Each business rule statement indicates a discrete, operational practice or policy in running the business, without reference to any particular implementation strategy or specific technology.

In a short statement released on May 15th, the IMF's spokeswoman had no comment on Mr Strauss-Kahn's arrest, but said that "the IMF remains fully functioning and operational."

Funds set aside to cover anticipated loan losses. They appear on a bank's income statement as an operational expenditure.