Currency Board
Definition of 'Currency Board'A monetary authority that makes decisions about the valuation of a nation's currency, specifically whether to peg the exchange rate of the local currency to a foreign currency, an equal amount of which is held in reserves. The currency board then allows for the unlimited exchange of the local, pegged currency for the foreign currency. A currency board can only earn the interest that is gained on the foreign reserves themselves, so those rates tend to mimic the prevailing rates in the foreign currency. |
|
Investopedia explains 'Currency Board'Like most of the world's developed economies, the United States does not have a currency board. In the U.S., the Federal Reserve is a true central bank, which operates as a lender of last resort, engaging in forward contracts and trading Treasury securities in the open market. The exchange rate is allowed to float, and is determined by market forces as well as the Fed's monetary policies. By contrast, currency boards are rather limited in their power. They essentially hold the required percentage of pegged currency that has been previously mandated, and exchange local currency for the pegged (or anchor) currency, which is typically the U.S. dollar or the euro. |
Related Definitions
Articles Of Interest
-
How The U.S. Government Formulates Monetary Policy
Learn about the tools the Fed uses to influence interest rates and general economic conditions. -
The Currency Board: Understanding The Government's Bank
Currency board, central bank - what's the difference? Find out more about this little-known monetary authority. -
Dual And Multiple Exchange Rates 101
Why would a country choose to implement dual or multiple exchange rates? It's risky, but it can work. -
Make The Currency Cross Your Boss
Tap into a world of possibilities by going beyond the simple pro- or anti-dollar trade. -
The New World Of Emerging Market Currencies
Take advantage of foreign currency markets without stepping out of your house. -
What Causes A Currency Crisis?
Find out what can cause a currency to collapse and what central banks can do to help. -
Why It's Important To Regulate Foreign Exchange
In an increasingly globalized economy, the significance of the foreign exchange marketplace cannot be underestimated. -
Inspecting A Country's Debt
Tensions over just how to handle debt are pitting the rich world against the developing world like never before. -
Exploring Non-Dollar Currencies For Forex Trading
Learn how investments in foreign currencies can diversify your portfolio. -
Why China's Currency Tangos With The USD
Congress often debates pressuring China to appreciate its currency, but the yuan/dollar peg has benefits for both countries.
Free Annual Reports