The European Central Bank (ECB) is the central bank of the European Union and is responsible for the monetary policy of the 19 countries that have adopted the euro as their currency. The ECB was established in 1998 and is headquartered in Frankfurt, Germany. It is an independent institution that is responsible for setting interest rates, issuing and managing the euro, and providing financial services to the European System of Central Banks. The ECB is governed by a board of executive directors and is accountable to the European Parliament. The main goal of the ECB is to maintain price stability in the eurozone, but it also has the mandate to promote the smooth operation of financial markets and to support the general economic policies of the European Union.

The European Central Bank (ECB) is the central bank for the eurozone, responsible for managing the euro and maintaining price stability across its 20 member countries. Established in 1998 and headquartered in Frankfurt, Germany, the ECB plays a pivotal role in the European Union's financial system.

Its primary tasks include setting monetary policy, such as interest rates, to control inflation and foster economic growth. The ECB also oversees the region’s banking system to ensure stability and efficiency, issuing euro banknotes, and managing foreign exchange reserves.

Governed by its Executive Board, Governing Council, and General Council, the ECB operates independently from political influence, focusing on safeguarding the euro's value and supporting sustainable economic development in the eurozone.