Lars Nyberg: The framework of modern central banking Speech by Mr Lars Nyberg, Deputy Governor of the Sveriges Riksbank, at the Conference on Reforming the State Bank of Vietnam, Hanoi, 21 March 2006. *  *  *  Thank you for inviting me to this conference on reforming the State Bank of Vietnam. I imagine that one reason why I have been invited here is that the central bank I represent, Sveriges Riksbank in Sweden, just over a decade ago was in a situation which resembles the one the State Bank of Vietnam is experiencing now. At that time we had reached a situation where there were strong reasons – if not imperative ones – for reconsidering the way in which we used to think about monetary policy. It became clear that a reform of monetary policy and its framework was both desirable and necessary. Of course, Sweden is by no means the only country where monetary policy has undergone major changes in recent times. The view of how best to conduct monetary policy has changed fairly radically over the past twenty years and this has been reflected in a more or less worldwide reform process. What I hope to be able to contribute here today – as an introduction to the discussions – is to provide an overall picture of the ideas that formed the basis for this process and to describe what are today considered to be the guiding principles for a modern central bank, according to established research and practical experiences.
The data processing power of the computer allowed the industry to design new products, scale up operations and increase efficiency. Fast forward to today, we are at the brink of another great technological revolution and disruption. Artificial intelligence, big data and robotics will reshape the way we live, work and play. In many ways, the industry is in a prime position to seize the opportunities arising from these technologies given that the ability to manage risks remains the single most compelling proposition of insurance. For example, e-hailing services have become part and parcel of modern life. Many of the drivers do not benefit from generic motor insurance products. Perhaps usage-based or pay-as-you-drive insurance policies would be better suited for these consumers. Technology such as telematics could also be adopted to incentivise drivers to good behaviour. Artificial intelligence and blockchain can be utilised to enhance the efficiency of the claims settlement process. As a service industry, it is important for insurance companies to address the user experience. From our extensive engagements with the public, many Malaysians still find purchasing insurance too much of a hassle. Products are perceived to be too convoluted, complicated and non-transparent. We are taking this very seriously, particularly given the measures we have taken to encourage the use of plain language coupled with clear and concise disclosures. 2/4  BIS central bankers' speeches  Clearly, these measures have not had the desired effect. There is an urgent need for the industry to design a more positive customer experience.