UBS investigated by US regulators over Libor

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Swiss banking giant UBS has said it is being investigated by US regulators for allegedly manipulating Libor, the rate at which banks lend to each other.

UBS said it had received subpoenas from the Securities Exchange Commission (SEC), Commodity Futures Trading Commission and Department of Justice.

These refer to submissions the bank made to the British Bankers' Association, which sets the Libor rate.

UBS said it was conducting an internal review into the allegations.

"UBS understands that the investigations focus on whether there were improper attempts by UBS, either acting on its own or together with others, to manipulate Libor rates at certain times," the bank said in its annual report published on Tuesday.

Libor, or London interbank offered rate, is recognised globally as the benchmark rate at which banks lend to other banks.

"We are committed to retaining the reputation and integrity of Libor," said the British Bankers' Association.

"We observe rigorous standards in our scrutiny and governance of the Libor mechanism, and work with the industry to ensure their continued full confidence in one of its most accurate and reliable benchmarks."