In order to streamline reporting of banks'' branch network data, the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has established a branch network database on its Data Acquisition Portal (DAP). This database has been developed through information available on branch licenses issued to banks. In addition to the database, a data validation module has been developed for all banks. This module will allow banks to reconcile their list of branches with data available in the database.
The module will help banks to update branch codes for newly-opened branches. Banks may make necessary corrections by themselves in coordination with Statistics & Data Warehouse Department of the SBP. According to user manual for "Master Data of Branches," the SBP being the central bank of the country and regulator of banking sector needs to have a vigilant eye on the performance of the financial sector falling under its purview.
To carry out its functions effectively, the SBP acquires certain datasets from reporting institutions (Data Providers) on different frequencies (daily, weekly, monthly, and quarterly, etc) for various purposes. The list of data providers includes, but not limited to, Scheduled Banks (Banks), Development Finance Institutions (DFIs), Microfinance Institutions (MFIs) and other financial/non-financial companies.
Therefore, in order to collect data from data providers, the SBP has established a DAP. With the expanding scope of data collection, many datasets such as "Half Yearly Banking Statistics" and "Denomination-wise Cash Balances" are based on branch level data.
The branch-level data enables the SBP in compilation of regional statistics in addition to carry out its functions effectively. For accurate and effective data acquisition of branch level data, the SBP has developed a module "Master Data of Branches" for relevant data providers. This module is developed after acquiring data from all possible sources including banks themselves.
This manual serves as a user guide for this module and will enable users to review their data, fill the data gaps and report any data anomaly to the SBP.
''Master Data of Branches Application'' module is based on reports through which end users can verify the data of branches as well as make corrections, if required.
The branch codes that are available in this database should be same that banks assign to their branches and communicate to their customers through their signboards, website, and cheque books, etc. Step-by-step guidelines for usage of this application have been described in the user manual. The SBP has advised all scheduled banks to reconcile their list of branches with the database on a regular basis.
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