Investopedia

Moral Suasion

Dictionary Says

Definition of 'Moral Suasion'

A persuasion tactic used by an authority (i.e. Federal Reserve Board) to influence and pressure, but not force, banks into adhering to policy. Tactics used are closed-door meetings with bank directors, increased severity of inspections, appeals to community spirit, or vague threats. A good example of moral suasion is when the Fed Chairman speaks on the markets - his opinion on the overall economy can send financial markets falling or flying.
Investopedia Says

Investopedia explains 'Moral Suasion'

Often termed simply 'suasion', it has been used to persuade banks and other financial institutions to keep to official guidelines. The 'moral' aspect comes from the pressure for 'moral responsibility' to operate in a way that is consistent with furthering the good of the economy. In Australia, the Reserve Bank has show preference for this type of policy control. In Japan, it is known as 'window guidance' and in the U.S., it is known as 'jawboning' - exercising the persuasive power of talk rather than legislation.

Articles Of Interest

  1. What Are Central Banks?

    They print money, they control inflation, and much, much more. All you need to know about central banks is here.
  2. The Federal Reserve

    Few organizations can move the market like the Federal Reserve. As an investor, it's important to understand exactly what the Fed does and how it influences the economy.
  3. Leading Economic Indicators Predict Market Trends

    Leading indicators help investors to predict and react to where the market is headed.
  4. Lessons Learned From the Banking Crisis

    There are lessons to be learned on how to handle severe financial downturns, and while the Fed is learning, politicians may not be.
  5. Austerity: When The Government Tightens Its Belt

    When a government tightens its belt in tough economic times the entire nation feels the squeeze.
  6. Breaking Down The Fed Model

    Learn what pundits mean when they say that stocks are undervalued according to the Fed model.
  7. 7 Misconceptions About The Federal Reserve

    There are many fallacies about the Fed. The following misconceptions are among the most popular.
  8. The Link Between The Fed, Money, Debt And Taxes

    Assets on the Fed's balance sheet, money supply level, national debt level and economic production should be maintained in equilibrium.
  9. A Primer On Inflation

    Inflation has a negative connotation, but is it all bad or does it offer some tangible benefits?
  10. What is QE3 (quantitative easing)?

    "Quantitative easing" refers to steps that the U.S. Federal Reserve takes in attempting to boost the country's lagging economy. Historically, the Fed's main tool for spurring growth has been ...
comments powered by Disqus
Marketplace
Hot Definitions
  1. Disaster Loss

    A special type of tax-deductible loss, similar to a casualty loss, where a loss has been incurred by taxpayers who reside in an area that has been designated as a federal disaster area by the President.
  2. Fool In The Shower

    The notion that changes or policies designed to alter the course of the economy should be done slowly, rather than all at once.
  3. Pattern Day Trader

    An SEC designation for traders who trade the same security four or more times per day (buys and sells) over a five-day period, and for whom same-day trades make up at least 6% of their activity for that period.
  4. Cost-Push Inflation

    A phenomenon in which the general price levels rise (inflation) due to increases in the cost of wages and raw materials.
  5. Happiness Economics

    The formal academic study of the relationship between individual satisfaction and economic issues, such as employment and wealth.
  6. Affluenza

    A social condition arising from the desire to be more wealthy, successful or to "keep up with the Joneses." Affluenza is symptomatic of a culture that holds up financial success as one of the highest achievements.
Trading Center