In the IMF’s Global Financial Stability Report of April 2009 the potential write-downs for banks active in emerging markets were estimated  BIS Review 82/2009  11  for the first time. Global potential write-downs in emerging markets amount to almost USD 800 billion. The potential write-downs for Eastern Europe are estimated to reach USD 185 billion or 9% of outstanding assets.
Although the potential write-downs for Eastern Europe are similar to those of other regions (Asia, Latin America…), the mere size of the write-downs points to the need for fast and coordinated policy reactions at both the national and international level.