On a public-law level, DNB has a dual function, being both part of the European System of Central Banks (ESCB) and an independent public body (zelfstandig bestuursorgaan).
- As a part of the ESCB, DNB is co-responsible for the determination and implementation of the monetary policy for the euro area (the countries that have adopted the euro as their legal tender), besides being a link in the international payment system.
- As an independent public body, DNB exercises prudential supervision of financial institutions.
