Definition ∞ Bank liability refers to the financial obligations a bank owes to its customers and other creditors. These include deposits held in checking and savings accounts, which represent funds the bank must return on demand. Liabilities also extend to borrowed funds and other financial commitments. Understanding these obligations is fundamental to assessing a bank’s financial health and solvency, particularly in volatile economic climates.
Context ∞ In crypto news, bank liability becomes relevant when discussing stablecoins or central bank digital currencies (CBDCs), particularly concerning the backing assets and regulatory frameworks. There is a critical discussion about whether certain digital assets should be treated as bank liabilities or distinct forms of electronic money. Future regulations will likely define the extent of bank liability in the context of digital assets, influencing their stability and public trust.