The rule
In Ghana, savers must be told in writing that they carry the loss
Before opening a profit-sharing account, the bank must give the client a written notice that the risk of loss is theirs. The client signs or acknowledges it. Failing to give the notice carries a penalty of 500 penalty units.
“the risk of financial loss rests with the client(s).”
Bank of Ghana, Guideline for the Regulation and Supervision of Non-Interest Banking in Ghana, 13 January 2026, paras 97 to 100
How to use it
Saver or investor
Read the written notice before you sign. A profit-sharing account can lose money.
Bank or finance company
Put the notice in the account-opening pack, get it signed or acknowledged, and keep a copy for inspection (para 99).
Fintech or advisory firm
Digital onboarding needs a clear acknowledgement step for this notice.
Compared with conventional finance
| Conventional | Non-interest |
|---|---|
| A conventional deposit pays the agreed interest. Check your country’s deposit insurance rules. | The saver shares in profit and carries the loss, unless the bank was negligent or at fault (para 98). |
What it costs you: You give up a fixed return. In exchange, the bank cannot hide the risk from you.
First published in Africa Islamic Finance, edition 1, 12 November 2026.
This explains a regulator's rule. It is not a Sharia ruling or legal advice. For a ruling, ask a qualified scholar.