The U.S. economy continued to grow strongly over the year even in the face of a withdrawal of monetary stimulus and high oil prices. Executive Directors commended the Federal Reserve for its monetary tightening. They recognized that the financial sector has proven innovative and resilient. They...

This 2008 Article IV Consultation on euro area policies highlights that 10 years after its launch, monetary union is a distinct success and the euro area a zone of stability in the international economy. However, economic union remains work in progress. Improved wage setting and labor market...

A mix of solid economic policies, wage moderation, and an early orientation toward Eastern Europe explain Austria’s strong economic performance. The economy has grown strong in 2007 and through the first quarter of 2008. Employment growth remains strong, but the trend of a declining...

The Australian legal and regulatory framework for securities markets exhibits a high level of compliance with the International Organization of Securities Commissions (IOSCO) Principles. A few remaining concerns need to be resolved, including some identified in the 2006 assessment. Australian...

Cover -- CONTENTS -- GLOSSARY -- A -- B -- C -- D -- E -- F -- H -- I -- K -- L -- M -- N -- O -- P -- R -- S -- T -- U -- V -- W -- EXECUTIVE SUMMARY -- I. BACKGROUND, KEY FINDINGS AND FOLLOW UP -- A. Introduction -- B. Methodology and Information Used for the Assessment -- C. Overview of...

This paper reviews assessment of financial market infrastructures (FMIs) and authorities' responsibilities in Canada. The report shows that the FMIs have operated normally under a well-established legal and oversight framework that is distinct for Canada. The Bank of Canada (BOC) has issued a...

This paper on Belgium focuses on detailed assessment of observance of the International Organization of Securities Commissions (CPSS-IOSCO) principles for financial market infrastructures. While improvements have been made since the onboarding of the current Chief Information Security Officer,...

This report on Belgium discusses the technical note on financial safety net and crisis management. The authorities should now focus on strengthening the crisis management framework, ensure the operational readiness of resolution plans and enhancing the Deposit Insurance System. The Belgium...

This paper discusses the technical note on Supervision and Disclosure of Climate-Related Risks for the Sweden Financial Sector Assessment Program. Swedish banks are in general mainly exposed to the effects of climate change through loans that are collateralized by real estate properties and...