The European Central Bank is considering asking euro-region members for a capital increase to protect itself from any losses stemming from its government bond purchases, said a euro-area central bank official with knowledge of the talks.
The Frankfurt-based ECB’s subscribed capital amounts to euro 5.8 billion ($7.8 billion), according to its website. No decision has yet been made on whether to ask for a capital increase, said the official, who spoke on condition of anonymity. The matter may be discussed at the next Governing Council meeting on December 16.