Bank for International Settlements coordinates global finance from Basel

The Bank for International Settlements (BIS), headquartered in Basel, Switzerland, serves as a central institution for the world's central banks. Founded in 1930 to manage German reparations following World War I, the BIS is owned by 63 member central banks, including the Federal Reserve.

As the oldest international financial institution, the BIS acts as a clearinghouse for national central banks, investing currency reserves, storing gold, and hosting committees that establish the rules for global finance. The institution provides a private forum for central bank governors to conduct meetings and discussions away from public scrutiny.