Wie wäre es mit verbieten?
Man möchte den Wettbewerb nicht einschränken und hofft mittelfristig auf positive Auswirkungen auf den Kurs den die Banken ihren Kunden anbieten. Bei Kreditkarten ist das ja meistens der MC/Visa Referenzkurs. Bis dahin soll es für eine Übergangszeit von drei Jahren eine Deckelung der Gebühren geben.
Die Argumente der Kommission im FAQ:
Why does the proposal provide for a three-year transition period? How will consumers be protected?
The transition period is based on discussions with service providers. Making currency conversion more transparent entails various technical developments, such as updates of software and in some cases hardware changes (e.g. at the Point of Sales terminal). This transition period will allow enough time for the EBA to develop the Regulatory Technical Standards needed and for the market to adapt to these changes.
In the meantime, the EBA will define a transitional cap on currency conversion fees. This cap will protect consumers from being charged fees for currency conversion that are not in line with the service offered. It is too early to speculate on the exact amount of this cap as the EBA will first consult the market and carry out an impact assessment.
Why is the Commission not simply banning Dynamic Currency Conversion, if it is so costly?
Prohibiting an activity that could prove useful for consumers under certain circumstances would be disproportionate. Instead, the Commission's proposal will make it possible for consumers compare offers and take an informed decision. This increase in transparency will ultimately boost competition among payment service providers. If the fees for dynamic currency conversion become more competitive, banks may also provide better rates for their currency conversion services. This might eventually lower costs for consumers.
