To conclude, the economic analysis continues to indicate that the outlook for price developments in the medium term is in line with price stability. Cross-checking with the monetary analysis does not alter this picture. Let me also make a few remarks on other policies in the euro area. With regard to fiscal policies, the Governing Council sees continued reasons for concern. Recent information indicates that significant imbalances are emerging in a growing number of countries and that current policies would not be sufficient to attain the consolidation objectives specified in the latest stability programmes. We strongly urge governments to take corrective action in a timely and sustained fashion, where and when necessary. Finally, with regard to structural reforms, the Governing Council welcomed the Presidency conclusions of last weekend’s Brussels European Council. Structural reforms are necessary to meet the Lisbon challenge and thus reap the benefits of higher sustainable growth and employment. As pointed out by the European Council, the pace of reform needs to be significantly stepped up and the critical issue now is the need for better implementation of commitments already made. Ending the political uncertainty and delays surrounding the implementation of sustainable fiscal policies and effective structural reforms would indeed support private sector confidence, which would add momentum to the economic recovery in the euro area, given the supportive stance of monetary policy. We are now at your disposal for questions. 2  BIS Review 20/2004
Apart from answering to shareholder interests, the board of directors and management also have a fiduciary duty to their policy-holders. Sound internal risk management and controls are needed to protect policy-holders' interests. Currently, our regulations oblige the Appointed Actuary to take responsibility for monitoring the financial soundness of life insurance companies. But the Board and management cannot just sit back and rely on the actuaries. Board and management themselves must acquire a better awareness and understanding of actuarial assessment. We need to set clear expectations of the role that the Board and management play, in ensuring the financial soundness of their companies. MAS will work with industry and professional associations to set out guidelines for this important area. In Singapore, we established the Corporate Governance Code for listed companies last year. MAS has tightened corporate governance standards for local banks. We recently required auditor rotation for local banks, a policy which we had been considering for some time, even before the latest wave of accounting scandals. For insurance companies, we are currently working on a draft corporate governance framework. MAS is consulting the industry and will issue guidelines for internal governance for local boards of directors, as well as guidelines for the roles and responsibilities of Principal Officers of insurance companies.