Reserve Bank Act defines role in price stability.
| Political | Economic Downturn |
Updated By: History Editorial Network (HEN)
Published: | Updated:
4 min read
In 1989, the Reserve Bank Act established a pivotal role for New Zealand's central bank - maintaining price stability. This event marked a significant shift in the bank's objectives, moving away from a focus on exchange rates towards ensuring inflation remained low and stable.
The act granted the Reserve Bank operational independence, empowering it to use monetary policy tools to control inflation. This move aimed to foster economic stability and growth by providing certainty around the value of money and encouraging sustainable investment.
The impact of this event was profound, as the bank's sole mandate of price stability became the cornerstone of its monetary policy framework. By prioritizing low and stable inflation, the Reserve Bank could effectively influence interest rates and money supply to achieve its objective.
Over the years, the Reserve Bank's commitment to price stability contributed to a more stable economic environment in New Zealand. Inflation rates became more predictable, allowing businesses and individuals to make informed decisions and plan for the future with greater confidence.
The Reserve Bank Act setting the bank's role as maintaining price stability represented a fundamental shift in New Zealand's monetary policy landscape. By focusing on controlling inflation, the central bank played a crucial role in promoting sustainable economic growth and stability in the country.
#ReserveBankAct #PriceStability #MonetaryPolicy #EconomicStability #NewZealand
Primary Reference: Reserve Bank of New Zealand Act 1989

Explore the Life Moments of New Zealand | 