The Bank of England is the central bank of the United Kingdom, which is committed to boosting and sustaining monetary and financial stability and contributing to a healthy economy. It was founded in 1694, it was a banker of the British government at the time and is still one of the bankers of the United Kingdom government. It is the eighth largest bank in the world. From its establishment in 1694 to its nationalization in 1946, it has been the private property of shareholders.