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Base money serves as the foundation of the fiat monetary system and consists primarily of the notes and coins in circulation as well as bank reserves held by commercial banks at the central bank. The distinction between these components is crucial, as the monetary base has evolved from being predominantly cash to a majority comprising bank reserves, especially post the 2008 financial crisis. The current ratio is about 30% cash to 70% bank reserves, illustrating how the central banking system has shifted its reliance on digital forms of money. This shift significantly impacts how central banks manage liquidity and influence economic stability through actions such as quantitative easing.