Financial institutions
Financial institutions comprise commercial and savings banks, finance enterprises and insurance companies. These institutions account for most of the capital and payment transactions in the economy.
Norges Bank monitors the financial strength and liquidity of banks in particular, because they are key participants in the payment system. Claims on banks (deposits) are a fundamental part of our financial system. Only banks can accept deposits from the general public.
Norges Bank's bi-annual report Financial Stability provides a broad assessment of banks' main risks, particularly credit risk, market risk, settlement risk and liquidity risk. The current situation for insurance companies and investment firms is also assessed. Many financial institutions form a part of mixed financial conglomerates. Therefore, Norges Bank monitors developments in both the individual financial enterprises and in financial conglomerates.
Norges Bank issues statements concerning rules and regulations which may be important for stability in the financial system, including financial institutions. Kredittilsynet supervises financial institutions (financial strength, risk awareness, management and control) and administers a range of rules and regulations. Norges Bank has an observer on the board of Kredittilsynet.
Norges Bank may provide emergency credit (lender of last resort) if financial stability is threatened.
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