Slow economic growth and continuing low interest rate environment is putting pressure on the insurance sector. Delays in the implementation of Solvency II could create vulnerabilities in the insurance sector. The approval of internal models is important for determining adequacy of capital levels...

This paper discusses key findings of the Financial System Stability Assessment for Namibia, including the Report on the Observance of Standards and Codes on Banking Supervision. The financial system of Namibia appears healthy, well-run, and resilient to plausible macroeconomic shocks. Namibia...

The Greek economy showed strength supported by solid gains in employment, substantial real wage increases, low interest rates, and rapid credit expansion. Executive Directors appreciated the performance of the banking system and welcomed the Bank of Greece’s efforts to strengthen...

The French economy weathered global crisis better than most of its peers. The authorities have taken important policy actions to stabilize the financial system and have implemented suitable fiscal stimulus to cushion the downturn. Executive Directors welcomed the policy, which aims to strengthen...

Austria has relatively strong macroeconomic fundamentals, but also deep ties with the rest of the euro area. The legacy of an overly ambitious eastward financial sector expansion has created substantial challenges to its policymakers. Policies have been designed to preserve market confidence,...

Structural reforms and prudent economic policies have helped Chile’s successful economic performance. Executive Directors commended the sound macroeconomic policies, the structural fiscal surplus rule, and the robust financial system. They appreciated Chile's monetary policy stance and...

Bosnia and Herzegovina’s (Bah) economy started to lose steam in early 2012 as growth slowed in Europe. Intensification of the euro area crisis further affected Bin's growth outlook. However, measures such as limiting the expenditure at the central government level and targeting overall...

A full assessment of Israel’s compliance with the Insurance Core Principles (ICPs) of the International Association of Insurance Supervisors (IAIS) is presented. The Minister of Finance bears the political responsibility for supervisory oversight of the Israeli insurance system. Nonlife...