Recent figures for the third quarter of 2017 show a sound GDPgrowth of 0.6%, quarter on quarter – after 0.7% in the preceding quarter. Euro area unemployment stood at 8.8% in October – well down from its peak of 12.1% in 2013 and the lowest level since January 2009.
Ladies and Gentlemen; these initiatives and reforms have led to notable improvements in the levels, reach and depth of access to financial services especially among the lower population segments. The results in terms of numbers are astounding with deposit accounts growing tremendously over the years. But such a vibrant sector requires to be safeguarded; that is why financial integrity becomes important. Financial integrity 9.