BRICS Launches Intrabank System: Disruption of Western Finance System?

Over the past month, BRICS has made significant strides that highlight its growing influence on the global stage. With an expanding membership and innovative financial initiatives, the bloc is positioning itself as a formidable alternative to Western-dominated financial systems.

Key Takeaways

• BRICS is attracting interest from 40 to 47 countries seeking membership.
• The bloc aims to reduce reliance on the U.S. dollar through an intrabank payment system.
• Russia and Iran have linked their national payment systems to enhance economic collaboration.
• BRICS is expanding its influence in global trade and energy markets.

The Rise of BRICS

As of August 2024, BRICS has seen a surge in interest from various nations, particularly from Africa, Asia, and South America. Countries are eager to join the bloc, driven by the desire to challenge the existing global economic order dominated by institutions like the IMF and World Bank. This shift is largely motivated by the need to diversify away from the U.S. dollar, which many perceive as a risk to their economies, especially in light of potential U.S. economic downturns.

Financial Independence Initiatives

One of the most notable developments is the intrabank payment system that BRICS is working towards. This system aims to facilitate cross-border transactions without relying on the U.S. dollar. A significant step in this direction was the collaboration between Russia and Iran, which linked their national payment systems. This integration allows transactions to be processed using their respective currencies, the ruble and rial, effectively bypassing the dollar and the SWIFT network.

• Key Benefits of the Integration:
  • Circumvention of Western Sanctions: Both nations can conduct trade without the constraints imposed by Western financial systems.
  • Increased Trade Volume: Over 60% of trade between Russia and Iran is now conducted in national currencies, with bilateral trade surging by 15% to $4.6 billion.
  • Enhanced Financial Services: Russia’s VTB Bank has launched services for money transfers between the two countries, further solidifying their economic ties.

Expanding Membership

The interest in joining BRICS is not limited to Russia and Iran. Several countries have taken steps toward membership:

1. Iran: Officially submitted its application to join BRICS after a visit from Russian President Vladimir Putin.
2. Azerbaijan: Confirmed its application, highlighting its desire to expand global partnerships.
3. Malaysia: Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim announced the country’s application, citing the economic strength of BRICS members.
4. Thailand and Vietnam: Both nations have expressed intentions to join, aiming to diversify their foreign relations.
5. Turkey: Confirmed its ambition to join, driven by strategic objectives to enhance economic collaboration.

The Economic Impact of BRICS

The recent expansion of BRICS has significant implications for global trade and energy markets. The bloc now represents 29.3% of global GDP, amounting to $30.8 trillion, and 46% of the world’s population. The inclusion of major oil producers like Saudi Arabia and the UAE has increased BRICS’s share of global oil production from 20.4% to 43.1%. This shift is crucial as it positions BRICS as a major player in the energy sector, potentially undermining the U.S. dollar’s dominance.

• Trade Growth: In 2023, trade volume within BRICS countries reached $422 billion, driven by strong economic relationships, particularly between China and Russia.
• Resource Control: BRICS now controls approximately 72% of global rare earth production, which could alter global trade patterns and investment strategies.

Conclusion

The developments within BRICS signal a transformative shift in the global economic landscape. As more countries express interest in joining and the bloc advances its financial independence initiatives, the potential for a new economic order emerges. This could lead to a more multipolar world, challenging the long-standing dominance of Western financial systems. The future of BRICS is not just about economic collaboration; it’s about redefining global power dynamics.