Volcker Rule
Volcker Rule (Section 619 of Dodd-Frank)
Definition
The US regulation prohibiting banking entities from engaging in proprietary trading and from acquiring or retaining ownership interests in hedge funds or private equity funds, subject to certain exemptions. The rule is designed to prevent banks from making speculative investments that do not benefit their customers.
Regulatory Context
Named after former Federal Reserve Chairman Paul Volcker, the rule was implemented jointly by five US agencies. Subsequent revisions have simplified compliance requirements and provided exemptions for smaller banks. The rule has been influential in global debates about ring-fencing bank activities.