Annual Report 2022/23

Promoting global monetary and financial stability

The BIS fosters central bank collaboration and provides banking services in an increasingly complex environment. The Bank focuses on developments in financial markets, monetary policy, financial stability and innovation and encourages dialogue among central banks on these topics.

In-depth analysis and insights

BIS research supports central banks in their pursuit of monetary and financial stability. The BIS aims to provide our stakeholders with in-depth analysis and insights by drawing on its unique position at the intersection of research and policy. 

Promoting international cooperation

The BIS acts as a global forum for dialogue and cooperation among central banks and financial supervisory authorities from around the world. In 2022/23, central banks focused on how to curb inflation and how monetary policy might interact with fiscal policy. In addition, the challenges and opportunities that digitalisation presents for the global monetary and financial system remained a key theme.

The bank for central banks

The BIS provides a broad range of banking services to central banks and other official sector customers. Activities include deposit-taking, gold and foreign exchange trading services, and the management of pooled fixed income products and dedicated investment mandates. Banking staff also manage the BIS's own funds and conduct knowledge-sharing activities for the broader reserve management community.

Fostering innovation

Rapid technological change in the financial sector brings both opportunities and risks. This situation creates significantly complex challenges for central banks. The BIS helps central banks continue to deliver on their core mandates of monetary and financial stability in a changing environment. Central banks must embrace sound innovation in the digital era to maintain the safety, integrity and stability of money and payments.

The way we work

In 2022/23, in the wake of the pandemic, we reconnected and found out how new ways of working can enhance our performance as individuals and as an institution. Throughout the transition to a new flexible working environment, we continued to work with a strong sense of mission and purpose, in an inclusive and dynamic work environment, while promoting sustainable and socially responsible work practices. 

Governance and organisation

The BIS is governed at three levels: the General Meetings of member central banks, the Board of Directors and BIS Management. Each of these bodies participates in the governance and decision-making related to BIS activities in the areas of international cooperation, policy analysis, banking operation, corporate operations and innovation.

Financial results and profit allocation

The Bank's balance sheet and financial results are driven mainly by its banking activities and by the management of the funds associated with its shareholders' equity. The annual net profit is allocated as a dividend or transferred to a reserve fund according to the Bank's Statutes.

Financial statements

The BIS's financial statements for the financial year ended 31 March 2023 provide an analysis of the Bank's balance sheet and profit and loss account, together with other financial, capital adequacy and risk management disclosures. The financial statements are prepared in accordance with the Statutes and accounting policies of the Bank, and are externally audited.