Today, on March 6, protests were held in front of the National Bank of Ukraine building. Among other things, the protesters raised questions concerning interest rate fluctuations, currency speculation, return of deposits, and HR policy.

NBU Governor Stepan Kubiv came out to talk to the people. He explained to them under what conditions the National Bank, and he, in his new position, have to operate.

“I am not responsible for the operation of the banking system for over 20 years. However, I’m fully aware of the responsibility I’ve now taken on myself. Ukraine’s banking and economic systems are undoubtedly facing problems at the moment. We’ll discuss these problems with bank staff, as well as with the IMF and European institutions,” said the Governor.

He also said that, as an NBU Governor, he has two priority tasks. “These tasks are protecting banks, by which I mean safeguarding their liquidity, and protecting every single hryvnia held in deposits entrusted to banks. We will do that. Today, we have enough tools for that,” said Kubiv.

“The National Bank of Ukraine, together with its regional branches, has a lot of funds and property, as well as responsibility. I'm willing to take on that responsibility. Today, financial and banking issues should be addressed by professionals. I require from my deputies, today and in the future, and from department heads, once the IMF mission is gone, competence, responsibility and transparency in decision-making,” he added.

Kubiv also said that the National Bank would be open to dialogue with society. “National Bank activities will be transparent and clear for potential investors, creditors and the Ukrainian people,” said Kubiv.

He thanked the protestors for the dialogue, and invited their representatives to the National Bank to discuss their concerns.