This is not a traditional mission for a central bank: it is usually focused on monetary policy and financial stability. Yet, I believe that all these missions go hand in hand: whether we are working towards financial inclusion or price stability, the overarching goal is the same – supporting inclusive and sustainable economic growth. On financial inclusion, the role of Banque de France has always been to support the  efforts of public authorities and of the private financial sector in helping widening access to financial services. And this support is provided to help meet 3 main objectives: improving fair access , preventing inequalities of treatment and improving financial 1/5  BIS central bankers' speeches  literacy. Let me take a few examples. To help Improve fair access, Banque de France is part of the “right to an account” procedure set up by French law. If a bank refuses to open a bank account to a client, he or she can make a request to us and we will designate a bank within 24 hours. This specific bank account will provide basic services free of charge. In 2018, 50000 people made use of that right. Reducing the usage cost of a bank account is also essential for financial inclusion. And “fragile” clients, for instance because of low resources or a bad credit history, are the most likely to pay fees because of issues with their accounts – 300 euros a year on average.
A single failure of a high magnitude eliminates massive and hard-earned gains made over many years. That is why performance is so vital and important. It is therefore timely that the Management Accountants are focusing on the re-positioning of the profession. It is wise that you are talking about how to project yourselves and promote yourselves in the future. It is refreshing that you are talking with your stakeholders and then planning your repositioning, because the relevance of your position is of paramount importance, if you are to survive and thrive. My learning as a Chartered Accountant as well as a Management Accountant helped me a great deal in my activities and in my performance over the years. I believe my own successes can be traced to the roots of such learning, education, and training. Like me, I am sure we have all benefited immensely by the initial training and guidance we have received from our respective institutes. Let us now build on those foundations and strengths and move forward with confidence and certainty even in the midst of tremendous challenges and competition. I am sure our profession, notwithstanding the numerous changes that are taking place, would remain relevant to the business and commercial world. We owe it to our respective economies to keep it that way. I congratulate all of you for the interest you are taking and the contribution you are making. I wish you all success and prosperity. BIS Review 10/2008  3