Systemically Important Financial Institution (SIFI)
A bank deemed 'too big to fail' by regulators.
Definition
Systemically important financial institutions are banks or other financial companies whose failure could pose a risk to the entire financial system. In the U.S., globally systemically important banks (G-SIBs) face enhanced prudential standards including higher capital surcharges, more rigorous stress testing, resolution planning, and enhanced liquidity requirements.
Why It Matters
SIFI designation brings both costs (higher capital requirements, compliance costs) and perceived benefits (implicit government backstop). The G-SIB surcharge directly reduces the capital available for shareholder returns.