Cadence Research · Reviewed 2026-07-30
What is a central-bank policy statement?
A central-bank policy statement is the official release that explains a policy decision, usually just after a meeting. It normally states the interest-rate decision, gives a short assessment of the economy and inflation, and describes the conditions that may shape future decisions. Some statements also include a vote, dissents, or balance-sheet decisions.
Why it matters
The statement is the authoritative first record of a decision. Small changes in its assessment or guidance can reveal a shift in how policymakers see the risks.
How it appears in official communication
Start with the decision and any vote. Then compare the economic assessment, inflation language, risk balance, and future-policy wording with the prior statement of the same type.
A common misunderstanding
A statement is not the complete meeting record. Minutes and press conferences often provide more detail about the debate and the reasoning behind the decision.
Explore the live record
Related guides
Primary sources
- Monetary Policy: What are its goals? (Federal Reserve)
- Monetary policy (European Central Bank)
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