Central bank independence isn't just a nice-to-have—it's the backbone of financial stability. Once you start compromising it, the consequences cascade fast. Inflation spirals out of control, markets lose confidence, and the institution's credibility takes a hit that takes years to repair. The historical record is pretty unambiguous on this one. Every time central banks have bent to political pressure, you've seen the same pattern play out: eroded purchasing power, volatile asset prices, and investors scrambling for alternatives. That's exactly why this line matters so much for the broader financial ecosystem, including crypto markets that are increasingly sensitive to macro policy shifts.