IDB Spurs Return to Capital Markets for Central Bank of Ecuador through CAsA Agreement

The Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) and the Central Bank of Ecuador (BCE) signed an agreement today to incorporate the BCE into the IDB's Capacity Building, Asset Management and Advisory Program (CAsA).

This program aims to bolster the BCE's institutional capacity to administer and manage foreign exchange reserves. It also marks a milestone in Ecuador's economic development, providing a springboard for the BCE's return to capital markets after a 15-year hiatus.

The agreement was signed at the IDB headquarters in a ceremony attended by IDB President Ilan Goldfajn, BCE Monetary Board President Tatiana Rodriguez, and BCE General Manager Guillermo Avellán. 

The CAsA program offers central banks and other official institutions in Latin America and the Caribbean a comprehensive model of technical assistance, training and capacity building that aligns with international best practices.

"The CAsA Program will enable the BCE to optimize its reserve management and spurs its return to capital markets, leveraging the IDB's expertise in managing high-quality portfolios and navigating global capital markets," said IDB President Ilan Goldfajn. "This program will better position the BCE to maximize the performance of its assets, diversify its investment strategies and mitigate financial risks." 

The CAsA program will also provide space to explore new financial products tailored to the BCE's needs and designed for local and global conditions, boosting the efficiency of monetary and exchange rate policy.

As part of the effort to strengthen the BCE's institutional capabilities, the program includes training for key personnel in critical areas like risk analysis, strategic planning and the use of advanced technology to enhance decision-making about managing reserves.

This agreement embodies the IDB's commitment to providing programs that meet the growing needs of its member countries and confirms its position as a strategic partner in capacity building and sustainable growth in the region.