Our Island | Jersey the International Finance Centre

Our Island A small Island with global reach

Daily flights

1hr

Average flight time from the UK

£122.9bn

in deposits

Banking licenses

Key Facts

Language

Our main language is English, but most European languages are catered for in Jersey

Currency

While we use the British pound and the Jersey pound (valued 1:1) as our main currency, we accept all major currencies for transactions

Independence

Our status as a Crown Dependency allows everyone to benefit from an International Finance Centre that’s close to, but independent from, Britain and mainland Europe

Education

Our population and our government consider education to be vital to the Island, and we make sure that both children and adults are set up for positive futures

World-class talent

A large proportion of Islanders work together in our finance and supporting industries, meaning our talent is both homegrown and ready to provide a world-class service

Invested in technology

Jersey is actively encouraging the growth of fintech initiatives, meaning they can provide quality support and a dynamic future for a finance industry

Communications

We have world-leading business communications links, including high-speed telecommunications (the 10^th fastest broadband in the world*), together with cutting-edge information technology and postal services

Economy

Jersey’s history has been a colourful one. The Island’s economy has evolved from the days of thriving knitting, boat building and fishing industries, to successes in agriculture, tourism and finance; the latter which now provides around 54% of the Island’s revenue

Our History

A fascinating history A lot has happened over the centuries that’s shaped us into the Island we are today. Here’s a very brief look at the major events:

1204: The Anglo-Norman Kingdom divides and Jersey pledges allegiance to the English Crown.

1646: Islander Sir George (de) Carteret offers refuge to exiled Charles II during the English Civil War.

1660: Charles II returns to England after the Civil War, and gives George Carteret joint ownership of New Jersey, America, as a reward.

1945: World War II ends and Jersey is liberated from German occupation, leaving behind fortifications that are open for visitors today. Find out more from our award-winning historical trust, at www.jerseyheritage.org.