What is the primary role of the Federal Reserve?

The primary role of the Federal Reserve, often referred to as the Fed, is to act as a lender of last resort. This function is crucial for financial stability, particularly in times of economic distress or banking crises. By providing liquidity to banks and other financial institutions facing temporary difficulties, the Federal Reserve helps to prevent bank runs and ensures that credit continues to flow within the economy. This role supports the overall stability of the financial system and fosters public confidence in the banking system.

In contrast to this primary function, the other choices serve different purposes. Issuing bonds for public funding is typically the responsibility of the U.S. Treasury rather than the Federal Reserve. The Fed does not supervise all financial institutions globally; it primarily oversees banks and financial institutions within the United States. Finally, while the Federal Reserve does influence market conditions, it does not directly regulate stock market transactions, which falls under the jurisdiction of entities like the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).