The context of the Russian war in Ukraine challenges us to reinvent the dialogue with political authorities, for at least three reasons: because geopolitics are today a major determinant of the economy; because the energy markets, their regulation and pricing are key for inflation; and lastly because fiscal choices regarding subsidies to households or even to firms are far from neutral for monetary authorities. Another challenge, and a much more tough one, is that the populist ideology creates an atmosphere of general mistrust of institutions – and still more of independent ones. In the name of popular sovereignty, we would return to a power of elected sovereign that would be absolute – and not relative anymore. At worst, this would call into question our democracy and its necessary checks and balances. At the very least, it is imperative for us to be efficient in our mandate, and to increase our accountability. 2. Efficiency of our mandate Price stability, which is a prerequisite for long-term growth, is the primary objective of most central banks. Broader mandates nevertheless apply to some, notably the Federal Reserve with its dual objective on employment and inflation. Other central banks have expressed sensitivity to inequalities, or to other issues, and have therefore contemplated a broadening of their mandate. Some observers questioned this alleged “mission creep”, and wondered whether central banks have lost sight of their primary responsibility.
Today, I will focus my remarks on how best practice efforts can help support the integrity and effectiveness of financial markets. I will draw upon the New York Fed’s experience with the Treasury Market Practices Group (TMPG), the Foreign Exchange Committee (FXC), and the Bank for International Settlements (BIS) Foreign Exchange Working Group (BIS FXWG) in developing and refining best practices for financial markets. The markets covered by these groups are those for U.S. Treasuries, agency debt, agency mortgage-backed securities (MBS), and foreign exchange (FX). Segments of these markets have historically operated under an over-the-counter (OTC) trading model and, as a result, lack a formal central trading venue like an exchange with established rules. 2 These markets are of particular interest for central banks globally, because of their important role in the implementation of monetary policy. In light of these considerations, central banks have made extensive efforts to convene market participants to develop best practices that help cultivate fair and effective markets. 3 As a participant in these markets, the Desk has a direct interest in their integrity and effectiveness. I hope my remarks will reinforce why the New York Fed and primary dealers as a group should be interested in continuing to support best practices. Your engagement in  1  The “Desk” refers to the Federal Reserve Bank of New York’s trading desk, which implements monetary policy on behalf of the Federal Reserve System, as directed by the Federal Open Market Committee.