sentralbankfunksjoner

Central bank functions refer to the core responsibilities that central banks undertake to promote monetary stability, financial system soundness and economic health within their jurisdictions. These functions are typically grouped into several key areas.

Monetary policy is the primary role, involving the setting of interest rates and controlling money supply to achieve objectives such as price stability, low inflation, and sustainable growth. The lender of last resort function provides temporary liquidity to solvent banks or financial institutions facing short‑term funding shortages, thereby preventing contagion and maintaining confidence in the banking system. Central banks issue legal tender, minting or printing banknotes and coins that serve as the official currency.

Regulation and supervision monitor and regulate banks and other financial institutions, setting prudential standards, conducting oversight and enforcing compliance. Oversight of payment and settlement systems ensures smooth and secure processing of transactions and reduces systemic risk. Central banks also conduct foreign exchange management, intervening in currency markets when necessary to influence exchange rates or reduce volatility.

Financial stability analysis involves monitoring the broader financial environment, identifying systemic risks and coordinating with other regulators. Research and statistical functions generate data, publish reports, and provide analysis that informs both policy and public understanding. Finally, central banks engage in international cooperation, participating in global financial institutions, sharing information, and coordinating policy responses to transnational financial issues.

Collectively, these sentralbankfunksjoner create a framework that supports overall economic resilience and facilitates effective monetary and financial governance.