HomePracticeListening: Fill in the BlanksEuropean Central Bank
#310Listening: Fill in the BlanksAcademic,CoreMedium

European Central Bank

Official Question Material
Prep: Varies

Official Audio Prompt

When the time comes, its peers should follow suit. Of these, the European Central Bank faces the trickiest [blank] , because it has acted as, in effect, the backstop to euro-zone bond markets, a [blank] that otherwise the currency bloc still lacks. But the main safety valve lies elsewhere, with banks and investors. Bitter experience has shown that debt-funded assets can [blank] losses, causing [blank] . For this reason banks must be able to withstand any [blank] of today's high asset prices and low [blank] .

Sample Answer & Audio Transcript

When the time comes, its peers should follow suit. Of these, the European Central Bank faces the trickiest challenge , because it has acted as, in effect, the backstop to euro-zone bond markets, a mechanism that otherwise the currency bloc still lacks. But the main safety valve lies elsewhere, with banks and investors. Bitter experience has shown that debt-funded assets can magnify losses, causing financial crises . For this reason banks must be able to withstand any reversal of today's high asset prices and low defaults .
Instant AI Speech & Writing Feedback

Practice This Question with Real-Time AI Scoring

Record your voice or submit your writing to get official Pearson-aligned scores (10-90) across Oral Fluency, Pronunciation, Grammar, and Content in 1.2 seconds.

Launch AI Practice Now

Pearson Official Scoring Guide for Listening: Fill in the Blanks

Scored Enabling Skills

  • Communicative Skills & Enabling Skills

Timing Standard

Response Window: Official Pearson Exam Standard

💡 Examiner Strategy & Pro Tip:Maintain focus on accuracy, timing, and Pearson automated scoring rubrics.
Previous QuestionMiscommunication
Browse All Listening: Fill in the Blanks Questions
Next QuestionPartial Migrants