The Bank of Finland's operational goals in financial markets can be crystallised into two key words: stability and efficiency.
Financial markets perform the function of channelling excess funds from private individuals and corporations to those individuals and corporations who are in need of financing. Funds are intermediated by banks and other credit institutions, and directly via financial markets through the issuance of securities. An efficient and reliable functioning of the financial system is vital for the economy as a whole. An efficient allocation of funds and financial stability contribute to economic growth and prosperity.
Payment systems constitute an essential element of the infrastructure of the economy and financial markets. They enable a smooth progress of economic activity in providing a framework for a quick and safe transfer of payments from payers to beneficiaries. Systems related to the execution of securities trades are also included in the infrastructure of financial markets.
The Bank of Finland's statutory task is to act with a view to maintaining and developing stable, reliable and efficient financial and payment systems in Finland. The aim is to prevent potential financial market crises and ensure crisis management in the event of the realisation of crises. To contribute to the achievement of these objectives, the central bank conducts financial and payment operations, analyses threats to financial stability, including system weaknesses, and participates in system development. The Bank of Finland cooperates closely with other supervisory and regulatory authorities. Safeguarding the stability of the financial system – macroprudential supervision – is thus a shared responsibility.