Tier 1 Capital

Definition ∞ Tier 1 Capital represents a bank’s core capital, consisting primarily of shareholder equity and retained earnings, considered the most reliable and liquid form of capital. It serves as a bank’s primary buffer against unexpected losses, indicating its financial strength and ability to absorb shocks. Regulators use Tier 1 Capital ratios to assess a bank’s solvency and stability. This capital component is fundamental for maintaining depositor confidence and overall financial system resilience.
Context ∞ In crypto news, Tier 1 Capital is frequently referenced in discussions about how traditional banks will account for and capitalize their digital asset holdings. Regulatory proposals often specify that cryptoasset exposures, especially those deemed high-risk, will require substantial backing by Tier 1 Capital. Debates center on the appropriate capital treatment for different types of digital assets and the potential impact on banks’ balance sheets. A critical future development involves global regulatory consensus on Tier 1 Capital requirements for cryptoasset exposure.