About Us

The Cayman Islands Monetary Authority began operations on 1 January 1997. It was established as a body corporate under the Monetary Authority Law, which was brought into force on that date.

Our Mission

To protect and enhance the integrity of the financial services industry of the Cayman Islands.

Vision Statement

A thriving, innovative and well regulated Cayman Islands Financial Services system and currency that meets applicable international standards and provides value to stakeholders.

Creation

The Authority was created from the merger of the Financial Services Supervision Department of the Cayman Islands Government and the Cayman Islands Currency Board. The former responsibilities, duties and activities of  these two bodies now fall to CIMA. The Authority, however, was not established just to continue what was already in place under a different guise but rather to enhance Cayman's ability to maintain a well regulated financial services regime and monetary stability.

Operational Independence

In March 2003, the Authority became operationally independent under the Monetary Authority Law. Independence significantly enhanced CIMA's ability to meet international standards of supervision, accountability and transparency, and has more clearly defined its functions, duties, powers and obligations.

The key change resulting from the granting of operational independence was that powers previously vested in the Cabinet of the Cayman Islands Government to issue and revoke licences and registration and to exercise enforcement powers now vest in CIMA, through The Board of Directors.