to check that where cash is remitted, whether, credit for the same is received same day or next day or not and report the same if not so. 3.15 Similarly, foreign currency is also to be physically checked by the concurrent auditor and is to be promptly disposed off by selling or by remitting as per direction of the Bank authorities. If accumulated, it needs to be reported. The concurrent auditor also needs to verify whether entire cash is checked physically at least once in a month by the Manager or any other officer other than the Custodian of Cash? 3.16 If heavy cash, more than the retention limit is kept by the branch, that may adversely affect the profitability of the branch in particular and the Bank in general. To avoid it, it is necessary for the branch to keep cash within retention limit, that if there is any theft or robbery in the Bank, that can be claimed from insurance company and there is no loss to the Bank. If cash is found short or excess, that needs to be reported.
Security forms
3.17 Security forms i.e., Bank draft books, cash order books, FDR books, cheque books, etc. are to be physically checked with the register. If any discrepancy is found, that is to be reported.
Government securities
3.18 Government securities just like NSC, Bonds, etc. held in Bank's own and Government Securities held against advances are to be physically checked and if any, discrepancy is found, that is to be reported by the concurrent auditor.
Petty cash, postage, telegram, stamps in hand/embossed stamps, travelers cheques, gift cheques, articles and security in safe custody
3.19 These are to be physically checked and tallied with General Ledger and if there is any discrepancy, that is to be reported.
Inward bills for collection including parcels, DDs receivable and inland bills discounted receivable
3.20 All the inward bills are to be physically checked by the concurrent auditor and all parcels in hand are to be physically verified and if there is any old outstanding bills are kept by the branch beyond the stipulated time mentioned in bills are to be reported. If bills purchased by any of the other branches of the Bank and received by the branch, are outstanding beyond stipulated time, the same needs to be reported.
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Chapter-4
Deposits
4.3 The main source of bank finance is the deposits accepted from public. To cater to the needs of various types of customers, banks offer different types of accounts with various facilities attached to these accounts. The Bank accounts are broadly classified into the following categories: (i) Savings Deposit (ii) Current Deposit (iii) Fixed Deposit (iv) Non-resident Account (v) Recurring Deposit etc. (vi) Saving cum fixed deposit/Swift A/C
Classification of Deposits
4.6 For the purposes of the disclosures in the Balance Sheet, the RBI classifies the deposits accepted by Bank into following categories, namely: I. Demand Deposits II. Savings Bank Deposits III. Term Deposits I. Demand Deposits (i) From Banks (ii) From Others includes all Bank deposits repayable on demand. Includes all demand deposits of the non-Bank sector. Credit balances in overdrafts, cash credit accounts, deposits payable at call, overdue deposits, inoperative current accounts, matured term deposits, and cash certificates, certificates of deposits, etc. are to be included under this category. II. Savings Bank Deposits Includes all savings Bank deposits (including inoperative savings Bank accounts) III. Term Deposits (i) From Banks (ii) From Others includes all types of Bank deposits repayable after a specified term. Includes all types of deposits of the non-Bank sector repayable after a specified term. Fixed Deposits, cumulative and recurring deposits, cash certificates, certificates of deposits, annuity deposits, deposits mobilized under various
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schemes, ordinary staff deposits, foreign currency non-resident deposit accounts, etc. are to be included under this category. Notes: Deposits included under demand deposits as per RBI classification are : i. Credit balance in overdrafts & Cash Credit accounts. ii. Deposits payable at call iii. Overdue deposits iv. Inoperative current accounts v. Matured term deposits and cash certificates vi. Certificates of deposits, etc. 4.7 The cash credit account would be included if the balance is showing credit balance. The current accounts are also payable on demand. The outstanding telegraphic and mail transfer demand drafts are also to be included under the demand deposit head. 4.8 Term deposits as per the classification would include: i. All deposits repayable after a specified term ii. Fixed deposits iii. Cumulative and recurring deposits iv. Cash certificates v. Certificates of deposits vi. Annuity deposits vii. Deposits mobilized under various schemes viii. Ordinary staff deposits ix. Foreign currency x. Non-resident deposit accounts, etc.
Advances
4.9 The lending of funds to customers is the main business of a banking company. A bank earns income from the interest and discount, etc. arising out of the funds lent by it. The lending of funds has inherent-risks, i.e. the loan or advance may go bad. Banks therefore follow prudential lending principles as prescribed by the Reserve Bank of India while lending the funds in order to reduce the associated risks.
Cash Credit
4.11 Cash credit, is an arrangement between a bank and the customer by which money is advanced against hypothecation of stocks in trade and a bond of credit by one or more sureties. The borrower can reduce the debit balance by paying back surplus available with him. The interest is charged on the total amount utilized. 4.12 Cash credit is normally sanctioned by the bank for a period of one year and is generally renewed if the account is operated satisfactorily. The cash credit is generally secured by tangible assets. The borrower need not withdraw the whole amount and may withdraw the funds as and when required. The maximum amount sanctioned depends on the working capital requirements of the borrower. The interest charged (now monthly) on the outstanding debit amount to the debit of the borrowers account.
Overdraft
4.13 The overdraft is a facility given by a bank to meet temporary needs of the borrower. An overdraft facility is usually sanctioned against security, shares, stock, bonds, fixed deposit receipt, life insurance policy (surrender value) etc.
Loan
4.14 A loan is a lump sum payment to the borrower. The borrower can withdraw the amount at once or keep it in his account and withdraw as per his needs. The repayment terms are settled in advance. A loan may be a demand loan or term loan. A demand loan is repayable over a longer period. A loan which is repayable within a year is called a short term loan. Loans repayable within a period of 3 to 5 years are called medium term loans and loans repayable beyond 5 years are long term loans. Sometimes loans are disbursed over a period depending on the requirement of the borrower. The interest is charged on the amount disbursed. When the loan is disbursed in stages, the end use is generally enquired into before the disbursement of subsequent installments. 4.15 Loans can be either secured or unsecured. An unsecured loan is one for which the bank holds no security other than the personal guarantee of the borrower. Such loans are now an uncommon feature except personal loans. Secured Loans in the form of cash credit or overdraft are a common feature in the banking industry. A bank also extends term loans for the purpose of purchase of assets. The repayment is fixed in advance by way of installments. When only a part of the advance is covered by securities as at the date of balance sheet, that part should be classified as secured and the remaining amount be shown as unsecured. Banks do not advance amounts equal to the value of the security but keep sufficient margin to provide for a decline in the value of security. RBI has also directed specified margins to be kept against a particular type of security. 4.16 A commercial bank's performance is evaluated mainly on the quality of its house keeping and proper functioning of its large network of branches. Numerous transactions involving huge sum of money take place everyday at bank branches. The accounts of everyday transactions of a branch are prepared and reconciled everyday. Any mistake/wrong accounting leads to enormous representation of true state of affairs of the branch to its controlling/head office. Any mistake in paying interest to the depositors and or realizing interest from the borrowers leads to revenue leakage in the banking sector.
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4.17 Prior to 1990, the following were the common features of bank lending: (i) Traditional approach to Bank Credit (ii) Strict regulated environment (iii) Stand alone approach (iv) Administered rate of interest (v) Risk/Reward Mechanism was conspicuously absent and (vi) No provisional norm for hard/ sticky advances. However, after 1990 there were rapid changes in the lending activity undertaken by banks, marked by: a) Deregulation of interest rate b) IRAC norms i.e. Income Recognition and Asset Classification. c) Stricter provisioning and Capital Adequacy norms d) Introduction of Risk based Management System e) lending though
Cash Flow System instead of MPBF System (Maximum Permissible Bank Finance). 4.18 In older days supervision of bank credit meant ensuring, basically safety of advance. But such traditional concept of safety of bank's advance being reflected in tangible security and credit worthiness of borrower has undergone a metamorphosis since 1969 after nationalization of 14 major Banks in the country. No longer can a bank take solace in sufficiency of security for his loans since new and dynamic social responsibilities have been entrust on the Bank. While of course, safety of advance still continues to be a paramount factor in supervision and follow up, that is not the sole, concern at the present Banker. In todays banking, the role of a bank can be stated to be threefold as under:- (i) To make a proper selection of borrower, who is worthy of bank's assistance, both in terms of commercial principle and as well as the national priority; (ii) To ensure that funds lent are safe; and (iii) To ensure that good and proper use of bank credit is made by the borrower, judging from two angles - first, bank credit is not pre-empted as a result of inefficient working capital management, speculative buildup of inventory and secondly, bank credit is not diverted for "unauthorized use 4.19 Undue emphasis of safety of funds, is however, not desired by the banking sector nowadays, since, if the advance is misutilized, i.e., used for the purpose' other than the originally intended one, it attracts comments notwithstanding safety of the same. Safety of advance does not merely depend upon the availability of security of adequate value; it is also based upon continued viability of the enterprise, because, if the enterprise is weak, it is extremely doubtful whether the security would fetch the value originally ascribed to it. 4.20 It is quite clear from the foregoing that concept of safety of funds in banks has changed, as it should, because no longer the banker does perform the role of a money-lender, but finances an industrial activity and thus security is simply not synonymous with safety. In order to co-relate and frame guidelines to cover such change in the banking sector for follow up of bank credit, a study group was formed by the RBI under the chairmanship of Sri P. Tandon and its report was published by RBI in 1975. 4.21 While discharging the duties of professional assignments entrusted by the banks the concurrent auditor should, look into the aspect of supervision and follow-up of bank credit in order to protect the interests of the Bank. The broad aspects which may be looked into are enumerated below:- (i) To see compliance with the terms and conditions of the sanction (essence of credit audit to be taken into consideration). (ii) To undertake physical inspection of godown/factory (checklists are given in elsewhere in the Manual) (iii) To observe continued viability of operations (iv) To verify the end use of bank credit.
Operations
4.22 In respect of operations, the concurrent auditor would need to check the following aspects: (i) general tempo of activity and number of shifts worked. (ii) Present operating trends percentage utilization of capacity, idle machinery/idle labour hours. (iii) Orders in hand (where applicable). (iv) Realization pattern of Book Debts/Bills. (v) availability of raw material, stores, spares, power and fuel. (vi) labour relations. (vii) marketing difficulties if any (This will be reflected from the unduly excessive buildup of receivables or finished goods). (viii) turnover of human resources in key operating areas . (ix) any change in management setup. (x) any sign of incipient sickness.
Financial Follow Up
4.23 The financial follow-up devised by Tandon/Chore Committee is an off shoot of RBIS concern on lack of proper follow-up procedures then prevalent in commercial banks. For such financial follow up the Tandon/Chore Committee suggested certain Quarterly Information System (commonly known as QIS) to be provided by the borrowers to enable the bank to verify as to whether borrowers operating performance and finance management conform to the budget and promise made to the bank while availing the bank credit. This has been replaced by QMR/HMR Statement. 4.24 The concurrent auditor, while discharging his duties, should have knowledge of such follow-up statements as well as how they should be scrutinized to protect the interests of the bank. It is mandatory under the RBI regulations for a limit above a specified amount but below the cut off point has been left to the discretion of the banks .
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4.25 Particulars of QIS format as originally introduced are given below: Description Periodicity i) QIS I Statement of Current Assets and Current Liabilities Projection Quarterly
Date of Submission One week before the commencement of the Quarter to which it relates Six weeks after the Close of the Quarter to which it relates
ii) QIS II Statement of Current Quarterly Assets and Current Liabilities Actual iii) QIS III Part 'A' Operating Half Yearly Two months from the Statement Part 'B' - Funds Flow commencement of the half year to Statement Both Actual & which it relates Projection 4.26 Particulars of QMR/HMR (which are now in use) replacing QIS are given below: Description Periodicity Date of Submission i) QMR I replacing QIS II ii) HMR I replacing QIS III Quarterly Half yearly Six weeks after the Close of the Quarter to which it relate Two months from the commencement of the half year to which it relates
Credit Cards
4.27 The credit card operations occupy a special place in the modern day banking industry. A credit card has three important functions: It is a means of paying for goods and services It is a means of obtaining cash It is a source of revolving credit. Usually, there is a contract between the card issuer (the Bank) and the card holder (customer) whereby the card holder is permitted to make use of the card at specified retail outlets (know as member establishments) to pay for the goods and services. 4.28 The mechanism of a credit card can be illustrated as follows: As soon as the card holder makes purchases from specified retail outlets/member establishment, the retail outlets makes out bills to the account of the card holder and obtains payment from card organizations like Visa or Master immediately who in turn makes a bill to the Bank which issued the card. The Bank makes payments to Visa or Master immediately. Subsequently, the payment is realized from the respective card holder.
Types of Cards
4.29 There are many types of cards in the Indian market and the more popular ones are listed below.
Charge Card
4.30 Most of the cards issued in India are charge cards and not credit cards. A charge card is a payment card where the card holder is required to settle the outstanding in full at the end of a short period, usually a month.
Credit Card
4.31 It is an instrument of payment which enables the card holder to obtain either goods or services from merchants where arrangements are made to reimburse the merchant. The outstanding amount is payable by the card holder to the bank over a specified period which carries a fixed amount of interest also.
Cash Card
4.32 Cash Cards are issued in addition to the credit card to enable the card holder to use an ATM.
Gold Card
4.33 It is also a type of credit card issued to high value customers.
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Debit Card
4.34 It is a payment card used to obtain cash, goods and services by automatically debiting the payments to the card holders Bank account immediately.
Smart Card
4.35 It is known as a chip card, which holds personal information about the card holder and can be used with a Personal Identification Number. It has a magnetic strip to read pre-recorded information stored in the card.
Co-branded cards
4.36 Co-branded cards are those that a bank promotes jointly with other non-financial institutions. Card holders use their co branded cards in the same way they use any other cards but each time they make a purchase, they accumulate points which enable them to claim discount in the price.
Bad Debts
4.38 A bad debt arises where a cardholder is unable/unwilling to repay the amount he has borrowed on a credit card. Although cardholders are given credit limits having due regard to the total income, some accounts become delinquent because of over purchase by cardholders without having the means to pay for them when the bills are presented for payment. Banks adopt normal recovery measures for regularizing the default and in case of persistent default, legal action is also resorted to. A checklist covering these items during the course of concurrent audit is given in a separate chapter.
Fortnightly returns of export bills negotiated/sent for collection, outward remittances effected against imports
sale/purchase transactions in foreign currencies.
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The details regarding purpose, commodity, country, currency, terms of payment, etc. Statement of overdue export bill awaiting realization, purchases in the form of travelers cheques, currency
notes and gift parcels exported every quarter.
R-Returns are being submitted regularly by the branches to RBI who are dealing directly foreign exchange
transaction (either purchase or sale of foreign currency) on behalf of that branch or other branches.
Dealing Limits
4.44 The guidelines for dealing limits are discussed below.
Daylight Limits
4.45 The Exchange Control rules requires that the position should be square or near square in each currency at the close of business each day. In the course of operations, during the day both with customer as well as in inter-Bank business, the dealer may have to maintain open positions in the various currencies transacted by the bank. The management should therefore, lay down the maximum position limits in each currency that may remain uncovered during the day after a careful study of the nature and volume of operations (customer as well as interBank) at each center at which the bank undertakes inter-Bank operations and the conditions of the exchange markets, generally, both in India and abroad. This necessitates a periodical review (in some circumstances even daily reviews) of the maximum daylight positions permitted to the dealer(s). The need for returning the position to square or near-square is stressed while laying down daylight limits, as the exchange market conditions or the inadequate trading hours or time zone factors make it difficult for the dealer(s) to return to square or near- square position before the close of business. It must be clearly understood that any temporary excesses over the approved daylight position limits will require approval of the bank management. In the smaller banks, it is the usual practice even to lay down a dealing limit for the dealer in each currency so that any deal individually larger than the approved limit will require prior approval of senior most management official of the bank.
Overnight Limits
4.46 The Exchange Control Rule requiring maintenance of square or near square position is adhered to as the exchange market conditions can be very fluid and unpredictable. Management keeps a close watch on the dealers' positions at the close of business each day - to ensure that the Exchange Control rule supplemented by the internal guidelines is observed. A statement of daily closing positions indicating the overbought and oversold positions, if any, held in excess of the daylight limits in the currency during the day (whatever be the time interval) and the limits (both daylight and overnight) laid down by the management should be submitted to the senior management official at the close of business daily. 4.47 The bank's top management should ensure that the dealers do not hold a position which can be considered as not being near square. Any violations of the Exchange Control regulations in this regard are viewed adversely by the Reserve Bank. Non-reporting days should be effectively curbed through the daily statements submitted to the authorities, supplemented by interval spot checks, wherever necessary.
Inter-Bank Limits
4.48 Authorized dealers should set up limits for dealing with individual banks both in overseas banks as well as authorized dealers in India. While setting up limits, the capital plus reserves position of the other Bank, the manner of past dealings with the Bank and the market reports about the functioning of the Bank must be borne in mind. It is a common practice to lay down limits as a multiple of the last known capital plus the reserves position of the bank. In some cases, balance sheet totals and assets coverage ratios may also be considered while limits are fixed or reviewed. Whatever be the procedure followed, dealings should be undertaken on the basis of value of contracts concluded already and outstanding with the Bank so that the outstanding at all times are within set limits, any temporary excess being permitted with prior consent of the management. For this purpose, sales and purchases must be aggregated and not set off. All transactions, including TOM delivery and SPOT delivery contracts (but not ready or cash) should be reckoned for the purpose of monitoring inter-Bank limits. Extra care must be exercised if forward maturities get clustered around particular date(s) (months) and the credit risks on the relative settlement dates may be considered. While banks are free to set limits for the counterpart banks, according to the norms spelled out above they should not fix low limits (including refusal to deal) against particular banks on extraneous considerations such as deposit-grabbing or competition in exchange business.
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Customer Limits
4.49 Under the present Exchange Control regulations, all customer contracts for spot deliveries are deliverable on the same day. Further, customer forward contracts are permissible only if they are selfliquidating in nature, i.e., they are fulfilled by delivery of foreign exchange obligations arising from imports of goods or services. Speculative and trading contracts are prohibited. Even then, authorized
Liabilities under forward contracts. The transactions of fresh contracts and deliveries there against, handled for such customers, by the Foreign Exchange Department or by the branches should be required to be reported to the Accounting Department to enable it to perform the monitoring function effectively. Organization of the Dealing Department General 4.50 Foreign exchange dealing is a highly specialized function and has to be performed by a set of welltrained personnel. Typically, a Dealing Department should consist of dealers and backup staff who are responsible for the follow-up of the deals made by the dealers, giving feedback of collated information to the
dealers, helping dealers to get overseas telexes and SWIFTS, checking rated, etc. There is a considerable scope of abuse by over-lapping of functions through manipulation of rates on contracts already concluded manipulation through position, mismatching etc. The effectiveness of control over the dealing room largely depends on how the department is organized.
Duties of Dealers
4.53 The duty of the dealers is to operate in the inter-bank market according to the guidelines laid down by the management of the bank from time to time. In the best interests of the bank it is important to provide an effective and quick feedback to the management. The ideal arrangement will be for the dealers to confer before the work starts on the trend in the overnight markets and the markets still operating in the same time zone in the light of the overnight 'news bag' and the Bank's own business and arrive at tentative conclusions valid for the day. The dealer (or the Chief dealer) should keep the management informed of the conclusions. It is essential that the management should keep communication channels with dealers open at all times (by intercom, direct access, etc.) so that quick consultations are facilitated. In banks operating at various centers under a decentralized set up, the dealers operating at centers away from the Head Office should likewise constantly maintain contact with the local management responsible for the dealer's functions. The dealers could also communicate with the dealer (or the Chief dealer) at the Head Office to coordinate the market view.
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Dealing Procedure
4.54 The dealers should have no accounting work of any kind to perform, as they should at all times concentrate on the market through telex, telephones, video screen services, by maintaining contact with other banks, brokers as well as banks abroad. Deals made by the dealers should be recorded on printed 'Deal Slips'. The deal slips should indicate the name of the broker (if any), name of the counterparty Bank, currency, amount, rate and delivery, under the authentication of the dealer.
4.55 Duplicate deal slips should be prepared preferably in different colours to identify sales and purchases. One copy will be retained with the Chief dealer/ Manager and the other, sent to the back-up staff for accounting and issue of contracts etc. Time at which the deal is put through should be indicated in the deal slip. The deal slips should be passed on to the Accounting Department for further processing.
Rotation of Dealers
4.57 Dealers should not be kept for too long on dealing duties. A period of three to five years being considered as a reasonable period for effecting a change, training and substitution of dealers should be an on-going process so that the same personnel do not remain on dealing duties beyond a reasonable period in the interest of both the individual and the Bank.
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Chapter-5
Checklists
5.1 For effective concurrent audit, it is essential that the audit programme is detail and preplanned. Since the period during which the concurrent auditor is to conduct checking of manifold items in the branch of the Bank is limited and transactions are numerous rationing of the time of the concurrent auditor is a pre-condition to successful audit. The checklist is to be time oriented with volume of transaction and vulnerability of the same being considered for ascertaining frequency of checking. 5.2 The essence of the periodicity of checking and checklist is based on suggested item of coverage as per RBI guidelines as reproduced in the earlier chapter. Considering this checklist of various items with periodicity are given below.
Checklist Daily
Cash
i. Verifying daily cash transactions with particular reference to any abnormal receipts and payments. ii. Verifying whether proper accounting of inward and outward cash remittances with the prescribed security measures adhered to and noting made in Cash Movement Register. iii. Verification of Cash Movement Register. iv. Verifying whether the Branch is habitually holding cash balance beyond the cash retention limit or is there a need for it at the branch? Is it fixed rationally? v. Verifying whether exchange of cash between cashiers is made after making entry in the register. vi. Verifying cash scroll and the token book with cashier's summary and Cash Abstract. vii. Verifying expenses incurred by cash payment involving a sizeable amount (vouchers of high value of Rs.50,000/and above). viii. Verifying whether Cash Remittance in Transit Account is reversed on the same day by debit to a proper head of account designated for it after receipt of proper acknowledgement/receipt where cash is remitted to a branch/Bank. ix. Verifying whether accounting of currency chest transactions and their reporting to RBI is done promptly.
Clearing
i. Proper accounting of inward and outward clearing on daily basis. ii. Proper accounting of counter returns, inward and outward. In respect of cheques returned by other banks whether respective customer's account are debited. iii. Whether clearing difference arose genuinely and is duly adjusted? iv. Whether safeguards are observed to ensure proper handling and custody including returned instruments? v. If the branch is independently handling clearing, whether the clearing account is brought to nil every day, if not, comments to be noted down. vi. Whether service charges/incidental charges as prescribed are charged for the cheques returned in clearing. vii. Whether drawings are allowed against unclear cheques.Whether such cheques are referred through prescribed register and passed by the Controlling Officer, if the drawings exceed the prescribed limit whether these are reported to the Controlling Authority. Examine whether interest was charged and report such omission for rectification.
Deposits
i. Verifying whether proper introduction has been obtained on new accounts opened and credentials of introducer(s) verified. ii. Verifying whether all relevant documents are obtained at the time of opening of accounts viz. Partnership Deed, Articles & Memorandum of Association, Trust Deed and Bye-laws etc. iii. Verifying whether photographs of account holders are obtained, attested and pasted/ stapled to the Account Opening Form. iv. Verifying whether the payment of Term Deposit beyond Rs.20, 000/- is done through the credit of Current/Savings Bank A/c. or by Manager's cheque. v. Verifying all interest payments above cutoff amount say Rs. 3000/- of the previous day with regard to its accuracy. vi. Verifying whether service charges for
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the return of cheques, issue of cheque books, carrying out standing instructions and minimum balance charges are levied as per prescribed norm.
Advances
i. Verifying that disbursals are allowed against proper sanction, within sanctioned limits and drawing power. ii. Verifying that in case of advances disbursed beyond the discretionary powers of the Controlling Officer, prior permission has been obtained from the competent authority. In case competent authority could not be contacted and emergency powers have been exercised/drawings in excess of sanctioned limits have been allowed in exigency, verify whether weekly returns are being submitted without exception to the controlling authority and/or ratification sought subsequently. iii. Verifying whether the permanent incumbent confirms the decisions of the officiating Manager. iv. Verifying whether EMI in loan accounts has been correctly calculated. v. Verifying interest received vouchers in respect of loan/advance accounts closed on the previous day. vi. Verifying whether bills are purchased as per terms of sanction and proper margin is maintained as per sanction. vii. Verifying whether pre-sanction verification is done before sanction of BP limits. viii. Verifying whether clean bills/cheques purchased are not in the nature of accommodation bills.
Foreign Exchange
i. Verifying that L/C and Bank Guarantee are issued as per terms of sanction and charges are recovered as per FEDAI Rules / HO Guidelines. ii. Verifying that packing credit released is backed by L/C or confirmed order, ECGC cover is available and the ECGC terms are complied with. In case of running packing credit accounts, whether RBI guidelines are complied with. iii. Whether in case of discounting of Bills under L/C, prescribed procedure like verification of signatures of the Issuing Bank have been followed and scrutiny report issued.
House Keeping
i. Verifying whether the branch head authorizes all debits in the Suspense Account. ii. Verifying whether tear off sheets for controlling office/HO Balances and IBR are prepared correctly and sent promptly. iii. Listing out the Book/Register/Ledger/General Ledger Account heads not checked and/or not balanced. Latest balances taken, amount of balances short/excess, balances differences freeze out, if any, with remarks and actions taken. iv. Verifying day-to-day writing, posting and checking of: a. Supplementary Book b. Day Book c. General Ledger d. Progressive Register/Transaction sheet e. Exceptional Transaction report v. Checking sum generated by computers. vi. Scrutiny of daily vouchers with more emphasis on high value transaction. There should not be any debit to the Sundry Credit and if any debit has to be made voucher of these must be signed by the in charge of the branch.
Checklist Weekly
Cash
i. Verifying whether keys to Strong Room, Cash Safe, and Almirah for Security Printing Books are in joint custody of the authorized officials? ii. Verifying whether there is any entry outstanding in Cash Remittance in
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Transit Account for more than 3 days. iii. Verifying whether the branch remits all its excess cash to link branch or Currency Chest. iv. Verifying whether the branch remits its surplus balance with other banks regularly to the designated RBI centre.
Clearing
i. Verifying whether credit for realized cheques are received promptly. ii. Verifying entries which remain outstanding for more 2 days and checking for action taken for their disposal. iii. Verifying whether account with the Main Branch is reconciled every week.
Deposits
i. Verifying that letters of thanks are being sent to the new depositors as well as to the introducers in case they cannot come to the branch. ii. Verifying that stop payment instructions are being recorded properly. iii. Verifying that lien on Term Deposits is properly noted whenever Receipts are held duly discharged by the Depositors. iv. Whether the prescribed safety measures and guidelines for issue of cheque books/loose leaves are observed. v. Verify whether the branch is following the guidelines issued by RBI and other statutory authorities with regard to all account opening forms obtained during the period including abstention of declaration of staff accounts should be verified. vi. Scrutiny of staff accounts to detect any abnormal transaction.
House Keeping
Verifying whether accounts with local branches of the Bank, SBI, and other Banks are reconciled.
Checklist Monthly
Cash
i. Conducting a surprise physical verification of cash in hand, foreign currencies, and foreign travelers' cheques on any day during the month. ii. Verifying whether currency notes are sorted, stitched and bundled properly. As per latest RBI guidelines notes bundle is not to be stitched now. iii. Verifying whether cut/mutilated notes are kept separately as per the RBI norms and disposed off. iv. Verifying the number of times the branch exceeded the Cash Retention Limit and action taken by the branch to dispose of surplus cash. v. Verifying if there is a large accumulation of soiled notes and steps taken by the branch for the disposal of soiled notes. vi. Verifying whether the receipt and delivery of Security Printing Books are properly recorded under joint signatures. vii. Verifying whether physical verification of the Security Printing Books and tallying with the balance. The following is an illustrative checklist on cash management. 1 Month 2 Month 3 Month i) Date of verification of Cash ii) Amount of cash held as on the date of verification iii) Cash retention limit of the branch iv) No. of days when cash retention limit exceeded during the month/ quarter and by which amount v) What is the percentage of cut notes/coil out of total cash held as on date of surprise verification of cash vi) Actual amount of cut notes held vii) Whether cut notes are kept separately viii) Whether "Cash discrepancy register" maintained and Excess/ Shortages reported to higher authorities promptly. ix) Whether surprise verification of cash done by officer other than joint custodian officer/manager x) Whether cash movement register is maintained as per
st nd rd
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guidelines xi) Whether the branch is maintaining records/registers relating to inward/ outward cash remittances to currency chest properly and proper insurance cover has been obtained xii) Whether currency chest transactions are properly accounted and reported to RBI? (wherever applicable)
.Accounts with Other Bank i. Verifying whether large idle balances are maintained with banks and if so, the amount and for what period at a stretch. Ensuring that the branch obtains full particulars of debits/credits in the account and entries are promptly recorded. ii. Verifying any outstanding entry of a suspicious nature. iii. Verifying whether TT Discounting Limit of the branch with SBI is adequate and the facility is properly utilized. 33
Deposits
i. Verifying, if large cash deposits/withdrawals in all operative accounts are genuine and if in line with the volume and type of business of the account holder. ii. Commenting upon the action taken in respect of frequent cheque returns and whether they are entered in the Register. iii. Verifying whether the deduction of tax at source (TDS) from interest income on Term Deposits is done as per laid down procedure. iv. Verifying whether Form No. 60 where the depositor does not have PAN is held on record and the same are submitted as per laid procedure. v. Debits in the inoperative accounts: (a) Verify whether inoperative ledgers are kept separately under the custody of the Manager/Officer. Is it inoperative accounts ledger repetitive, can be combined if combined them the subsection names (a, b, c, d, e, f) will be change. (b) Verify if inoperative accounts ledger and Specimen Signatures are kept under the custody of Manager/Asst. Manager and access thereto is controlled. (c) All transactions of cutoff amount and above to be verified in detail/reported and other entries be checked at random. (d) Is there a close follow up of subsequent entries? Are they checked and found in order? (e) Whether dormant/inoperative accounts are transferred to inoperative ledger. If not, it should be noted in the register and they should be transferred. (f) Verify that all transactions relating to inoperative ledgers are allowed under the written authorization of the Manager.
Advances
It can be checked under following heads: i) Documentation ii) Renewal of documents and time barred accounts iii) Bills purchased/discounted/import LC documents iv) Cash credit including temporary overdrafts v) Loans and advances vi) Advances under consortium arrangement vii) Merchant Banking Business viii) Credit Cards
Documentations
i. Whether documents register is maintained up-to-date. Entries are made in this register and found in order. If there is any omission it should be reported. ii. Are all documents correctly executed in the latest revised prints of prescribed formats and properly stamped wherever necessary in terms of Stamp Act as per manual on documentation and as per circulars on the subject. iii. Where immovable properties are held as security by way of deposit of title deeds, verify title deeds register to see whether narration is written for additional limits and all formalities complied with. iv. Whether legal opinion and valuation by an engineer are obtained for all the mortgaged properties and the latest Encumbrance Certificate as well as tax receipts is obtained up-to-date. v. Verify the correctness of documents. vi. All the documents should be examined and action initiated for rectification should also be scrutinized. vii. Ascertain authenticity of signatures of executants/borrowers from respective borrower's current correspondence file. viii. In case of Limited Company : a) Whether copy of resolution passed by Company's Board is on record for availing the credit facilities from the Bank. b) Whether the authorised signatories as mentioned in the board resolution have executed the documents. c) Whether common seal affixed on the relevant document. d) Whether Bank's charge or modification thereof has been registered with the Registrar of Companies (by filing Form 8). e) Whether search of earlier charge is made. ix. Check classification of advances as per RBI's Prudential Norms.
i. Verify limits/accounts falling due for review, renewal and action by the branch. Verify whether due date diary of review/renewal maintained and required follow is up done on those dates. ii. Whether the debts/decrees are time barred. Action taken to be commented.
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facilities allowed to continue beyond the stipulated period mentioned in sanction, also need to be highlighted. Excess beyond the ad hoc limit without report/confirmation and allowed to continue without recovery to be pointed out. 5.4 Concurrent Auditor should conduct inspection of units/godown/fixed assets/stocks under pledge and hypothecation in such a way that all the accounts are inspected at least once in every six months. Stock inspection report should be in the prescribed format as per the specimen attached. He should also examine whether stocks register is maintained.
5.5 During stock inspection, correctness of valuation and adequacy of stocks to cover the advance and obsolete/un-saleable aspects of stocks to be examined and reported. In case where delay in the receipt of stock statement is persisting and where stock statements are not received, Concurrent Auditor should take up inspection such units on priority basis and assess the value of security available and report. 5.6 In respect of consortium advances, the Concurrent Auditor should conduct inspection as per decision of the consortium where the turn comes to the particular branch for inspection. 5.7 In cases of temporary over draft, comment when the account was last brought to credit and whether the relevant cheques were passed through the Cheques Referred Register and approved by the manager? Report excesses over the limit and those' remaining overdue with details and whether the facts were reported to the controlling authority. 5.8 In respect of sick and viable units, report on the implementation of a nursing package, if any, progress in preparing a rehabilitation plan, whether the progress report are received and studied, and comment on the current health of the unit. Whether the matter was considered by BIFR, if so, status of references to BIFR. List out weak areas in the unit to be strengthened. Whether functioning of the unit is in accord with earlier projections submitted to the Bank and approved.
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informed of all the meetings and deliberations. iii. The lead Bank and the next largest sharing Bank meet at quarterly intervals to assess the performance of the borrower on the basis of the information under Quarterly Information System to fix operating limit/individual Bank's shares for the next quarter and convey the same to all consortium members. iv. Joint inspections of the unit/stock are carried out once a year and by individual banks at prescribed intervals as per arrangement and the reports are exchanged among the consortium members. v. It is ensured that pro-rata business, including non-fund based business, is transacted through the participating banks.
Credit Card
i. Application for the issue of credit card has been properly examined and record of issue of the same has been maintained. ii. Ensure that the credit in respect of charge-slip is immediately given to the member establishment. iii. Ensure that the charge-slip is examined to verify that it does not cover any picked-up card. iv. Ensure that the debits arising out of the use of credit cards are promptly recovered. v. The Bank maintains a proper record of picked-up cards. vi. Undelivered credit cards are properly kept as security items and followed up with credit card department for further instructions. vii. Higher authorities are invariably informed about overdrafts/ debits arising out of the use of credit cards.
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covered by stocks, Firm Order or LCs, report to ECGC is made, premium paid, whether RBI's approval is sought. Whether claim is made with ECGC and followed up? Report details xiii. Whether commercial rate of interest is charged for overdue packing credits and those adjusted otherwise than by export bills. xiv. Whether export bill purchased/negotiated/discounted is not realized on due date (in case of demand bills within Normal Transit Period and incase of usance bills on the notional due date) exporter's foreign exchange liability should be converted into Rupee liability on or before the 30th day from the notional due date at prevailing TT Selling Rate. xv. In case additional facility is given to exporter in the form of Pre-shipment credit in Foreign Currency (PLFC) or in the form of Rediscounting of Export bills abroad (EBRD) whether conditions applicable to these are complied with.
Bank's manual of instructions on foreign exchange be stated FEDAI rules? RBI circulars to be studied every month for any change/ modification during the months
Letter of Guarantee/Co-acceptance
Report on: i. Irregularities in issue of guarantee ii. Invoked during the month iii. Expired during the month Specify: i. Whether it was issued as per the approved format/model guarantee prescribed and standard limitation clause is incorporated. Whether any onerous clause/ unusual clause, which are impossible/difficult of compliance, are incorporated. ii. Whether counter indemnity is obtained as prescribed? iii. Any deviation from the terms of sanction in regard to margin, security, purpose, period, beneficiary, collection of charges, commission/fee etc. iv.Has the branch ensured that the claim is in order v. Has the branch been kept informed by the principal accountee and those liable under the counter-guarantee? vi. Have follow-up measures been taken as prescribed for the return of the original guarantee the validity period of which has already expired? vii. In respect of Deferred Payment Guarantee, whether payment is made to the debit of party's account on due date without creating overdraft/debiting suspense
Compliance of Guidelines on "Know Your Customer" Norms and "Cash Transactions" and Other Internal Control Measures
Whether Bank has complied with the guidelines regarding cash transactions involving amount of Rs.50,000/while accepting the cash.
Status of Implementation of Mitra Committee Recommendations Relating to Submission of Legal Compliance Certificates
Check total number of officers in the branch (excluding Controlling Officer), of whom no of officers who have not submitted legal compliance certificate. Whether the Controlling Officer has submitted legal compliance certificate to his controlling office?
NPA Management
Verification of monthly statement. Scrutiny of compromises entered into/recommended by the branch during the month
Checklist Quarterly
Deposits
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i. Verify interest paid in Savings Bank Account at random basis. ii. Verify interest provision in Term Deposit Accounts. iii. Balancing of25% of SB ledgers, Current account ledgers other than term deposit registers should be verified in each quarter, so that all ledgers/ registers are covered during the year.
Advances
i. Verify whether the branch has correctly charged interest (including penal overdue interest), service charges, commission, discount, processing charges etc. on the loans and advances including Bills Purchased/ Discounted/ Negotiated and Acceptances etc. at the stipulated rates and stipulated manner. ii. Verify proper classification of assets. iii. Verify whether operations in the accounts reveal any unhealthy features such as heavy withdrawals in cash, suggestive of diversion of funds for purposes other than the declared business of the borrowers. iv. Whether Select Operational Data and Quarterly Information System (now FRS) Statements in respect of big borrowers have been received promptly? Whether penal rate of interest @ 1% is being charged for delayed submission/nonsubmission? v. Verify whether the branch has charged lead Bank charges in respect of advances under consortium norms.
House Keeping
i. Verify whether Accounts with HO are reconciled and old entries in HO accounts are reconciled and reversed. ii. Whether necessary register/records are maintained as per controlling office guidelines.
Revenue Checking
Verify and report non-recovery of: I. Locker rent. ii. Folio charges. iii. Penal interest for delayed/non-submission of returns, financial statement required to be submitted. iv. Penal interest on advances in respect of lapsed sanction/limit. v. Penal interest on excess over limit. vi. Overdue interest on all types of bills, loans and packing credits for overdue period. vii. Commitment fee for unutilized limit is collected as per rules. viii. Commission of letter of credit, letter of guarantee and charges for safe custody etc. ix. Standing information charges. x. Stop payment charges. xi. Processing fee on advances. xii. Ledger folio charges. For rates, Bank's service charges booklet/manual should be obtained and kept on record during the period of audit for any further clarification/ modification with effect as mentioned in respective circular are taken care of
Computers
i. Number of computers in use. ii. Installed modules to be verified from Day Begin Operation Menu available for senior managers. iii. Hardware details such as brand name, hard disk capacity, processor name, from copy of invoices/copy of order that is available at branch. iv. AMC should be entered for all the system in use. The expiry date will be available from contract entered with vendor by the branch. v. The name of printers, routers, and scanner, in use should also be stated. vi. UPS and AC details for brand, capacity, number of batteries. vii. Whether following registers are maintained and updated: Computer, consumable maintenance log Computer cabin keys and their movement Machine breakdowns/maintenance by vendor visits viii. whether branch is changing the parameter whenever it is due, verify with respective maintenance options under module means. ix. Whether appropriate Disaster Management is there
Security Verification
5.9 The asset checking during the Concurrent Audit has to be more extensive than during Regular Inspection. The Concurrent Auditor has to divide security checking in such a way that some of the borrower accounts are covered every month. More attention should be given to such accounts which are irregular or contain serious irregularities. The following frequency may be considered ideal:
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Minimum A/cs to Minimum coverage during the year be covered every month
20% 10% 2.5% One account All accounts to be covered in each half year. All accounts to be at least once in a year 30% of loans and advances 12 accounts
* While verifying securities in consortium advances, the system of securities checking prescribed in sanction may be taken into account and its adherence commented upon. Stipulation laid down in sanctions regarding checking of stocks lying at outstation may be looked into and their adherence commented upon. Fund Based Limits Minimum A/Cs to be covered every month Minimum coverage during the year Computer Audit i. Whether Server Room (in case of PBM/TBM branches) is locked overnight, kept neat and clean with air conditioner working perfectly. ii. Whether access to Server Room / computers / nodes / ALPMs is restricted to authorized persons only. iii. In case of any breakdown, whether the same is noted in Machine Breakdown-cumVendor- Visit Register. iv. Verify whether UPS is working fine and in case of power failure, sufficient battery back up is available. v. Verify that any other load (other than computer and peripherals) is not put on the UPS power points. vi. Whether back up is taken daily on floppy/cartridge tape/other media by authorized official and are properly labeled with the days taken and date taken is noted a label outside. vii. Whether off-site storage of back-up of system and data are maintained? viii. Whether secrecy of passwords is maintained. ix. Whether passwords are changed periodically (verify whether periodical changes are recorded by mentioning the date of change of password). x. Whether the user having only one user id. xi. Whether users the terminals without logging out? Whether operators are given access to DOS/UNIX prompt? xii. Whether any unauthorized software programmes are installed/used? If yes, collect details thereof. xiii. Whether all balances are tallied with GL heads on day-today basis xiv. Whether all transactions are authorized daily. xv. Whether signature scanning is done regularly for all newly obtained signature cards. xvi. Whether proper procedure is followed for data input and proper rubber stamp is affixed on the reverse of each voucher/data source and the same is filled up and initialed. xvii. Whether latest anti-virus software has been installed. xviii. Whether all reports/printouts are checked, signed by concerned official and filed properly. xix. Whether day book is prepared on the basis of checked final supplementary. xx. Whether summary balance report (fall back report) is taken and filed to meet contingency requirements. xxi. Whether check sum is generated at day end and is tallied with that generated at next day begin and proper record of the same is maintained. xxii. Whether or not any exceptional report is generated and checked by branch manger or not.
KYC Checklist
i. A Customer maintains multiple accounts, transfer money among the accounts and uses one account as a master account from which wire/funds transfer originates or into which wire/funds transfer are received (a customer deposits funds in several accounts, usually in amounts below a specified, threshold and the funds are then consolidated into one master account and wired outside the country), ii. A customer regularly depositing or withdrawing large amounts by a wire transfer to, from, or through countries that are known sources of narcotics or where Bank secrecy laws facilitate laundering money. iii. A customer sends and receives wire transfers (from financial haven countries) particularly if there is no apparent business reason. For such transfers and is not consistent with the customer's business or history. iv. A customer receiving many small incoming wire transfer of funds or deposits of Cheques and money orders, then orders large outgoing wire transfers to another city or country. v. A Customer experience increased wire activity when' previously there has been no regular wire activity. vi. Loan proceeds unexpectedly are wired or mailed to an offshore Bank or third Party. vii. A business customer uses or evidences or sudden increase in wired transfer to send and receive large amounts of money, internationally and/or domestically and such transfers are not consistent with the customer's history. viii. Deposits of currency or monetary instruments into the account of a domestic trade or business, which in turn are quickly wire transferred abroad or moved among other accounts for no particular business purpose. ix. Sending or
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receiving frequent or large volumes of wire transfers to and from offshore institutions. x. Instructing the Bank to transfer funds abroad and to expect an equal incoming wire transfer from other sources xi. Wiring cash or proceeds of a cash deposit to another country without changing the form of the currency xii. Receiving wire transfers and immediately purchasing monetary instrument prepared for payment to a third party. Periodic wire transfers from a person's accounts to Bank haven countries. A customer pays for a large (international or domestic) wire transfers using multiple monetary instruments drawn on several financial institutions. xiii. A customer or a non-customer receives incoming or makes outgoing wire transfers involving currency amounts just below a specified threshold, or that involve numerous Bank or travelers Cheques. xiv. A customer or a non customer receives incoming wire transfers from the Bank to 'Pay upon proper identification' or to convert the funds to bankers' Cheques and mail them to the customer or non-customer, when the Amount is very large (say over Rs. 10 lakh) xv. The amount is just under a specified threshold (to be. decided by the Bank based on local regulations, if any) xvi. The funds come from a foreign country or xvii. Such transactions occur repeatedly xviii. A customer or a non-customer arranges large wire transfers out of the country which are paid for by multiple Bankers' Cheques must under a specified threshold) xix. A Non-customer sends s numerous wire transfers using currency amounts just below a specified threshold limit.
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On clear balance / total balance Authorised Parameters updated promptly Penal interest Testing calculation for each type Backdated instructions facility Application in order Standing Instructions Fully performed Preparation of voucher Issue of instrument Authorization for issue of instrument Dispatch record of instrument List checked and preserved Charges recovered Non performanceIntimating client for reasons Verifying complaint register Stop Payment Instructions Promptly updated to account for date & time.Signature verified, authenticated Charges recovered Acknowledgement to client Cancellation verified, authorized, incorporated Record preserved TMs (stand alone/shared) Downloading computer balances Restricted access to ATM cabin Only maximum amount withdrawal allowed Monitoring of transactions Transfer of ATM transaction to computer system Appropriate effect in
accounts Daily cash tallying Joint custody of cash safe Complaint register Charges recovered Prompt dispatch of cheque book/statements of accounts Cash withdrawals through other Banks ATM card to be reimbursed from ATM Card Cell List of Hot Card numbers/Credit Card Issue Frequency of breakdown Periodicity of maintenance Severity of errors Unauthorized withdrawals, reason Balancing of Books Up to date and tallies with GL Printouts checked and authenticated Periodicity Rectification of errors List of non-rectified balances, reasons Tagged with date, time, user and officers-id Traces a transaction Traces the history of all transactions Complete Reports DailyDay end control Daily balancing Transaction sheets Exceptional Modification in master data Supplementary Transfer Scroll Cash Books Trail Balance Periodic Interest Calculation Assets, liabilities statement TDS Closing reports MIS NPA status Classification of assets Dormant irregular a/c TOD confirmation Excess drawing/ balance confirmation Generated as per schedule Authenticated and preserved All bear signatures- operator and officer
Transactions in Modules
Auditors has to ensure for Saving Signature scanning Withdrawal against clear / total balance Cheque payment scrutiny Interest credited and TDS Interest, commission, other charges Joint account operations Downloaded entries from ATM Credit card debits Account with debit balances, authorization Transaction in Inoperative accounts Closed account Deceased claim Current Signature scanning Withdrawal against clear / total balance TOD granted Cheque payment scrutiny Interest, commission, other charges Credit card debits Account with debit balances, authorization Transaction in Inoperative accounts Closed account Regulatory documents submitted Cash Credit Signature scanning Withdrawal against clear / total balance/ limit Cheque payment scrutiny Penal interest Interest, commission, other charges Interest for group accounts EOD granted Joint account operations Transaction in Inoperative accounts Closed accounts Requisite documents submitted Details incorporatedReview/Renewal dates Insurance expiry date Margins Limits Classification of asset Status- NPA or otherwise Submission of stock statements Fixing of drawing power Suit filed, decreed accounts Term Deposit
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Signature scanning carried out Interest credited and TDS Provisions Calculation of maturity date Joint account operations No repayment over Rs. 20,000 is in cash Closed accounts Deceased claim Nomination Lien/charges on deposits for Loan ATM Lockers Others Due date diary Term Loans Type covered Sanction terms fed into system DocumentationDetails of consortium advances Classification of asset NPA accounts Recovery statements Provisions Value date credit for staff housing loan Due date diary for insurance/documents renewal Insuranceo Full comprehensive policy o Expiry date Dates of visits Suit filed, decreed accounts Joint account operations Incidental charges Closed accounts Bills Types covered (OBC/IBC/BP/BD) Cheque payment scrutiny Interest, commission, other charges Notarized bills, reason Account with debit balances, authorization Pending bills, reasons Number of days calculation-customer service norms Unpaid cheque returned Prompt dispatch/ intimation of instrument / bill Recovery in case BP returned unpaid Others DD/TT/MT Signature on DD and Voucher same Stock kept under lock and key Prompt dispatched promptly Safe custody of signature books PAN no. Cheque payment scrutiny Commission, other charges
New Drafts Account Name of software vendor Version no. IT Dept/RITC letter for installation Signature scanning carried out Receipt of advance Stop payment Caution Lists Duplicate drafts Payment of draft prior to receipt of advice Validity period of draft Stale drafts Submission of statements of reconciliation Dept Safe Deposit Lockers Locker application Password facility Nomination facility Locker charges, pending charges Safe custody of keys o Master o Unallocated locker Authorization Locker register Signature scanning carried out Deposits maintained Commission, other charges Joint account operations Freezed / sealed lockers and reasons Surrendered lockers Deceased claim Cash Book Under correct heads Daily tallying Suspense account transfers Nominal account monitoring Compulsory recording in Cash Book
Software vendor, version Operation by authorization person Daily updation Follow up for nonreconciled entries Step taken, reason for long outstanding Timely submission of floppies/ discs. Reconciliation Department Bills discounted not cleared L/C pending Bank Guarantees Others Expenses vouchers authorized Authenticated by officer Daily pasting by operator Closing vouchers authorized Appropriate classification of items Timely submission to Controlling Offices
Both sides of cash book tallying Carry forward balances Daily preparation Timely submission to Controlling Offices
Miscellaneous
The concurrent auditor should ensure Master Creation (All Modules) Input forms- appropriately filled Authenticated Must contain information on- Cheque books series Stop payment instructions Lien/freeze details Mode of operations Interest rate Client details, etc Prior permission obtained for- Allotment to outside agencies Letter of undertaking taken Input of ALPM accounts- Checked, download, again checked Printout of hard copies taken Printouts of complete details- Verified and authenticated Certificate sent to controlling office
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Modification reports- printed, checked and preserved System Administrators Role Duties defined Enabling / disabling users Users limited to his/her authority Data backups, restore, recovery Smooth functioning of system Knowledge / capable Contingent Plan awareness Disaster Recovery Plan awareness Proper upkeep of computer system and peripherals Printouts of Ledgers C/C - Every half yea r S/B, Term Deposits, Term Loans - Every half year Customer Complaints Register maintained Severity of complaints Adequate steps taken for solving Preventive measure for nonoccurrence Pending complaints, reason Backups Daily- six sets, labeled, recorded in register Month end- one at branch and other offsite Intermediate Adhoc Spool Offsite o Operating system o Application Software o System Software Daily backup Month end backup Otherso Software ( source and object code) o System / utility Software o Operating system o Original hardware media o Original software media (system, Utility, Application) Fresh backupo Operating system after storing o New version loaded Stock- Sufficient and tested Proper steps followed for backup Reports- printed checked and preserved Disk Space Management Removal of o Unwanted files- month ends o Old information of data files- half yearly Space availability Ledgers printed before purging the data Contingency Management Contingent plan study o System Administrator o Other staff Readiness to cope with contingency
Disaster Recovery Plan Staff Conversant Fall Back procedure Confirmation of integrity of data Preparedness to cope with any eventuality
Forex Transactions
1st Category branches Auditor to ensure for : Dealing Room Information on staff No. of staff, tenure Training Dealing Hourstiming Compulsory break for two week annually Computerized Environment Password secrecy Levels of users Functions of users Id of dealer on transaction sheet, reports Automatic pick up of time, date, transaction no. Audit trail Audit log out facilities Late deals marking on report, reason Other Controls Verification of communication system Deal slips o Name of broker (if any) o Counter-party Bank o Currency, Amount o Time, Date, Rate, Due date o Dealers authentication. o Preservation, control on tapes and equipment Dealers undertaking Accounting All deal capture in system Full scrutiny of sample deals Reconciliation of dealers record & accounting system Stamped agreements for computerized deal slips Profit & Loss evaluation through system Submission to management o True currency position on last Friday of the month including deals in pipeline o Position and Funds Register uploading through o Deal slips o Business reporting from branches Exchange Brokers Broker not acting as principal Broker notes are received on same day No transaction to be without brokers medium Panel of brokers Broker wise claims records MIS reports o Broker wise payments o Statement preceding twelve months Complaints against brokers Risk Control and Risk Management Counter party risk to meet obligations Ability to fund / execute a transaction at a reasonable price Appropriate measure against Legal risk Appropriate data processing system Incoming deal confirmation Counter-party banks confirmations Verifying transaction with market condition Functional separation of staff duties Changes in system, evaluating effect Reconciliation of position and results Substitution of names of banks in inter-bank contracts Contingency plan Overall risk limits Adverse movements in implied interest rates Reports good / timely MIS reporting o segregation of supervisory and dealing function o frequency of reporting increasing during heavy risk period o Documentation o Board resolution from corporate
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clients authorizing their officials to deal and execute contracts o Specific confirmation per transaction o Processes established Preservation of record and period defined Evaluation of Profit and Loss Disclose actual profit / loss Strict adherence to FEDAI- Uniform standard Accounting Procedure End of each month and on balance sheet date. NOSTRO Reconciliation of Nostro balances. Weekly Receipt of Banks Statements. Same date selected for Bank statements and Mirror accounts. Done on-going basis. Suspense account maintenance, reasons. Record held under safe custody and preserved. Record held under safe custody and preserved. Debit/ Credit matching as per ECM or prior approval. Submission of monthly progress reporto Large un-reconciled items o Age-wise grouping, etc. VOSTRO Credit Risk assessment once a year of o Bank itself o Correspondent banks o No and list of correspondent banks Method adopted to control risk Reduction on no. of banks o Imposition of limits for drawing o Securing draft, advices, from correspondents o Decentralization of VOSTRO accounts o Advice over telex for large payments o Prompt value-dating. Large operations in inactive or less active VOSTRO accounts Confirmation of balance certificates to overseas banks. 2nd Category branches Auditor to ensure for : General : Parameters foro Interest o Rates o Commission o Charges, etc Password security Unique user identification Reports with operator id, officer id, signature Availability of documentary evidence Documentation Matching physical documents with system record Safe Custody of numbered stationery, security items, signature books, test key booklets Dual custody of foreign currency and travelers cheques Proper filing of rate sheets, position sheets credit / debit confirmations / adjustments etc. Register Maintenance Sequential o Client wise o Currency control o Others Floppy downloading Dealers confirmation for special rates Application of rates Prompt dispatch of instruments, bills Credit reports of suppliers, buyers on record Month wise reporting from branch to dealing room o Maturities of outstanding bills
o Export bills finance o Forward contracts Earmarking of funds in client account Correct notional rates Existence of import Export code no. Documents as per Banks rule/sanction terms R-Return, XOS, BEF statements submission to RBI Submission of Statutory Returns Remittances Documentary evidence Issue of encashment / FIRE certificates Recovery of unpaid instruments Immediate disposal of inward remittances Issue of foreign exchange to travelers Import Bill of Entry. Authorization of import L/Cs. Insurance. Payment terms governed by Exchange Control regulations. Agreement for establishing L/Cs. Forward contracts in prescribed form. Overdue forward contracts- followed / cancelled as per FEDAL. LCs contains. FEDAI prescribed clauses Uniform
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possible delay in remittance of Government funds, thereby avoiding imposition of penalties at a later date Studying internal inspection/audit reports and ensuring that the branch gives proper compliance thereto Ensuring that customer complaints are dealt with promptly Verification of statements, HO returns and statutory returns Audit around computers
Suggestive List of Steps to be followed by Branches to Avoid Non Implementation Guidelines Stipulated by RBI/GOI/Head Office/Central Office, etc
Deposits Obtaining proper introduction of all deposit accounts including Term Deposit.Application of correct rate of interest for all deposits as per directives issued from time to time. Application of correct rate of interest in case of premature renewal/closure of Fixed Deposits/Overdue Deposits.Repayment of deposit by Account Payee cheque/Draft where the amount of deposit repayable together with interest is Rs.20, 000/- and more. Advances Maintenance of prescribed margin on advances against various types of securities, particularly FDR. Application of correct interest rate for advances against FDR for self and third party as also all advances against different types of securities to different types of borrowers. Maintenance of prescribed margin for advances against specified selective credit control commodities. Maintenance of loan application register with markings for disposal/credit referred register. Compliance with RBI instructions for Export Credit for charging correct interest rate. Monitoring receipt of QMR/HMR data and charging of penal interest for non receipt/ delayed receipt Monitoring receipt of borrower's stock statement and charging penal interest for non receipt or delayed receipt. Monitoring receipt of financial statements and charging penal interest for nonreceipt/delayed receipt. Default in the conduct of inspection of stocks and fixed assets under pledge or hypothecation. Submission of monthly continuous surveillance statement, wherever applicable. Report on the status of renewals of limits giving names of borrowers limit sanctioned - date of expiry - whether renewal proposal was submitted or not - whether there are deficiencies in the account. Report should cover compliance with terms of sanction, deficiencies in documentation, operations and follow up. In particular, appraisal of advances falling
within branch discretion must be seen and commented on adequacy or otherwise. In general, whether the quality of proposal submitted to sanctioning authority considered all relevant data production/sales/financial position/ projections, etc. Whether-systematic credit investigation of borrowers is done? Where availability of Seed Money Assistance and subsidy from Government is involved; Concurrent Auditor should verify its receipt thereof and proper accounting. Report any account, which shows signs of incipient sickness. In respect of advances under consortium arrangement, please verify whether meetings are held -once in a quarter, verify the minutes and report if there are any irregularities not known to the controlling authorities. Comment on pending issues deficiencies in documentation. Customer Service Please comment on: o Maintenance of complaint received register with disposal markings. o Whether acknowledgement of complaints received is made promptly on receipt. Collection Bills Inward Whether the inward bills held on hand tally with the general ledger. Whether all the documents accompanying are intact. Whether bills intimations are sent promptly at least on the next day. Whether non-payment advices are sent in time. Whether charge - commission and postage's are collected as prescribed. In the case of purchased/discounted bills received for collection from our branches whether our lien is notified to the carriers. Whether parcels received are entered in the parcels received registers and properly stored. Particulars of bills outstanding beyond one month/due date should be reported with details of bill numbers, date, amount, party's name and due date with remarks and action thereon.
Outward
Whether the bills are dispatched for collection at least on the next day if not on the same day. Report with details if bills are sent directly to the drawees. Details of bills outstanding beyond one month/due date to be furnished with date, number, amount, party's name, due date, with remarks and action thereon. Whether fate enquiries are made in respect of unrealized items. In respect of foreign bills sent for collection outstanding
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beyond 6 months detailed statement should be furnished indicating whether exchange control approval from RBI is obtained for extension of time for realization of bills.
Chapter-6
Remittance
(i) Whether payment of demand drafts/credit authorization notes/credit notes through newly opened accounts are duly monitored by the managerial staff. New Ledgers are to be scrutinized. (ii) For Demand Draft paid without advice immediate intimation is being sent to the issuing branch and the matter is being followed up. (iii) In outward bills collection register (OBC), if outstation instruments viz. cheques Demand Drafts, Banker's cheque, refund orders are deposited and on immediate realization are withdrawn from newly opened accounts are those payments duly monitored? There are instances of encashment of fictitious instruments in collusion with the postal authorities; Banks are being defrauded of huge amount of money. (iv) In respect of payment of Demand Draft, pay slip/Banker's cheque/credit authourisation note/credit note etc. ignatures of the authourised signatures are duly being authenticated.(v) File for noting number of lost leaves of Demand Draft, banker's cheque, credit authorization note/credit note etc is maintained and kept readily available for use. (vi) In respect of D/D paying branches viz service branches, Demand Draft register is balanced and outstanding Demand Drafts (D/D paid without advice) is being followed up on emergency basis. D/D for large amounts paid without advice is not outstanding for a longer period.
Cash Department
(i) Dual Control System for cash safe/counting of bundles of notes is always maintained. (ii) Generally fraudulent transactions are made more through payment of cash over counter. Unusual high turnover of cash is fraught with the possibility of perpetration of frauds. (iii) Statement of SBI/RBI/Focal point branch in relation to maintenance of account, lodgment of cash etc. is reconciled with that of branch records as routine duty on regular basis. Difference if any in between branch record and statement of SBI/RBI/Focal point if persisting for longer period, it requires thorough scrutiny & possibility of fraudulent transaction can not be ruled out. (iv) Clearing difference adjustment a/c is being balanced from time to time and no amount is outstanding for long period. Huge amounts
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are outstanding in such account in some cases. The possibility of long outstanding amount may be proved to be fraudulent. (v) Is cash maintained as per retention limit and if exceeded, is permission being sought later on. (vi) Over cheque collection counter, is notice being displayed that all instruments should be crossed before depositing? Otherwise bearer instruments may be encased over the counter of paying Bank and the customer concerned may be defrauded. There are such instances. (vii) There should be no free access to the Cash Dept) for other than Cash Dept. staff. Cash should not be a1lowed to be handled by other than Cash Dept. staff. There are numerous instances of frauds for handling cash by other than Cash Dept. staff. (viii) There should be effective control for bringing and lodging clearing instruments with clearing house.
Advance Department
(Term Loan, Demand Loan, Cash Credit, Over Draft A/c etc.) (i) Project report, technical viable reports etc. in respect of advance of large amounts are duly scrutinized and followed up with the borrowers. (ii) For advance accounts whether pre-sanction and post sanction inspections are carried out and reports are made available for scrutiny. (iii) In respect of advance made to the companies, search before sanction of advance and charge with the Registrar of Companies are made within one month of disbursement. For vehicle financing charge is registered with the Road Transport Authority relative charge certificates are held on branch records. (iv) As per stipulated terms of sanction, whether all the terms viz creation of equitable mortgage is created or not. In case of creation of equitable mortgage, whether lawyers non encumbrance, valuers valuation reports etc. were taken and held on records. If stipulated in the proposal, whether statement of hypothecated/pledged stocks are submitted at the stipulated interval of time i.e. Monthly/bi Monthly/Quarterly etc. collateral deposits, if stipulated, are lodged in the form of Term Deposit receipt, NSC, Kisan Vikas Patra etc. In case of equitable mortgage, oral assent attendance register is duly signed by the mortgager/s. For all types of advance accounts, all documents stipulated in the proposal are executed and these are fully filled in. Blank documents are not acceptable in the court of law. As far as information goes in some banks, it is obligatory for all the documents executed by the borrowers, Document Checked" stamp is to be affixed on it and it is to be signed by the official in whose presence the documents are executed/signed by the borrower/s. Stocks/assets financed by banks are duly insured against the risk of fire, riot, strike and malicious damage etc Post sanction inspections are carried out as per stipulated terms of sanction time to time and the flaws/irregularities pointed out in the reports are duly followed up with the borrowers for redressal measure/s. (v) In case of these advance accounts which are stagnant immediately after
disbursement or after 2/3 transactions, the possibility of some of these accounts are that of fictitious nature can not be ruled out.
Bills Advance
(i) For regular advance facility, status report of both the Drawers & Drawees from the bankers should be held on branch records. (ii) Specific limit are generally granted against documents against Payment (D/P) and Documents against Acceptance (D/A) Some times limits are also sanctioned against Hundis only and these bills are not accompanied by Documents to title to goods viz. Railway Receipts , Bill of Loading (B/L), Motor Transport Receipts etc. Clean limits (Bills not accompanied by title to goods) may be D/A or D/P bills and generally Clean limits are sanctioned to the borrowers of high integrity and of very large means. Casual limits for bill advance are also granted to the parties of sound financial means. (iii) In case of documentary bills, documents to title to goods i.e. R/R, B/l, MTR or Lorry Receipts (L/R) should invariably be drawn in favour of Bank or "Drawer of bills" i.e. self. Under no circumstances bills should be drawn in favour of Drawees of bills as Drawees can retire bills without making payment to banks. For "Self" drawn bills Drawer will endorse the bill in favour of Bank. (iv) Banks have encountered huge amounts of fraud on a/c of bill business. It is to be verified that bills are drawn out of genuine trade transactions. This is not an accommodation bill. Accommodation bill is that bill where there is no trade transaction and bills are generally retired by drawees on having money from the drawers of the bills. (v) In case of huge amounts of outstanding bills, the possibility of fraudulent transactions can not be ruled out. Overdue bills are retired by purchase/discount of fresh bills in such cases. (vi) In case of MTR/LR, it is necessary to be examined as to whether the transportation operator concerned is on the approved list of Indian Banks Association and relative number is mentioned in the consignment note of the Lorry Receipts.
Other Departments
(i) Inter-branch reconciliation - Whether inter-branch reconciliation statement is being attended to time to time and the relative file is made available for scrutiny. It is to be ensured that there is no long outstanding entry pending for unusually long period. Long outstanding entry may be of any fraudulent nature of transaction as instances of frauds have very often come to the surface through outstanding inter branch reconciliation statement.
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Controlling office may be contracted in case of non-availability of full information in regard to above. (ii) Suspense, Sundry Deposit, Sundry Credit - These are highly sensitive fraud-prone registers/ledgers. These registers are generally monitored by the managerial staff. Any unusual entry requires full investigation and if long outstanding entry is there, the chances of the same as fictitious can not be ruled out. There are such instances. (iii) Opening and negotiation of bills under Letter of Credit are well within the delegated authority of the branch and if not whether permission/sanction of higher authority was available on records. In case of long outstanding bills under L/C investigation is necessary. There are instances of issuing L/C without accounting it for in branch books. (iv)For guarantee issued, whether guarantee was issued within the delegated authority and if not permission/sanction from higher authority was available on records. In case of invocation of any guarantee, any amount paid is duly reported to the higher authority. There are instances of issuing guarantee (Fake) by branch management without accounting it for the branch books. (v) On analysis of Profit and Loss Register, it is required to be determined as to whether there are due controls on purchase of stationery/furniture and fixture and these are well within delegated authority of the branch officials. There are due verification/ checking of items of income and expenditure and vouchers are generally signed by authorized signatory/signatories. (vi) Vouchers of the branches are counted and total number of vouchers is kept written at the top of voucher lot. Total number of vouchers tallies with that of total number of vouchers recorded in the cash centre book. In respect of fraudulent transaction, sometimes the relative voucher is found missing.
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suspicious funds transfer activities i) Sending or receiving frequent or large volumes of cross border remittances. ii) Receiving large TT/DD remittances from various centers and remitting "the consolidated amount to a different account center on the same day leaving minimum balance in the account.
PART III
Various Other Audits (Other Than Concurrent Audit) Assigned to Chartered Accountants Firms
Chapter-1
Credit Audit
1.2 The objective, scope of the Credit Audit has been discussed in the preceding Chapters. The procedure and checklist of conducting the audit is given below: -
Procedure
1.3 Normally controlling office provides a copy of each of: - Sanction letter Appraisal note/processing sheet or memo - in respect of all eligible accounts sanctioned during a specified period. 1.4 Credit audit shall be conducted on site i.e., at the branch which has appraised the advance and where the main operative limits are made available to the borrowers. 1.5 Conduct of accounts shall also be examined besides documentation, disbursement and compliance with various guidelines issued for proper follow-up and monitoring of advance.
Checklist
1.6 The credit audit should normally cover: i. Appraisal and approval process to ensure that all relevant risks in a proposal is captured. ii. Adherence to Banks loan policy. iii. Compliance with terms and conditions of sanction. iv. Post-disbursement monitoring and follow-up. v. Accuracy and timeless of the credit rating assigned to the borrower account and integrity of rating process. vi. Recommendation for improvement in loan administration and credit risk management.
1.7 The objective, scope of the Stock and Debtors Audit has been discussed in preceding chapters. The checklist for conducting this audit is given below. 1.8 Auditor shall look into following aspects amongst others: i. Utilization of Bank finance/end use of Banks fund for the purpose of your business. ii. Percentage coverage (which would be preferably be 100%) of physical stocks (raw materials, work-in-progress, finished goods, consumables stores, spares & parts etc.). iii. Identification of slow moving/non-moving/obsolete stocks segregated including verification of stock/un-saleable stock. iv. Shortfall/surplus of physical stock with reference to books of accounts. v. Whether stock register/purchase register/sales register item-wise ledger and other book of accounts are maintained on daily basis and made up-to-date. vi. Monthly production and sale (both quantity & value) for the last six months. vii. Basis of valuation of stock, work-in-progress, finished goods including whether stock has been computed on the basis of the principle of stock at market price or cost price whichever is lower against proportionate appropriation for finished and semi-finished goods. viii. Paid and unpaid stocks would preferably be segregated item-wise and in calculation of the drawing power, the value of unpaid stock, trade creditors to be excluded along with the exclusion of slow moving/nonmoving/ obsolete stocks. ix. Age-wise classification of book debt on the date of stock audit and the reasons for outstanding over six months, and also the amount of advance payment received/adjustable in respect of book debts. x. Age-wise outstanding of trade creditors as on the date of verification. xi. Utilization of fund and/or coverage of adhoc sanction released recently. xii. List of outstanding dues and dues for more than three months and six months as is shown separately. xiii. Drawing Power (DP) as on the date of verification along with monthly DP during the period of last stock audit and upto the date of present audit. xiv. In case of calculation of DP, please ensure particularly whether the pre-shipment packing credit is well covered by physical stock at your godown/possession. xv. Whether the irrevocable power of attorney furnished to the Bank has been registered with all the customers of the borrower for ensuring the payment of the bills/book debts through the borrowers cash credit accounts with us. xvi. It is also to be ascertained whether the borrower is maintaining any account with branch (es) with our/other banks and is so the statement for the last one year for such maintenance of account with item. xvii. Whether the stocks are covered by adequate comprehensive insurance policies with appropriate Bank clause against all sorts of foreseeable risks and the validity of the policies. xviii. Whether all the items, specified in the sanction letter for the computation of drawing power are covered by the policy e.g. stock of raw materials, work-in-progress, finished goods, stores, packing materials, etc
xix. Item wise value as shown in the periodical stock statement submitted to the financial institutions by the borrower i.e. stock of raw materials, work-in-progress, finished goods, stores, packing materials etc. is to be compared with the item wise value of risks covered by the policy. If it is observed that the item wise stock value appearing in the said periodical stock statement exceeds the value of risks covered by the policy, it is to be identified as underinsured and will attract average clause for the purpose of settlement of claim, if any. xx. Address of the insured godown as specified in the policy must be same as mentioned in the periodical stock statement and the terms of the sanction of the credit facility availed by the borrower. xxi. Ensure that the Bank clause has been specified in the policy in favour of the concerned financial institution. xxii. Risk covering period specified in the concerned policy has not expired. xxiii. Any other particulars/information necessary for the purpose of credit arrangement.
Chapter-2
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management and internal controls including regulatory compliance by the Bank. Historically, the internal audit system in banks has been concentrating on transaction testing, testing of accuracy and reliability of accounting records and financial reports, integrity, reliability and timeliness of control reports, and adherence to legal and regulatory requirements. However, in the changing scenario such testing by itself would not be sufficient. There is a need for widening as well as redirecting the scope of internal audit to evaluate the adequacy and effectiveness of risk management procedures and internal control systems in the banks. 2.3 To achieve these objectives, banks will have to gradually move towards risk-based internal audit. In addition, to selective transaction testing an evaluation of the risk management systems and control procedures prevailing in various areas of a Bank's operations. The implementation of risk-based internal audit would mean that greater emphasis is placed on the internal auditor's role in mitigating risks, while focusing on effective risk management and controls. appropriate transaction testing, the risk-based internal audit would not only offer suggestions for mitigating current risks but also anticipate areas of potential risks and play an important role in protecting the Bank . 2.4 The functions of the Risk Management Committee/ Department (RMC/ RMD) and the role of risk-based internal audit need to be distinguished. The RMC/RMD focuses on areas such as identification, monitoring and measurement of risks, development of policies and procedures, use of risk management models, etc. The riskbased internal audit, on the other hand, undertakes an independent risk assessment solely for the purpose of formulating the risk-based audit plan keeping in view the inherent business risks of an activity / location and the effectiveness of the control systems for monitoring the inherent risks of the business activity. It needs to be emphasized that while formulating the audit plan, every activity /location of the Bank, including the risk management function, should be subjected to risk assessment by the risk-based internal audit.
Functional Independence
2.6 The Internal Audit Department should be independent from the internal control process in order to avoid any conflict of interest and should be given an appropriate standing within the Bank to carry out its assignments. It should not be assigned the responsibility of performing other accounting or operational functions. The management should ensure that the internal audit staff performs their duties with objectivity and impartiality. Normally, the internal audit head should report to the Board of Directors/Audit Committee of the Board. 2.7 The Board of Directors and top management will be responsible for having in place an effective risk-based internal audit system and ensure that its importance is understood throughout the Bank. The success of internal audit function depends largely on the extent of reliance placed on it by the management for guiding the Bank's operations.
Risk Assessment
2.8 As indicated, the risk-based internal audit undertakes risk assessment solely for the purpose of formulating the risk-based audit plan. The risk assessment would, as an independent activity, cover risks at various levels (corporate and branch; the portfolio and individual transactions, etc.) as also the processes in place to identify, measure, monitor and control the risks. The internal audit department should devise the risk assessment methodology, with the approval of the Board of Directors, keeping in view the size and complexity of the business undertaken by the Bank. 2.9 The risk assessment process should, inter alia, include the following : a) Identification of inherent business risks in various activities undertaken by the Bank. b) Evaluation of the effectiveness of the control systems for monitoring the inherent risks of the business activities ('Control risk'). c) Drawing up a risk-matrix for taking into account both the factors viz., inherent business risks and control risks. An illustrative risk matrix is shown as a box item mentioned below:- Inherent business risks indicate the intrinsic risk in a particular area/activity of the Bank and could be grouped into low, medium and high categories depending on the severity of risk. Control risks
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arise out of inadequate control systems, deficiencies/ gaps and/ or likely failures in the existing control processes. The control risks could also be classified into low, medium and high categories. In the overall risk assessment both the inherent business risks and control risks should be factored in. The overall risk assessment as reflected in each cell of the risk matrix is explained below:- High Risk-Although the control risk is low, this is a High Risk area due to high inherent business risks. Very High Risk-The high inherent business risk coupled with medium control risk makes this a Very High Risk area Extremely High Risk-Both the inherent business risk and control risk are high which makes this an Extremely High Risk area. This area would require immediate audit attention, maximum allocation of audit resources besides ongoing monitoring by the Bank's top management. Medium Risk-Although the control risk is low this is a Medium Risk area due to medium inherent business risks. High Risk-Although the inherent business risk is medium this is a High Risk area because of control risk also being medium. Very High Risk-Although the inherent business risk is medium, this is a Very High Risk area due to high control risk. Low Risk-Both the inherent business risk and control risk are low. Medium Risk-The inherent business risk is low and the control risk is medium. High Risk-Although the inherent business risk is low, due to high control risk this becomes a High Risk area. 2.10 Banks should also analyze the inherent business risks and control risks with a view to assess whether these are showing a stable, increasing or decreasing trend illustratively. If an area falls within cell 'B' or 'F' of the Risk Matrix and the risks are showing an increasing trend, these areas would also require immediate audit attention, maximum allocation of audit resources besides ongoing monitoring by the Bank's top management (as applicable for cell 'C'). The Risk Matrix should be prepared for each business activity/location. 2.11 The basis for determination of the level (high, medium, low) and trend (increasing, stable, and decreasing) of inherent business risks and control risks should be clearly spelt out. The risk assessment may make use of both quantitative and qualitative approaches. While the quantum of credit, market, and operational risks could largely be determined by quantitative assessment, the qualitative approach may be adopted for assessing the quality of controls in various business activities. In order to focus attention on areas of greater risk to the Bank, an activitywise and location wise identification of risk should be undertaken. 2.12 The risk assessment methodology should include, inter alia, the following parameters: Previous internal audit reports and compliance Proposed changes in business lines or change in focus Significant change in management/key personnel Results of latest regulatory examination report Reports of external auditors Industry trends and other environmental factors Time lapsed since last audit Volume of business and complexity of activities Substantial performance variations from the budget. 2.13 For risk assessment to be accurate, it will be necessary to have in place proper MIS and data integrity. The internal audit function should be kept informed of all developments such as introduction of new products, changes in reporting lines, changes in accounting practices/policies etc. The risk assessment should invariably be undertaken on a yearly basis. The assessment should also be periodically updated to take into account changes in business environment, activities and work processes, etc. High Inherent risks business Medium Low Risk Matrix A High D Medium Risk G Low Risk B Very High Risk E High Risk H Medium Risk C Extremely High Risk F Very high Risk I High Risk
Control Risks 2.14 All Bank need to put in place an independent risk assessment system in the internal audit department for focusing on the material risk areas and prioritizing the audit work. The methodology may change from a simple analysis of why certain areas should be audited more frequently than other in case of small size banks undertaking traditional banking business, to more sophisticated assessment systems in large sized banks undertaking complex business activities.
Audit Plan
2.15 The annual audit plan, approved by the Board, should include the schedule and the rationale for audit work planned. It should also include all risk areas and their prioritization based on the level and direction of risk. Illustratively, the areas or activities identified as high, very high or extremely high risk (based on risk matrix) may
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be audited at shorter intervals as compared to medium or low risk areas, which may be audited at longer intervals subject to regulatory guidelines, as applicable.
Scope
2.16 The primary focus of risk-based internal audit will be to provide reasonable assurance to the Board and top management about the adequacy and effectiveness of the risk management and control framework in the banks' operations. While examining the effectiveness of control framework, the risk-based internal audit should report on proper recording and reporting of major exceptions and excesses. Transaction testing would continue to remain an essential aspect of risk-based internal audit. The extent of transaction testing will have to be determined based on the risk assessment. illustratively, the Bank should undertake 100 per cent transaction testing if an area falls in cell C- Extremely High Risk of the risk matrix. The Bank may also consider 100 per cent transaction testing if an area falls in cell B- Very High Risk or FVery High Risk, and the risks are showing an increasing trend. The banks may also consider transaction testing with an element of surprise in respect of low risk areas which would be audited at relatively longer intervals. 2.17 The banks may prepare a Risk Audit Matrix as shown below: Risk Audit Matrix High High M High M High M Low F Medium F High F Medium Medium M Medium M Medium M Low F Medium F High F Magnitude of Risk Low Low M Low M Low M (M) Low F Medium F High F Low Medium High
Frequency of Risk (F) 2.18 The Audit Plan should prioritize audit work to give greater attention to the areas of: (i) High Magnitude and high frequency (ii) High Magnitude and medium frequency (iii) Medium magnitude and high frequency (iv) High magnitude and low frequency (v) Medium Magnitude and medium frequency. 2.19 The precise scope of riskbased internal audit must be determined by each Bank for low, medium, high, very high and extremely high risk
areas. However, at the minimum, it must review/report on:- i) process by which risks are identified and managed in various areas; ii) the control environment in various areas; iii) gaps, if any, in control mechanism which might lead to frauds, identification of fraud prone areas; iv) data integrity, reliability and integrity of MIS; v) internal, regulatory and statutory compliance; vi) budgetary control and performance reviews; vii) transaction testing/verification of assets to the extent considered necessary viii) monitoring compliance with the risk-based internal audit report ix) variation, if any, in the assessment of risks under the audit plan vis--vis the risk-based internal audit. 2.20 The scope of risk-based internal audit should also include a review of the systems in place for ensuring compliance with money laundering controls; identifying potential inherent business risks and control risks, if any; suggesting various corrective measures and undertaking follow up reviews to monitor the action taken thereon.
Communication
2.21 The communication channels between the risk based internal audit staff and management should encourage reporting of negative and sensitive findings. All serious deficiencies should be reported to the appropriate level of management as soon as they are identified. Significant issues posing a threat to the Bank's business should be promptly brought to the notice of the Board of Directors, Audit Committee or top management, as appropriate.
Performance Evaluation
2.22 The Internal Audit Department should conduct periodical reviews, annually or more frequently, of the riskbased internal audit undertaken by it vis--vis the approved audit plan. The performance review should also include an evaluation of the effectiveness of risk-based internal audit in mitigating identified risks. 2.23 The Board of Directors/ Audit Committee of Board should periodically assess the performance of the riskbased internal audit for reliability, accuracy and objectivity. Variations, if any, in the risk profile as revealed by the risk-based internal audit vis--vis the risk profile as documented in the audit plan should also be looked into to evaluate the reasonableness of risk assessment methodology of the Internal Audit Department.
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Audit Resources
2.24 The Internal Audit Department should be provided with appropriate resources and staff to achieve its objectives under the risk-based internal audit system. The staff possessing the requisite skills should be assigned the job of undertaking risk based internal audit. They should also be trained periodically to enable them to understand the Bank's business activities, operating procedures, risk management and control systems, MIS, etc.
Expectations
2.26 Risk-based internal audit is expected to be an aid to the ongoing risk management in banks by providing necessary checks and balances in the system. However, since risk-based internal audit will be a fairly new exercise for most of the Indian banks, a gradual but effective approach would be necessary for its implementation. Initially the risk based internal audit may be used as a management/ audit tool in addition to the existing internal
audit/inspection. Once the risk-based internal audit stabilizes and the staff attains proficiency, it should replace the existing internal audit/inspection. The information systems audit (IS Audit) should also be carried out using the risk-based approach.
Task Force
2.27 Banks should form a Task Force of senior executives and entrust them with the responsibility to chalk out an action plan for switching over to risk-based internal audit, identifying and addressing transitional and change management issues, implementing the plan and monitoring the progress during the transitional period and report to the Board of Directors, periodically.
2. Basic Objective
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identified analyzed and managed and control environment of the branch as a whole. (ii) To undertake an independent risk assessment solely for the purpose of formulating the risk-based audit plan and determining the periodicity of audit. (iii) To carry out transaction testing to the extent necessary based on level and direction of risk in a particular risk area.
Presently RBIA will be conducted at all branches concurrently with existing Inspection process except specialized branches like recovery branch, treasury branch, Currency chest, Service branch, etc. The primary focus of risk-based internal audit will be to assess the effectiveness of the risk management and control framework in the Banks operations. While examining the effectiveness of control framework, major exceptions and excesses will also reported. The reliability and timeliness of information / reporting system will be assessed. The auditor will also examine whether proper system is followed for accounting fair value of all assets (financial or others) and all safety measures to safeguard the assets (including furniture &fixture or other Banks property). In case of computerized branches, the physical & system controls on the branch will be assessed. The auditors will also evaluate the accomplishment of corporate goal and level of resource utilization (including human resources) for the same. To ensure the compliance with KYC norms & anti money laundering measures. As existing, the Internal Inspection and Audit Department will remain functionally independent from the internal control process in order to avoid conflict of interest and will be given an appropriate standing within the Bank to carry our its assignments The risk assessment of underlying Business and Control risk at the branches constitute central aspect of RBIA which will include: (a) Identification of Inherent Business Risks in various activities undertaken by the branches. (b) Assessment of effectiveness of the control systems (control risk) for monitoring the inherent risks of the business activities in the branch. (c) Making an assessment of level & direction of various risks areas as also assess the level & direction of overall Business & control risk. (d) Drawing up of the risk matrix taking into account both factors viz. Risk of Branch
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7. Risk Risk profile at Bank level is bases on an assessment of inherent Business Identification Risk and Control Risk in key areas of Banks functioning. Business Risks are considered inherent in the activities undertaken by Bank irrespective of whether the controls are in place. Business Risk assessment at Bank level cover eight (8) risk areas (a) Capital (b) Credit risk (c)Market risk other than liquidity (d) Earnings (e) Liquidity Risk (f) Business strategy & environment risk (g) Operational risk and (h) Group risk. Control Risk arises out of inadequacy the system absence of controls or possibility of failure / breakdown in the existing control process. Control Risk assessment cover four (4) risk areas (a) Internal control risk (b) Organisation risk (c) Management Risk and (d) Compliance risk. As some of the risk areas, as stated above, may not be applicable to the branches, risk assessment at branch level will presently by undertaken in respect of following risk areas on onsite basis
RISK CATEGORY Business Risk Control Risk Assessment Area 1. Credit Risk Assessment Area 1. Internal Control 2. Business Risk 2. Strategy Risk Compliance Risk 3. Operational Risk
The inspector/Audit officials will inter-alia take into consideration the under noted factors for making on-site assessment in individual risk area: Latest internal audit and inspection report and RBI inspection report and its compliance, Reports of the statutory and other external auditors and its compliance, Performance variations from budget, Changes in the business strategy / focus Volume of business and complexity of operations /activity.
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8. Major Each risk area under Business Risk category will be assessed based on an Components assessment of major components as under: Risk Areas Objective Major Components for for assessment assessment of Risk areas Credit risk To determine the quality of Credit growth, Composition under Risk credit (both on and off & credit concentration in the balance sheet) credit portfolio, Credit Category
quality, Credit risk on Off Balance Sheet exposure and other relevant information relating to Credit management . Performance of the branch vis--vis target, Analysis of income & expenditure and other key financial ratios relating to earnings prospect of the branch.
To determine the level of performance in relation to business plan, profitability and earning of the branch
Operation Risk
Various operational losses occurred in the branch due to failure of people, process and systems in compliance of norms.
Risk areas under Control Risk category will be assessed based on assessment on following major components
Risk Areas Internal control risk Objective To determine the adequacy of the internal control framework Major Components assessment Risk mitigation system adopted in managing the credit risk with focus on Credit sanction process, Post sanction, NPA Management and Recovery, Operational risk Mitigation with focus on House keeping & Internal control system, Compliance of laid down norms in Forex transaction, etc. Compliance of statutory & regulatory guidelines and rectification of various audit and inspection reports/ findings
Compliance risk
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Assessment of risk will be a scare based approach. Each risk area will be assessed based on assessment of relevant major component as stated in 8.1 above. Each major component is assessed based on an umber of elements which are qualitative or quantitative in nature. Each element will be assigned a risk impact (as 1,2,3 etc.) depending on its significance. Risk under each element will be assessed under four level of risk as Low, Moderate, Fair and High Risk depending upon level of compliance/ performance and specific benchmark. The four level of risk as Low Moderate, Fair High Risk carry a risk weight of 1, 2, 3 & 4 respectively. The assessment of levels of risk will be on the principal that higher level of compliance lower the risk- Lower the weight. Score awarded for a particular element will be calculated / arrived at by multiplying applicable risk weight with allotted risk impact of the element i.e. SCORE = R.I x R.W. Each risk areas is allotted a maximum marks being aggregation of maximum marks for each elements under the risk areas. If any particular element or component is not relevant / applicable in a particular branch under audit, total eligible marks for the risk area will be arrived by deducting the maximum score for that particular element / component. Score awarded for all the elements under a particular risk area will be aggregated and percentage (%) of the aggregated score to total eligible score will determine the level of risk of the particular risk area as Low Medium High based on following benchmarks: % of Aggregated score to total Level of risk eligible score Above 75% High 45%-75% Medium Below 45% low The overall Business Risk and Control will be assessed by weighted aggregation of the Score (%) of the relevant risk areas as under Risk Weight Assigned Business Risk Control Risk Category of Credit risk Business Operational Internal Compliance Branch Score (%) Strategy Risk Control Risk Score Risk Score (%) Risk (%) Score (%) Score (%) ELB/VLB 70% 20@ 10% 90% 10% Other 60% 20% 20% 90% 10% Braches
The Business and Control risk of the branch will be assessed as LOW MEDIUM and HIGH bases on aggregated weighted score as per benchmark stared above Para
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10. Composite The overall Business and Control Risk will be plotted in the following Risk Risk/ Risk Matrix of the branch Matrix Risk Matrix A B C High
High Risk Business Risk
Medium Low
The overall risk assessment as reflected in each cell of the risk matrix as above is explained below:
Explanation Although control risk is as low, this is a High-Risk High Risk A area due to high inherent business risks High inherent business risk and control risk is high Very High Risk B which makes this an extremely high-risk area Extremely High Both the inherent business risk and control risk is high C Risk which makes this an extremely Although th e control risk is low, this is a medium Medium Risk D risk area due to medium inherent business risk Although the Business Risk is medium, this is a high High Risk E risk area because of control risk also being medium Although the inherent business risk is medium, this is Very High Risk F a very high-risk area due to high control risk Low Risk Both business risk and control risk is low G Both business risk and control risk is medium Medium Risk H Although business risk is low risk, due to high control High Risk I risk this becomes a high risk area The inherent business risk and control risk as assessed should be qualified by a likely direction of risk for the next year. The direction may be identified as Stable, Increasing or Decreasing based on past trend and likely movement of risk over one year time horizon. The trend of the direction will be carried out based on the overall score of the branch for two or more years/ period as under:Risk Area Score Score Variation in Direction of Awarded in Awarded in score risk previous year current year See note below Cell Composite Risk
(a)
(b)
(d) = c-b
(e)
Business Risk (i) Credit Risk (ii) Business Strategy Risk (iii) Operational Risk Overall Business Risk (i + ii + iii) Control Risk (i) Internal Control (ii) compliance Overall Control Risk (i + ii) NOTE: (a) Variation of score in the same risk area over last assessment upto _(+) 10 or (-) 10 marks will be considered as STABLE and (b) Variation of score in the same risk area over last assessment by more than (+) 10 or (-) 10 marks will be considered as INCREASING/ DECREASING as the case may be.
12. Audit Since presently RBIA is envisaged to be conducted concurrently with the /Inspection regular inspection process, the audit periodicity will be the same as per the
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Plan
existing inspection policy of the Bank as under Periodicity S No Category of the Branch 1 2
Exceptionality Large Branch (ELB ) and Very Branch (VLB) irrespective of last inspection rating Branch under Concurrent Audit and having last inspection rating All other Branch Once in 12 month Once in 18 month
15. Summary Risk Profile /Rating of the Branch 16. Meeting Exit
Once in 12 month 3 Transaction Testing 100% transaction testing under the present inspection system will continue till complete switchover to RBIA The Auditor/ Inspector are required to scrutinize, examine and verify, among others, whether or not Assets and Liabilities of the branch/ office are correctly and accurately recorded in the books of accounts maintained at the branch / office. The assets shown in the books physically exist or other wise identifiable and their condition and reliability are satisfactory. The documentation formalities in respect of advances and other assets have been properly completed and that the Bank had a legally enforceable right on the basis thereof. All incomes are correctly and realized as per terms of sanction/ circularized instruction. All expenditure is reasonable and is supported by documentary evidence and is within the delegated power of the manager or is covered by the sanction of the competent higher authority. Income & Expenditure are within the approved budget plan. Various discretionary authorities delegated to the lime functionaries have been judiciously exercised and in doing so proper appraisal made/ safe guard taken. Laid down system and procedures are adhered to in day to day business transactions. Internal checks and controls including risk managements systems are adequate, effective and standard of housekeeping is satisfactory The irregularities noticed during the course of audit should be discussed with the Manager / departmental head, there by affording them an opportunity to rectify such irregularity as far as possible on the spot. However, the serious/ major irregularities noticed during the audit should be brought to the notice of the Controlling Officer/Zonal Manager and Head Office through detailed reporting of the transactions As because the RBIA will be done concurrently with internal inspection, it is proposed that this exercise should be completed within the allotted days of inspection. However, as an when we dispense with the existing internal inspection and switch over finally to RBIA, allotment of mandays will be decided afresh. On completion of the audit of the branch and risk assessment under different risk areas on various parameters , branch will be rated separately under Business Risk and Control Risk and COMPOSITE RISK rating as per the RISK MATRIX will be awarded as LOW, MEDIUM, HIGH, VERY HIGH, EXTREMELY HIGH Risk. There is a system of discussion between the inspection team and branch head on completion of the inspection. In the said meeting findings on risk assessment will also be discussed
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17. Periodical Meeting of FIO and Zonal Heads 18. Submission of RBIA Reports
The system of discussion of inspection reports between FIO Head and Zonal Heads in Zonal Inspection Committee meetings has been introduced in the system w.e.f 01.06.05 in which the issue of risk perception branch-wise will also be discussed. While conducting RBIA of branches, the auditors ( FIO Inspecting Officials ) will submit their reports as per format provided for this purpose. The auditor will prepare four (4) copies of his/ her report along with comments and submit the same to the Branch, Field Inspection Office (FIO), Zonal Office and Head Office along with the main Inspection report within 7 days from the date of completion of inspection/ audit. RBIA-report will cover five risk areas and review/ report particularly on points having serious impact on the functioning and overall risk profile of the branch. 19. The report under RBIA would focus the High- Risk area of the branch Compliance of incorporating suggestions for mitigating /controlling those risks. The Zonal RBIA Report head will guide / monitor the branches to take care of the vulnerable/ highb risk areas and ensure compliance of all risk management system and procedures and strengthen control system. The branch will rectify all the irregularities / deficiencies pointed out under the existing inspection report which will be deemed as rectification of RBIA report. Moreover, branch will submit the comments on the risk assessed under RBIA and steps taken for its mitigation. The concerned Zonal Office will constantly follow up with the branch for timely submission of compliance / rectification report and will ensure the closure of file within stipulated four month period. 20. On receipt of summary reports along with risk profile / composite rating of the Communicatio branch / office from the FIO, HO, Inspection and Audit Department will place n Channel a structured note on the risk areas based on the summary report to the top management as per the following table:
Category of Branch/ Office Exceptionally Large Branch (ELB) and Very Large Branch (VLB) All other Branch exception ELB & VLB High Overall Risk
The General Manager (Insp./Audit) The AGM/CM (Insp./ Audit) Depending upon the contents of the report, the General Manager (Insp./Audit) may , at his discretion, refer the same to the higher authority.
21. Development of skill for undertaking RBIA 22. Review of the Policy
The Internal Audit &Inspection Department, Head Office will take initiative and maintain liaison with the Human Resources Department (HRD), Head Office in the matter of imparting training to the existing inspection / audit officials as well as field functionaries as on-going to build up requisite skills for smooth transition to Risk Based Internal Audit (RBIA) As stated above, RBIA will continue to be conducted concurrently with existing inspection at all branches, as per existing inspection / audit plan. On the basis of feedback received and experience gained, the policy will be reviewed from time to time to incorporate required modifications. 23. Risk Two separate risk assessment format namely RBIA/RPT/01 for the ELB/ VLB assessment branches and RBIA/ RPT/02 for the Small/ Medium/ Large branches will be in Format place. The risk assessment formats will be reviewed from time to time as per the changing needs and suitable modifications, wherever required, will be incorporated with the approval of the Chairman and Managing Director .
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PART IV
Model Manual of Instruction with Various Reports and Checklist NOTE
The matter published hereinafter do not form part of the Statement. These are intended for the ease of reference to the readers. These matter, among other things, also contain reproduction of texts of various sections of relevant statutes and notifications issued by the Government of India. While every effort has been made to avoid errors or omissions in reproduction, some errors are likely to creep in. It is, therefore, suggested that to avoid any doubt, the reader should cross-check all the facts, law and contents of the publication with original Government publication or notifications.
Note
Appointing Bankers normally provide Manual of Instruction, Checklist with various Formats of reports to be made. A model of such format is given in this division in Annexure A with sub annexure as indicated in the index. It may be noted that all these formats are only suggestive and/or illustrative and it is for the Concurrent Auditor to modulate/change the same as per the necessity of the auditee bank. A chapter containing various checklists is incorporated in Part-II. The format of reporting itself is designed on the pattern of the checklist and hence this is also incorporated in the model. Some items may be repetitive and reader is advised to refer both. There is some mandatory requirement. But appointing bankers may enlarge the assignment according to their management decision. The model may serve the purpose of acquainting the auditor with audit universe and conducting the audit. This may ultimately lead to standardization of format and scope of assignment with coverage. The periodicity of checking is normally as per RBI guidelines and those as decided by the respective banks. However concurrent audit is planned in such a way that transactions/ vouchers is checked within shorter possible interval facilitating the rectification/regularization in least possible period by the Concurrent Auditor and the actual position should be reported to the authority. Periodicity of reporting and those of time of submission as mentioned in the format are given following the standard norms. Cutoff amount means an amount as per RBI guidelines and those as decided by the respective banks. Concurrent Auditors are also assigned revenue audit/income and expenditure audit, stock & debtors audit, credit audit, depository participants audit. The respective format of the reporting are also given and marked as Annexure B to E. The format of Computer System Audit, and System Zudit are given in Annexure F to G. Actual reporting format may however vary from bank to bank. The format given hereunder is an illustrative model only.
Annexure
ANNEXURE A/A
Date: NOTE:
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1. Duplicate set of report to be handed over to the Branch head for rectification under his signature. Branch will return original after rectification. Non - rectified observations will be reported in subsequent monthly and quarterly report till it is fully rectified. 2. The weekly report should cover irregularities in respect of day to day operations in all functional areas of the branch and the report should enable the branch to rectify the irregularities on spot or soon after.
Date: (Signature of representative of audit firm) NOTE: Monthly Report should include all irregularities mentioned in the weekly report but not rectified by the branch. In addition, it should also include irregularities in respect of following items:
A. Revenue Leakage :
(Cumulative position for the month regarding revenue leakage in respect of commission, exchange and other income and various expenses as also position of earlier months in prescribed formats already given along with appointment letter)
B. Cash:
i) Daily cash transactions with particular reference to any abnormal receipts and payments. ii) Proper accounting of inward and outward cash remittance. iii) Expenses incurred by cash payment involving sizeable account.
C. Deposits :
i) Ensure that KYC norms have been complied with ii) Check the transactions about deposit received. iii) Percentage check of interest and repaid on deposit may be made including calculation of interest on large deposits. Check new account opened particularly current accounts. Operations in new Current/SB accounts should be verified in the initial periods to see whether there are any unusual operations. Check & verify whether the deposits accounts are opened as per Banks extant guidelines. Each transactions of substantial amount say Rs.10.00Lac and above in any account should be examined carefully and in case of doubt of any nature the same should be reported in the monthly report for its verification by the controlling office.
D. House Keeping:
i) Maintenance of various registers/subsidiary records.ii) Irregularities observed in monthly physical verification of cash, stamps, blank security forms, safe custody items etc. iii) Position of arrear in balancing of books iv) Age wise outstanding in entries in various miscellaneous accounts i.e. various suspense accounts, sundry deposit accounts, Fund in transit, Sundry Creditors, bills payable account. (No of entries and amount a) less than 3 months, b) more than 3 months, but less than one year and c) more than one year. v) Position of reconciliation of accounts with other banks i.e. RBI, SBI and other banks and age wise details of entries pending in reconciliation statement for adjustment (No. of entries and amount) (No. of entries and amount - Outstanding for less than one
75
month and more than one month) vi) Position of intra branch reconciliation position of reconciliation of clearing A/c and details of outstanding entries in Clearing Suspense/Adjustment Account (No. of entries and amount Less than 3 months, more than 3 months but less than one year and more than one year). vii) Check govt. business transaction
F. Advances :
i) Comments on pre-sanction process/selection of the borrower/appraisal of new borrower accounts including nonfunded facilities sanctioned during the month. Whether mortgaged property has been visited by the Manager and photograph thereof is kept in Branch records. ii) Instances of exceeding delegated power by Branch Officers and whether Daily List(s) has been sent to the next Controlling Office. iii) Post sanction process: Following points should be checked a) Compliance of terms of sanction and documentation. b) Verification of end use of funds within one month of disbursement of fund. c) Checking of Stock Statements & regulation of Drawing Power. d) Checking of unit visit register. (Whether Branch Official has been undertaking visit of the borrower units and checking the hypothecated assets are to be clearly mentioned) e) Report on visits of units by the Auditor accompanied by branch officials during the month. f) Irregularities in all existing borrower accounts and their follow up (viz. Follow-up of overdue bills of exchange etc) g) Ensure that securities and documents have been received and properly charged/registered. h) Check whether the loans sanctioned and disbursed by the branch are within the delegated power and ensure that they are genuine trade transactions. i) Check the Bank guarantee issued, whether they have been properly worded including automatic cancellation clause and restriction amount clause and recorded in the register of the Bank. Whether they have been promptly renewed on the due dates if desired by customers. j) Risk gradation of borrower accounts as per extant guidelines and its validation k) Comments on legal audit and legal compliance certificate and compliance of legal audit findings if applicable. l) Submission of pre-disbursement report to controlling office. m) Position of review of accounts. n) Position of stock audit if applicable. G. Other irregularities which may need immediate attention for rectification of the branch (if any)
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Certificate To Be Given By Link Branches Authorised To Deal In Govt Business Along with Statement Of Claim Of Turnover Commission
We hereby certify that all the necessary records of . Branch have been checked & verified by us to arrive at the number of transactions and the amount reported in the claim for turnover commission for the quarter ended and have been found to be in order.
Date: Signature of the Authorized person of the Concurrent Auditor with Seal
Total
Date : Note : 1. The cases of revenue leakage, if any, in Retail Banking & Extension Counters attached to the branch are also to be checked & reported by the Concurrent Auditor. 2. Figures reported above should be for total quarter)
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ANNEXURE- A/C1
Branch: Quarter: Statement/Summary Sheet of Revenue Leakage (In Rs)
Particulars Interest/ revenue short charged No. of A/c A) DEPOSITS : i) Retail Deposit ii) Other Deposit Total (A) B) ADVANCE A/Cs i) Retail Loans ii) Other Loans Total (B) C) OTHER INCOME i) Non Fund Credit ii) Other Services Total (C) GRAND TOTAL (A+B+C): Amount Amount of interest/ revenue recovered No. of A/c Amount Amount of Interest / revenue to be recovered No. of A/c Amount Remarks (including reasons for non recovery )
Note : 1. The reasons of revenue leakage are to be analyzed with a view to find out whether the mistake is genuine or deliberate. If instances of revenue leakage are detected every time in some specific accounts, the same should be reported with full details. 2. Care should be taken whether debits in Income account have been permitted by the competent authority. 3. Retail Deposits means Deposits other than Institutional Deposits & Bulk deposits (i.e. deposits above cutoff point). 4. Retail Loans means advances allowed under various lending schemes of Retail Banking. 5. locker rent & turnover commission on govt. business & interest receivable on securities held by the branch on behalf of head office are not to be shown here. 6. Please check whether debits in Income account have been permitted by the competent authority.
Borrower Accounts
S No S No A/c No Name party of Type of account Leakage nature & reason Interest actually charged Correct interest Interest short charged Amount recovered Pending for recovery Reasons for non recovery
1
S No S No
2
A/c No Name party
3
of
4
Type of account
5
Leakage nature & reason
6
Interest actually charged
7
Correct interest
8
Interest short charged
9
Amount recovered
10
Pending for recovery
11
Reasons for non recovery
Deposit Accounts-A/C3
2
Date :
10
11
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ANNEXURE-A/D1
Branch: Month :
ANNEXURE-A/D2
Branch: Month:
Irregularities regarding other areas already reported but not yet rectified
S No Nature of irregularities Irregularities earlier in report for the month of Financial effect/ impact Remarks
Date:
ANNEXURE-A/D3
Branch: Month:
Date :
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ANNEXURE-A/D4
Branch: Month:
Irregularities Regarding Areas other than Advances- Noticed during the month
S No Nature of irregularity Reported earlier in report for the month of Financial impact Remarks
Date :
Controlling Office:
(Rs in lacs)
At end of present quarter
The Concurrent Auditor should give executive summary highlighting the salient features on the following operational areas of the branch. a) Opening of New Accounts vis--vis operations b) Quality of Credit Appraisal: c) Follow up of Loan accounts: d) Recovery of NPA accounts: e) Position of Balancing of Books, attending proof sheets, Inter Branch Reconciliation with reference to old entries. f) Comments on Suit Filed Accounts/decreed A/c g) Rectification of irregularities pointed out in the earlier reports and reasons for non rectification. (A) REVENUE LEAKAGE FOR THE QUARTER (Rs. in lacs)
DETECTED REALISED NOT POSSIBLE TO RECOVER PENDING FOR RECOVERY
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Detected
Recovered
Pending
TOTAL
If not recoverable, reasons should be given REASONS FOR LEAKAGES 2. LOCKER RENT IN ARREAR: (Rs. lacs) NO.OF LOCKERS At end of last quarter At end of present quarter Amount more than one year old Irregularities in Locker operations Comments of Auditor regarding steps taken for recovery of arrears : 3. TURNOVER COMMISSION:Whether branch is doing Govt. business: If yes, whether lodgment of claims is regular: If not, details of pendency:
ARREAR AMOUNT
HOUSE KEEPING: 4. Discrepancies, if any , observed during physical verification (Cash, foreign currency, security forms i.e. blank draft cheques etc): 5. Cash balance : a) Cash Retention limit: b) Cash in hand exceeded retention limit----------------times in last quarter c) Other Irregularities in cash management: 6. Compliance of KYC guidelines in opening of new accounts & Anti Money Laundering norms
a) Whether the guidelines are being observed by the branch in terms of circular of the respective Bank Details of account-wise irregularities observed, if any, are mentioned in return b) i) Whether branch is exercising reasonable due caution while permitting operations particularly large value instruments deposited and subsequent withdrawals thereof in newly opened deposit account i.e. vouchers/withdrawals in new accounts are marked New Account by the Ledger-keeper ii) Whether in computerized branches, system flashes caution signal New A/C at the time of feeding of cheques and/or deposit/withdrawal for a period of six months of account opening c) Whether record of individual cash deposits & withdrawals for cutoff amount & above are maintained by branch & reported to controlling office regularly on fortnightly basis: d) Whether particulars of terms deposits of cutoff amount, if any, are reported by the branch to controlling office e) Whether Cash Transaction report/Suspicious Transaction report are submitted by branch to controlling office on monthly basis in terms of the instruction of respective banks
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Accounts with RBI/SBI has been reconciled up to. Details of outstanding entries are as follows:Number of entries outstanding beyond 1 month
Name of the Bank Position as per last Qtr. No of entries Amount Position as per Present Qtr. No of entries Amount
Rs. in lacs
Of which >3Mths No Amount
8. Position of reconciliation of clearing accounts with link branch/Service branch/Main branch account : Comments of Auditors: 9. POSITION OF BALANCING OF BOOKS:NAME OF ACCTS NO OF LEDGERS Only Manual Br) UPTO TALLIED ARREAR IN MONTHS DATE OF LOCK-UP AMT OF LOCKUP REMARKS
(For computerized branch, please verify from the system generated report/viewing from the computer that each module wise total (account wise total) are in agreement with respective head in GL (Trial balance) Comments: 10. Position of old balances in flabby assets/impersonal accounts:
Position as per last Qtr No. of entries 1. Suspense a/cs i) Revenue 1. Capital 2. Recoverable 2. DD Cancellation 3. POB /ROB 4. Draft Ex advice 5. D/Note Rec 6. Fund In transit 7. Forex Settlement 8. Other Heads (specify) . Amount Position as per Present Qtr. No. of entries Amount No. entries of
(Rs. in lacs )
Of which >3month Amount
11. Following control registers not introduced a) b) c) d) 12. Following registers are not being maintained/updated properly a) b) c) d)
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13. Irregular debit balance In Deposit A/Cs (Other than regularly sanctioned limits in Savings & current accounts) (Rs. in lacs)
As at the end of last quarter No. of A/Cs Amount SAVINGS A/C CURRENT A/C As at the end of present quarter No. of A/Cs Amount
14. List of records/statements not shown for audit, if any, despite requisition by the auditors 15. TDS: Whether TDS is deducted correctly from Salary/interest on deposits etc .and deposited timely with Government? Deviation observed if any: 16.SERVICE TAX: Whether branch is ensuring compliance of Instruction circular Nodated If no, the details of default may be advised 17. Banking cash transactions tax : Irregularities, if any : 18. Fringe Benefits: Irregularities, if any : 19. Debits allowed in inoperative accounts without permission of the competent authority: 20. Complaints (if in the terms of appointment)
a) No. of Complaints received by the branch during the quarter b) Out of (a), No. of complaints pending for redressal
Deviations, if any, are as under: (The above exercise is to be undertaken by the Concurrent Auditor at least once in a month (not on a fixed date & other than the date of Weekly Return i.e. Friday) 22. Serious Irregularities (a) Fraud and Fraudulent transactions (Give details) (b) Clean facilities beyond authority (c) Shortage of cash or any other irregularities which may cause financial loss to Bank. Details of Irregularities: 23. Major irregularities in computer operation: 24. Any other irregularity in operational matters not covered above pertaining to systemic gaps if any requiring urgent attention of the higher authorities:
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ANNEXURE A/E2
AUDITORS: M/S ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------1) Pre -Sanction Scrutiny/Appraisal Of Borrower Accounts Irregularities Observed In Following Accounts (Balance above cutoff amount to be reported account wise and below cutoff amount to be clubbed highlighting systematic gaps with detailed list to BM for rectification During 1st quarter, position of existing accounts to be reported and from next quarter only new accounts to be reported):
Name of account Limit Balance outstanding Details irregularities (in Brief)
2) Irregularities/Defects In Documentation/Non-Compliance of Terms of Sanction (Balance above cutoff amount to be reported account-wise and below cutoff amount to be clubbed highlighting systemic gaps with detailed list to BM for rectification During 1 st quarter, position of existing accounts to be reported and from next quarter only new accounts to be reported) :
Name of account Limit Balance outstanding Details irregularities (in Brief)
3. Whether audited statements are being obtained from non corporate borrowers enjoying credit limit beyond cutoff amount. Names of the defaulting account holders with limits are as under:
Name of account Limit Balance outstanding
4. VISITS: Units not visited in last quarter by Branch Official for verification of stock, equipments etc in terms of controlling office instruction
Under Authority of UPTO CUT OFF AMOUNT Controlling office Branch Total UNITS NOT VISITED IN QUARTER CUT OFF AMOUNT > CUT OFF AMOUNT
(A list of defaulter accounts having limit/Dr. balance above cutoff amount, containing name of account & limit is to be mentioned hereunder) Comments of Auditor on Unit visit reports: 5. non submission of stock statement in prescribed format: TOTAL STOCK STATEMENT DUE: STOCK STATEMENTS RECEIVED:
Under Authority of UPTO CUT OFF AMOUNT Controlling office Branch Total UNITS NOT VISITED IN QUARTER CUT OFF AMOUNT > CUT OFF AMOUNT
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Whether Drawing power is calculated correctly? Stock statement not analysed in ------ no of cases. Deficiencies observed in Stock Statements: (Note: In cases where the auditor has observed deficiencies in the stock statements or the Stock Statements are not forthcoming, in that case the auditor must undertake unit visit along with branch officials to check and verify the end use of Banks fund. The format of physical verification of stocks from cutoff amount is given. The Concurrent Auditor must undertake physical verification of stock for above funded limit of cutoff amount as per guidelines of respective banks). (A list of defaulter accounts having limit/Dr. balance above cutoff amount, containing name of account & limit is to be mentioned hereunder) 6. Inadequate/Non Insurance Of Stock: TOTAL NO OF ACCOUNTS INSURANCE DUE : CASES OF UNDER/NON INSURANCE (No & Amount):
Under Authority of UPTO CUT OFF AMOUNT No of cases under insurance CUT OFF AMOUNT > CUT OFF AMOUNT
HO ZO Branch
Total
(A list of defaulter accounts having limit/Dr. balance above cutoff amount, containing name of account & limit is to be mentioned hereunder) 7. FRS statement are not being submitted regularly by _________ borrowers (list enclosed) FRS statements on receipt have not been analyzed in case of borrowers. 8. Review Of Accounts Total Number of Accounts due for Review during the quarter: Accounts pending for review at end of the quarter.
Under Authority of UPTO CUT OFF AMOUNT Controlling office Branch Total Pending for review CUT OFF AMOUNT > CUT OFF AMOUNT
(A list of defaulter accounts having limit/Dr. balance above cutoff amount, containing name of account & limit is to be mentioned hereunder) 9. Cases of Overdrawing permitted during quarter without sending daily list to Controlling Office: No. of involved accounts: No of Instances Overdrawing allowed beyond discretionary authority: Whether daily list is being submitted by branch in case of overdrawing: Cases of Overdrawing not regularized by end of the quarter (Please give full details)
Account Limit/DP Dr. Balance-at end of Qtr Securities held
85
..10.
At the end of quarter A/Cs which will become time barred in next 6 Months
1. POSITION OF NPA AS ON: Movement of NPA a) NPA as on Last quarter b) Fresh addition c) Recovery by (i) compromise (ii) up gradation (iii) Write off (iv) Transfer to recovery branch d) NPA as at end of present quarter Comments on recovery efforts :12. LIST OF POTENTIAL NPA A/CS
No of A/Cs
Amount
No. of Accounts a) Total PNPA b) Out of (a) above Accounts with outstanding below cutoff amount Accounts with outstanding cutoff amount & above Comments on recovery efforts 13. Position of Legal Audit (for borrower accounts >cutoff amount) No of accounts where legal audit was due during the quarter No of accounts where legal audit undertaken during the quarter: No of accounts where legal audit pending at end of the quarter: (Account-wise details of pending cases as under) Name of accounts
Limit Balance
Comments on compliance of legal audit reports: 14. Position of credit audit(borrower accounts of aggregate exposure cutoff amount and above) No of accounts where credit audit was due during the quarter: No of accounts where credit audit undertaken during the quarter No of accounts where credit audit pending at end of the quarter: (details as under): Name of accounts Limit Balance
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15. no of cases where ecgc cover not taken as per sanction: (List enclosed) no of cases where claim for ecgc not filed despite eligibility (Details enclosed) 16. Irregularities relating to foreign dept of the branch:17. Serious irregularities: (a) sanction of loan beyond authority of the manager:(b) loan sanctioned to fictitious units/ borrowers: Name of A/c Category Amount (Rs. in lacs)
(c) Loans above cutoff amount slipped to NPA category within one year of sanction: Name of A/c Category Amount (Rs. in lacs) 18. submission of post sanction/report to higher authority: No of Accounts where submission was due during the quarter: No of Accounts submitted: No of accounts pending at end of the quarter: Account wise details: Name of A/c Purpose 19. NON FUND BUSINESS:
Number Letter of Credit devolved during the quarter: Bank Guarantee invoked during the quarter: Amount (Rs/lac) Value of security
Limit
EXPIRED BANK GUARANTEES/LETTER OF CREDIT AS PER RECORDS: 20. Other irregularities (Overall position of irregular borrower accounts which requires immediate attention of higher authorities & areas regarding advances not covered above.) are as under : Date (Signature of Auditor with Seal)
ANNEXURE A/F
Reporting Format For Verification Of Stock & Book- Debts Of Borrower Accounts
(The Concurrent Auditor are required to conduct verification of stocks & Book Debts once in a year and submit the report on the basis of the following format) NAME OF BRANCH:NAME OF CONTROLLING OFFICE:NAME OF BORROWER DATE OF LAST STOCK STATEMENT:-
a.
POSITION INVENTORY AS ON
87
place of storage 1.Description of material (Major item to be specified (a) Indigenous (b) Imported 2. Work in process 3. Finished Goods 4. Stores & Spares 5. Sub Total (A+B+C+D) a) Stocks purchased under DA/LC, BG but not paid for
quantity
value
observation
individually
DEBIT BALANCE( AS ON )
FACILITY LIMIT DR.BALANCE TURNOVER SINCE VALUE OF PRIMARY SECURITIES
88
OFFICIAL OF BRANCH WHO VISITED THE UNIT ALONGWITH AUDITOR AUDITOR . ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Note: i) A comprehensive statement of Book debts (Party-wise) should be submitted by the borrower. ii) Reconciliation statement of inventories during the reporting period should also be submitted ( i.e. Opening stock, purchases, sales/ consumption, closing stock) iii) Copy of the report to be submitted to Head Office of the respective banks, Monitoring Cell separately. iv) The above report must be submitted as part of quarterly report.
ANNEXURE-A/F1
CONTROLLING OFFICE: BRANCH: QUARTER: STATEMENT OF TOTAL NO OF IRREGULRITIES REPORTED IN AUDIT REPORT
S. No Nature of irregularity No. of irregularities Revenue Leakage pending for recovery Locker Rent in arrears Turnover Commission pending for recovery Discrepancies on Physical verification of cash, security stationery etc Non-maintenance of Registers Reconciliation of RBI/SBI accounts Adjustment of entries in Flabby Asset A/Cs Non observance of norms for opening of a/c (KYC Non-submission of return of cash transaction for Rs.10 lac & above Non-compliance of norms of Term Deposit for Rs.1 Crore & above Balancing of Books : Arrears Pending reconciliation of Clearing a/c Non-Observance of TDS norms Non-Observance of Service Tax norms Non-Observance of Transaction tax norms Non-Observance - Fringe Benefit norm Defects in Pre sanction appraisal Defects in documentation Non submission of Stock Statements Inadequate/ Non- insurance of Stocks Non-submission of QIS statements Non visit of Borrower units Pending cases Review of accounts Overdrawn Advance accounts a) No. of account overdrawn continuously up to 45 days b) No. of account overdrawn continuously more than 45 days Non conduct of Credit audit 25 Non obtention of audited statements 26 Non obtention of ECGC cover 27 Irregularities in Foreign Deptt. 28 Non conduct of Legal Audit 29 Non submission of Post sanction Monitoring report 30 Non regularization of Devolved LC/Invoked BG 31 Other irregularities 32 TOTAL NO.OF IRREGULARITIES
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24
Date: (Signature of Auditor with Seal) (The list is only illustrative and not exhaustive. The non-applicable points may be deleted & other irregularities, if any, may be added.)
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ANNEXURE A/F2
CONTROLLING OFFICE: BRANCH : STATEMENT OF RECTIFICATION OF IRREGULRITIES POINTED OUT IN AUDIT REPORT OF LAST QUARTER Nature of irregularity No. of No. S No
irregularities pointed out in return Q5(a) of last quarter
Revenue Leakage pending for recovery Locker Rent in arrears Turnover Commission pending for recovery Discrepancies on Physical verification of cash, security stationery on monthly basis etc Non-maintenance of Registers 5 Reconciliation of RBI/SBI accounts 6 Adjustment of entries in Flabby Asset A/Cs 7 Non observance of norms for opening of a/c (KYC) 8 Non-submission of return of cash transaction for cutoff amount & above 9 Non-compliance of norms of Term Deposit for Rs.1 Crore & above 10 Balancing of Books : Arrears 11 Pending reconciliation of Clearing a/c 12 Non-Observance of TDS norms 13 Non-Observance of Service Tax norms 14 Non-Observance of Banking cash Transaction tax norms 15 Non-Observance - Fringe Benefit norm 16 Defects in pre sanction process/appraisal. 17 Defects in documentation 18 Non submission of Stock Statements 19 Inadequate/ Non- insurance of Stocks 20 Non-submission of FRS statements 21 Non visit of Borrower units 22 Pending cases Review of accounts 23 Overdrawn Advance accounts 24 a) No. of account overdrawn continuously up to 45 days b) No. of account overdrawn continuously more than 45 days Non conduct of credit audit 25 Non conduct of Legal Audit 26 Non obtention of audited statements 27 Non obtention of ECGC cover 28 Irregularities in Foreign Deptt 29 Non submission of Post sanction Monitoring card 30 Non regularization of Devolved LC /Invoked BG 32 Other irregularities 33 TOTAL NO.OF IRREGULARITIES
1 2 3 4
90
Note: Where immediate rectification is not possible, irregularity may be treated as reckoned as rectified if adequate steps have been taken for rectification
ANNEXURE A/G
Quarter:S No Matters requiring immediate attention of the higher authorities (Inclusive of violation of KYC & PML Norms) Branch:Auditor:Nature of irregularities Remarks
Date :
ANNEXURE A/H1
Branch:S No A/c No Proper identification of customer obtained
Letter of thanks sent to introducer by registered post with AD or under U C P When introduced before Manager/officer
Date:
Signature of Auditor
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ANNEXURE A/H2
BRANCH : FOR THE QUARTER ENDED: Debits Allowed In The Inoperative Accounts Without The Order Of The Competent Authority (Branch Head)
Name of depositor Nature & of accounts Date of last debit/ operation Date from which the a/c became inoperative Date of present debit allowed unauthorized Name of official Who passed this debit Auditors comments
Date
ANNEXURE A/H3
BRANCH: QUARTER ENDED: DETAILS OF CASH BALANCE & CASH TRANSACTIONS A) CASH RETENTION LIMIT: SINCE THE DATE OF LAST AUDIT REPORT CASH RETENTION LIMIT FIXED BY CONTROLLING OFFICE DATES CASH BALANCE MAXIMUM CASH S No
BAL DURING THE MONTH
B) LIST OF ENTRIES UNDER CASH REMITTANCE OUTSTANDING FOR MORE THAN 10 DAYS.
Date of Remittance Particulars Amount Reasons/ follow up action
C) To confirm whether record of individual cash deposits & withdrawals for cutoff amount & above are maintained by branch & reported to Controlling Office regularly on fortnightly basis D) Comments on handling of Cash including violation of relevant systems & procedures, if any: E) Whether Inter branch Cash Movement Statement is being sent to the next Controlling Office regularly in every month: F) Whether the Branch is following the pre- scrolling norms: G) Whether the Branch is following Clean Note Policy : Signature of the Auditor with date
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ANNEXURE A/H4
Branch:
Account heads carrying arrears Reconciled without any difference up to Total arrear in months/ Quarter (as applicable)
Month Quarter (As applicable) Total arrears at the end of the present quarter Total arrears at the end of the last quarter
(Please submit the above data after verification of the system generated reports / viewing the computer) Signature of the Controlling Officer Date : BRANCH: Signature of the Auditor Date :
ANNEXURE A/H5
QUARTER ENDED: RECONCILIATION OF ACCOUNT WITH OTHER BANKS (RBI, SBI, AND OTHER BANKS) (Rs. in lac)
Name of banks 1 RBI----------(Reconciled up to---------------) debited by RBI credited by Bank credited by RBI debited by Bank/s SBI----------(Reconciled up to---------------) debited by SBI credited by Bank credited by SBI debited by Bank/s. Total unadjusted entries No 2 Amount 3 Unadjusted entries for one month Or more No Amount 4 5
Other Bank-----(Reconciled up to -------------) debited by other Bank credited by Bank credited by other Bank debited by Bank/s.
Total No & amount of outstanding entries > 3 months old out of 4 & 5 above At start of the quarter: At end of quarter: Signature of the Manager Date : Signature of Auditors Date :
93
ANNEXURE A/H6a
ANNEXURE A/H6b Details of Outstanding Entries in Draft EX-Advice Account (if any account maintained in branch)
Position As on : Branch Name: S No Date of Entry
Amount Outstanding Name of the issuing Branch Draft No Date Reason for non adjustment
ANNEXURE A/H6c
94
ANNEXURE A/H6d
Details of Outstanding Entries in Demand Draft Cancellation Account Position As on : Branch Name : S No Date of Entry
Amount Outstanding Name of the Drawee Branch Demand draft No Date Reason for non adjustment
ANNEXURE A/H6e
Details of Outstanding Entries in Fund in Transit Account Position as on : Branch Name: Date of Entry S No
Amount Outstanding Name of the Remitted Branch Reason for non adjustment
ANNEXURE A/H6f
Details of Outstanding Entries in Recoverable Suspense Account (Telegraphic Transfer, If Applicable) Position as on : Branch Name: Date of S No
Entry Amount Outstanding Name of the Remitted Branch Serial No & Date of T.T. Reason for non adjustment
ANNEXURE A/H6g
Details of Individual Entries of Above cutoff amount/and Outstanding for the period Above 6 months in Suspense Account, Revenue Expenditure & Capital expenditure etc Position as on : Branch Name: Account Head Date of Entry Amount Outstanding Particulars of the entry Reason for non adjustment S No
95
ANNEXURE A/H6h
Details of Individual Entries of above cutoff amount/and Outstanding for the period above 6 months in Sundry Creditors Account Position as on : Branch Name: Account Head Date of Entry Amount Outstanding Particulars of the entry Reason for non adjustment S No
ANNEXURE A/H6i
Details of Outstanding Entries in POB Agency Account (Debit) Position as on : Branch Name:
Sr. No Date of Entry Amount Outstanding Instruments Issued by Instrument No. Date Name of the Link Branch Reason for non adjustment
ANNEXURE A/H6j
Details of Outstanding Entries Head Office Adjustment Account Position as on: Branch Name:
Sr. No Date of Entry Amount Outstanding Particulars of Transaction From Whom Amount To be recovered Reason for non adjustment
96
ANNEXURE A/H7
Details of Outstanding Entries in Forex Settlement Recoverable Account Position as on: Branch Name:
Sr. No Date of Entry Amount Outstanding Branch Where Claim Sent Serial No of Claim Date of Claim Reason for non adjustment
ANNEXURE A/H8
Branch: Quarter: STATEMENT SHOWING PARTICULARS OF EACH ADVANCE WHICH IS TIME-BARRED AT THE CLOSE OF THE QUARTER
Name of the party Nature of facility Amt of limit sanctioned Outstanding balance Account Time barred on Action taken for revival 123456
ANNEXURE A/H9
Branch:Quarter ended on: STATEMENT SHOWING PARTICULARS OF SUCH ADVANCES WHICH WILL BE GETTING TIME BARRED IN NEXT 3 MONTHES?
Name of party Nature of facility Amt of loan
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ANNEXURE A/H10
Branch:Quarter ended on: STATEMENT OF EXCESS DRAWINGS/ OVERDRAWINGS ALLOWED IN CASH CREDIT & OVERDRAFT ACCOUNTS WHICH IS NOT REGULARISED AT END OF THE QUARTER
Name of the borrower Sanctioned limit Drawing power Debit balance Date of overdrawing Whether Daily List submitted 123456
ANNEXURE A/H11
Branch:- Controlling Office: POSITION OF LARGE ADVANCES AS ON Please report position of Top numbers (nos) of borrower accounts of the branch having aggregate limit/outstanding of cutoff amount and above in this format. a. Nos. of borrower accounts having limit/outstanding above cutoff amount: b. If the account having limit/outstanding above cutoff amount the following are to be provided: S. No. Particulars 1 Name of Borrower : a) Present Classification b) Limits (with date of sanction & authority) c) Debit Balance d) Security nature & value (primary & collateral) e) Present position including irregularities ** f) Unrectified irregularities of last inspection report g) When the unit was last visited. 2. 3. 4. Signature of the Auditor ** Full details of irregularities of each account should be reported. In case, there exists no irregularity, the fact should be clearly stated. Observations like Good/Satisfactory should be avoided.
Annexure 295
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ANNEXURE A/H11a Additional Information for borrowers enjoying Working Capital Limit of cutoff amount & above
Last Date of Search Report of ROC record (to be done once in two years) Stock Audit carried out in terms of HO circular no dated Last date of Credit audit carried out in terms of HO circular no dated Legal audit carried out in terms of HO circular no dated Sl No. Name of the Borrowers Last date of Acknowledg ement of debt (to be obtained from the borrowers once in two years in form ) Date of Search Any short coming observed and position of rectification thereof Date Position of rectification of irregularities pointed, if any Date of Report Category Date Position of rectification of irregularitie s pointed, if any Whether Security Register as per the revised format in terms of I.C. No. dated is maintained and the same is posted up to date.
99
ANNEXURE A/H12
Potential NPA Accounts as on ______________ (Rs. in Lacs) No. of Accounts Amount a. Total PNPA b. Out of (a) above, i. Accounts with outstanding below cutoff amount ii. Accounts with outstanding cutoff amount & above Potential NPA Accounts having Debit Balance of cutoff amount & above
Sl. No. Name of Borrower with A/c No. Date of Sanction Purpose Sanctioning Authority Limits (Funded & Nonfunded) Debit Balance as on Security nature & value (Primary & Collateral) Amount of Overdu es
ANNEXURE A/H13
Branch:Controlling Office: OVERDUE IN STAFF LOAN ACCOUNT (Rs. in lacs)
Name of OVERDUES advance scheme Name of employee No of Installments
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Overdue installment amount Overdue interest amount Total overdue amount Whether monthly installment is being realized from salary
ANNEXURE A/H14
RETAIL CREDIT SCHEMES (To be submitted for branches having Retail Credit Products) Name of Branch: Auditor: Quarter:Name of the scheme Total outstanding Total overdues Amount of NPA % of NPA to total outstanding Deviatio n observe d in no of cases Remarks if any. No of a/cs Amt No of a/cs Amt No of a/cs amt a) Car Loan b) Housing Loan c) Saral Loan d) Educational loan e) Pensioner Loan f) Rental advance g) Personal Loan to Doctors h) Loan against NSC/ KVP i) Furnishing Loan j) Other Loan Total
101
Annexure 299
We have checked documentation & position of compliance of prescribed guidelines while sanctioning advances, overdue in all advances sanctioned under the aforesaid schemes in terms of appointment letter. The position of account wise overdue, irregularities observed in documentation & deviation from the prescribed norms are enclosed. Signature with seal
Manual on Concurrent Audit of Banks 300
ANNEXURE A/H14a
Name of Branch Controlling Office: Auditor: Quarter: SCHEME: CAR FINANCE
Name of borrower Date of sanction Amt sanctioned (Rs) Amt of Inst. Monthly / qrtly Total debit Bal. No of overdue Inst. Amt Overdue (Rs) Irregular-ities in Documentation and other deviations Asset classification. 123456789
Comments: While giving the summary position in SR-14, the auditor should keep in mind to give the position of overdues in respect to total outstanding in loan accounts. No Amount Total outstanding: Total overdues: Amount of NPA: % of NPA to total outstanding: PNPA:
Annexure 301
ANNEXURE A/H14b
Name of Branch Controlling Office:
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Comments: While giving the summary position, the auditor should keep in mind to give the position of overdues in respect of total outstanding in loan accounts. No Amount Total outstanding: Total overdues: Amount of NPA: % of NPA to total outstanding: PNPA:
Manual on Concurrent Audit of Banks 302
ANNEXURE A/H14c
Name of Branch Controlling Office: Auditor: Quarter: SCHEME: . SARAL LOAN
Name of borrower Date of sanction Amt sanctioned (Rs) Amt of Inst. Monthly/ qrtly Totalde bitBal.
103
No of overdue Inst. Amt Overdue (Rs) Irregula rities in Docum entation and other deviatio ns Asset classification. 123456789
Comments: While giving the summary position, the auditor should keep in mind to give the position of overdues in respect of total outstanding in loan accounts. No Amount Total outstanding: Total overdues: Amount of NPA: % of NPA to total outstanding: PNPA :
Annexure 303
ANNEXURE A/H14d
Name of Branch Controlling Office: Auditor: Quarter: Scheme : Housing Loan
Name of borrow er Date of sanction Amt sanctioned (Rs) Amt of Inst. Monthly/ qrtly Totalde bitBal. No of overdue Inst. Amt Overdue (Rs) Irregularities in Documentation and other deviations Asset classification .
104
123456789
Comments: While giving the summary position, the auditor should keep in mind to give the total position of overdues in respect of total outstanding in loan accounts. No Amount Total outstanding: Total overdues: Amount of NPA: % of NPA to total outstanding: PNPA :
Manual on Concurrent Audit of Banks 304
ANNEXURE A/H14e
Name of Branch Controlling Office: Auditor: Quarter: Scheme: Personal Loan Scheme .
Name of borrower Date of sanction Amt sanctioned (Rs) Amt of Inst. Monthly/ qrtly Totalde bitBal. No of overdue Inst. Amt Overdue (Rs) Irregularities in Documentation and other deviations Asset classification. 123456789
Comments: While giving the summary position the auditor should keep in mind to give the total position of overdues in respect of total outstanding in loan accounts. No Amount Total outstanding: Total overdues: Amount of NPA: % of NPA to total outstanding: PNPA :
Annexure 305
ANNEXURE A/H14f
Name of Branch
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Controlling Office: Auditor: Quarter: Scheme: ALL OTHER SCHEMES (IF ANY)
Name of borrower Date of sanction Amt sanctioned (Rs) Amt of Inst. Monthly / qrtly Totalde bitBal. No of overdue Inst. Amt Overdue (Rs) Irregulari-ties in Documentation and other deviations Asset classification. 123456789
Comments: While giving the summary position the auditor should keep in mind to give the total position of overdues in respect of total outstanding in loan accounts. No Amount Total outstanding: Total overdues: Amount of NPA: % of NPA to total outstanding: PNPA :
Manual on Concurrent Audit of Banks 306
ANNEXURE A/H15
Branch: Controlling Office: Quarter: SUBMISSION OF SCHEDULES, DAILY STATEMENTS & IBR (Also to be submitted to the Controlling Officer)
Following points are to be verified & reported Auditors comment Statement & schedules on Head Office account are submitted to the respective Z.O. on weekly basis. Continuity in Head Office balance is maintained in the daily statements i.e. there should not be any missing schedules or any missing date in schedules. Control file (daily statement) is in conformity with the schedule file and there should not be any closing balance error. Opening and closing balances in Head Office Account reported in daily statement should reflect the General Ledger balance of Head Office Account. There should not be any discrepancy. IBR data of computerised branch is extracted directly from the
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system. Correspondence file regarding IBR should be maintained separately and there should not be any delay in giving reply to any query made by Controlling Office regarding IBR. The Concurrent Auditor are also required to verify/certify whether the Proof-sheets containing debit entries only which are sent to the branches through their respective Controlling Office, seeking therein information regarding details of credit entries against which those debit entries have been generated by them are duly attended by the concerned branches.
ANNEXURE A/I
GUIDELINES FOR CHECKING OF REVENUE LEAKAGE LIST OF ITEMS TO BE CHECKED: b) INCOME:
a) Interest charged in all advance accounts b) Interest/Discount on Bills purchases and discounts on a. Inland Bills b. Export Bill c. Import bill were ever applicable. c) Commission on i. letters of credit and ii. Guarantee (both inland & foreign) d) Commission on bills for collection (both inland and foreign) e) Rent on lockers f) (a) Exchange on TT and DD sold on inland and Foreign remittance (b) Interest/Commission on any type of foreign exchange business. g) (a) Commission on safe deposit and safe custody (b) Commission earned on transaction in respect of government accounts. h) House and godown rent realized. i) Interest on (a) Temporary overdrafts exceeding cutoff amount (b) Overdrawn cash credit accounts j) Clean advance k) (a) Supervision incidental charges on Current Account & Cash Credit A/C. (b) Processing fees and lead Bank charges. l) Panel interest should be charges on irregular advances in case of: -
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per circularized instruction. ( Branch should include / report such action in Daily Dist ) b) In case where transfer is made from the uncleared effects of the cheques from one account to another, and payment is made from the account where uncleared effects have been transferred, interest should be charged in the manner stated above. n) Whether stipulated agency com-mission & handling charges have been realized. o) Income Recognition, Asset classification & Provisioning for loans & Advances as per RBI guidelines, while scrutinizing the interest earned on advances, it should be seen that the Head Office guidelines are meticulously followed by the Branch. p) Commitment charges for under utilization of limits.
Annexure 309
c) EXPENDITURE:
The auditor should pay special attention while calculating the interest taking into account the application of interest, S/B Interest Provision, RD Interest Provision & FRD/DDP Interest Provision. The auditor should give their comments indicating whether interest rate/ S/B interest is correctly applied or not
ii) All other items of revenue nature like (a) Telephone, (b) telegram, (c) Stationery Purchased (d) Entertainment, (e) Conveyance, (f) traveling expenditure (g) other revenue expenses. 1. If any expenditure is done on behalf of borrowers, whether the same have been realized from their accounts. This includes postage and out of pocket expenses. 2. If there is any abnormal variation in these heads auditor should check & report with reasons thereof to us.
Notes: 1. It is to be confirmed that leakage, if any, reported in the earlier revenue/ Concurrent Audit Report have been realized with compounding interest thereon. 2. Verification of interest includes checking of a) Rate of interest b) Calculation of Decimals. c) Frequency/ periodicity in charging of interest d) Whether calculations are being checked, rechecked, and authenticated by officials of branch as per Head Office guidelines. All instances of non-charging /late charging of interest in all borrower accounts (excluding NPA accounts) should be reported.
Manual on Concurrent Audit of Banks 310
3. In case of bills, audit must include checking of (a) Discount rate. (b) Collection charges. (c) Interest on Usance Bills. (d) Overdue interest for delayed receipts of proceeds of bills. 4. in case of packing credit advances, Following points should be checked. (a) Interest rate & calculation of interest. (b) Interest on delayed liquidation of such advances. (c) If any P/C advance is not liquidated out of export bills
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whether interest as applicable to C/C advance plus penal interest has been realized.
ANNEXUE A/J
INVESTMENT: CHECKLIST a. Physical verification of Securities held at branches on behalf of head Office: Shares, debentures, Bonds etc, if any held by the branches in their safe custody on behalf of Head Office as at the end of very quarter should be physically verified and detailed list thereof, as per proforma given hereunder should be certified under your signature and official seal and submitted alongwith your quarterly reports. PROFORMA
Annexure 311
SL. No. Particulars of Securities Rate Of interest Amount (Face Value) Rs. Maturity date No. Of Script (in pieces) Interest payable on Interest/ Dividend Collected Upto Securities held in the form of SGL/BRS/ Bonds/ Allotment Letters Entry A/C, Acknowle-dgement Receipt etc Remarks ** 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Note: (A) Securities sent to other branches/ issuing authorities for collection of interest, registration etc. should be mentioned under this column. (B) Whether securities mentioned above are in agreement with Branch records. If not, variations should be advised. (Physical verification of securities must be done once in each quarter) (C) Please make a special reference regarding branch performance on collection on interest on various securities as per the following format. Reasons for non-realisation of interest & TDS certificate on due date should be furnished alongwith steps taken by the branch in remark column.
312 Mannual on Concurrent Audit of Banks
Sl. No Details of Security Rate of interest Face value
109
Interest due on Gross Interest Rs. TDS amount Rs. Interest Cheque Rs. H.O. A/C credited collected on TDS Certificate sent to HO on Remarks 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11
(D) in case of BRs issued/ received, the details including date be given. (E) Details of securities matured during the quarter:
Sl No Details of Securities Rate of interest Face Value Rs. Maturity date Maturity Details Value Collected sent to Rs. on HO on Remarks
Reason for non-realization /collection of maturity value should be furnished along with steps taken by the branch in the remark column.
Annexure 313 Manual on Concurrent Audit of Banks 314
ANNEXURE A/K
FOREIGN EXCHANGE Banks dealing room and back up department handles large volume of Banks funds. It is therefore put under concurrent audit. Main objectives of the dealing are: a) to give service to customer by quoting competitive exchange rates; b) to closely monitor and cover the open foreign exchange position at a profit; c) to closely monitor and reduce maturity mismatch (gaps) in forwards; d) to earn profit for the Bank through trading activity; e) to maintain adequate balance in the NOSTRO accounts; f) to hedge the foreign exchange assets-liability portfolio; g) to hedge gold price; h) to fund vostro accounts. An illustrative check-list of various irregularities likely to occur in dealing room and back up department is as under: Comments of Auditor General a. Dealing and back up department are not separated. b. Dealers and back up personnel are not properly trained. c. Proper infrastructure, viz, phone with STD facility/fax/Internet/
110
d. Hot line with brokers not available. e. Dealers not conferring before start of work on the trend in the overnight market. f. Dealing room provides access to outsiders. Dealing Room: Lack of control on Nostro balances. Dealers pad not written up immediately when a business is reported. Dealers sign broker note. Delay in sending the deal-slips/position slips to back up department. Open position held beyond limit not reported to the higher authorities. Bank-wise exposure limits not adhered to. Rate quoted to customers or at which inter-Bank deal is done not properly recorded. Proper value date not mentioned for merchant forward rates. While quoting finer rates, approval of the higher authority is not taken. Loss making deals are not reported to the higher authorities. Deal is done through brokers who are not in the Banks approved panel. Trading statements are not submitted to Foreign department regularly.
Manual on Concurrent Audit of Banks 316
Back up department Delay in sending confirmation of deals to counter-party Bank; Not keeping track of receipt of brokers note and not verifying the same; Month-end list of outstanding contracts not being sent to the counter party Bank; Proper record of overdue interest claims payable and receivable not maintained. Proper follow up for the claims not done; Wrong debit/credit in NOSTRO accounts not taken up immediately for rectification during reconciliation of accounts. Dealers position and back up departments position not reconciled from time to time. Incorrect delivery of foreign currency in case of sale transactions. Non-receipt of funds in nostro accounts in case of purchase transaction. Not keeping proper control on receipt and payment of rupee fund in case of sale and purchase of foreign currencies; Expired merchant contract not cancelled. Exchange rates applied by the reporting branches not checked in NSTRs received. Delay in sending various returns; Branches not reporting business properly and the dealers also not mentioning this aspect in dealers pad (viz. delivery of funds under forward contract must be so indicated). Daily position consolidation (currency-wise) does not tally.
Annexure
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317
Foreign currency balances in various accounts e.g. Mirror, Mirror Retention, Suspense etc. do not agree with balances as per position consolidation sheet. Rupee balances of Mirror, mirror retention, suspense accounts do not agree with rupee balances as per General Ledger. Daily printout of all statements not taken. Not checking brokerage claims from the deal slips. Revaluation of open position. Management of vostro accounts. Rate quoted to customers or at which inter-Bank deal is done not checked. The above list is not exhaustive. During the course of audit if any other irregularities are found, the same must be reported. The Concurrent Auditor will peruse the check points and wherever deviations are observed should comment on the same and provide a detailed list of the same for subsequent action.
Illustrative Check Points Auditors Comments Export: of Goods & Services Refer To: Regulation of Foreign Exchange Management (Export of Goods & Services) Regulations 2000 Notified Under Notification No FEMA 23/2000 Dated 3rd May, 2000 as Amended from Time to Time & Master Circular No RBI 2007-2008 /25 Master Circular No. 9/2007-2008 dated July 02,2007. Documentary Bill (Collection/Purchase/Negotiation) (a) Branch is having a system of verifying the Importer Exporter Code No. issued by the DGFT and a copy of the code number is obtained and held in records. If No, please furnish details of such accounts and details of documents handled. Yes/NO
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(i) Proper records are being maintained for receipt of Duplicate PP and other forms (j) Statutory Declaration Form in terms of FEMA 1999 has been obtained. (k) Export documents containing shipping document, invoice, duplicate GR/SDF/SOFTEX/PP etc once received from the exporter, are not returned to the exporter except for rectification and re-submission. (l) All the Export Documents handled (Collection/ Purchase/Negotiation) during the period have been properly scrutinized as regards the consistency with reference to the original export order/accepted sale.
Annexure 319
contract/letter of credit. Office Note is prepared pointing out the discrepancies, if any, and signed by authorized official, authorizing to handle the documents Export Bill Register (m) All types of export transactions are recorded in Export Bill Register recording all the relevant particulars as prescribed by RBI. (Physical/ Electronically Maintained) Export Bills are numbered serially according to uniform numbering system on a Financial Year basis. Export Bill Register, inter- alia, contains the following information; a. Details of GR /PP / SOFTEX Forms, b. Due Date of Payment c. The fortnight of R-Return in which the transaction is reported to the RBI through ENC statement, d. Date of Realisation e. Short realization if any, f. Remittances e.g. Agency Commission Export Claim etc, made, if any etc Change of Buyer (n) In case of default by the buyer after shipment is made, change of buyer has been permitted by the Branch in case of default by the buyer and in cases where reduction in value has been permitted which does not exceed 25% of the original value along with change in buyer. The realization period is within six months from the date of export. Reduction in Invoice Value (o) Reductions in Invoice Value permitted by the Branch during the period do not relate to commodities subject to floor price stipulations. The exporter has surrendered export incentives, if any, proportionate to the amount of reduction (p) Reduction in invoice value permitted by the Branch for pre-payment of usance bill is proportionate to the period of pre-payment and at the rate of interest included in invoice and if it is not mentioned in the invoice, at the prime rate LIBOR of the currency of the bill.
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correspondent/ exporter for recovery. No. Advance bills Amt Outstanding for Collection (s) All cases where the exporter has failed to repatriate export proceeds within six months from the date of export and failed to apply for extension of time, are reported to the Regional Office of the RBI (t) Followup action with defaulting exporters is systematic and vigorous and there is no laxity in such action Extension of Time Period of Realisation (u) Extension of time period for realization beyond six months from the date of export has been permitted by the branch on compliance of the following i. Extension is not more than six months at a time ii. Non repatriation within the time period prescribed, is beyond control of the exporter and in-spite of his best efforts iii. The exporter has undertaken to repatriate the proceeds within the extended period. iv. The export transaction is not under investigation by the Enforcement Directorate. (v) Extension beyond 1 year (in aggregate) has been allowed by the Branch, on completion of the following 1. Total export outstanding of the exporter does not exceed USD 1 million or 10 % of average export
Annexure 321
realization during the last three financial years, whichever is higher. 2. For export bills outstanding beyond six months from the date of export and not covered above, the exporter has applied in form ETX in duplicate to the Regional Office of the RBI through the Branch. 3. All export bills outstanding beyond six months from the date of export, are reported in XOS statement with the date upto which extension is allowed by the branch mentioned under Remarks column. Export Write Off (w) Auditors shall verify whether the branch has been permitting Writing Off of export outstanding on compliance of the following: 1. bill is outstanding for 1year or more 2. The exporter is not under adverse notice of the Enforcement Directorate/CBI 3. Satisfactory documentary evidence is produced by the exporter to show that outstanding is inspite of his best efforts for realization 4. Aggregate amount written off amount in a financial year is not more than 10% export realization during the preceding financial year 5. The exporter has surrendered proportionate amount of export incentive, Documentary proof is obtained) 6. Goods have been destroyed/auctioned/the buyer is untraceable/ declared insolvent/cost of reimport is not beneficial etc. 7. GR/PP/Softex etc forms are appropriately certified by the Branch for written off cases 8. Verify the certifications and proper compliance. Comment on deviations, if any. 9. All the cases written off by the Branch during half-years (ended March & September) are reported to the Regional Office of The RBI in EBW statement
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Agency Commission on Exports (x) Agency commission on exports allowed by the Branch, either by deduction from bill value or by remittance after realization, had been declared in the Export declaration form (GR/PP/Softex etc) form and accepted by the Customs/appropriate authority. (y) Where the agency commission was not declared in the export declaration form, satisfactory reasons for non-declaration is offered by the exporter and a valid agreement is existing between the exporter and the beneficiary of the commission (z) All cases of reduction/remittance/write off allowed by the Branch are within the authority delegated. Furnish total number of cases in each category and verify from the certification by the Branch on the duplicate of export declaration form. Software Exports (aa) The auditors will verify whether the branch is adhering to the following by the branches at the time of handling software exports 1. For long standing contracts, periodic billing, at least once a month, is done. 2. For single shot shipment and also for the concluding shipment under long-standing contract, bill/invoice is raised within 15 days of transmission/completion of contract. 3. Valuation of the SOFTEX Form submitted by the exporter (may be a combined one for all the invoices raised on a particular buyer, including advance remittances received during a month) is made by designated official of the Government of India. Amendments in invoice value are made if necessary. 4. For export of Computer/Audio/Video/Television software, the SOFTEX Form is valued by the concerned designated official of the Government of India in the concerned EPZ/SEZ/STPI/FTZ within thirty days from the date of invoice/the last invoice raised in a month.
Annexure 323
Part Drawing/Undrawn Balances (bb) In cases, where adjustments for difference in weight, quality etc made by the buyer after the arrival of shipment at the buyers country, a small part of invoice value is left un-drawn. The auditors should ascertain whether such undrawn balances, does not exceed 10% of invoice value. Auditors shall also verify that the undrawn balances against the invoices are in conformity and as per prevalent practice for such line of exports. (cc) A declaration on the duplicate GR/SDF/PP form has been obtained from the exporter to the effect that the undrawn balance shall be repatriated/accounted for within the prescribed period of realization. (dd) If the exporter fails to repatriate, even after best efforts, to realize the undrawn balances, within one year from the date of shipment, the Branch has to ensure that at least the full Original invoice value or 90% of the value declared in the GR/SDF/PP form, whichever is higher, has been repatriated. Consignment Export (ee) Documentary Bill drawn under consignment sales are forwarded by the Branch to overseas correspondent with instructions to deliver the same only against Trust Receipt/Undertaking. The overseas party in the undertaking confirms to surrender sale proceeds/ Accounts Sales within a specified date within the prescribed period of repatriation of export proceeds.
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(ff) Under the present guidelines, branches are required to ensure that: A. Marine Insurance and Freight for shipments on Consignment basis are arranged in India. In case of deviations whether branch has obtained approval from RBI. B. Accounts Sales received from the Agent/Consignee, are properly scrutinized by the branch under a confirmation of the Branchs authorized official. C. Deductions in Accounts Sales are supported by Bills/Invoices and in respect of petty expenses e.g. postage, cable charges, stamp duty etc, the expenses are reasonable. D. The deductions are properly checked with reference to the bills etc.
Annexure 325
(pp) Crystallization of Foreign Currency liability is made as prescribed in rule 2A.2 of FEDAI and due date diary for this purpose is maintained by the branch meticulously. Notional Sale Position is reported to the concerned A category Branch on the date of crystallization.
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Negotiation (qq) The exporter are submitting documents under cover of the Banks prescribed format with specific request for negotiation of the documents and with recourse clause under signature of authorized person of the exporter. (rr) Documents negotiated are under L/C s issued by Prime Banks only. (ss) In case of Non prime Banks, whether approval has been obtained from Controlling Office. (tt) Branch has ensured that the Negotiation are done only on submission of relevant documents and on complying presentation in terms of the L/C issued by the issuing Bank under UCPDC (ICC Publication No 600) (uu) Position has been reported to appropriate A category branch and appropriate exchange rate (sight / usance) is obtained and recorded under authorized signature. (vv) Reimbursement claims are being lodged properly on negotiation if the L/C provides for lodgement of such claim. Alternatively, there is a system to follow up whether the issuing Bank is forwarding reimbursement instructions to the reimbursement Bank. (ww) Cases of delay during the period of audit may be separately indicated. (xx) Payment instructions (in reimbursement claim or bill forwarding) clearly indicate the name of the Nostro correspondent, its SWIFT Code, Nostro A/C No., Currency, Amount Tenor of the Bill, correct reference no. etc (yy) Documents are dispatched as per terms of the L/C on the same day of negotiation.
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maintained in a Register or properly through the system. Auditor may furnish details of the remittances where FIRC was not issued. ii) Export documents are routed through the same Bank through which advance payment was received.
Annexure 327
iii) Original FIRC has been produced with export documents and the bill amount is endorsed on the original FIRC and also in the FIRC numbering Register. iv) Purchase of Foreign Currency from market for refund of advance payment credited earlier to the exporters EEFC account is allowed only after balances in EEFC account of the exporter with all branches/banks have been fully utilized. ECGC (ggg) Auditors will verify whether the branch is following all the procedures laid down in banks circular letter i) Notification of limits (fresh, adhoc, renewal and enhancement), if the limit sanctioned is within the discretionary limit of the Bank. ii) Approval of limits( fresh, adhoc, renewal and enhancement has been obtained in respect of accounts which fall beyond discretionary limit iii) In case of accounts which are substandard, Doubtful or Loss assets, prior approval of ECGC has been obtained before extending credit. iv) Monthly declarations have been submitted and premium paid promptly. v) Packing credit premium is paid to debit of Exporters account and post shipment policys premium is paid to debit of branchs charges account. vi) Any nursing proposal approved by the branch/ Bank should be got approved by ECGC before giving effect to the proposal. vii) Any deviation in sanction terms should be properly taken up with the sanctioning authority for modification/ amendment. viii) Exporters have obtained shipments policies as per sanction and premium and declaration under the policy is up to date and also through our Bank assurance schemes. ix) In respect of post-shipment advances covering exports to Restricted Cover Countries, Revolving Limit and / or Specific Approval has been obtained from ECGC as applicable.
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into with a borrower without prior approval of ECGC. xv) Report of default is filed to ECGC within 4 months of due date/ extended due date or within 1 month from the date of recall of the advance, whichever is earlier. xvi) Payment of premium on the advance, for which report of default is filed, is discontinued from the subsequent month. xvii) Claim is lodged with ECGC (complete in all respects along with stipulated documents) within 6 months from the date on which the report of default was filed. xviii) Claims lodged with ECGC are followed up regularly for early settlement. xix) Claims rejected by ECGC are resubmitted at the earliest after rectification/compliance of deficiencies/irregularities pointed out. (hhh) Concurrent Auditor is requested to check and verify the computation of ECGC premia and monthly payment to ECGC within the stipulated time period. They should submit a certificate as per following proforma.
Annexure 329
We hereby confirm that the branch of Bank has correctly computed the ECGC premia for the months of. The premium on Pre-shipment credit has been debited to the exporters account and that on Post-shipment to the banks account. The premium has been remitted to ECGC in time Authorised Signature with Seal IMPORTS (iii) Concurrent Auditor should verify whether the branches are having the following policies/circulars while handling import transactions and they refer to the same while handling transactions. a) Foreign Trade Policy of DGFT b) Foreign Exchange Management (Current Account Transactions) Rules 2000 of Government of India & Notification No GIR 381 (E) Dated May 03,2000, c) Master Circular RBI 2007-2008/24 Master Circular No 08/2007-2008 Dated July 02,2007 d) Directions under FEMA Issued by the RBI from Time to Time. a. The Branch has followed strictly, KYC norms for all import transactions. b. The customer has Importer-Exporter code number for any transaction relating to import(except for private import) c. Application in appropriate Form-A1 has been obtained from the importer for all the import transactions of over USD 500. d. The Branch has verified the commodity being imported is not under negative list e. For import of items in the negative list the Branch has obtained the Exchange Control Copy of the Import Licence. f. Special conditions attached to the Import Licence, if any, have been adhered to by the Branch for import under the Licence. g. Exchange Control Copy of the Licence is endorsed for the value of import properly (Column 3 only at the time of opening L/C and
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Receipt of Import Documents / Bill (jjj) Remittances and acceptance of bills have not been made for import bill / documents received directly by the importer except where 1) Amount involved is not over USD 100,000/ or, 2) Import bill is received directly by wholly owned Indian subsidiary from their foreign principals/Status Holder Exporter/100% EOU/ Units in FTZ/Public Sector Units/Pvt. Ltd or Ltd Companies. 3) Branch is satisfied about the financial standing, track record and bonafides of the importer customer. 4) Satisfactory credit report is obtained for each individual supplier from overseas banker or a reputed rating agency, where the amount involved is USD 100000/ or more. (kkk) In all other cases remittances are made only for documents/bills received directly by the Branch from the banker of the overseas supplier (lll) The Branch has complied with Income Tax Act wherever applicable, for all the import transactions (mmm) Auditors should verify the endorsed License and all the Licenses utilized during the period, have been verified and found in order in all respects (nnn) Permitted methods of payment, as per notification of RBI have been followed by the branch Time Limit for Import Remittance (ooo) The auditors should verify the branch is ensuring that in case of normal import remittances have been completed within six months from the date of shipment except for amounts deferred for performance guarantee. (ppp) The auditors should verify Deferred Payment arrangement including Suppliers Credit/Buyers Credit , have been completed within a period of less than 3 years from the date of shipment and payment is made within the period.
Annexure 331
(qqq) The auditors should verify that Remittances beyond 6 months from the date of shipment if any, have been permitted by the Branch only in cases of import of Books or where the importer has explained the delay satisfactorily as due to financial difficulties/disputes etc Remittance of Interest on Imports (rrr) Overdue/usance interest remitted by the branch, if any, is for a period of less than 3 years. (sss) The rate at which interest (all in cost ceiling) is remitted as above does not exceed 6 months LIBOR plus 50 basis points for period upto 1 year and LIBOR plus 125 basis points for period of over 1 year upto less than 3 years.(LIBOR of the currency of invoice or benchmark rate) Pre-Payment of Usance Import Bill (ttt) Pre-payment has been allowed by the branch only on written request and acceptance from both the importer and supplier and after deduction of interest for the unexpired period (uuu) Deduction of interest for the unexpired period for prepayment has been done at the following rate: 1. At the same rate at which usance interest is claimed in the invoice/bill or LIBOR of the currency of invoice, as applicable. 2. Where usance interest is not expressed, at the existing LIBOR of the currency of invoice. Advance Remittance Against Import
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(vvv) Advance remittance has been permitted by the Branch only direct to the supplier as per contract and not to any agent or to any numbered account (www) For other procedures fresh guidelines are being issued shortly. Auditors may refer to the fresh guidelines for future verification. Opening of Import L/C (xxx) The auditors should verify that the Branch has complied with all the terms and conditions of the sanction before opening of L/C.
Annexure 333
(iiii) The Concurrent Auditor should ensure that Documentary bills are recorded in Import Bill Register and in case of non payment of due date it are followed up. The bills are crystallized on the due date for usance bills and on the 10th day for sight bills from the due date. (jjjj) Sale Position is reported to the A category branch on retiring/ crystallization of the Bill and bill selling rate is obtained unless it is under Forward Contract (kkkk) For bills under Forward Contract, the matter of delivery under the Forward contract is reported to A category Branch on the date of payment/ crystallization, whichever is earlier. Evidence of Import (llll) The auditors should verify that there is a system at
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the branch to obtain evidence of import and in respect of transactions of USD 100000 or more, the Branch obtains within 3 months from the date of remittance 1. Exchange Control Copy of Bill of Entry for Home Consumption or 2. Exchange Control Copy of Bill of Entry for Warehousing for 100% EOU or 3. Customs Assessment Certificate or Postal Appraisal Form for imports by post (mmmm) For Import Bills on DA basis, Evidence of Import is obtained at the Time of Remittance (nnnn) In case of non submission of Bill of Entry, branch should obtain satisfactory reasons from the importer. In such cases, Bill of entry is not submitted at the time of remittance due to following reasons e.g. nonarrival of the consignment/delay in Customs clearance etc. However, the importer provides an undertaking to submit the same within a period not exceeding three months from the date of remittance. (oooo) For imports in non-physical form, e.g. import of Software, Data through Datacom channel, drawings and designs through e-mail/ internet, the Branch should obtain a certificate from the Chartered Accountant that the data etc. have been received, as evidence of import. The importer has been advised in writing to inform the Customs Authorities about of the import.
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Annexure 335
(yyyy) The auditor should ensure that the branch at the time of booking the forward contract is ensuring: a. Tenor of the forward contract booked does not exceed the tenor of the underlying exposure. b. The total outstanding exposure on account of a customer is within the customer exposure limit prescribed by the Bank. c. Unutilised merchant contracts have been cancelled on the 15th day from last date of delivery d. Forward contract booked against EEFC account balances are not cancelled by the Branch. Extension may however be permitted. Booking of Forward Contracts on Past Performance & Declaration of Exposure (zzzz) Branch has booked forward purchase/sale contracts on account of its exporter/importer customers on the basis of their declaration of existence of exposure (without production of documentary evidence) subject to fulfillment of the following conditions: a. Amount booked in aggregate during the financial year and outstanding at any point of time, is up to the average of the last three financial years or the last financial years actual export/ import turnover, whichever is higher. b. In case of exporter customer overdue outstanding is not more than 10% of the turnover c. Importer/exporter customer produces a declaration regarding forward bookings with other Authorized Dealers. d. Amounts booked in excess of 75% of the above limit, shall be on deliverable basis, i.e. can not be cancelled. e. An undertaking is obtained to the effect that documentary evidence shall be produced at the time of cancellation/ before due date. The Branch has submitted the monthly statement of limits sanctioned and utilized under the facility direct to the RBI Foreign Exchange Department Central Office, Mumbai
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and the sale is endorsed under stamp and signature on the original approval. (eeeee) No foreign exchange is sold to travelers to Nepal/Bhutan or for transactions with these two countries (fffff) The auditor my at random verify issuance of Travelers cheques and whether the branch is ensuring that the traveler signs personally at the time of taking delivery of the cheques. (ggggg) The auditor may verify whether the branch is not issuing out of their total entitlement, Currency Note of Foreign Exchange sold to travelers to Iraq or Libya did not exceed USD 5000 or equivalent and for other countries up to USD 2000 or its equivalent. In respect of travelers to Islamic Republic of Iran. Republics of Commonwealth of Independent States and Republic of Russia, the full amount may however be issued in foreign currency notes.
Annexure 337
(hhhhh) The auditor may verify that the branch is not accepting cash beyond Rs 50,000/- for drawal of foreign exchange, either on one occasion or on several occasions for a single journey, equivalent to over Rs 50,000/payment has been received by the Branch either by crossed cheque drawn on the applicants account or on the account of the firm/company sponsoring the travel or by Bankers Cheque/Demand Draft. (iiiii) For remittances under Liberalized Remittance Scheme (USD 100000/ in a Financial Year) the declaration cum application form (as per Annex 3 of the Master Circular), duly filled up and signed by the applicant, has been obtained. (jjjjj) For remittances above the permissible limits (Schedule-III), prior approval from the RBI has been obtained (kkkkk) Remittances for permissible purposes to nonresidents are allowed only on submission of an undertaking by the remitter regarding Income Tax clearance and a certificate from Chartered Accountants in formats (Annex-4) prescribed by the Central Board of Direct Taxes, Ministry of Finance, Government of India Circular No. 10/2000 dated 09.10/2002 and AP (DIR Series) Circular No 56 dated 26.11.2002 (lllll) Concurrent Auditor to verify whether there are any instance of refusal by the branch in case any customer had approached the branch to surrender of unused/unspent foreign exchange beyond the prescribed period of 180 days (mmmmm) The Branch has not insisted for documentary proof for remittances by resident Indians, upto USD 100000 or equivalent for purposes of Employment, Emigration, Education, Medical Treatment, and maintenance of Close Relatives Abroad (nnnnn) Auditors may verify whether the branch has obtained the application on appropriate Form A2 and declarations as required for under the various facilities have been obtained from the applicant. The Branch has obtained such documents/declaration/ information from the applicant to reasonably satisfy that the
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any of the Rules/Regulations/Notification/ Direction issued there under from time to time Inward Remittance Refer To DBOD. AML.BC No. 3/14.08.001/2007-08 Dated July 02 2007 Master Circular on Foreign Contribution Regulation Act 1976) (ooooo) The Branch has ensured that no foreign contribution is credited to the account of any organization of political nature (even though not a political party) actual export/import turnover. (ppppp) The auditors should verify that the branch has handled and credited funds received on account of associations/organizations having definite cultural/educational/economic/social/religious activity are registered with the Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India specifically for the purpose (qqqqq) No foreign contribution has been accepted and credited by the branch to the account of candidates for election, correspondent, columnist, cartoonist, editor, owner, printer or publisher of any registered newspaper. (rrrrr) The Branch has insisted upon prior permission of the Central Government before accepting foreign contribution on account of entities covered under Section 4 & Section 5 of FCRA 1976. (sssss) Proceeds of cheques/drafts etc are credited to the accounts of associations covered under Section 6 of FCRA 1976 only on obtaining the organization is registered with Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India. (ttttt) In case the associations etc are not registered with the Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India, the Branch has insisted upon production of permission from the Ministry of Home Affairs, Govt. of India, for receiving the specific amount of foreign contribution. The Branch has submitted half yearly statement (March & September) of all the foreign contributions received, to the Government of India within two months of expiry of the half year.
Annexure 339
(uuuuu) Registration numbers allotted by the Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India, have been noted in the accounts of the associations etc to avoid harassment to the recipients (vvvvv) Payment instructions from NRE/FCNR accounts are also treated by the Branch as foreign source as far as FCRA 1976 is concerned and processed accordingly FCNR (B) Deposit Accounts Refer To Master Circular No DBODNo. Dir.BC.8.13.03.00/2007-2008dated July 02,2007 of Instructions Relating to Deposits Held in FCNR(B) Accounts) (wwwww) The Branch has verified residential status of the depositor prior to acceptance of deposit with reference to passport/visa/proof of residence etc and KYC norms have been observed. (xxxxx) The branch has not accepted deposits in currencies other than GBP, USD, EUR, JPY, AUD and CAD. Deposits in any other currency are converted to any of these six currencies at the option of the depositor and at the cost of the depositor. (yyyyy) The Branch has obtained application form for
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opening the account, complete in all respects and duly signed by the depositor. (zzzzz) The depositor has been advised of the penalty clause for premature closure of the account (i.e. penalty regarding the interest rate and swap charges) (aaaaaa) Automatic renewal clause is signed by the depositor (bbbbbb) The Branch has obtained a declaration from the depositor to the effect that he shall inform the Bank immediately on change of his residential status (cccccc) FCNR(B) Deposits are accepted only in the form of term deposits of maturity of 1 year and above and up to a maximum period of 5 years.
Annexure 341
(mmmmmm) The auditors should verify that the request for renewals beyond 14 days of maturity (both dates inclusive) are treated as fresh deposits and interest on the overdue period is paid at a rate of interest as applicable for Savings Bank Deposits (nnnnnn) In respect of payment of deposits prior to maturity of a deceased depositor, interest is paid at a rate as prevalent on the date of deposit and for the period the deposit has run,
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without charging penalty on interest rate. (oooooo) In respect of payment of deposit to a deceased depositor after maturity date, the Branch has properly calculated and paid interest for the overdue period at a simple rate as prevailing on the date of maturity. Non-Resident Ordinary (NRO) Account Refer To: RBI 2007-08/19 Master Circular No. 03/200708dated July 02, 2007, Subsections (1) & (2) of Section 6 of FEMA 1999, Notification No 5/2000RB dated May 03,2000. (pppppp) Accounts of Individuals/entities of Bangladesh/Pakistan nationality/ ownership have not been opened without prior approval from the RBI (qqqqqq) The Branch has verified residential status of the depositor prior to acceptance of deposit with reference to passport/visa/proof of residence etc and KYC norms have been observed. (rrrrrr) The Branch has obtained application form for opening the account, complete in all respects and duly signed by the depositor. (ssssss) The branch is ensuring by educating the customers to execute Automatic renewal clause at the time of opening of the term deposits
Annexure 343
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Auditors should issue a certificate on quarterly basis in the following format Verification of all forex transactions at ............................ branch including checking of forms A1, A2 and A3 meant for submission to the RBI alongwith R-Returns upto the fortnight ended .. has been done by us and we certify about the bonafides of forex transactions undertaken by the branch including the correctness of forms A1, A2, and A3. We further certify that the transactions have been carried out as per Banks internal guidelines / instructions vis-a-vis FEMA provisions and that due diligence exercise has been carried out while dealing with forex transactions. Signature of Auditor Seal Place Date Returns Auditors are required to verify, ascertain and comment whether all returns/statements related to Forex transactions are submitted by the branch to appropriate authorities within the scheduled time frame.
Manual on Concurrent Audit of Banks 344
ANNEXURE B
REVENUE AUDIT
___________________________BANK ________________________BRANCH Income & Expenditure Audit Period: ______________________ CERTIFICATE IN REGARD TO PROFIT & LOSS ACCOUNT 1 It is confirmed that the rate of interest applied to various advances and deposit accounts as specified and the calculation of interest earned and paid is correct. 2 It is ascertained that the service charges/commission of the prescribed rates are levied for various ancillary services rendered. 3 It is also ascertained that all other legitimate Income has been correctly worked out. 4 It is ensured that no unauthorized or improper expenditure has been done. 5 It is also confirmed that the interest rate and date fed for various borrower accounts/deposit accounts in the computer are correct. For __________ & Co.
Annexure 345
___________________________BANK _________________________BRANCH REVENUE AUDIT Period : DISCUSSION CUM-RECOVERY CERTIFICATE Certify that the Caption Revenue Audit has been discussed with the Controlling Officer Particulars of the Income Leakage and the recovery details are as follows: Leakage detected Recovery made This is also certified that _________________ & Co, Chartered
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Accountants attended the Audit work alongwith ___________ Assistant, (if any) since Date __________ and supervised and confirmed the Revenue Leakage Report that is correctly complied with. For __________ & Co Chartered Accountants For _________________ Bank _____________________ Branch.
Manual on Concurrent Audit of Banks 346
Annexure 347
Ref. No.- DateTo, The Chief Manager Add______________ _________________ _________________ Sub: Test Check Audit Report of your Branch for the period 4 Quarters viz, __________________ Ref: Letter No Dt._____________ Dear Sir, We are sending herewith one copy Test Check Audit Report of your __________ Branch for the period as mentioned above. Thanking You. Yours faithfully, ______________ & Co. Chartered Accountants
Manual on Concurrent Audit of Banks 348
ANNEXURE C
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Name of the Branch Region Name of the Account Asset Classification Constitution Nature of Activity/ Products traded Office Factory Address Raw Materials Work-inProcess Finished goods Nature of Stocks Branch Audit completed on Date of visit at Duration of the audit Factory/Unit Date of submission of Report
Annexure 349
Name of the Concurrent Auditor firm and the person who Audited Chartered Accountant Firm Person who audited with designation Name of the person(s) who accompanied the auditor From the branch side From the borrowers side
b. Borrowing Arrangement
Baking Arrangement Name of the Leader Bank Total limit FB NFB Our Share FB NFB Last consortium meeting held on Major decision taken, if any Sole/Multiple/ Consortium Last renewal/ review done on Sanctioned limit valid upto
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Sanctioned limit ROI (% p.a.) Value of Security (*) Adv. Value of security Drawin g power Outsta nding Debit Balance Exte nt of irreg ularity If any A. Fund based 1. Working Capital i) CC(H) ii) BP/BD 2. Term Loan/DPG
[(*) Advance value of security = value of security less margin] d. Compliance of the Terms and Conditions of sanction
Whether all the terms & conditions of Sanction have been complied with? YES NO If NO, the terms & conditions of sanction which are yet to be complied with reasons of non- compliance and steps taken/proposed for meeting the compliance requirement/irregularity etc. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
Annexure 351
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of sanction, whether equitable/registered mortgage in respect of specific immovable properties offered as security have been properly created? if non, the nature of deficiency. Wherever required/stipulated, whether charge on assets (1st/2nd/pari-pasu) has been properly created? If not, the nature of deficiencies and reasons thereof. Information on charge registered with ROC within prescribed time limit (where applicable) Date of filing Form 8/ Form 13. Date of registration Of charge Date of certificate Issued by ROC Value & nature of Charge (1st/2nd) Registered Any deficiency in charge registered with ROC within prescribed time limit? Give details. Wherever; required/stipulated, whether draft documents have been approved by the controlling office? If not, the nature of lapses and reasons thereof. Any other irregularity/ Deficiencies observed In documentation Particulars of legal audit stipulated and compliance thereof
f. Particulars of Insurance
Name of Insurance Company Policy Number & issuing branch Amount of policy Validity period (from to ) Risk Covered Particulars of the assets covered under the policy Whether the policy contains agreed Bank clause Any discrepancy/ Inadequacy in the Policy?
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YES NO
g. Information System
Submission of Stock statement regular? Date of last stock Statement submitted Submission of Book Debt statement regular? Date of last book-debt statement submitted YES NO YES NO Drawing Power (DP) register maintained DP is being calculated properly & regularly Auditors remarks on maintenance of DP Register, computation of DP and deficiencies, If any YES NO YES NO Submission of QMR/HMR statement regular? Date of last QMR/ HMR statements Submitted Are information submitted in QMR/HMR statements as per the books of accounts of the Company? If not, the discrepancies observed YE S/ NO Not Applicable QMR HMR
Annexure 353
Submission of MCMR statement regular? If MCMR statement is not submitted regularly, please ascertain the reasons and record your comments on lapses Date of last MCMR statement submitted YES NO Submission of audited accounts/ half-yearly results Reference of irregularities, if any, pointed out in the concurrent audit report YES NO
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General
Active account, shows healthy Dr. & Cr. Transactions Sale proceeds are deposited In the account Average daily transaction (Rs./Lac) Average Daily balance Average utilization the limit YES NO YES NO Dr. Summation Cr. Summation Whether Dr./Cr. Summations conform to the business plan projections of the company ? If not, please reconcile the position and give comments. Whether interest applied as per the norm and serviced promptly by the borrower? If not, the period upto which interest have been serviced and amount of overdue interest. The reasons for non- payment of interest & comments of the auditor.
Excess Drawings
No. of times the account is overdrawn Overdrawings are allowed continuously, occasionally or rarely Average time taken for regularization Reasons for allowing
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overdrawings Excesses allowed are reported regularly to higher authority Excess allowed are confirmed by higher authority. If not confirmed, steps taken for adjustment of overdrawing
Annexure 355
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books of the branch Follow up, if any, By the branch Repayment of Term Loan Installments regular If repayment of Term Loan installments is not regular Installments have been paid upto (Date) Number & Amount of overdue Installments (as on .. date) YES NO Earnings from the Account [period from to Interest Exchange & Commission Others Total Income Other benefits, if any, ancillary business/ Depository benefit etc.
Annexure 357
.....BANK .. BRANCH .. CONTROLLING OFFICE PART II [UNIT VISIT AND PHYSICAL VERIFICATION] A. General Information
Name and designation of the person contacted at the unit Whether sign board indicating Name of the company has been prominently displayed ? Whether Banks board indicating notice of hypothecation has been displayed conspicuously? Godown rented or own Whether Access to the Godown, is free, if not, comments Approach road to the godown General Storage condition Security arrangement at the godown Production details Last Year This Year Licensed capacity (please give units) Installed capacity (Please give units) Capacity Utilisation (please give units) Method of valuation of Stocks Raw Materials Stock in Process Finished goods Auditors comments, if any, in respect of
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2. Physical Stock and position of receivables and sundry creditors as on A. Physical Stock
Items Total Value Value of stocks as shown in stock statement of Raw materials Stock in process Stores & Spares Finished goods Total Add Purchase (from date of stock statement to date of inspection) Less Material consumed/reduction on account of sales (from date of stock statement to date of inspection) Total Add Stocks given on job work Total Less Stocks received for job work Less Unpaid stocks from sister concern Total Value of stock (must tally with books of accounts of the party)
Annexure 359
Explanatory Notes/Instructions Stocks a) Gross sales minus gross profit minus sales return should represent reduction on account of sales during the period from the date of stock statement to date of inspection b) In case of excisable items the excise register should be checked to find stock position. Otherwise stock register/original invoice to be checked to ascertain the stock position. c) Stocks received under LCs or stocks received under bills for which the company has not retired the bills should be excluded for DP computation. d) The entire stock should be segregated value-wise into A
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(high value), B (medium value), and C (low value) categories. The auditor must ensure verification of 75% of Acategory, 50% of B-category and 25% of C-category assets at least.
Manual on Concurrent Audit of Banks 360
Book Debts a) b) c) Age-wise and party-wise break up of book-debt to be obtained and party-wise receivables be checked with invoice/sales register to ascertain any discrepancy. Average time taken for realization of book debt to be compared with past trend/industry trend/trade trend. Verify excise records/sales tax returns/assessment orders of sales tax. 3. Stock sent out for job work
Date of despatch To whom sent Nature of stock Value of stock Proof of despatch Letter of lien/trust receipt obtained Letter of free access To stocks obtained
[Note : Movement of such stocks may be counter checked from records pertaining to excise duties/sales tax as the case may be.] 4. Stocks received in for job/work/stocks belonging to sister/allied concern
Date of Receipt From whom received Nature of stock Value of stock Proof of receipt Whether such stocks are segregated & kept away from the stocks hypothecated to the Bank
Annexure 361
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Book debts Ratio of value of stock and book debt as on BS date and date of inspection (value & percentage both) Balance Sheet date (..) Date of Inspection () Stock Book debt Stock Book Debt
6. Verification of Stocks
Maintenance of proper books of accounts (stock register, purchase register, production register, excise register, sales, sales tax register etc.) Internal control mechanism for verification of stock Stocking pattern followed by the company is in conformity with the industry/trade trend/ practice Inventory level accepted at the time of assessment is being followed, If not, the
8. Miscellaneous
Particulars of production being suffered due to lock out/closure/strike/labour unrest etc. Comments on branch officials visit to the unit and Inspection of stocks regularly. (Date(s) of such visit and major irregularities observed.
Annexure 363
Irregularities pointed out in the last RBI inspection/Statutory Inspection/Internal Inspection/ Concurrent audit on verification of stocks/book debts and steps taken by the branch for Rectification. Sl. No. Irregularities pointed out Steps taken i. ii. iii. iv. v. Any indication revealed through the audit that continuation of the relationship further
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will not be beneficial for the Bank. (Auditor should give his specific comment on this point) Overall observation in the account and detailed comments of the auditor.
Enclosure(s) : 1. 2. 3.
Manual on Concurrent Audit of Banks 364
ANNEXURE D
CREDIT AUDIT
ANNEXURE - A
BRANCH NAME & CODE : CONTROLLING OFFICE : BRANCH HEADED BY (Name) : DESIGNATION OF BM : SINCE WHEN IN THE BRANCH : a. GENERAL a. Name of the Borrowers : b. Activity of Borrower : c. a) Latest Sanction date/Authority b) Whether sanctioning authority has used the powers linked to Credit Rating : d. Classification of Asset i. As per previous CAR ii. As per present CAR : : e. i) Date of last credit audit by (Name of the Official) ii) Date of present credit audit by (Name of the Official) : :
Annexure 365
b. CREDIT APPRAISAL 10. i) Whether pre-sanction visit was made to a. The unit of the borrower b. Premises of the borrower c. Immovable property kept as security d. Check primary security ii) Whether the loan limit sanction is as per loan policy in vogue including exposure caps 2. Whether confidential reports were taken from the existing Banker of the party at the time of taking over of the there or at the time of initial sanction? 3. Whether the account with previous banker was standard at the time of its taking over?
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4. Has the laid down system/procedures w.r.t. loan appraisal has been followed? If so, then give the details of deviations observed on the following lines 1. Has the branch taken care that the name of the party and/or its associates/sister concerns does not appear in RBI/ECGC caution list/defaulter/willful defaulters list? : 2. Has branch taken care of fair practices code for lenders/Best Practices Code? :
Manual on Concurrent Audit of Banks 366
3. Deviation observed w.r.t. analysis of balance sheets, fund flow/cash flow statements, assessment of MPBF as per Banks loan policy. : 4. Shortcomings observed, if any, in due diligence exercise undertaken by branch in assessing credit worthiness, integrity and reputation of borrowers/guarantors : 5. Comments w.r.t. wrong assessment of repayment capacity of the borrower vis--vis credit facilities sanctioned, including moratorium period. : 6. Comments w.r.t. non-cognizance taken by sanctioning authority on existence of group connections of the borrower. : 7. Comments of audit team w.r.t. non justification of projected sales/turnover in view of past performance of the party. : 8. Observations w.r.t. improper/non assessment of non-fund limits e.g. non consideration of lag and lead period in case of LCs and capacity of borrowers to perform in case of BGs/DPGs including Techno economic viability study. : 9. Observations of audit team w.r.t. noncompliance with credit rating framework (CRF) and its effects on Banks revenue etc. i.e. pricing of loan vis--vis Credit Rating. :
141
Annexure 367
(Please submit specific comments in case of change/migration in Risk category of the account i.e. Credit Rating of the account) 10. If no collateral has been stipulated/ proposed, has the same been justified? : 11. Observance of exposure ceiling : 12. Observance of guidelines in respect of loans to sensitive sectors. : c. DISBURSEMENTS a. Has branch obtained security documents including letter of acceptance of terms and conditions of sanction. : b. Has the branch obtained certificate w.r.t. enforceability of these documents in Court of Law from (i) advocate on Banks panel and (ii) Zonal Inspectorate : c. Give the details of deviations observed in Documentation : d. If it is consortium account, whether joint documentation has been done? : e. Has change been got registered with ROC in case of Company? : f. Has branch completed with terms & conditions of sanction/indispensable requirements including promoters contribution, collateral securities, etc. and legal compliance certificate placed on record? :
Manual on Concurrent Audit of Banks 368
g. If no, give details of terms and conditions not complied with : h. Whether loan system for delivery of credit has been adhered to? : i. Is/are securities charged to Bank primary/collateral are comprehensively with Banks clause and policy is alive? : d. CONDUCT OF ACCOUNT AND SUPERVISION :
Sl. No. Nature of facility
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a) Comments on Conduct of Account Does the operation in A/c. suggest that sale proceeds are not routed through the branch? : Is party submitting Stock Statement regularly alongwith detail of Sundry Crs. Goods received under un-retired documents under L/c. Drawee Bills limit? : Is branch carrying out meaningful scrutiny of stock statement and arriving at DP correctly? : Does the debit balance exceed the limit/drawing power as a regular feature? :
Annexure 369
Are cheques issued by party returned unpaid very frequently for want of funds? : Are the bills purchased/ discounted returned unpaid? : Does the party make unusual delay in retiring bills received for collection under LC(s) opened by branch/or otherwise? : Has end-use of funds been ensured and the a/c does not in any way indicate diversion of funds? : Is party submitting export bills promptly and within due date of Packing Credit allowed? : Is party submitting FRS data/ to branch within stipulated Yes/No time frame? : Is branch scrutinizing the FRS data/ purposefully and Yes/No operating limits are fixed accordingly? : Is party submitting its financial papers etc. within Yes/No stipulated time for
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renewal of limits? : Data of latest audited balance sheet on record? : Whether all BGs/LCs issued have been entered Yes/No in the BG/LC register? :
Manual on Concurrent Audit of Banks 370
Whether usual commission has been charged Yes/No and interest recovered as per terms of sanction? : Whether in case of performance BGs, visit to site has been Yes/No conducted on quarterly basis as per guidelines? : Whether any BGs has been invoked during the review Yes/No period? : If yes, whether payment has been made by party promptly? : Is the party making repayment of TL/DPG as per terms of sanction? : Is branch purchasing accommodation cheques/cheques issued to sister associate concerns in the account? : Is branch purchasing pay orders/drafts issued by or drawn on co-operative banks? : Details of any other unauthorized accommodation allowed by the branch to party during period? : Are consortium meetings held on regular basis (if our Bank is leader), and attended by the BM, if we are not leader? : Date of last consortium meetings held and gist of deliberation, if any. :
Annexure 371
In case of multiple financing has branch ensured that securities are properly charged to Bank and or intact? : In case account was due for renewal/review whether the proposal
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has been submitted to ZO? : b) Any other unusual feature noticed in the conduct of account Give detailed comments w.r.t. threat posed to slippage of a/c. to NPA (if any) keeping in view all these facts and any other relevant aspect which auditor feel is relevant (e.g. Continued losses, high/rising leverage ratios, decreasing liquidity, repaid or uncontrolled growth specially into new lines of business, slow collection of accounts receive-able, slow turnover of inventories, low/falling margins, untimely submission of financial statements, inadequate financial information and surprise developments) If account is NPA: (Applicable to those accounts only where Nursing/Rehabilitation/ Restructuring including or Corporate Debt restructuring has been undertaken) Since when NPA Memoranda Intt. _____________ Total outstanding (a) Before Restructuring/Nursing/ Rehabilitation (b) After Restructuring/Nursing/ Rehabilitation
Manual on Concurrent Audit of Banks 372
Total securities available in a/c. (realizable value) Whether terms of restructuring/nursing/ rehabilitation are being honored? In case answer to above is no then Steps taken by branch for recovery of Banks dues (including settlement/ proceedings under securitization act) Chances of recovery Suggestions to safeguard Banks interest c) Any other serious irregularity observed d) Comments upon control exercised by branch by way of Stock Inspections/Unit visit/ analysis of FRS data, follow up and supervision. e) Contentions of BM as informally discussed on the findings of auditors f) Suggestions for improvement
Annexure 373
ANNEXURE - B
CERTIFICATE This is to certify that credit audit of _________________________ _______________________________________ was undertaken by ________________________________________________ on _____________ and completed on _____________________ in
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________. This is further certified that prior to finalization of the report the irregularities/deficiencies observed by the auditors in the report were discussed with the branch managers and the BM has noted the same for rectification at the earliest. List of Accounts: S. No. Name of the Party
Manual on Concurrent Audit of Banks 374
ANNEXURE E
Number of account opened during the period under Audit Number of account closed during the period under Audit Number of active accounts Total number of transmissions Sampling Plan Audit Area Total number Sample size Bank office connected branches Account opening Account modifications Account closure Dematerialization Off market, on market, interdepository Pledge, unpledge, confiscation instruction Dematerialization instructions Transmissions Place of keeping records (The Main DP to submit information for all its Branch DPs) Type of documents will be either ALL or specific type documents
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DP ID DP Ids at which documents are being stored Type documents stored Period (From-To) Remarks Concurrent Audit Report for the Month of. We have conducted the Concurrent Audit of... for the period from. to We have verified the front office and back office operations of the DP for the month ended on .. Our observation as well as our report in the prescribed format at given below: Scope of Audit: All aspects of the DP operations more particularly the following areas have been covered by us a. Account opening & closing b. Processing of DRF c. Processing of Instruction slip d. Back office operation e. Maintenance of Physical records & documents f. Internal check & control procedures of the DP operation
Annexure 377
g. Dealing system h. Compliance of Statutory requirement Extent of Audit work undertaken: Verification of Account opening Forms & our findings Date A/c No Name Remarks Status of the following reports/documents & dues: i. Annual Report j. Net worth Certificate & Computation Sheet in case of CM DPs RTA DPs & MBFC k. SEBI Annual Fees l. Dues to CDSL m. BO grievance reports along with the grievances received from the collection centre
Manual on Concurrent Audit of Banks 378
General Audit Observation n. Instances where BOID No. not stamped on DISo. Signature of BO in DIS not verified by BOI officials (The checklist points which are not applicable should be marked as not applicable) (1) Account Opening and Account Modifications: Sl No. Particulars Checked Comments No of
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Instances Remarks of Internal Auditor (if any) Whether proof of identity and residence address is collected from individuals as per SEBI and CDSL requirements and the same are verified against original? Yes No Whether necessary documents/ information as prescribed by SDSL ( as per DP Opening Instructions) have been collected from different types of clients such as individual investors, CMs, Corporate, HUF, NRIs, OCBs, trust etc.? Yes No Whether special care is taken to check genuineness of the client if disproportionately large number of accounts (say above 20) is opened with the same or similar names and / Yes No
Annexure 379
or same address and/or with the same Bank account details? (refer communiqu no. 632 dated 22.12.05) Whether pursuant to communiqu no. 632 date 22.12.05 The DP has checked that all disproportionately high number of existing accounts with same or similar names and/or same address and/or with the same Bank account details were checked for genuineness? Whether any suspicious account was found? Yes No
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Yes No Whether agreement is duly executed before account is activated in CDAS? Yes No Whether DP has executed any supplementary agreement undertaking which has clauses contradictory to CDAS prescribed agreement? Yes No Whether DP CM agreement has been executed for CVs of BSE and DP-BO agreement for exchanges other than BSE? Yes No
Manual on Concurrent Audit of Banks 380
Whether the procedures prescribed by CDSL for opening & operating the account of illiterate person and disabled persons are being complied with? Yes No Whether HUF accounts are opened without nominee / joint holder(s) Whether HUF accounts are opened under the stamp of HUF? Yes No Yes No Whether there is adequate mechanism to ensure that the details of accounts opening forms are entered correctly in the CDAS? Yes No Whether BO signatures have been appropriately scanned in CDAS? Yes No Whether nomination is made as per the procedure prescribed in the DP
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Operating Instruction and nomination form is duly filled, executed and same has been appropriately entered in to the CDAS and updated in nomination register? Yes No Whether modification to account details is done only after accepting account modification form/letters duly Yes No
Annexure 381
signed by the BOs and the same has been updated in CDAS In case of change of address of the BO Whether proof of new address is obtained Confirmation letter is sent to the BO at old as well as at the new address Yes No Yes No In case of change of signature of the BO, whether procedure as prescribed in communiqu no. 398 dated 16.04.04 is followed? Whether the DP has opened any partnership accounts in the name of the partnership firm except for commodities? Yes No Whether the DP has opened any account for holding commodities? Whether any security other than commodities was held in such as account? Yes No Yes No Number of BO accounts pending for opening as on date beyond reasonable time period
Manual on Concurrent Audit of Banks
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382
(2) Dematerialization Sl No. Particulars Checked Comments No of Instances Remarks of Internal Auditor (if any) Whether there is a procedure in place to prevent acceptance of securities, which are not admitted in to CDSL and also where the investor has not opened a BO account? Yes No Whether the demat requests are accepted as per procedure laid down by CDSL along with inward dare and stamp of the DP? Yes No Whether there is a system to affix a stamp surrendered for dematerialization along with DP name, DP ID and BO ID and mutilate certificates as prescribed by CDSL? Yes No Whether the DP has an adequate system for keeping the physical securities under safe custody till dispatch to the issuer / RTA? Yes No
Annexure 383
Whether demat requests received from BOs are sent to the Issue/ RTA within seven days from the date of receipt of demat request?
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Yes No Whether there is a proper procedure for recording of dispatch details such as dispatch ref. No. dispatch date, name of courier etc? Whether any demat requests were rejects due to errors attributable to the DP Whether there is a system in place to analyze the reasons for such demat rejections demat delays and taking corrective actions? Yes No Yes No Whether the DP has returned the certificates alongwith rejection letters to the concerned BO within reasonable time period? Yes No Yes
Manual on Concurrent Audit of Banks 384
Whether proper records of such despator such as DRN, dispatch ref. no. dispatch date, name of courier/ signature of BO have been kept? No Whether transposition form is filled along with DRF in case the BO names in the certificate are not in the same order as per the BO account details in system? Yes No
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Whether Transmissioncumdemat requests are processed as per the prescribed procedure? Yes No Whether any transfercumdemat requests are accepted? Yes No Total number of demate requests pending for dispatch for more than 7 days after the date of receipt?
Annexure 385
(3) Instruction Slip (off market, on market, inter depository and early pay in: Sl No. Particulars Checked Comments No of Instances Remarks of Internal Auditor (if any) Whether there is proper inventory control mechanism for instruction slip booklets? Whether physical inventory is tallied with the inventory records at prescribed intervals? Yes No Yes No Whether the DIS issued to BOs have pre-stamped BO ID and pre-printed serial number? Yes No Whether there is system to issue delivery instruction booklets to the
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BOs based ONLY on the requisition slip which forms part of the earlier issued instruction Yes No
Manual on Concurrent Audit of Banks 386
slip booklet? Whether such requisition slip had preprinted instruction slip serial number range of the booklet of which it form a part? If any instruction slip booklet is not issued on the basis of requisition slip whether the procedure prescribed under operating instruction no.. is followed? Yes No Yes No Whether loose delivery instruction slips are issued? If yes, whether they are issued as per the prescribed procedure to the BOs? Yes No Yes No Whether a system is in place to affix the date and time of receipt stamp on DPs and copy of DIS? Yes No Whether there is a system in place to suitable stamp the delivery instruction received beyond the Yes
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No
Annexure 387
prescribed deadlines? Whether the control over issue instruction slips to the BOs e.g. proper control of instruction slip serial numbers vis--vis account number? Yes No Whether the instruction slip number is verified against the issue details at the time of the receipt from the BO? If yes. Whether the slip number validation is done manually or from the back office software? Yes No Whether provision for blocking of DIS sr. numbers which are: already used or reported lost/misplaced/stol en is existing? Yes No Yes No Whether DP executes instructions only on the basis of duly signed instruction slips and signature are duly verified? Yes No Whether instruction Yes
Manual on Concurrent Audit of Banks 388
slips are checked and signatures are verified by two officials separately for their correctness? No Whether fax indemnity in prescribed format is
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obtained from BOs before accepting instructions through fax? Yes No N.A Whether it is ensured that original instructions are received within two days in case fax instructions are accepted? Yes No N.A There a system in place to prevent multiple execution of the same instruction, in case fax instructions are accepted? Yes No N.A If the DP is accepting delivery instructions accompanied by annexures from the BO. Whether the same has been prepared as per the procedure prescribed by CDSL? Yes No N.A Whether the column for cash transfer is properly filled? Yes No Whether blank columns have been stuck off? Yes No
Annexure 389
Whether the duly reports\ with respect to High Value Transactions (including null report) being generated by CDAS is stored by the Main and branch
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DPs(communiqu no. 612 dated 30.11.05)? Whether there is a system to ensure that while entering the transactions of value exceeding Rs.5 Lacs, a senior officials verifies the transaction? Yes No Whether the DP has systems and procedures to double check transactions originating from dormant accounts as a risk containment measure (Communique no. 602 dated 11.11.05)? Yes No Whether the instructions are being executed in CDAS as per the execution date mentioned by the (execution date is not required to be filled in case of on market and early pay in instructions) Yes No
Manual on Concurrent Audit of Banks 390
(4) Account Closure: Sl No. Particulars Checked Comments No of Instances Remarks of Internal Auditor (if any) Whether BO has submitted the Account Closure From (ACF)/ a letter containing thed particulars specified in ACF if the BO initiates closure? Yes No
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Is confirmation for closing of account sent to BO? Yes No In case of account closure initiated by BO, whether the DP has complied with the procedure for closure/ transfer of balances/ rematerialisation within 2 days of receipt of account closure request? Yes No In case of account closure initiated by DP, whether DP has given 30 days notice to BO before closing accounts? Yes No In case a BO wants to close an account with
Annexure 391
pending demat position, whether the DP has followed the procedure prescribed for such cases? If any accounts have been shifted from one DP to another by using Account Transfer option in the Transfer/ Transmission module or waiver has been claimed for inter depository transfer, whether the procedure prescribed in this regard has been followed ? ( communiqu no. 638 dated 4.1.06) (5) Audit of the other transactions / services: Sl No. Particulars Checked Comments No of Instances Remarks of Internal
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Auditor (if any) Whether all formats used by the DP are in conformity with CDSLs prescribed format? Yes No Is there a system for reconciliation for AOF Demat requests, remat request forms etc? Yes No
Manual on Concurrent Audit of Banks 392
Whether any indictment or any other orders have been passed against the DP by any competent authority? If yes, whether the same has been notified to the depository within 7 days of passing such order? Yes No Whether Power of Attorney (POA) documents are notarized, duly executed and the same have been appropriate entered into CDAS? Yes No Whether any POA with expiry date has been accepted? If yes, whether there is internal control mechanism to monitor expiry of such POA Yes No Whether POA contains any clauses which are detrimental to the interest of the BOs (communiqu no 631 dated 22.12.05 Yes No Whether the DP has received any complaints for Data
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cause inconvenience and / or loss to BO / system / DP/ CDSL? Whether the DP has registered itself for easi/ easiest? If yes, whether the procedure prescribed for utilizing easi /easiest services is being followed? Yes No Yes No Whether pledge, unpledge, confiscation instructions are processed as per procedure prescribed by CDSL? Yes No Whether transmissions effected, if any, have been done in accordance with the procedure stipulated by CDSL? Yes No Whether the remat/ repurchase transactions effected , if any, have been done in accordance with the procedure stipulated by CDSL? Yes No Whether freeze/ unfreeze transactions, if any, have been done in accordance with the procedures stipulated by CDSL? Yes No
Manual on Concurrent Audit of Banks 394
Whether there is a
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system in place to record and redress all the grievances of BOs arising at the main DP or at the branch/ back office connected center within the stipulated time of 30 days? Yes No Whether Main DP sends the transaction statements at interval as prescribed by CDSL to all its BOs including branch BOs? Yes No (6) Branches (Branch DP) / Back office connected branches a. Applicable for Main DP report Sl No. Particulars Checked Comments Remarks of Internal Auditor (if any) Whether the due diligence procedure has been complied with by DP for opening any branches/ back office connected branches? Yes No Whether the scope of activity of the branches/ back office connected branches is clearly documented and adhered to? Yes No
Annexure 395
Whether all the back office connected branches of the DP display the name of the DP prominently? Yes No Whether at least one staff member of each of the branch DP is on the payroll of the main DP? Yes
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No Whether each back office connected branch employ trained staff commensurate with the type of function allocated? Yes No Whether branches/ back office connected branches are provided with the relevant and critical information/ circulars like securities admitted to Depository, Bye Laws, Operating Instructions for Depository Participants, format / stationery, methods of feeds back to clients, viz demat rejection, failure of delivery out, credits received, etc.? Yes No
Manual on Concurrent Audit of Banks 396
Whether back office connected branches have adequate infrastructure for the current as well as expected level of operations? Yes No Whether there is a control, co-ordination and the supervisory set up for reporting events that have occurred at back office connected branches that require management intervention? Yes No Whether the back office connected branches of the DP have adequate provisions for safety and security of the documents pertaining to the BOs? Yes
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No Whether reconciliation between the branches / back office connected branches and main DP takes place for the purpose for maintenance of account opening form, demat request, instruction slips and blank instruction booklets issued by and / or received from the branches back office connected branches?
Annexure 397
Whether the transaction statements are sent at intervals as prescribed by CDSL to the BOs of all the branch DPs? Yes No Whether the service of any of the branch has been terminated by the main? If yes, whether the same has been done as per CDSL requirement? Yes No Yes No b. Applicable for branch DP Sl No. Particulars Checked Comments Remarks of Internal Auditor (if any) 1. Whether the name of the Main DP has been displayed prominently at the premises of the branch of the DP? Yes No 2. Whether the branch employs trained staff commensurate with the functionalities allocated by the Main DP? Yes No
Manual on Concurrent Audit of Banks
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398
3. Whether there is a control, co-ordination and the supervisory set up for reporting events that have occurred at the branch that require management intervention to the Main DP? Yes No (7) Back Office Software: Sl No. Particulars Checked Comments Remarks of Internal Auditor (if any) Whether statement of transactions are (or any other reports like clients master reports etc.) generated from the back office? If yes, whether the details of the same match with the statement or report generated from CDAS? Yes No Yes No Whether back office (including web site) is updated regularly for the transactions done on the CDAS? Yes No Whether the back up of data residing in back office (or any data maintained in electronic form) with respect to depository operations is taken daily? Yes No
Annexure 399
Whether back office network connected to Internal? If yes, whether the same is protected by appropriate mechanism
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like firewalls? Yes No Yes No Whether back office network is connected to CDS network without permission of DOT and CDSL? Yes No Whether proper mechanism exists to ensure integrity of files from back office before they are uploaded from DP terminal? Yes No Records and documents to be maintained; Sl No. Particulars Checked Comments Remarks of Internal Auditor (if any) Whether the following record are being kept in a manner so that they can be retrieved at any time: Yes No a) Account opening forms, agreements and supporting documents of all BO Yes No
Manual on Concurrent Audit of Banks 400
b) Register of documents/certificates received and sent for dematerialization Yes No c) Instruction slip duly signed by BOs for off market, settlement, pledge, inter depository transfer, and account closure forms etc. Yes No d) Record for transaction
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statements provided to BO, giving details such as account number, date of dispatch, period for which the statement was dispatched etc Yes No e) Investor Grievance Register Yes No f) Back up register Yes No g) Power of Attorney register Yes No h) Nomination register Yes No Whether records are kept separately for each depository? Yes No
Annexure 401
Whether there is a system to maintain all the records and written instructions received form BOs for minimum period of 10 years? Centralized Depository Accounting System (CDAS) Sl No. Particulars Checked Comments Remarks of Internal Auditor (if any) Number of persons authorized to access CDAS system Is secrecy of passwords maintained at all levels? Yes No Are the staffs operating the CDAS appropriately trained? Yes No Whether old reports are being deleted from the system at pre defined interval? Yes
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No Whether the DP takes the backup of the CDAS system (Data base folder, Report folder) on daily basis? Yes No
Manual on Concurrent Audit of Banks 402
a. Which media / device is used to take backup? b. Whether such media is stored safely? Yes No Yes No Whether CDAS is being used for any other purposed? Yes No Whether any software not prescribed by CDSL has been installed on CDAS? Yes No Whether the configuration of hardware, software of CDAS is as per CDSL specification? Yes No Whether releases of CDAS have been properly applied? Yes No a. Whether the Anti Virus Software have been installed? b. If yes, is the Anti virus Software upgrade regularly on weekly basis? Yes No Yes No Whether the variable access rights scheme as suggested by CDSL is implemented properly? Yes
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No
Annexure 403
The type of primary connectivity Whether requirement for ISDN connectivity is fulfilled? b. Whether ISDN connectivity is available? c. When was it last used / tested? LEASESD LINE VAST ETHERNET Yes No Whether the CDAS is adequately protected in a secure area with adequate power supply (UPS or voltage stabilizer)? Yes No Whether maintenance of the DP terminal (like database purging, applicable of new releases etc.) is being done as per CDSL Operation instructions and communiqus? Yes No Whether the CDAS is connected to any other network without approval of DOT and / or CDSL? Yes No Whether the CDAS is connected to the internet? Yes No
Manual on Concurrent Audit of Banks 404
Compliance Status of earlier inspection and internal audit reports Sl No. Report Observations Status 1. Inspection audit a. Mar 05 b. Sep 05
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c. Mar 06 2. Inspection of 04-05 3. Inspection of 04-05 We here by certify the following:Particular checked Comments Remarks (if any) That the required internal control, checks risk management procedure are in place Yes No That the DP operations are being carried out as per the operations are being carried out a per the operating procedures and Bye Laws of CDSL Yes No
Annexure 405
Particular checked Comments Remarks (if any) That adequate staff, Hardware and Software are available and in existence at the office where the DP operations are being carried out Yes No I/we are not related party to the DP Stamp/Seal & Signature of the Auditor. Date: Management Comments: Stamp/Seal & Signature of the Depository Participant Date:
Manual on Concurrent Audit of Banks 406
ANNEXURE F
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Whether officers manually initial the vouchers/transactions, which they authorize on the screen?
Annexure 407
Checkpoints Observations Whether transfer scroll authenticated by the officers of the respective departments after having tallied with the manual transfer scroll? Whether GL Head-wise totals equal to the corresponding figure in Day Book? (Check at random & mention date) Whether repayments in Loan a/cs are diarised and monitored? (Such as giving position for repayment due date, repayment due, advance collection & List of overdue a/cs?) Whether expired items such as overdue TERM DEPOSITS/LCs are logically segregated & parked in separate heads in GL by the system? Whether the system calculates interest on overdue Term Deposits? Whether General Ledger heads or Sub heads maintained in the computer system is in conformity with the G.L. Heads prescribed by the Bank? (Ascertain deviations from Trial Balance / GL abstract) Whether there are any a/cs with ZERO balance? (If yes, it implies that the a/cs are not properly closed.)
Manual on Concurrent Audit of Banks 408
Checkpoints Observations Is there any operation on accounts with ZERO balance? Whether any unconfirmed entries (pending for authorization) are existing? Whether cash receipts of the day, as generated by the system, is being tallied with the pre-scrolling register and duly signed by the authorised official maintaining the scroll and the Head Cashier? Is the balance in Suspense A/C reconciled and cleared on timely basis? Does the software accept entries, which are entered and authorized by the same person? Mention such activities which do not adhere to Maker-Checker concept & the system accept without authorization. Whether the following important manual/registers are properly maintained (From Sl. No. 19 to 27 ) Application User manuals supplied by SW Vendor Parameter Change Register
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User-ID register Complaint Book Day begin and Day End register Cheque Book issue Register Daily movement register for DD/FDR/BC etc.
Annexure 409
Checkpoints Observations Mistake book Control Record of Reports Register, (Ref Comp. Manual-7.1.1) For ALPM only Whether records of parameter changes in Global change for interest rates are reflected in Audit Trails? (S/W) Whether Global interest for SB public & SB staff is correctly set? Whether global interest rate slab for Term Deposits with effective date is correctly set as per circularised instructions issued from time to time? Must be four categories: General, Staff, Sr. Citizen and Staff/Sr. Citizen (Staff) Whether account level interest rates for OD/CC/PN a/cs are correctly set? Whether the system charges Penal Interest on temporary overdraft (including against clearing) automatically? (S/W) Whether the system charges Penal Interest automatically? (S/W)
Manual on Concurrent Audit of Banks 410
Checkpoints Observations Whether the parameters for various service charges correctly set? (As per circularised instructions from time to time) From Sl. No. 34 to 45 DD/MT/TT (Also against tender of cash) Collection charges in outstation cheques Bankers Cheque / Pay Order EFT in applicable branches Penal Charges for fall in minimum balance Cheque Book Charges for SB/CT/CC/OD a/cs Closure of SB & CT a/cs Handling charges - Cheque return Ledger Folio CT/CC/OD Stop Payment instructions Handling / I/C for inoperative/Dormant SB/CTa/cs Issue of cheque books Report Verification (From Sl. No. 46 to 50) Whether all reports generated are duly checked & authenticated by officials? Are the reports sequentially filed? Is report available from the system for interest debited / credited to an account on periodic
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Checkpoints Observations Whether separate report for a/c debited to a/cs at periodic intervals (half-yearly) are generated, checked, authenticated & preserved? Whether Exceptional Reports including Financial and Non Financial Audit Trail generated and duly checked & signed by the Branch Head on daily basis? Whether the following daily reports are generated from the system From Sl. No.51 to 73 (If provision exists then it should not be treated as software problem) Provision exists Generated by Branch Active users list during the day Cash Scroll/Transfer Scroll/Clearing Scroll DD / Pay Order/ Bankers Cheque issued / paid (number wise) Number wise Term Deposit Receipt issued Bills lodged & realised, Bill type wise & Bills returned Cheque return register Provision exists Generated by Branch H.O. Schedule & Daily Statement Day Book
Manual on Concurrent Audit of Banks 412
Checkpoints Observations GL movement report Abstract of GL(Trial Balance/Weekly HO1) Letter of thanks to a/c holder /introducers on daily basis Cheque book issue/cancelled. Stop Payment Instructions issued/cancelled Standing Instructions executed/not executed/ entered/ deleted Balance of Cash Credit / Overdraft a/c Adhoc debit interest application Temporary Overdraft Report Debit Balance in Deposit Accounts Term Deposit Due-notice
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Report of CBDT collection a/c (for Govt. a/c, based upon the stand alone package) (There should be no outstanding in this a/c) If LOCKER module is implemented, list of a/cs operated in a day Stop payment Register Transfer scroll
Annexure 413
Checkpoints Observations Whether the following monthly reports are generated from the system From Sl. No.74 to 82 (If provision exists then it should not be treated as software problem) Provision exists Generated by Branch Module wise balance sheet Register of all impersonal a/cs (Bills Payable/ Draft Ex-advice/ Sr. Creditors/ Suspense Revenue/ Suspense Capital/ Suspense Pension/ Bankers Cheque/ POB etc. with outstanding statements Charges statement Outstanding bills, cheques sent for collection Interest product report of CC/OD/TL List of interest charged in CC/OD/TL Loan repayment notices to the defaulting borrowers & guarantors If LOCKER module is implemented, List of a/cs with rental due If LOCKER module is implemented, Letter of reminder to customers with rent overdues
Manual on Concurrent Audit of Banks 414
Checkpoints Observations Whether the following quarterly reports are generated from the system From Sl. No.83 to 87 (If provision exists then it should not be treated as software problem) Provision exists Generated by Branch Cheque Book issue register Stop Payment register Standing Instructions register If LOCKER module is implemented, List of safe deposit vaults
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If LOCKER module is implemented, list of accounts with no operation after a specified date Whether Daily Audit Trail / Report contain the following information? From Sl. No.88 to 96 (If provision exists then it should not be treated as software problem) Provision exists Generated by Branch Accounts opened / modified / deleted/ frozen/ unfrozen/ closed Signatures newly scanned / deleted Parameter addition / modified/ deleted Credit Limit added/ modified/ deleted
Annexure 415
Checkpoints Observations Drawing power added/ modified/ deleted Whether GL total is tallying with the total of WR-1as on date of checking? (to be resolved with the assistance of local representative of the S/W vendor) Whether balances as on the date of AUDIT tallied with that of the figures reflected in the GL on that date? Whether application of interest through system, at random check, is correct? Whether the branch is carrying out sample checking of interest at the time of application & maintains records thereof every month/ quarter/ half-year? System Level Controls and Checks Whether the following important manual/registers are properly maintained (From Sl. No.97 to 104) Operating System/RDBMS manual/installation guidelines Computer Manual DIT guidelines/Circulars in separate file Business Continuity & Disaster Recovery Plan Asset Register
Manual on Concurrent Audit of Banks 416
Checkpoints Observations Back-up register (for off-site/daily/qtly/half yearly also) Training register Whether proper records are available in User-
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ID register with proper authentication regarding addition/ creation/ activation/ change/ updation/ disablement and the same are reflected in Non-Financial Audit Trail? Is access appropriately changed on a timely basis when employee is transferred or is on leave or otherwise? Whether users, listed in the ACTIVE USERS LIST REPORT, generated through the system, are staff on the payroll list? Whether password expiration period is set upto 30days? Is there any active COMMON /GROUP/GENERIC User ID? Do the Vendors have separate User IDs? Whether copies of backup media/CD of latest version of Application Software, RDBMS, and Operating System are kept at off-site location? Whether monthly and quarterly backups kept at off-site on a regular basis? Mention latest dates up to which the backups are held at off-site. Whether daily back-ups taken on hard disc and also on TWO cartridges/DAT?
Annexure 417
Checkpoints Observations Whether the Branch Head/Authorised Officer takes one set of cartridge/DAT of daily backup under sealed cover to his/her residence on daily basis? Whether all backups (daily/monthly/quarterly) DAT/media are held on-site i.e. in Fire proof cabinet? Whether labeling of Magnetic media is properly done to identify contents? Whether the fallback reports are captured in media (day-end backup) on daily basis to ensure continuity of operation, in case of any eventuality. Signature of:Concurrent Auditor /DBA / Designated Branch Head Officer Name: Date: Seal:
Manual on Concurrent Audit of Banks 418
ANNEXURE G
SYSTEM AUDIT
S. No CHECK LIST AUDITOR COMMENT 1 a) Whether all the account heads in the GL have been opened as per Weekly Abstract under
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proper authorization (either in manual or in computerized system)? b) Whether any unauthorised head found opened in the GL? (if yes, furnish details) c) Whether GL Trail Balance is generated, checked, authenticated, & kept properly on daily basis? d) Whether statement of Weekly Abstract is generated directly from the system? e) Whether total of GL Trail Balance is tallied with the Weekly Abstract for a particular day? 2 Whether daily movement in GL heads or GL Progressive report is generated, verified with that of head-wise totals of daybook & authenticated? In case of manually maintained GL, whether daily posting of GL is being done, checked & authenticated 3 Whether both CR & DR sides of the GL abstract (Trial Balance) is balanced? If not, mention the difference. Whether GL is checked for data consistency, by means of netting of transactions totals of different modules/ledgers with their respective sum total of GL for a particular period? (A weeks data randomly chosen should be checked for correctness) Whether Conversion Audit (applicable for computerized branches converted from manual system on or after) has been conducted? Annexure 419 Whether the Controlling Office is conducting CASA Audit every six months & the irregularities are rectified? (in case of branches under concurrent audit, CASA Audit should be every year instead of every six months) 4 a) Whether Day Book is generated and maintained properly and is upto date. b) Whether Day Book is signed by the Day Book writer & authenticated by the Controlling Officer/officer concerned indicating closure of the Day Book. c) Whether proper certificate is incorporated in the Day Book showing that the Day Book has been checked with the Long Books & vouchers. d) Whether a certificate regarding the General Ledger having been checked with the Day Book is also incorporated. e) Whether the Exceptional transaction report is regularly generated, checked, & authenticated by the Controlling Officer? 5 1. Whether all ledgers/module wise balance are generated at day end and are being compared on daily basis, issuing an office order to this effect at manual/ computerized branches. 2. Whether all vouchers (cash, clearing & transfer) are being compared/checked with Logbook/supplementary/ transaction scrolls (cash, clearing & transfer) generated after the day-end on daily basis with proper
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authentication of the comparing officials. 3. Whether any office order/job rotation has been effected to take care comparing? 6 1. Whether Schedules are daily generated (Through System software)/written as a part of generating/writing Day- book at the day end ensuring export of data to IBR reconciliation module for onward transmission to controlling authorities. Manual on Concurrent Audit of Banks 420 2. Whether random checking reveals any discrepancies with regard to Head office of respective banks balance in G.L Trail balance, in Daily statements & statement of Weekly Abstract? 7 1. Whether balance sheets of individual ledgers/modules are taken down/ generated monthly/quarterly intervals? 2. Whether balances are tallied with the corresponding balances in the General Ledgers/Subsidiary Ledgers every month/quarter and authenticated under the initials of the Controlling Officer? 8 a) Whether the entries outstanding in Bills Payable Accounts, are taken down/generated by system and are balanced every month and appropriate steps taken for adjustment of old entries. b) Whether the clearing account is reconciled periodically. Check clearing statements of last two/three months received from clearing House) 9 Whether the entries outstanding in Suspense A/C Staff, Suspense A/c General and Sundry Creditors A/c are taken down and tallied with the corresponding balances shown in the General ledgers every month and appropriate steps are taken for adjustment of old entries and appropriate back up subsidiary Registers with full particulars of each entry are being maintained. 10 a) Whether KYC guidelines are strictly adhered to. (If no, furnish details.) b) Whether specimen signature cards relating to various deposits and other Accounts are properly scanned and maintained in the computer system and the cards are kept overnight in the strong room/Fire Proof Almirah. 11 a) Whether an officer unconnected with the custody of cash physically verifies cash at least once a month & record thereof is entered in cash balance book? Annexure 421 b) Whether clean note policy followed? c) Whether record of cash transactions for cutoff amount & above maintained? d) Whether record of inter-branch cash movement is maintained & monthly statement thereof is submitted to Controlling Office.? e) Whether supporting vouchers are available for such inter-branch cash movement? f) Whether proper procedure is followed in
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respect of receipt of foreign contributions in any a/c of the Branch with respect to FCRA (Foreign Contribution Regulation Act-1976)? 12 Whether Daily movement of security item register, stoppayment register, Cheque book issue register, cheque return register, NPA register, DCB register, mistake book, Fixed deposit progressive ledger, Suit Filed Register are properly maintained at the branch. 13 Whether Cash Balance Book is properly maintained, showing (I) details of denomination of the currency notes and coins held, and (II) cash held in joint custody of the Manager and the Head Cashier/Cashier-in-charge and cash taken out for use on the counter during the day, separately. Whether the cash taken out for use on the counter during the day are signed (full signature) by the Manager and Head Cashier/ Cashier-in-charge. 14 a) Whether separate Cash payment scroll is maintained by the Manager/Officer/Spl. Asst. and Head Cashier/ Cashier-in-charge and whether the same are tallied daily and signed by them respectively. b) Whether pre-scrolling of cash deposit is being done & whether the Cash Scroll register (showing the name of the depositor, nature & No. of account etc.) is properly maintained and tallied with the receipt scroll of the cashier c) Whether transfer scrolls are being maintained properly under proper authentication. Manual on Concurrent Audit of Banks 422 d) Whether the totals of cash scroll & transfer scroll being tallied with that of system generated scroll/daybook. 15 Whether the receipts on the counterfoils of pay-inslips for cash deposited by the customers are initialed by the receiving cashier and the Head Cashier/Cashier-in-charge or Controlling Officer/Officer concerned, before the same is handed over to the customer. 16 a) Whether a proper inventory is maintained for the tokens held at the Branch and whether a proper record is maintained for the token issued to the customers and received back from them. b) Whether proper record of lost/missing tokens is kept duly displayed at the Cash Counter. 17 Whether the Safe Custody Register is maintained properly & upto date by duly recording the Safe custody items (Travelers Cheques, Receipt for deposit of duplicate keys etc) from time to time. 18 Whether the securities, security documents and safe custody items held at the branch are properly entered in the Security Register and initialed by the Controlling Officer/Authorised Officer in token of having taken over the charge. These Security documents are kept in the Managers safe and are easily available whenever required. 19 a) Whether Stamp A/c. Postage, Stamp A/c. Receipts, and Stamp A/c. Impressed are checked and verified at periodic intervals and tallied with the corresponding balances in the
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General Ledger. b) Whether voucher for the postage consumed are passed daily. 20 a) Whether the Daily vouchers are properly stitched and sealed and later scrutinized by the Controlling Officer / Authorised Officer b) Whether cover page of the sealed voucher bundles contain total number of vouchers viz. Cash, clearing & transfer? Annexure 423 c) Whether the Voucher register is maintained properly & kept up-to-date. 21 Whether the Attendance Register is maintained properly and upto date and duly authenticated under the initials of the Controlling Officer/Authorised Officer. 22 Whether leave record is maintained properly and upto date with the entries duly authenticated under the initials of the Controlling Officer/Authorised Officer 23 Whether all the security items viz. Blank cheque forms Draft books, Fixed Deposit receipts, Forms / Books, Bankers Cheque Books, etc. are properly recorded and kept under lock and key under duel control and careful check /control is maintained over the issue of such forms 24 Whether the Cheque Book Issue Register has been examined with the requisition slips and customers acknowledgements are properly filed. 25 Whether a proper diary is maintained for submission of the periodical control and statistical returns. 26 Whether the various circulars received from Head office and Zonal office are properly filed and easily available for ready references when ever required. 27 Whether the Post Parcels Received Register is maintained properly & up to date by duly recording the receipts & deliveries of the parcels from time to time 28 Whether the Security Register is maintained properly under proper authentication by the officer holding charge of securities and kept updated by duly recording therein the securities (Govt. Securities, Shares, Fixed Deposit Receipts, etc.) and security documents obtained from the borrowers and delivered to them /cancelled from time to time. Manual on Concurrent Audit of Banks 424 29 Whether the Equitable Mortgage/Recital Register is maintained properly and upto date by recording the Recitals and details of the immovable properties/Title Deeds deposited from time to time. 30 ii) Whether the Drawing Power Register is maintained properly and upto date in respect of all borrower accounts, where advances have been allowed against securities/ goods pledged or hypothecated to the Bank from time to time. iii) Whether Letter of Credit Register & Bank Guarantee Register are maintained properly 31 Whether the stocks held in the Godown under
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pledge and/or hypothecated are checked at irregular intervals and proper record thereof is maintained. 32 Whether Bills Received for Collection Registers is maintained properly and upto date by recording details of the bills received from branches/banks or upcountry parties from time to time and whether the railway receipts, lorry receipts, etc. are kept in custody of the Controlling Officer or an Officer. 33 Whether Bills Receivable Accounts and Bills for Collection Accounts vouchers are passed at the Branch promptly and whether the entries outstanding in Bills Receivable for Collection and Bills Sent for Collection Registers are taken down periodically and tallied. 34 Whether post sanction monitoring card E1, E2 & E3 & Post Sanction Reporting Card are submitted to higher authorities as per norms 35 Whether documentation, credit process/ legal audit / legal compliance report are done promptly in all eligible advance accounts. 36 Whether credit risk grading under RAM (risk assessment module)/CRG (Credit Risk grading) are carried out as per Bank guidelines at the time of sanction/enhancement & review Annexure 425 37 Whether record of lost DDs & security instruments is systematically maintained/recorded in computer system 38 a) Whether extant guidelines regarding locker operation is complied b) Whether necessary steps have been initiated for realisation of arrear locker rent? 39 Whether provisions regarding TDS, cash withdrawal tax, service tax are being followed 40 Whether operations in inoperative accounts are allowed only after proper authorization of the Controlling Officer/Officer concerned. 41 1. Whether checking of interest rate, interest application, PLR change, penal interest application is being carried out? (To be test checked at random) 2. Whether service charges are being realised as per norms? (To be test checked at random) 42 Is there any unauthorised User-Id in the system generated User list? 43 Whether backups are kept both on-site & off-site?
Appendices
Appendices 429
APPENDIX 1
BC. 182/16.13.100/93-94. October 11, 1993. Ashwina 19, 1915 (Saka) The Chairman & Managing Director/ Chief Executive Officer of all scheduled commercial banks (other than Regional Rural Banks)
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Dear Sir,
Introduction of a system of concurrent audit in banks as recommended by the Ghosh Committee on Frauds and Malpractices in Banks
Please refer to our circular No. DBOD. No. BC. 20/17.04.001/92 dated 25th August 1992 forwarding a copy of the report of the Committee which enquired into various aspects of frauds and malpractices in banks. Banks were advised to implement those recommendations of the Committee which were immediately accepted by the RBI. One such recommendation, contained in paragraph 8.7 of the Committees report, related to introduction of a system of concurrent audit at large and exceptionally large branches to serve as administrative support to branches, help in adherence to prescribed systems and procedures, and prevention and timely detection of lapses/irregularities. Subsequently, the matter was also discussed at a meeting of the Chief Vigilance Officers of the public sector banks called by Government in October 1992. Having regard to the need for issuing certain clarifications about the precise scope of such audit, the branches to be covered, cost aspect, relationship with other types of internal audit, etc., RBI had also asked a Group to go into the detailed modalities of introduction of an adequate system of concurrent audit in banks. The matter was also, inter-alia, discussed at a meeting taken by the Deputy Governor (Shri D.R. Mehta) on 26
Manual on Concurrent Audit of Banks 430
June 1993 of the Chairman and General Managers in-charge of inspections and vigilance in certain public sector and private sector banks. 2. Based on the discussions by the Group as also on the other discussions held as mentioned above, a note setting out the broad features of concurrent audit system has been prepared and the same is enclosed for your use. The note broadly defines the concept of concurrent audit, scope of such an audit, coverage of business/branches, types of activities to be covered during the audit and reporting system. The note also details the broad suggestions in respect of the above mentioned aspects of concurrent audit. While, it is basically for the individual banks managements to decide the details of the concurrent audit system, it is expected that the suggestions in the note would ensure some uniformity in the system to be introduced by different banks. We would suggest, that while framing a concurrent audit system banks may also clearly spell out the linkages between different forms of internal inspections and audits already in existence and the proposed concurrent audit. 3. Banks may take steps to institute an appropriate system of concurrent audit at an early date. As indicated in the meeting held on 26 June 1993 referred to above, it may be ensured that the system of concurrent audit is introduced so as to cover at least 50 per cent of the banks business operations by 31 October 1993. 4. By early November 1993, we may be furnished with the details of the system of concurrent audit instituted by the bank, along with a note containing details of the system of audit/inspections existing in the bank. Please acknowledge receipt. Yours faithfully,
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Endt. DBOD. No. 582(A)/16.13.100/93-94 of date. Copy forwarded for information to : The Joint Chief Officer, Department of Banking Operations and Development, Reserve Bank of India, Ahmedabad/Bangalore/ Bhubaneswar/Bombay Regional Office, Bombay/Guwahati/ Jaipru/Madras/Bhopal/Calcutta/Hyderabad/Jammu/New Delhi/ Patna/ Lucknow/Thiruvanantapuram/Chandigarh. (K.V. Pandhare) for Chief Officer
Manual on Concurrent Audit of Banks 432
Introduction of a system of concurrent audit in banks as recommended by the Ghosh Committee on frauds and malpractices in banks.
Introductory A High level Committee set up by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) at the instance of Government of India (GoI) under the Chairmanship of Shri A. Ghosh, the then Deputy Governor, to enquire into various aspects of frauds and malpractices in banks had recommended in its report submitted in June 1992 (paragraph 8.7) that a system of Concurrent Audit (CA) should be introduced at large and exceptionally large, branches to serve as administrative support to branches, help in adherence to prescribed systems and procedures and timely detection of lapses/ irregularities. This recommendation was accepted and the banks were advised to implement it. The recommendation on concurrent audit of large and exceptionally large branches was discussed in the meeting of the Chief Vigilance Officers of Public Sector Banks and Financial Institutions convened by the GoI on 12 October 1992 in New Delhi. The members expressed the view that the implementation of the recommendation in the present form would entail substantial financial burden on the banks and also that the precise scope and content of the audit needed to be clarified. The banks were, therefore, advised to send their suggestions on the size of the branches to be covered and the scope for concurrent audit. It is observed that the system of concurrent audit is already in existence in most banks. However, there is no uniformity in areas like scope of concurrent audit, criteria for coverage, selection of branches etc. with a view to standardizing the scope of concurrent audit the RBI set up an informal group comprising senior officers of some large banks viz. State Bank of India, Bank of Baroda, Bank of India, Punjab National Bank and the representatives from the Institute of Chartered
Appendices 433
Accountants of India (ICAI). The aspects covered by the Group were: i) Scope of concurrent audit; ii) Types of branches to be covered;
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iii) Types of activities to be covered; iv) Agency to carry out the concurrent audit; v) Periodicity of reporting and follow-up of the findings of the concurrent auditors; vi) Remuneration payable to external auditors and related matters; vii) Accountability aspect. 4. The following views emerged in the Groups discussions: (A) Scope of concurrent audit Concurrent audit is an examination which is contemporaneous with the occurrence of transactions or is carried out as near thereto as possible. It attempts to shorten the interval between a transaction and its examination by an independent person not involved in its documentation. There is an emphasis in favour of substantive checking in key areas rather than test checking. This audit is essentially a management process integral to the establishment of sound internal accounting functions and effective controls and setting the tone for a vigilance internal audit to preclude the incidence of serious errors and fraudulent manipulations. A concurrent auditor may not sit in judgment of the decisions taken by a branch Manager or an authorised official. The concern was that this is beyond the scope of concurrent audit. However, the auditor will necessarily have to see whether the transactions or decisions are within the policy parameters aid down by the Head Office, they do not violate the instructions or policy prescriptions of the RBI, and that they are within the delegated authority and in compliance with the terms and conditions for exercise of the delegated authority.
Manual on Concurrent Audit of Banks 434
In very large branches, which have different divisions dealing with specific activities, concurrent audit is a means to the in-charge of the branch to ensure on an on-going basis that the different divisions function within laid-down parameters and procedures. (B) Coverage of business/branches The suggested coverage is as under : (i) The Departments/Divisions at the Head Office dealing with Treasury functions viz. investments, funds management including inter-bank borrowings, bill rediscount and foreign exchange business are to be subjected to concurrent audit. In addition, all branch offices undertaking such business and dealing rooms have to be subjected to continuous audit. (ii) Any specialized activities like portfolio management service, credit card business. (iii) The audit may initially cover branches which account for not less than 50 per cent of the business of the bank (total of deposits and advances). The percentage of coverage can gradually be increased to 75. (iv) Concurrent audit may be introduced at all exceptionally large branches (ELBs) i.e. those having business of Rs. 100 crores and above. (v) Within the parameter set at (iii) above the banks may, in addition to all ELBs, include very large branches (VLBs) i.e. having business of Rs. 15 crores and above
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and up to Rs. 100 crores. (vi) The problem branches which are continuously getting poor or very poor rating in the banks annual inspection / audit and where the house-keeping is extremely poor may be covered. (vii) Banks may include additional branches at their discretion on the basis of need, i.e., their professional judgement about the overall functioning of the branches.
Appendices 435
(C) Types of activities to be covered The main role of the concurrent audit is to supplement the forts of the bank in carrying out simultaneous internal check the transactions and other verifications and compliance with procedures laid down. In particular, it should be seen that transactions are properly recorded/documented and vouched. Concurrent auditors may broadly cover the following items. (a) Cash (i) Daily cash transactions with particular reference to any abnormal receipts and payments. (ii) Proper accounting of inward and outward cash remittances. (iii) Proper accounting of currency chest transactions, its prompt reporting to the RBI. (iv) Expenses incurred by cash payment involving sizeable amount. (b) Investments (i) Ensure that in respect of purchase and sale of securities the branch has acted within its delegated power having regard to its Head Office instructions. (ii) Ensure that the securities held in the books of the branch are physically held by it. (iii) Ensure that the branch is complying with the RBI/ Head Office guidelines regarding BRs, SGL forms, delivery of scripts, documentation and accounting. (iv) Ensure that the sale or purchase transactions are done at rates beneficial to the bank. (c) Deposits (i) Check the transactions about deposits received and repaid.
Manual on Concurrent Audit of Banks 436
(ii) Percentage check of interest paid on deposits may be made, including calculation of interest on large deposits. (iii) Check new accounts opened particularly current accounts. Operations in new current/SB accounts may be verified in the initial periods to see whether there are any unusual operations. (d) Advances (i) Ensure that loans and advances have been sanctioned properly (i.e., after due scrutiny and at the appropriate level). (ii) Verify whether the sanctions are in accordance with delegated authority.
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(iii) Ensure that securities and documents have been received and properly charged/registered. (iv) Ensure that post disbursement supervision and followup is proper, such as receipt of stock statements, instalments, renewal of limits, etc. (v) Verify whether there is any misutilisation of the loans and whether there are instances indicative of diversion of funds. (vi) Check whether the letters of credit issued by the branch are within the delegated power and ensure that they are for genuine trade transactions. (vii) Check the bank guarantees issued, whether they have been properly worded and recorded in the register of the bank. Whether they have been promptly renewed on the due dates. (viii) Ensure proper follow-up of overdue bills of exchange. (ix) Verify whether the classification of advances has been done as per RBI guidelines. (x) Verify whether the submission of claims to DICGC and ECGC is in time.
Appendices 437
(xi) Verify that instances of exceeding delegated powers have been promptly reported to controlling / Head Office by the branch and have been got confirmed or ratified at the required level. (xii) Verify the frequency and genuineness of such exercise of authority beyond the delegated powers by the concerned officials. (e) Foreign Exchange transactions (i) Check foreign bills negotiated under letters of credit (ii) Check FCNR and other non-resident accounts whether the debits and credits are permissible under the rules. (iii) Check whether inward/outward remittance have been properly accounted for. (iv) Examine extension and cancellation of forward contracts for purchase and sale of foreign currency. Ensure that they are duly authorised and necessary charges have been recovered. (v) Ensure that balances in Nostro accounts in different foreign currencies are within the limit as prescribed by the bank. (vi) Ensure that the overbought/oversold position maintained in different currencies is reasonable taking into account the foreign exchange operations. (vii) Ensure adherence to the guidelines issued by RBI HO of the bank about dealing room operations (viii) Ensure verification/reconciliation of Nosro and Vostro account translations/balances. (f) Housekeeping (i) Ensure that the maintenance and balancing of accounts, ledgers and registers including clean cash is proper.
Manual on Concurrent Audit of Banks 438
(ii) Early reconciliation of entries outstanding in the interbranch and inter bank accounts, Suspense Account,
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Sundry Deposits Account, DDRR Account, Drafts account, etc. Ensure early adjustment of large value entries. (iii) Carry out a percentage check of calculations of interest, discount, commission and exchange. (iv) Check whether debits in income account have been permitted by the competent authorities. (v) Check the transactions of staff accounts. (vi) In cash of difference in clearing there is a tendency to book it in an intermediary suspense account instead of locating the difference. Examine the day book to verify as to how the differences in clearing have been adjusted. Such instances should be reported to Head Office in cash the difference persists. (vii) Detection and prevention of revenue leakages through close examination of income and expenditure persists. (viii) Check cheques returned/bills returned register and look into reasons for return of those instruments. (ix) Checking of inward and outward remittances (DDs, MTs, and TTs) (g) Other items (i) In cash the branch has been entrusted with Government business, ensure that the transactions are done in accordance with the instructions issued by Government, RBI and HO. (ii) Ensure that the branch gives proper compliance to the internal inspection/audit reports. (iii) Ensure that customers complaints are dealt with promptly. (iv) Verification of statements, HO returns, statutory returns.
Appendices 439
The aforesaid list is illustrative and not exhaustive. The banks may, therefore, add other items to the list which in their opinion are useful for the purpose of proper control of the branch operations. The volume of transactions in the larger branches is heavy and it may not be possible for the concurrent auditors to do a cent per cent check. They may therefore consider adopting the following norms. 1. In certain areas such as off balance sheet items (LCs and BGs), investment portfolio, foreign exchange transactions, fraud prone/sensistive areas, advances having outstanding balances of more than Rs. 50 lakhs and accounts with less than Rs. 50 lakhs if any unusual feature is observed, the concurrent auditors may conduct cent per cent check. 2. In the case of areas such as income and expenditure items, inter-bank and inter-branch accounting, interest paid and interest received, clearing transactions, and deposit accounts the check can be restricted to 10 to 15 per cent of the number of transactions. 3. Where any branch has poor performance in certain areas or requires close monitoring in housekeeping, advances or investment, the concurrent auditors may carry out intensive checking of such areas. 4. Concurrent auditors may concentrate on high value transactions having financial implication for the bank rather than
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those involving lesser amount, although number-wise they may be large 5. If any adverse remark is required to be given, the concurrent auditors should give reasons therefor. 6. Concurrent auditors may themselves identify problem areas at branch level and offer their suggestions to overcome them. (D) Appointment and remuneration of auditors The option to consider whether the concurrent audit should be done by banks own officials or external auditors may be
Manual on Concurrent Audit of Banks 440
left to the individual banks. In case the bank decides to appoint external auditors for the purpose, the terms of their appointment and remuneration to be paid may be fixed by the banks within the broad guidelines approved by the Board. The audit firms will be responsible for any omissions or commissions in respect of transactions seen by them. In case any serious act of omission or commission is noticed in the working of the concurrent auditors the bank may consider terminating the appointment. A report may be made to the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India for such action as they deem fit and also to RBI. In case the bank prefers to entrust the audit to its own officers, the bank has to ensure that these officers are well experienced and of sufficient seniority in order to exercise necessary independence and objectivity while conducting concurrent audit. It would be desirable and necessary to rotate the auditors whether internal or external, periodically, progressively, it may be considered whether reliance on external auditors may be reduced as the requisite skills for audit work are developed by a proper selection and training of officers from within. (E) Reporting System The concurrent auditors may report the minor irregularities, wrong calculations etc., to the Branch Manager for on the spot rectification and reporting compliance. If these irregularities are not rectified within a reasonable period of time say a week, these may be reported to the Controlling offices, If the auditors observe any serious irregularities, these will be straight away reported to Controlling Office or Head Office immediately. The auditor will have to lay emphasis on the proprietary aspect of the audit. Banks may institute an appropriate system of follow up of the reports of the concurrent auditors. There must be a system of an annual review of the working of concurrent audit.
Appendices 441
(F) Conclusion While instituting the concurrent audit system the attempt should be to integrate the same with other systems of internal audit/ inspections which are already in existence. One of the drawbacks hitherto has been non-integration of the different systems of internal audit and inspections and lack of response to audit objections/qualifications. It is necessary that the entire system of audit, inspection and
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their follow-up is properly documented and the performance of the integrated audit system is reviewed from time to time.
Manual on Concurrent Audit of Banks 442
APPENDIX 2
Ref. No. Dos No. B.C. 16/08-91-021/96 August 14, 1996 Shravana 23, 1918 (Saka) The Chairman & Manager Chief Executive Officer All Scheduled Commercial Banks (Other than Regional Banks) Dear Sir, Concurrent audit system in commercial banks Revision of RBIs guidelines It may be recalled that certain guidelines on concurrent audit system in commercial banks were issued by us in October 1993 vide DBOD. Circular BC. 182/16.13.100/93-94 dated October 11, 1993, setting out the scope and coverage of concurrent audit system and its reporting procedures and calling upon banks to introduce/revamp their concurrent audit system based on these guidelines. Thereafter, a Working Group set up by Reserve Bank of India under the Chairmanship of Shri Jilani (Chairman, Punjab National Bank) has reviewed, inter alia, the working of concurrent audit system in banks and given its recommendations for improving it. Further, some of the public sector banks have bought additional guidelines on the systems scope, coverage, reporting procedures, remuneration payable to concurrent auditors, etc. A need was, therefore, felt to have a relook at the existing guidelines and review certain norms to ensure that the system is more compact and focused in its approach and also facilitates effective implementation. Accordingly, we have, in consultation with the Audit Sub-Committee of the Board for Financial Supervision (BFS), revised the guidelines, which are set out in the Annex. 2. It hardly needs to be stressed that the concurrent audit system is to be regarded as part of a banks early-warning system to ensure timely detection of irregularities and lapses which helps
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in preventing fraudulent transactions at branches. It is, therefore, necessary for the banks management to bestow serious attention to the implementation of various aspects of the system such as selection of branches/ coverage of business operations, appointment of auditors, appropriate reporting procedures, followup/ rectification processes and utilization of the feed back from the system for appropriate and quick management decisions. 3. You may ensure that, based on the revised guidelines indicated in the Annex, a review of the present system of concurrent audit is carried out immediately and necessary changes are incorporated therein. The modified concurrent audit system of your bank should be placed before its Audit Committee of Board of Directors (ACB). 4. The bank should once in a year review the effectiveness of the system and take necessary measures to correct the lacunae in the implementation of the programme.
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5. Please acknowledge receipt. Yours faithfully, (P.R. Gopala Rao) Chief General Manager) Encl.: sheets
Manual on Concurrent Audit of Banks 444
be subjected to concurrent audit. In addition, all branch offices under-taking such business and dealing rooms have to be subjected to continuous audit. (ii) The coverage of branches should ensure that concurrent audit covers:(a) Branches whose total credit and other risk exposures aggregate to not less than 50% of the total credit and other risk exposures of the bank; and (b) Branches whose aggregate deposits cover not less than 50% of the aggregate deposits of the Bank. (iii) To achieve these twin criteria it is suggested that
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branches may be listed according to credit and other risk exposures and selected in the descending order of exposures to achieve a 50% coverage. If the deposits of these branches do not aggregate to 50% of the Banks deposits, additional branches in descending order of deposits may be added to achieve a 50% coverage of the branches. (iv) While complying with the above parameters, it is necessary to ensure that the coverage encompasses:- exceptionally large branches - very large and large branches - special branches handling foreign exchange business, merchant banking business, large companies/wholesale banking business and from dealing room operations. - Large problem branches rated as poor/very poor. - Head Office departments dealing with treasury/funds management and handling investment portfolio
Manual on Concurrent Audit of Banks 446
- Any other branches or departments where in the opinion of the Bank concurrent audit is desirable. (v) Branches subjected to concurrent audit should not normally be included for revenues/income audit.
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(ii) In case the bank has engaged its own officials, they should be experienced, well trained and sufficiently senior. The staff engaged on Concurrent Audit must be independent of the Branch where concurrent audit is conducted. (iii) Appointment of an external audit firm may be initially for one year and extended upto three years after which an auditor could be shifted to another branch subject to satisfactory performance. (iv) If external firms are appointed and my serious acts of omissions or commissions are noticed in their working their appointments may be cancelled and the fact may be reported to RBI & ICAI.
(F) Remuneration
Terms of appointment of the external firms of Chartered Accountants for the concurrent audit and their
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remuneration may be fixed by banks at their discretion. Broad guidelines should be framed by ACB for this purposes. Suitable packages should be fixed by each banks management in consultation with its ACB, keeping in view various factors such as coverage of areas, quality of work expected, number of people required for the job, number of hours to be spent on the job, etc.
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the concurrent audit to ACB and an annual appraisal/report of the audit system should be placed before the ACB. (iv) Whenever fraudulent transactions are detected, they should immediately be reported to Inspection & Audit Department (Head Office) as also to the Chief Vigilance Officer as well as Branch Managers concerned (unless the branch manager is involved). (v) There should be proper reporting of the findings of the concurrent auditors. For this purpose, each bank should prepare a structured format. The major deficiencies/aberrations noticed during audit should be highlighted in a special note and given immediately to the banks branch/ controlling offices. A quarterly review containing important features brought out-during the concurrent audits should be placed before the ACB. (vi) Follow-up action on the concurrent audit reports should be given high priority by the controlling
Appendices 449
office/Inspection and Audit Department and rectification of the features done without any loss of time. (vii) A Special Cell in the Inspection and Audit Department may be created in each bank to: (1) review the selection of auditors. (2) Initiate and operate a system for the appraisal of the performance on concurrent auditors. (3) Ensure that the work of concurrent auditors is properly documented. (4) Be responsible for the follow-up on audit reports and the presentation of the quarterly review to the ACB.
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ANNEXURE II Suggested items of coverage (A) Cash (i) Daily cash transactions with particular reference to any abnormal receipts and payments. (ii) Proper accounting of inward and outward cash remittances. (iii) Proper accounting of currency chest transactions, its prompt reporting to the RBI. (iv) Expenses incurred by cash payment involving sizeable amount. (B) Investments (i) Ensure that in respect of purchase and sale of securities the branch has acted within its delegated power having regard to its Head Office instructions. (ii) Ensure that the securities held in the books of the branch are physically held by it. (iii) Ensure that the branch is complying with the RBI/Head Office guidelines regarding BRs, SGL forms, delivery of scrips, documentation and accounting.
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(iv) Ensure that the sale or purchase transactions are done at rates beneficial to the bank. (C) Deposits (i) Check the transactions about deposits received and repaid. (ii) Percentage check of interest paid on deposits may be made, including calculation of interest on large deposits. (iii) Check new accounts opened particularly current accounts. Operations in new current/SB accounts
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may be verified in the initial periods to see whether there are any unusual operations. (D) Advances (i) Ensure that loans and advances have been sanctioned properly (i.e. after due scrutiny and at the appropriate level). (ii) Verify whether the sanctions are in accordance with delegated authority. (iii) Ensure that securities and documents have been received and properly charged/registered. (iv) Ensure that post disbursement supervision and follow-up is proper, such as receipt of stock statements, instalments, renewals of limits, etc. (v) Verify whether there is any misutilisation of the loans and whether there are instances indicative of diversion of funds. (vi) Check whether the letters of credit issued by the branch are within the delegated power and ensure that they are genuine trade transactions. (vii) Check the bank guarantees issued, whether they have been properly worded and recorded in the register of the bank. Whether they have been promptly renewed on the due dates. (viii) Ensure proper follow-up of over due bills of exchange. (ix) Verify whether the classification of advances has been done as per RBI guidelines. (x) Verify whether the submission of claims to DICGC and ECGC is in time. (xi) Verify that instances of exceeding delegated powers have been promptly reported to controlling / Head Office by the branch and have been got confirmed or ratified at the required level.
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(xii) Verify the frequency and genuineness of such exercise of authority beyond the delegated powers by the concerned officials. (E) Foreign Exchange Transactions (i) Check foreign bills negotiated under letters of credit. (ii) Check FCNR and other non-resident accounts whether the debits and credits are permissible under rules. (iii) Check whether inward/outward remittance have been properly accounted for.
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(iv) Examine extension and cancellation of forward contracts for purchase and sale of foreign currency. Ensure that they are duly authorised and necessary charges have been recovered. (v) Ensure that balances in Nestro accounts in different foreign currencies are within the limit as prescribed by the bank. (vi) Ensure that the overbought/oversold position maintained in different currencies is reasonable taking into account the foreign exchange operations. (vii) Ensure adherence to the guidelines issued by RBI/HO of the bank about dealing room operations. (viii) Ensure verification/reconciliation of Nostro and Vostro account transactions/balances. (F) Housekeeping (i) Ensure that the maintenance and balancing of accounts, ledgers and registers including clean cash is proper. (ii) Early reconciliation of entries outstanding in the interbranch and inter bank accounts, Suspense Account, Sundry Deposits Account, DDRR Account, Drafts account, etc. Ensure early adjustment of large value entries.
Appendices 453
(iii) Carry out a percentage check of calculations of interest, discount, commission and exchange. (iv) Check whether debits in income account have been permitted by the competent authorities. (v) Check the transactions of staff accounts. (vi) In cash of difference in clearing there is a tendency to book it in an intermediary suspense account instead of locating the difference. Examine the day book to verify as to how the differences in clearing have been adjusted. Such instances should be reported to Head Office in cash the difference persists. (vii) Detection & prevention of revenue leakages through close examination of income and expenditure persists. (viii) Check cheques returned/bills returned register and look into reasons for return of those instruments. (ix) Checking of inward and outward remittances. (DDs, MTs and TTs). (G) Other items (i) In case the branch has been entrusted with government business, ensure that the transactions are done in accordance with the instructions issued by Government, RBI & HO. (ii) Ensure that the branch gives proper compliance to the internal inspection/audit reports. (iii) Ensure the customers complaints are dealt with promptly. (iv) Verification of statements, HO returns, statutory returns. The aforesaid list is illustrative and not Exhausive.
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