Shaktikanta Das Named World’s Top Central Bank Governor by Global Finance

The U.S.-based publication Global Finance has designated Shaktikanta Das, the head of the Reserve Bank of India, as the most effective central bank leader worldwide. In its 2023 Central Banker Report Cards, Das secured an ‘A+’ grade, leading a trio of central bank governors who also achieved this top rating.

The evaluation methodology spans from ‘A’, symbolizing outstanding governance, down to ‘F’ for poor performance. Criteria for the grades include effectiveness in managing inflation, advancing economic growth, maintaining currency stability, and overseeing interest rates, as detailed by the magazine.

Next in line to Das are Thomas J. Jordan of Switzerland and Nguyen Thi Hong from Vietnam’s central bank. Global Finance emphasized the critical role central bankers are playing amid inflationary trends fueled by supply chain issues and increased demand.

Annually, Global Finance’s Report Cards highlight central bank heads who distinguish themselves through innovative, resilient, and effective strategies. Other high-performers who scored an ‘A’ are Brazil’s Roberto Campos Neto, Amir Yaron from Israel, Harvesh Kumar Seegolam of Mauritius, and Adrian Orr representing New Zealand. Governors such as Leonardo Villar of Colombia, Hector Valdez Albizu from the Dominican Republic, Asgeir Jonsson of Iceland, and Indonesia’s Perry Warjiyo achieved an ‘A-‘.

The yearly grading exercise, which began in 1994, assesses central bank governors from 101 distinct geographical areas, including global regions like the European Union and specific African banking authorities.

It’s also significant to mention that Das was previously honored with the ‘Governor of the Year’ accolade at the 2023 Central Banking Awards in London.