The International Monetary Fund (IMF) is an intergovernmental organization that works to promote international monetary cooperation, facilitate international trade, promote economic growth and stability, and reduce poverty around the world. The IMF is also known as the Fund, and can also be referred to as the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD), the World Bank, or the Bretton Woods Institution. The IMF plays a critical role in providing financial assistance to countries in need, helping to stabilize their economies and manage their debt. Overall, the IMF is a major global financial institution that plays an important role in promoting economic development and stability around the world.