The European Central Bank (ECB) is the central bank for the 19 countries that use the euro currency (the [[Eurozone]]). It's responsible for managing the euro, keeping prices stable, and conducting monetary policy for the Eurozone. Think of it like the Fed for Europe, but instead of dealing with the dollar, it manages the euro. The ECB sets interest rates, manages the eurozone's foreign currency reserves, and ensures the stability of the financial system in the euro area. It works independently of any national government and aims to keep inflation under control and support economic growth in the Eurozone.