Bank of Korea renews currency swap contract with Swiss National Bank, strengthens foreign exchange safety net
The Bank of Korea has renewed its currency swap contract with the Swiss National Bank, maintaining the contract value at 10 billion Swiss francs, effectively increasing the limit of support for the Korean won due to the strong Swiss franc.
On the 9th, the Bank of Korea announced that it has signed a renewal of its currency swap agreement with the Swiss National Bank in Basel, Switzerland. The contract amount remains unchanged at 10 billion Swiss francs. With the recent strengthening of the Swiss currency, the support limit for the Korean won has significantly increased from the previous 11.2 trillion won to 18.5 trillion won. This renewal is a continuation of the agreement first signed in 2018 and extended once in 2021, now set to continue for another five years from March 1.
The Bank of Korea highlighted that Switzerland is a major reserve currency country and that this renewal of the currency swap contract enhances South Korea's foreign exchange safety net, which can be utilized during potential financial crises. The central bank views this agreement as a crucial step in solidifying its foreign currency reserves and stabilizing the Korean economy amid global financial uncertainties.
This contract signifies a strengthening of ties between South Korea and Switzerland in terms of financial cooperation, and the Bank of Korea's proactive measures reflect a commitment to ensure economic stability. By renewing the currency swap line, South Korea aims to provide a robust buffer against volatility in the global currency markets, reassuring investors of its preparedness to manage challenges that may arise in the future.