Bank of England’s QE policies threaten its independence, Hong Kong’s future as an international financial centre, and more
THE WEEKEND REVIEW – OMFIF
Latest opinion and analysis from OMFIF around the world
2-6 August 2021, Vol.12 Ed.31
Most-Read Commentary
Bank of England’s QE policies threaten its independence: In its recent review of the quantitative easing policies pursued by the Bank of England, the UK House of Lords Select Committee on Economic Affairs asked whether the QE programme had compromised the bank’s independence. There is widespread disagreement among commentators on the purpose and effectiveness of the QE policies and even more discord around when and how they should come to an end, writes Philip Middleton.
New approach to MSME financing in Asia Pacific: Taking inspiration from Zen Buddhism, the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific has published a report that puts forward the concept of a ‘digital enso’. This approach will increase financial access for many MSMEs and open the door to new digital solutions, writes Tamara Singh. Read more.
Podcast
Requirements for a fully functional CBDC: Charles Kerrigan, partner at CMS Law, and Seokgu Yun, CEO of Sovereign Wallet Network, join OMFIF’s John Orchard to discuss how policy-makers can address privacy concerns associated with central bank digital currencies. They also touch on programmable money and how to build a CBDC that can adapt to future needs. Listen.
Video
Hong Kong’s future as an international financial centre: Hong Kong’s financial system remains resilient despite geopolitical tensions, social unrest and Covid-19. Eddie Yue, chief executive of the Hong Kong Monetary Authority, discusses Hong Kong’s role as a gateway to China, highlighting the stock and bond connect schemes and the greater bay area development. Watch the video.
Commentary
European sovereigns explore sustainable bond agenda: The consensus among analysts is that 2021 will be a record year for green bond issuance worldwide The UK’s green bond programme will be a notable source of new green supply, while Germany and Italy have each issued landmark bonds. But emerging markets risk being left behind, writes Philip Moore. Read more.
