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4.6 PIT LGD Modelling

4.6.1
 
There is general evidence that LGD levels tend to be higher during economic downturns. This intuitive relationship is supported by numerous publications from academics and practitioners based on data from the US and European markets. In the UAE, whilst this relationship is more difficult to prove, there are objective reasons to believe it exists. In any case, this should be investigated as part of current accounting requirements. Consequently, institutions should implement a process to analyse the relationship between LGD and macro factors. This should be done at a relevant level of granularity.
 
4.6.2
 
This analysis should drive the modelling strategy of PIT LGD. Several modelling options can be envisaged and institutions should articulate explicitly their approach based on their preliminary analysis. While making a strategic decision, institutions should remain conservative. A portfolio may not be large enough to capture this relationship despite the existence of such relationship at larger scale. In doubt, it is preferable to include some degree of correlation between LGD and macro factors for the estimation of ECL. Once a mechanism is in place, the strength of the relationship can be adjusted in calibration exercises, upon further evidence proving or refuting it.
 
4.6.3
 
The objective of PIT LGD models is to estimate LGD as a function of the economic circumstances at the time of default and during the recovery process. Therefore, these models should depend on macroeconomic variables. Institutions are free to choose the most suitable methodology, provided that it meets the minimum expected practices articulated in this section.
 
4.6.4
 
PIT LGD models can be constructed by (i) adjusting TTC LGD or (ii) developing models independently from TTC LGD. For consistency purpose, the former is recommended over the latter. If institutions chose the second approach, they should ensure that both PIT LGD output and TTC LGD outputs are coherent.
 
4.6.5
 
The properties of the PIT LGD models should be similar to that of TTC LGD models. At a minimum, these models should meet the following:.
 
 (i)
 
The modelled LGD should be based upon the historical realised LGD observations previously estimated.
 (ii)
 
The methodology should avoid excessive and unreasonable generalisations to compensate for a lack of data.
 (iii)
 
The model performance should be validated based on clear performance measurement criteria. For instance, model predictions should be compared against individual observations (or relevant groups) and also against segment average.
 (iv)The choice of parameters should be justified and documented.
 (v)
 
There should be enough evidence to demonstrate that in-sample fit and out-of-sample performance are reasonable.
 (vi)
 
The model inputs should be granular and specify enough to generate a PIT LGD distribution that is a fair and accurate reflection of the observed LGDs.
 
4.6.6
 
PIT LGD models can take several forms depending on the data available and the type of portfolio. Several broad categories of models can be defined as follows, ranked by increasing granularity and accuracy:
 
 (i)
 
Option 1: Most granular approach. The LGD parameters are directly linked to the macro forecasts and used as inputs to compute the losses (L1,L2,L3,L4). The final LGD is subsequently computed based on these losses, as defined in the TTC LGD section. For instance, collateral values at facility level can be directly linked to the macro forecasts, then secured LGDs are derived.
 (ii)
 
Option 2: Intermediate granular approach. The losses (L1,L2,L3,L4) are linked to the macro forecasts and used as input to estimate the final LGD, as defined in the TTC LGD section. For instance, the segment level secured and unsecured LGDs can be linked to the macro forecasts.
 (iii)
 
Option 3: Non-granular approach. The final LGD is directly linked to the macro forecasts. In this case the PIT LGD models does not use the LGD parameters.
 (iv)
 
Option 4: Alternative approach. The final LGD is linked to the obligor's PD, itself linked to macro forecasts. In this case, the LGD response to macroeconomic shocks is constructed as a second order effect through correlation rather than structural causation.
 
4.6.7
 
Institutions should articulate and document explicitly their preferred modelling option. All these options are acceptable; however institutions should be aware of their theoretical and practical limitations, in particular the potential accuracy issues arising from options 3 and 4. Institutions should aim to model PIT LGD via option 1. Consequently, institutions should understand and assess the financial implications of their modelling choice. This choice should be approved by the Model Oversight Committee.
 
4.6.8
 
If the PIT LGD model uses PIT PD as a sole driver of macro adjustment, then the model segmentation should be identical between PIT LGD and PIT PD. If institutions decide to develop dedicated PIT LGD-macro models, those should follow the minimum expectations articulated in the section of the MMG dedicated to macro models.