Bank Run Key Points
- A bank run occurs when a large number of customers withdraw their deposits simultaneously due to fears that the bank might become insolvent.
- Bank runs can lead to a vicious cycle, where the bank’s reserves are depleted, forcing it to sell assets at a loss, and thereby becoming insolvent.
- Bank runs can be triggered by rumors, news of financial trouble, or a crisis of confidence in the banking system.
- While bank runs are less common in the digital age due to deposit insurance schemes, they remain a risk in situations of economic instability.
- In the context of crypto and blockchain, bank runs could potentially occur on crypto exchanges or in decentralized finance (DeFi) platforms.
Bank Run Definition
A bank run is a financial crisis situation where large numbers of a bank’s customers attempt to withdraw their deposits simultaneously due to fears that the bank may become insolvent. This mass withdrawal of funds can result in the bank becoming unable to fulfill its financial obligations, leading to bankruptcy if not properly managed.
What is a Bank Run?
A bank run happens when a large number of depositors, due to fear or panic, simultaneously attempt to withdraw their money from a bank.
This usually happens because of the fear that the bank is, or might become, insolvent.
Who Can Trigger a Bank Run?
Any depositor can technically trigger a bank run if their withdrawal or series of withdrawals spark panic among other depositors.
However, it’s usually triggered by rumors, news of a banking crisis, or a crisis of confidence in a bank or the overall banking system.
When Do Bank Runs Occur?
Bank runs typically occur during times of economic instability.
They are more likely when there is a lack of confidence in the financial stability of a bank or the banking system as a whole.
Where Can Bank Runs Happen?
Bank runs can happen in any bank, in any country, and at any time, but are more likely in economies without robust deposit insurance schemes.
In the context of cryptocurrencies and blockchain, bank runs could potentially occur on cryptocurrency exchanges or on decentralized finance (DeFi) platforms.
Why Do Bank Runs Happen?
Bank runs occur when customers lose confidence in a bank’s ability to return their deposits.
This is typically triggered by rumors, news of financial trouble, or a crisis of confidence in the banking system.
How Do Bank Runs Happen?
Bank runs happen when a large number of depositors decide to withdraw their funds at the same time.
This can deplete the bank’s cash reserves, as banks typically do not hold enough cash on hand to cover all deposits.
In desperation, the bank may be forced to sell assets quickly, often at a loss, to meet the demand for withdrawals.
