The Visa Economic Empowerment Institute (VEEI, ‘the Institute’) is a forum for public-private dialogue on future of money, payments, and commerce. VEEI research, powered by Visa global data and local market intelligence, helps governments design pro-growth public policies. The VEEI Advisory Council is a global community of experts that oversees the Institute’s research and helps translate insight into action.
We are delighted to announce that Dr. Agustín Carstens (pictured below) is joining the VEEI Advisory Council as of January 2026.
About Dr. Carstens
Dr. Carstens was the General Manager of the Bank of International Settlements (BIS) from December 2017 to June 2025. Prior to that, he served as Governor of the Bank of Mexico from 2010 to 2017. During his time as Governor, he was a Member of the BIS Board from 2011 to 2017 and chaired the Global Economy Meeting and the Economic Consultative Committee from 2013 to 2017. He also chaired the International Monetary and Financial Committee (IMFC), the policy advisory committee of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), from 2015 to 2017. From 2006 to 2009, Dr. Carstens served as Mexico’s Minister of Finance. Earlier in his career, Dr. Carstens held key policy roles at the IMF and the Bank of Mexico. He was an active member of the Financial Stability Board (FSB) for more than 15 years.
The Impact of Dr. Carstens’ Expertise
Dr. Carstens brings unparalleled insight into global financial architecture and regulatory trends – a perspective essential to the Institute’s mission of creating knowledge at the intersection of payments innovation and public policy. His experience leading BIS and engaging with central banks and policymakers globally will enrich VEEI’s thought leadership and strengthen the Institute’s convening power.
As part of the Advisory Council, Dr. Carstens will collaborate with other distinguished members, Dr. Axel Weber, Mimi Alemayehou, Lord Jonathan Hill, Dr. Loretta Mester, and Ambassador Koji Tsuruoka to inform the Institute’s research agenda, expand its influence, and help Visa remain at the forefront of shaping the future of digital commerce.