Praise for Central Banking
“Thammarak Moenjak has written a remarkably clear description of the nature and history of central banking, with emphasis on the challenge presented by the “Great Financial Crisis” and the complexity of markets. A useful and readable “text book” not only for a student but for the interested public.”
—Paul Volcker, Former Chairman of the Federal Reserve
“This comprehensive textbook on central banking covers the history, functions, objectives, actions and future concerns of these institutions. It is written in clear, simple English, which befits a book whose intended audience extends much wider beyond expert economists. The author’s own personal experience as a Central Bank official in the Bank of Thailand, with spells working both in developed and emerging economies, has enabled him to assess the role of Central Banks in a broad, sensible and balanced fashion. A good introduction to the subject of Central Banking, which has become increasingly important to the workings of our economic systems.”
—Charles Goodhart, Emeritus Professor, London School of Economics; Former External Member of the Bank of England’s Monetary Policy Committee
“The recent financial crises, especially the global financial crisis of 2008–2009, have eroded faith in many financial institutions. Surprisingly, Central Banks remain strong and respected. Indeed, a positive halo continues to hang over them. Yet, few people understand how Central Banks work. This is why Thammarak’s book is truly timely. He throws new light on these key institutions. We are truly proud that a graduate of the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy has produced this informative and enlightening book.”
—Kishore Mahbubani, Dean, Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy, National University of Singapore and author of The Great Convergence: Asia, the West, and the Logic of One World
“The author is to be congratulated in providing an introduction to central banking that is very well written and informative. I am especially impressed with the coverage given to central banks in emerging economies and the stress which is placed on the role central banks can play in sustaining both monetary and financial stability.”
—Robert Dixon, Professor, University of Melbourne
“Thammarak Moenjak has written a very useful text that provides a broad perspective on the functions central bank perform and the challenges faced in the aftermath of the global financial crisis. Not only does he manage to blend together “old” and “new” perspectives of central banking, but also he is able to provide a holistic view of how central banks apply their monetary and financial stability mandates and deal with the numerous challenges posed by zero-interest floors.”
—Charles Adams, Former Visiting Professor, Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy, National University of Singapore
“Thammarak Moenjak’s book is an important contribution to the literature on central banking. The coverage of topics is impressive both in terms of the theoretical coverage but also the wide-ranging historical examples. What is especially exciting about this book is the fact that it is highly accessible to a broad audience. While it will no doubt be of great use to a course in monetary economics at the upper undergraduate or graduate level, it will also very likely be used in graduate courses in public policy schools.”
—Christopher Worswick, Full Professor and Vice Chair, Department of Economics, Carleton University
