The Board of Directors of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation
(FDIC) today approved a 1999 budget of $1.218 billion, an 11 percent
decrease ($148 million) from the $1.366 billion authorized for 1998. The budget will permit the agency to pursue its supervisory plans to ensure the safety and soundness of insured financial institutions and the industry's Year 2000 compliance.
The 1999 budget continues to emphasize use of risk assessment and
economic analysis as key support areas for bank supervision. However,
savings are expected to be achieved through more staff reductions,
further declines in liquidation and receivership operations,
diminished need for legal, accounting and other contractual services
and a more moderate approach to upgrading equipment.
FDIC staffing is expected to decline to approximately 7,240 positions during 1999, down
from the 7,660 positions authorized for the end of 1998.
During 1999, the FDIC intends to continue in-depth reviews of state
non-member banks to assess the adequacy of preparations for Year 2000
compliance and contingency planning. The FDIC expects both the
Division of Supervision and the Division of Compliance and Consumer
Affairs to operate at full authorized staffing during 1999. Each of
these major organizational units received an appropriate budget
increase.
Actual spending during 1998 is expected to be approximately $153
million (11 percent) less than the $1.366 billion budget. Staffing
reductions and reduced contracting activity contributed to the budget
savings. Despite the lower spending during 1998 and the reduced
budget for 1999, the FDIC expects all divisions and offices will have
the resources necessary to meet targets and objectives established
through the agency's strategic and performance planning process.
