Stefan Varga

Oesterreichische Nationalbank

The Oesterreichische Nationalbank (OeNB) is the central bank of the Republic of Austria and, as such, an integral part of both the European System of Central Banks (ESCB) and the Eurosystem. In the public interest, the OeNB contributes to monetary and economic policy decision making in Austria and in the euro area. In line with the Federal Act on the Oesterreichische Nationalbank (1984 Nationalbank Act – NBG), the OeNB is a stock corporation. Given its status as a central bank, it is, however, governed by a number of special provisions, as laid down in the Nationalbank Act. The OeNB's capital totals EUR 12 million, 100% of which is held by the federal government. The main tasks of the OeNB center on contributing to a stability-oriented monetary policy within the Eurosystem, safeguarding financial stability in Austria and supplying the general public and the business community in Austria with high-quality, i.e. counterfeit-proof, cash. In addition, the OeNB manages reserve assets, i.e. gold and foreign exchange holdings, with a view to backing the euro in times of crisis, draws up economic analyses, compiles statistical data, is active in international organizations and is responsible for payment systems oversight. Furthermore, the OeNB operates a payment system for the euro, promotes knowledge and understanding among the general public and decision makers owing to its comprehensive communication policy, and supports research in Austria.