The Cayman Islands Monetary Authority (CIMA) was established on January 1, 1997, with the core mission of protecting and enhancing the integrity of the financial services industry in the Cayman Islands. Since gaining operational independence in March 2003, CIMA has become the primary regulator overseeing financial services entities within the jurisdiction. It manages the issuance and redemption of the Cayman Islands currency and collaborates with overseas regulatory authorities to ensure effective cross-border supervision.

CIMA's responsibilities encompass four key functions: monetary management, regulatory oversight of financial services, cooperation with international financial regulators, and advisory support to the Cayman Islands Government on monetary and regulatory matters. The authority is committed to maintaining high standards of performance through teamwork, accountability, and integrity. CIMA provides comprehensive regulatory frameworks, including policies and guidance on compliance, anti-money laundering regulations, and various other sectors like banking, insurance, and investment funds, ensuring that the financial services sector meets international standards and provides value to stakeholders.