Press Release No. 11/52

Press Release: IMF's Broader Investment Mandate Takes Effect

February 18, 2011

The International Monetary Fund’s broader investment mandate took effect today as a key part of the new income model designed in 2008 to put the Fund’s finances on a sustainable footing. The Amendment of the Articles of Agreement of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to Expand the Investment Authority entered into force following ratification by 113 member countries, representing 85.64 percent of the Fund’s total voting power.¹

“With this step, the membership has once again confirmed its commitment to modernizing the IMF and its operations. The ratification marks the completion of a key component of overhauling the IMF’s framework, including its financial structure,” IMF Managing Director Dominique Strauss-Kahn said. “Together with the quota and voice reforms that are progressing, the overhaul of the IMF’s financial operations further reinforces the legitimacy of the IMF. I thank the membership for this vote of confidence in the institution's future."

The reform of the IMF’s income model is part of the institution’s overall governance reforms that were decided in 2008 to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the Fund’s operations and structure and strengthen its legitimacy. A broader investment mandate will enable the IMF to manage its operational finances more effectively and independently of its lending to member countries.

The new amendment aims to provide flexibility for the Fund to enhance the average expected return on its investments and adapt its investment strategy over time. The IMF’s investment policies will evolve gradually, and will reflect the public nature of the funds to be invested and include safeguards to ensure that the broadened investment authority does not lead to actual or perceived conflicts of interest.

¹ An amendment to the IMF’s Articles of Agreement enters into force for all members on the date the IMF certifies that three-fifths of IMF members representing 85% of the total voting power have accepted the amendment.