Real effective exchange rate

The real effective exchange rate measures the value of a currency against a basket of other currencies; it takes into account changes in relative prices and shows what can actually be bought. Sterling effective exchange rate index. Nominal exchange rate The nominal exchange rate measures the current value of a currency against another. For example, …

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Importance of exports to the economy

Exports play an important role in the UK economy, influencing the level of economic growth, employment and the balance of payments. In the post-war period, lower transport costs, globalisation, economies of scale and reduced tariff barriers have all helped exports become a bigger share of national income. In 2011, exports of goods and services accounted …

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Balance of Payments Disequilibrium

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Readers Question: Explain what is meant by a balance of payments disequilibrium? The Balance of Payments is comprised of two main components: The Current Account (trade in goods, services + transfer payments and investment incomes) The Financial Account (used to be called capital account; this is capital flows such as foreign direct investment) If the …

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Costs and Benefits of Adopting the Euro

costs-of-euro

Readers Question: Evaluate the potential cost and benefits to the UK economy of adopting the Euro.”   Costs of Joining the Euro Loss of independent monetary policy. In the Euro, interest rates are set by ECB but may be inappropriate for UK economy. For example, the 2008 recession hit the UK harder than other European countries …

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Exchange rates

The exchange rate is the rate at which one currency trades against another on the foreign exchange market If the present exchange rate is £1=$1.42, this means that to go to America you would get $142 for £100. Similarly, if an American came to the UK, he would have to pay $142 to get £100. …

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Winners and losers from a weak Pound

The Brexit vote has led to sharp fall in the value of the Pound, at one stage falling to £1 = $1.22 – a fall of over 15%. This will have a significant impact on British firms, consumers and also those outside Europe. In short: Winners from weak Pound UK exporters who will be more …

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Interest Rates and Balance of Payments

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Readers Question: Interest Rates are increased by the governments to bring down inflation rates, this makes exports price competitive as well, as a result, exports increase. However, an increase in interest rates can lead to an appreciation of the currency as demand for the currency increases. So this again increases the price of exports as …

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