About the Fed

What is the Fed?

The Federal Reserve System is the central banking system of the United States. It was created in 1913, with the enactment of the Federal Reserve Act. Its duties today are to conduct the nation's monetary policy, supervise and regulate banking institutions, maintain the stability of the financial system and provide financial services to depository institutions, the U.S. government, and foreign official institutions.

History

Key events in the evolution of the Federal Reserve.

Supervision & Regulation

Safety and soundness, fostering stability, and ensuring compliance in the banking industry.

Monetary Policy

How monetary policy tools affect the economy.

Structure

The Board of Governors in D.C. and a network of 12 Reserve Banks throughout the nation.

Payment Services

Currency and coin, checks, electronic payments, and financial services to the U.S. government.

Financial Stability

At times, the Fed may take extraordinary actions to stabilize the economy.

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