Eddie Yue: Towards a smarter, greener and more inclusive financial system Opening keynote speech by Mr Eddie Yue, Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Monetary Authority, at the Hong Kong Institute of Bankers (HKIB) Annual Banking Conference 2021, 28 September 2021. * * *  Towards a Smarter, Greener and more Inclusive Financial System Peter (Wong), Patrick (Fung), Carrie (Leung), distinguished guests, ladies and gentleman, 1. Good morning. It’s good to see you all. I am delighted to be here today at the Annual Conference of the Hong Kong Institute of Bankers (HKIB). 2. The topic for today’s Conference covers some important macro trends. These trends, like re-globalisation and sustainability, have wider impact that are relevant for the long-term development of the banking industry. 3. Over the past two years or so, the social unrest in Hong Kong followed by the pandemic have dominated, and sometimes overwhelmed, our attention. When the banking industry was so busy dealing with the pressing challenges to operational continuity and resilience, it is easy to lose sight of evolving trends with wider implications for longer term development. 4. One of these more profound trends is the increasing challenge in ensuring financial inclusion. This issue is closely linked to HKMA’s strategic priorities. And I believe the financial system does have key roles to play in addressing this challenge. Stronger need for financial inclusion 5. In fact, the challenge of financial inclusion is a global trend that has been exacerbated by the pandemic.
Gent Sejko: Statement - press conference with IMF Mission Chief Statement by Mr Gent Sejko, Governor of the Bank of Albania, at the joint press conference with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) Mission Chief for Albania Minister of Finance and Economy, Tirana, 10 October 2022. *** Dear media representatives, In the last two weeks, the Bank of Albania and the Albanian government have been engaged in intensive discussions with the IMF Mission, which visited Albania in the framework of the regular Article IV consultations. Discussion focused on current challenges for the Albanian economy, as well as structural reforms that would enable a faster and more sustainable development of the country in the long term. Allow me - first and foremost - to extend my thanks to the IMF Mission for the open share of views in addition to the fruitful and transparent discussions. Overall, the Bank of Albania and the IMF share similar opinions on the developmental challenges that lie ahead. The swift upsurge of prices in the global markets following the unprovoked military aggression of Russia over Ukraine, have triggered serious economic and social challenges for the economies and citizens of all countries around the world, including Albania. Inflation hit 8% in August, increasing at a rapid pace and having a broad base. Based on our judgement, we have previously stressed out that the high inflation is the main threat on the macroeconomic stability and both the stable and long-term growth of Albania.