CBI outlines 2025 performance, 2026 priorities
The Central Bank of Ireland has published its Annual Report 2025 and Annual Performance Statement 2025-2026. The report details the Bank's performance in a challenging global environment and outlines its strategic priorities for the coming year.
Navigating global uncertainty
The global economic environment in 2025 was marked by significant uncertainty, fragmentation, and geopolitical tensions.
Despite this, euro area inflation continued to moderate due to tighter monetary policy and easing supply pressures, with interest rates maintained to ensure inflation returns to the 2 percent medium-term target.
The Irish economy demonstrated resilience, supported by strong employment and investment, though domestic capacity constraints, particularly in housing, remain challenges.
Key achievements in 2025 included a revised Consumer Protection Code, analytical work on the new US tariff regime, development of the Innovation Sandbox, and new responsibilities for safeguarding access to cash.
The Bank also issued two commemorative coins.
Mission, vision, and values
The Central Bank of Ireland's core mission is to serve the public interest by maintaining monetary and financial stability, while ensuring the financial system operates in the best interests of consumers and the wider economy.
As part of Europe's monetary and banking unions, the Bank provides economic analysis, sets consumer protection standards, and regulates financial service providers.
Its vision is to be a trusted central bank, respected by peers, and a fulfilling workplace, underpinned by values of integrity, courage, and teamwork.
The Bank is also responsible for Ireland's payment systems and currency provision, emphasizing transparency and accountability across public policy domains.
A steady hand in turbulent times
The Annual Report provides a comprehensive overview of the Central Bank's multifaceted mandate and its diligent execution amidst global headwinds.
While highlighting resilience, it subtly underscores the persistent domestic challenges, particularly in housing, which remain beyond the Bank's direct control.
Ultimately, the report reinforces the institution's role as a crucial anchor for Ireland's economic stability, even as external uncertainties intensify.