The Central Bank of the Dominican Republic held its 10th International Communications Seminar on the role of sustainability in development, with Governor Héctor Valdez Albizu linking climate-related risks to the need for more resilient and inclusive economic systems. He presented sustainability as encompassing environmental, economic, and social inclusion objectives, including policies to expand access to basic financial services. As part of the central bank’s sustainability-related actions, he highlighted a recent Monetary Board update to the Payment System and Securities Settlement System Regulation, alongside public consultation of regulations on financial services user protection and operational risk. He also cited ongoing initiatives to broaden banking subagents in low-banked areas, the creation of electronic payment accounts, and releases of reserve requirement resources to support low-cost housing purchases by low-income families, noting World Bank Global Findex 2025 survey results showing financial product ownership rising from 51% in 2021 to 65% in 2024. The updated payments framework is expected to support a new platform entering into operation in the coming months, enabling 24/7 transfers and payments year-round with account crediting in under 10 seconds.
Central Bank of the Dominican Republic 2025-11-05
Central Bank of the Dominican Republic frames sustainability as economic inclusion and points to 24/7 instant payments rollout
The Central Bank of the Dominican Republic's 10th International Communications Seminar emphasized sustainability, with Governor Héctor Valdez Albizu highlighting climate risks and resilient economic systems. Initiatives include updates to Payment and Securities Settlement System Regulation, public consultations on financial services user protection, expanding banking access, and supporting low-cost housing. A new payments platform will enable 24/7 transfers with rapid account crediting.