Banks and the Bankers Association draw a positive conclusion from their visit to Washington on the occasion of the IMF Annual Meetings
Vaduz / Washington, D.C.
The Liechtenstein Bankers Association (LBA) and representatives of its member banks look back on a highly successful participation in the Annual Meetings of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank in Washington, D.C. The delegation used its time on site for a series of high-level meetings – among others with members of the U.S. Congress, representatives of the IMF and other international organisations, correspondent banks, and additional key decision-makers.
The discussions focused on the importance of Liechtenstein’s IMF membership, the country’s stability as well as that of its financial and banking sector, and on how small, open economies can remain resilient in an increasingly fragmented global environment. All counterparts expressed strong appreciation for these points, which were consistently highlighted in a very positive light.
Liechtenstein impresses with stability, openness and balance
Particularly appreciated were:
- Liechtenstein’s economic and financial stability,
- its high regulatory and compliance standards,
- and the open, internationally connected approach of a small EEA member state.
At the same time, it became clear that IMF membership strengthens Liechtenstein’s international integration, credibility and voice – confirming itself as a strategically important step.
A recurring topic was the balance between regulation and innovation: regulation should set clear boundaries and prevent misuse – but it should also enable innovation, not stifle it. Liechtenstein was repeatedly cited as a successful example in this regard – especially due to its Blockchain Act, widely recognised internationally as a model for technology-neutral and responsible regulation.
On the U.S. side, discussions centred on the Genius Act, the Clarity Act, and the planned implementation of Basel III. The key takeaway from these talks: stability requires balance – not over-regulation that hampers competitiveness and innovation. In this context, major U.S. banks such as JPMorgan and Bank of America reported strong quarterly results at the same time – a clear reminder of the importance of a competitive environment.
Highlight: Lunch Panel with Prime Minister Brigitte Haas
A central highlight was the panel discussion organised by the Bankers Association on “Financial Stability and Resilience in a Changing Global Economy.”
Panellists:
- Brigitte Haas, Prime Minister of Liechtenstein
- Jerry Zhang, Global Co-Head Financial Institutions Coverage, Standard Chartered
- Sébastien de Brouwer, Deputy CEO, European Banking Federation
- Moderator: Himamauli Das, Senior Managing Director, K2 Integrity, and former Acting Director of FinCEN (U.S. Treasury)
Before more than 50 international guests, it became clear that resilience is built on trust, international cooperation and responsible openness – especially in times of geopolitical tension and economic transformation.
Reception at the Liechtenstein Embassy – a strong signal of presence
Another highlight was the reception at the Liechtenstein Embassy in Washington, which brought together over 100 representatives from politics, business, diplomacy and academia. The event provided an ideal setting for in-depth discussions and was regarded by the delegation as highly valuable. The Bankers Association extends its sincere thanks to the Embassy and the Government for their inclusion and the opportunity to participate.
Transatlantic dialogue among banking associations
As part of its stay in Washington, the Bankers Association joined other national associations for a meeting with the European Banking Federation (EBF), the American Bankers Association (ABA) and political representatives from the United States.
The discussions focused on how Europe and the U.S. are addressing an increasingly fragmented financial landscape, how Basel III is being implemented on both sides of the Atlantic, and how regulation can ensure stability without hindering innovation and competitiveness.
For a small financial centre, participation in such high-level formats is far from a given. It was made possible thanks to the Bankers Association’s longstanding commitment to maintaining a reliable, professional and equal-footed dialogue at the international level.
Voices from the delegation:
