As part of its statutory mandate, the SNB observes and analyses developments in international economic policy. It formulates positions on international economic policy issues and follows institutional, economic and political developments in countries that are particularly relevant.

International policy analysis

The SNB monitors the activities of relevant multilateral institutions as well as general global economic developments. Of particular interest are issues relating to international financial architecture, especially the workings of the global financial safety net. The focus is on ensuring the IMF has adequate resources and on its arrangements for lending. In addition, the SNB analyses the development of the Swiss balance of payments.

Country-specific analyses and contributions

The SNB follows and analyses economic, institutional and political developments in countries that have particular relevance. This helps the SNB - in cooperation with the Federal Department of Finance - in preparing Switzerland's position on country-specific submissions and topics to be discussed by the IMF Executive Board. Agenda items include, for example, Article IV consultations as well as the approval or review of programmes.