The Riksbank takes a socio-economic perspective, and provides solutions and takes action where it is difficult to achieve safe, efficient and accessible payments without central government intervention. Due to economies of scale and network effects, the payments market is easily concentrated in the hands of a few dominant companies, which can reduce competition and innovation. It may also make the availability and resilience of the payment system too weak without government involvement. The Riksbank therefore needs to play an active role in the payments market. The role of the Riksbank depends on what happens in the world around us, what regulatory framework is in place and how well the market itself can fulfil society’s need for safe, efficient and accessible payments. In some cases, the Riksbank can provide services on its own or in cooperation with private operators, such as finalising payments between participants in the RIX payments system. In other cases, the Riksbank acts as a catalyst that enables coordination and dialogue, and creates the conditions for private services and solutions. In addition, the Riksbank participates in designing regulations both in Sweden and abroad. The Riksbank also oversees financial infrastructures and other key players in the payments system and monitors developments on the payments market.