Analysis of Judgment No. 21344 of 30/07/2024: the prohibition of usury in banking contracts

Judgment No. 21344 of July 30, 2024, issued by the Court of Cassation, represents an important reference point for the regulation of banking contracts, particularly regarding the prohibition of usury. In this article, we will analyze the content of the judgment, its significance, and the implications for consumers and banks.

The regulatory context

The prohibition of usury, that is, the application of interest on interest, is governed by Article 120, paragraph 2, of Legislative Decree No. 385 of 1993 (TUB). Law No. 147 of 2013 further clarified this matter, specifying that the prohibition takes effect from December 1, 2014, and is not subject to the adoption of resolutions by the CICR. This aspect is fundamental to understanding the implications of the judgment in question.

Exclusion. Regarding banking contracts, the prohibition of usury as provided by Article 120, paragraph 2, of Legislative Decree No. 385 of 1993 (TUB), as replaced by Article 1, paragraph 628, of Law No. 147 of 2013, takes effect from December 1, 2014, and operates independently of the adoption, by the CICR, of the resolution provided therein regarding the methods and criteria for the production of interest in operations carried out in the exercise of banking activity.

Analysis of the decision

The Court, through this judgment, excluded the need for a CICR resolution for the application of the prohibition of usury, stating that the prohibition has been in effect since December 1, 2014. This decision is significant as it eliminates a potential regulatory gap that could have been exploited by some banking institutions. Consumer protection, in this context, is strengthened, ensuring that banking contracts cannot provide for the application of interest on interest without clear consent.

  • Direct reflection on transparency in banking contracts.
  • Greater protection for consumers against usurious practices.
  • Regulatory clarity that also helps banks avoid legal conflicts.

Conclusions

Judgment No. 21344 of July 30, 2024, of the Court of Cassation, represents an important step in the protection of consumer rights and in the regulatory clarity regarding banking contracts. With this decision, a principle of justice and transparency is established that cannot be ignored in the Italian banking landscape. Banking institutions are therefore called upon to comply with these provisions to ensure the legality and fairness of their practices.

Bianucci Law Firm