CHAPTER 04—MONEY AND INTEREST
If the Fed lowers reserve requirements, the money supply will expand because more money
will be available to create deposits.
BNKG.CFFT.3.LO: 4.2.2 – LO: 4.2.2
41. What “thing of value” does the government provide those who hold United States currency?
The “thing of value” is the guarantee that the currency will be accepted for payment of taxes
and settlement of debts.
BNKG.CFFT.3.LO: 4.2.2 – LO: 4.2.2
42. What is the prime rate?
The prime rate is the interest rate banks charge their best and most reliable customers.
BNKG.CFFT.3.LO: 4.3.1 – LO: 4.3.1
43. Why might extra money in the economy cause inflation?
If consumers suddenly had extra money at their disposal, most would probably buy more
goods. This would create a decrease in the supply of goods, causing their prices to rise. If the
prices for all goods and services go up for a period of time, it can result in inflation.
BNKG.CFFT.3.LO: 4.1.1 – LO: 4.1.1
44. What is a fractional-reserve system? What is its relationship to the money supply in the United States?
A fractional-reserve system refers to the practice of reserving only part (a fraction) of a
deposited quantity. In the United States, the Federal Reserve can control the money supply by
adjusting the reserve requirements of member banks, thus adding or subtracting currency in
circulation.
BNKG.CFFT.3.LO: 4.1.2 – LO: 4.1.2
45. Name and distinguish between the three types of reserves held by banks.
Primary reserves consist of cash on hand, deposits that may be due from other banks, and the
percentage required by the Federal Reserve System. Secondary reserves include securities the
bank purchases from the federal government. Excess reserves are reserves held by a bank
beyond its reserve requirements and are used to create money through business transactions.
BNKG.CFFT.3.LO: 4.2.1 – LO: 4.2.1
46. Briefly describe the main factors affecting interest rates other than the actions of the Federal Reserve.
Market forces determine most interest rates. Banks can charge whatever rates they choose,
with the understanding that although high rates generate more income they also tend to drive
away business. Economic conditions at large also help determine interest rates. For example,
if demand for capital is high, interest rates tend to rise like any other prices. The inflation rate
also affects interest rates, as savers and investors look for higher rates when they fear that
inflation will erode the value of their earnings.