Central banks are the financial engines of nations, acting as the ultimate guardians of economic stability. Unlike regular commercial banks that serve individuals and companies, these institutions serve governments and the banking system itself. In the last five years, their role has been crucial in stabilizing economies.
They have taken measures to stimulate the global economy during and after the pandemic, only to spend the years that followed fighting a war against the resulting inflation. Their power lies in the total value of assets they hold, ranging from government bonds and foreign currencies to gold. These assets allow them to control interest rates, stabilize currencies, and bail out failing sectors and even entire nations.
This gallery explores the 15 wealthiest central banks, revealing how they amassed such staggering fortunes and how they invest their billions to keep the world turning. Curious? Click to know more.
All figures in USD.