Financial reporting issues have traditionally been brushed under the carpet in central banks. Today's required levels of accountability and transparency mean this is no longer possible. Tough choices must be made over sensitive issues like reserve reporting and dividend policy. But how far can and should central banks adopt commercial standards for financial reporting? To answer this question Accounting Standards for Central Banks brings together in one volume contributions from leading international experts. Key sections explore critical issues such as profit distribution, foreign reserve accounting and the practicalities of adopting international accounting standards. Original case studies, and an exhaustive survey of best practice in over 40 central banks, illustrate how leading central banks are in fact tackling these challenges.