Ultra-legal interest in banking contracts: commentary on Ordinance No. 16456 of 2024

The world of banking contracts is characterized by numerous technical aspects that can often be complex for consumers. The recent Ordinance No. 16456 of June 13, 2024, from the Court of Cassation offers interesting insights regarding the determination of ultra-legal interest. In particular, the ruling clarifies that the interest rate does not necessarily need to be expressed in numerical figures, but can be determined through external elements and predetermined criteria, provided that these are objectively identifiable.

The principle established by the Court

According to the Court, for the validity of the written agreement on ultra-legal interest, mere numerical indication of the interest rate is not required. This aspect is crucial as it allows for greater flexibility in drafting banking contracts. The ruling specifies that reference can be made to objective criteria and external elements, as long as they are not unilaterally determined by the bank and are functional to the concrete determination of the rate itself.

In general, in the context of banking contracts, for the purpose of proving the written agreement for ultra-legal interest, the measure of the interest rate does not necessarily need to be indicated with a numerical indicator, but can well be determined through reference to predetermined criteria and external elements, provided they are objectively identifiable, not unilaterally determined by the bank, and functional to the concrete determination of the rate itself; a similar rule applies regarding the obligation to indicate the interest rate provided for by Article 117, paragraph 4, TUB. (In application of this principle, the Supreme Court confirmed the merits ruling that held that the APR of the financing, although not numerically indicated in the contract, could be determined based on the reported APR and other values contained in the contract).

Implications for consumers and banks

This decision has significant implications for both consumers and financial institutions. Firstly, consumers should pay attention to the criteria used to determine interest, ensuring that they are clear and understandable. On the other hand, banks are called to greater transparency in drafting contracts, highlighting the criteria for calculating interest in a way that the customer can easily understand.

  • Clarity in communication: it is essential that banks clearly state the conditions related to interest in contracts.
  • Consumer rights: customers must be protected and adequately informed about the contractual conditions.
  • European regulations: compliance with European regulations regarding transparency in advertising and commercial communications is essential.

Conclusions

In conclusion, Ordinance No. 16456 of 2024 represents an important step forward in the protection of consumer rights in the banking sector. The principle established by the Court of Cassation offers new opportunities for defining ultra-legal interest, promoting greater flexibility, but also requires a greater commitment from banks in contractual transparency. Industry operators are therefore called to reflect on how to improve the communication of contractual conditions while ensuring the protection of consumer rights.

Bianucci Law Firm