To take on the then global financial crisis, to maintain the stability of the financial system, the MSAR Government announced in October 2008 full protection for all deposits placed by customers with banks operating in Macau (offshore banks excluded) until 31 December 2010.

In scrutinizing all operational and regulatory targets, we have witnessed that the financial system of Macao now has never been better; adequate capital, ample liquidity, excellent asset quality have rendered the system, as usual, secure and stable. Nevertheless, in view of the enhancement of the security of the financial system brought about by deposit protection, the MSAR Government has decided, after taking into consideration the most up-to-date deposit protection arrangement made available by neighbouring regions and the practical situation of Macao, to continue deposit protection with effect from 1 January 2011. The maximum amount under protection is however adjusted to MOP500,000 (five hundred thousand Patacas), namely, the maximum amount of protection available to each depositor in any individual bank shall be MOP500,000. Other related provisions shall remain unchanged. All deposits denominated in Pataca or other currencies in name of individuals or organizations shall be protected. However, structured deposits, pledged deposits, bearer commercial papers and other financial products, such as bonds, stocks, investment funds are not included. The aforementioned deposit protection arrangement will cover 95% of depositors, aligned with the standard suggested by relevant international organizations.