Norges Bank shall foster robust and efficient payment systems and financial markets. This is in accordance with the Norges Bank Act and the Payment Systems Act. Norges Bank therefore monitors the economy and the financial industry in order to detect any trends that may weaken the stability of the financial system, and strives to limit the risks in the payment systems. Should a situation arise in which financial stability is threatened, Norges Bank, in consultation with other authorities, will if necessary implement measures to strengthen the financial system. The Financial Stability report contains information gathered by Norges Bank through its monitoring work. The purpose of publishing this information is to increase awareness and contribute to debate on issues with a bearing on financial stability. The report is published twice a year, and is discussed by Norges Bank’s Executive Board.