Mission statement
The Central Bank of Malta (the Bank) is an independent institution, which forms an integral part of the Eurosystem and, as a member of the European System of Central Banks (ESCB), has the primary objective of maintaining price stability. It is entrusted with all major central banking tasks, particularly that of ensuring the stability of the financial system.
The Bank carries out its statutory responsibilities in the public interest and is committed to performing its functions effectively, efficiently and economically to the highest level of integrity, competence and transparency. In this regard, in accordance with the Central Bank of Malta Act, and in conformity with the Treaty on European Union and the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union and the Protocol on the Statute of the ESCB and of the European Central Bank (ECB), it:
- undertakes economic and financial analysis and research to support the Governor's participation in the decision-making process of the ECB's Governing Council and provides independent advice to the Government on economic and financial policy issues;
- implements the ECB's monetary policy through market operations conducted within the operational framework of the Eurosystem;
- contributes effectively to the stability of the financial system by identifying and assessing systemic risks and imbalances, and making the appropriate policy recommendations;
- formulates and implements a macro-prudential policy to fulfil its task as the national macro-prudential authority;
- promotes and supports the development and integration of financial markets in Malta through oversight of market infrastructures and by ensuring the availability of cost efficient securities settlement and payment systems;
- provides an adequate supply of banknotes and coins to meet the demands of the public, while ensuring high quality and authenticity of the currency in circulation;
- collects, compiles and publishes economic and financial statistics in line with international standards;
- acts as banker to Government and to the banking system;
- holds and actively manages financial assets with the aim of optimising returns, subject to prudent risk management practices;
- actively participates in the ESCB, the Eurosystem and other relevant European Union bodies, including their sub-structures;
- acts as the supervisory authority of credit reference agencies for the purpose of overseeing and regulating the issuance of credit scores.
In addition, as a member of the Eurosystem, the Bank fully subscribes to the Eurosystem's mission, strategic intents and organisational principles.