Bail-in is a process in which a company or financial institution experiencing financial distress is saved from collapse by forcing creditors to write off its debt. This method has become increasingly popular globally as a way to protect taxpayers from bearing the costs of bank bailouts.

In a bail-in, instead of using public funds, the financial institution’s creditors and depositors take a “haircut” - significant losses - to keep it afloat. Creditors, typically bond or equity holders, are the first to take losses, while some depositors may also have to take losses. This arrangement is often made after a distressed company has seriously evaluated options, including voluntary restructuring and debt forbearance.

By recapitalizing the troubled company, bail-ins provide a much needed capital injection that keeps the distressed company afloat. It also helps reduce a company’s debt-to-equity ratio, making it a healthier and more attractive option for debt or equity investors.

The concept of bail-ins has been discussed in the wake of the financial crisis, as regulators have sought ways to protect taxpayers from the high costs of bank bailouts. The United States, European Union and other countries have included bail-ins among their resolution strategies, albeit with varying levels of implementation.

However, not everyone is a fan of bail-ins. Critics say that these schemes tend to unfairly punish creditors who are trying to collect their debt. Moreover, bail-ins are seen as a disincentive for investors as they could face major losses if the bailed-in institution fails.

Proponents argue that bail-ins don’t just protect taxpayers from bailout costs; they also offer a more ethical solution to financial distress by making creditors and debtors both take a share of the burden. Moreover, they may also encourage banks and other financial institutions to be more prudent with their risk-taking.

In any case, bail-ins have become a key tool used by governments, regulators and financial institutions around the world to handle financial distress. By providing a self-contained solution to protect taxpayers, they may help to save a financial institution while encouraging a more responsible corporate culture.