Numerous roles have been assigned to central banks over the years, many of which do not have to be performed exclusively by these institutions and could also be Page 1 of 12  carried out by others.
Apart from supporting state financing during times of crisis, two main functional roles have traditionally been at the heart of central banking: maintaining price stability (subject to the monetary regime) and maintaining financial stability. This includes crisis prevention and management and resolution as well as the promotion of financial development in the economy.