The following table shows the Central Bank of Iceland’s Balance Sheet as at the end of March 2005 with comparative figures for the end of February 2005 and end of December 2004.
In March, the Central Bank purchased currency in the domestic interbank market for 0.6 b.kr., which is consistent with its stated strategy of maintaining its external position. The Central Bank’s foreign reserves decreased by 0.6 b.kr. to 59.5 b.kr. at the end of the month (equivalent to 982 m. US dollars at the current exchange rate). The króna appreciated by 1.5% in March.
Central Bank claims on deposit money banks increased by 3.7 b.kr. in March and amounted to 21.8 b.kr. at the end of the month. Claims on other financial institutions decreased by 2.1 b.kr. to 6.7 b.kr. at the end of the month.
Market value of listed securities in the Bank’s portfolio was 2.6 b.kr. at the end of March.
Central Bank liabilities towards deposit money banks increased by 3 b.kr. in March and amounted to 18.9 b.kr. at the end of the month, while there was little change in liabilities towards other financial institutions.
Net deposits of central government decreased by 1.8 b.kr. during the month and stood at 23.8 b.kr. at the end of March.
Base money increased by 3.3 b.kr. in March and amounted to 30.3 b.kr. at the end of the month.
For further information, contact the Governors of the Central Bank of Iceland or Erla Árnadóttir, Chief Accountant, tel. (+354) 569-9600.
No. 9/2005
April 6, 2005