International businesses use foreign exchange markets for what three reasons

Global Business Today 6e

by Charles W.L. Hill

McGraw-Hill/Irwin Copyright © 2009 by The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc. All rights reserved.

Chapter 10

The International Monetary System

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Introduction

Question: What is the international monetary system?

The international monetary system refers to the institutional arrangements that govern exchange rates
Recall that the foreign exchange market is the primary institution for determining exchange rates
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Introduction

A floating exchange rate system exists in countries where the foreign exchange market determines the relative value of a currency
Examples include the U.S. dollar, the European Union’s euro, the Japanese yen, and the British pound
A pegged exchange rate system exists when the value of a currency is fixed to a reference country and then the exchange rate between that currency and other currencies is determined by the reference currency exchange rate
Many developing countries have pegged exchange rates
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Introduction

A dirty float exists when the value of a currency is determined by market forces, but with central bank intervention if it depreciates too rapidly against an important reference currency
China adopted this policy in 2005
With a fixed exchange rate system countries fix their currencies against each other at a mutually agreed upon value
Prior to the introduction of the euro, some European Union countries operated with fixed exchange rates within the context of the European Monetary System (EMS)
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Introduction

Question: What role does the international monetary system play in determining exchange rates?

To answer this question, we have to look at the evolution of the international monetary system
The Gold Standard
The Bretton Woods system
The International Monetary Fund
The World Bank
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Classroom Performance System

When the foreign exchange market determines the relative value of a currency, a ________ exchange rate system exists.

Fixed

Floating

Pegged

Market

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Classroom Performance System Answer: b

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The Gold Standard

Question: What is the Gold Standard?

The origin of the gold standard dates back to ancient times when gold coins were a medium of exchange, unit of account, and store of value
To facilitate trade, a system was developed so that payment could be made in paper currency that could then be converted to gold at a fixed rate of exchange
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Mechanics of the Gold Standard

The gold standard refers to the practice of pegging currencies to gold and guaranteeing convertibility
Under the gold standard one U.S. dollar was defined as equivalent to 23.22 grains of "fine (pure) gold
The exchange rate between currencies was based on the gold par value (the amount of a currency needed to purchase one ounce of gold)
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Strength of the Gold Standard

The key strength of the gold standard was its powerful mechanism for simultaneously achieving balance-of-trade equilibrium (when the income a country’s residents earn from its exports is equal to the money its residents pay for imports) by all countries
Many people today believe the world should return to the gold standard
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The Period Between the Wars:
1918 - 1939

The gold standard worked fairly well from the 1870s until the start of World War I
After the war, in an effort to encourage exports and domestic employment, countries started regularly devaluing their currencies
Confidence in the system fell, and people began to demand gold for their currency putting pressure on countries' gold reserves, and forcing them to suspend gold convertibility
The Gold Standard ended in 1939
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The Bretton Woods System

A new international monetary system was designed in 1944 in Bretton Woods, New Hampshire
The goal was to build an enduring economic order that would facilitate postwar economic growth
The Bretton Woods Agreement established two multinational institutions
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) to maintain order in the international monetary system

The World Bank to promote general economic development

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The Bretton Woods System

Under the Bretton Woods Agreement
the US dollar was the only currency to be convertible to gold, and other currencies would set their exchange rates relative to the dollar
devaluations were not to be used for competitive purposes
a country could not devalue its currency by more than 10% without IMF approval
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The Role of the IMF

The IMF was responsible for avoiding a repetition of the chaos that occurred between the wars through a combination of
1. Discipline

a fixed exchange rate puts a brake on competitive devaluations and brings stability to the world trade environment
a fixed exchange rate regime imposes monetary discipline on countries, thereby curtailing price inflation
Multimedia Lecture Support Package to Accompany Basic Marketing

Lecture Script 6-*

Internet Extra: The IMF has an interactive web page designed especially for students. Go to {http://www.imf.org}. Click on For Students, then click on EconEd Online.

Several interactive activities are available to help students learn more about the IMF and its activities. For example, to see how the IMF evaluates a country, click on The IMF in Action. This interactive exercise allows students to pick an online team to help analyze a member country’s economy.

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The Role of the IMF

2. Flexibility

A rigid policy of fixed exchange rates would be too inflexible
So, the IMF was ready to lend foreign currencies to members to tide them over during short periods of balance-of-payments deficits
A country could devalue its currency by more than 10 percent with IMF approval
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The Role of the World Bank

The official name of the World Bank is the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD)
The World Bank lends money in two ways
under the IBRD scheme, money is raised through bond sales in the international capital market and borrowers pay what the bank calls a market rate of interest - the bank's cost of funds plus a margin for expenses.
under the International Development Agency scheme, loans go only to the poorest countries
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Classroom Performance System

The gold standard was a ______ exchange rate system.

Fixed

Floating

Pegged

Market

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Classroom Performance System Answer: b

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The Collapse of the
Fixed Exchange Rate System

Question: What caused the collapse of the Bretton Woods system?

The collapse of the Bretton Woods system can be traced to U.S. macroeconomic policy decisions (1965 to 1968)
During this time, the U.S. financed huge increases in welfare programs and the Vietnam War by increasing its money supply which then caused significant inflation
Speculation that the dollar would have to be devalued relative to most other currencies forced other countries to increase the value of their currencies relative to the dollar
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The Collapse of the
Fixed Exchange Rate System

The Bretton Woods system relied on an economically well managed U.S.
So, when the U.S. began to print money, run high trade deficits, and experience high inflation, the system was strained to the breaking point
The Bretton Woods Agreement collapsed in 1973
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The Floating Exchange Rate Regime

Question: What followed the collapse of the Bretton Woods exchange rate system?

Following the collapse of the Bretton Woods agreement, a floating exchange rate regime was formalized in 1976 in Jamaica
The rules for the international monetary system that were agreed upon at the meeting are still in place today
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The Jamaica Agreement

At the Jamaica meeting, the IMF's Articles of Agreement were revised to reflect the new reality of floating exchange rates
Under the Jamaican agreement
floating rates were declared acceptable
gold was abandoned as a reserve asset
total annual IMF quotas - the amount member countries contribute to the IMF - were increased to $41 billion (today, this number is $311 billion)
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Exchange Rates Since 1973

Since 1973, exchange rates have become more volatile and less predictable because of
the oil crisis in 1971
the loss of confidence in the dollar after U.S. inflation jumped between 1977 and 1978
the oil crisis of 1979
the rise in the dollar between 1980 and 1985
the partial collapse of the European Monetary System in 1992
the 1997 Asian currency crisis
the decline in the dollar in the mid to late 2000s
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Country Focus: The U.S. Dollar, Oil Prices, and Recycling Petrodollars

Summary

This feature explores what oil producing nations are likely to do with the dollars they have earned. In 2008, oil prices reached new highs as a result of higher than expected demand, tight supplies, and perceived geopolitical risks. Since oil is priced in dollars, oil producers have seen their dollar reserves increase significantly. Now, speculation abounds as to what will happen to the petrodollars. Some believe that the dollars will go toward public infrastructure projects, others think that it is more likely that investments will be made in dollar denominated assets like U.S. bonds, stocks, and real estate, or in non-dollar denominated assets such as European or Japanese bonds and stocks. Discussion of the feature can revolve around the following questions:

Suggested Discussion Questions

1. With oil prices at record highs, there is significant speculation as to what oil producing states will do with the dollars they are earning. Discuss how a decision to invest in non-dollar denominated assets could affect the value of the U.S. dollar.

Suggested Discussion Points: As a result of higher demand from countries like China and India, tight supplies and perceived geo-political risks, oil prices reached a new high in 2008. For oil producing countries, this has proved to be an unexpected windfall. In 2007, the countries together earned over $1 trillion. Most students will probably recognize that if the countries decide to invest their earnings in non-dollar denominated assets, the value of the dollar could drop sharply.

2. How could a decision by oil producing countries to invest their petrodollars in public infrastructure projects help the value of the dollar?

Suggested Discussion Points: If the oil producing states invest the petrodollars in public infrastructure projects such as roads, telecommunications systems, and education, the U.S. dollar could actually rise in value. The infrastructure investments are likely to generate economic growth in the nations, which could then translate into market opportunities for U.S. firms.

Lecture Note: To extend this discussion, consider {http://www.economist.com/opinion/displaystory.cfm?story_id=11089616} and {http://www.businessweek.com/magazine/content/08_14/b4078084895408.htm?chan=search}.

Video Note: The iGlobes Oil and Gas Prices Rise Due to Pipeline Shutdown and Oil Market Focuses Attention on Middle East Conflict fit in well with this feature.

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Classroom Performance System

Floating exchange rates were deemed acceptable under

The Bretton Woods Agreement

The Gold Standard

The Jamaica Agreement

The Louvre Accord

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Classroom Performance System Answer: c

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Fixed versus Floating
Exchange Rates

Question: Which is better – a fixed exchange rate system or a floating exchange rate system?

Disappointment with floating rates in recent years has led to renewed debate about the merits of a fixed exchange rate system
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The Case for Floating
Exchange Rates

A floating exchange rate system provides two attractive features
monetary policy autonomy

automatic trade balance adjustments

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The Case for Floating
Exchange Rates

1. Monetary Policy Autonomy

The removal of the obligation to maintain exchange rate parity restores monetary control to a government
In contrast, with a fixed system, a country's ability to expand or contract its money supply is limited by the need to maintain exchange rate parity
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The Case for Floating
Exchange Rates

2. Trade Balance Adjustments

The balance of payments adjustment mechanism works more smoothly under a floating exchange rate regime
Under the Bretton Woods system (fixed system), IMF approval was need to correct a permanent deficit in a country’s balance of trade that could not be corrected by domestic policy alone
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The Case for Fixed Exchange Rates

A fixed exchange rate system is attractive because
of the monetary discipline it imposes

it limits speculation

it limits uncertainty

of the lack of connection between the trade balance and exchange rates

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The Case for Fixed Exchange Rates

1. Monetary Discipline

Because a fixed exchange rate system requires maintaining exchange rate parity, it also ensures that governments do not expand their money supplies at inflationary rates
2. Speculation

A fixed exchange rate regime prevents destabilizing speculation
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The Case for Fixed Exchange Rates

3. Uncertainty

The uncertainty associated with floating exchange rates makes business transactions more risky
4. Trade Balance Adjustments

Floating rates help adjust trade imbalances
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Who is Right?

There is no real agreement as to which system is better
History shows that fixed exchange rate regime modeled along the lines of the Bretton Woods system will not work
A different kind of fixed exchange rate system might be more enduring and might foster the kind of stability that would facilitate more rapid growth in international trade and investment
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Exchange Rate Regimes in Practice

Currently, there are several different exchange rate regimes in practice
In 2006
14% of IMF members allow their currencies to float freely
26% of IMF members follow a managed float system
28% of IMF members have no legal tender of their own
the remaining countries use less flexible systems such as pegged arrangements, or adjustable pegs
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Exchange Rate Regimes in Practice

Exchange Rate Policies, IMF Members, 2006

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Classroom Performance System

The most common exchange rate policy among IMF members today is the

Free float

Managed float

Fixed peg

Adjustable peg

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Classroom Performance System Answer: b

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Pegged Exchange Rates

Under a pegged exchange rate regime countries peg the value of their currency to that of other major currencies
Pegged exchange rates are popular among the world’s smaller nations
There is some evidence that adopting a pegged exchange rate regime moderates inflationary pressures in a country
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Currency Boards

A country with a currency board commits to converting its domestic currency on demand into another currency at a fixed exchange rate
The currency board holds reserves of foreign currency equal at the fixed exchange rate to at least 100% of the domestic currency issued
Additional domestic notes and coins can be introduced only if there are foreign exchange reserves to back it
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Crisis Management by the IMF

Question: What has been the role of the IMF in the international monetary systems since the collapse of Bretton Woods?

The IMF has redefined its mission, and now focuses on lending money to countries experiencing financial crises in exchange for enacting certain macroeconomic policies
Membership in the IMF has grown to 185 countries in 2007, 68 of which has some type of IMF program in place
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Financial Crises in
the Post-Bretton Woods Era

Three types of financial crises that have required involvement by the IMF are
1. A currency crisis - occurs when a speculative attack on the exchange value of a currency results in a sharp depreciation in the value of the currency, or forces authorities to expend large volumes of international currency reserves and sharply increase interest rates in order to defend prevailing exchange rates

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Financial Crises in
the Post-Bretton Woods Era

2. A banking crisis - refers to a situation in which a loss of confidence in the banking system leads to a run on the banks, as individuals and companies withdraw their deposits

3. A foreign debt crisis - a situation in which a country cannot service its foreign debt obligations, whether private sector or government debt

Two crises that are particularly significant are
the 1995 Mexican currency crisis

the 1997 Asian currency crisis

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The Mexican Currency Crisis of 1995

The Mexican currency crisis of 1995 was a result of high Mexican debts, and a pegged exchange rate that did not allow for a natural adjustment of prices
In order to keep Mexico from defaulting on its debt, a $50 billion aid package was created by the IMF
By 1997, Mexico was well on the way to recovery
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The Asian Crisis

Question: What were the causes of the1997 Asian financial crisis?

I

The causes of the crisis can be traced to the previous decade when the region was experiencing unprecedented growth
1. The Investment Boom

fueled by export-led growth
large investments were often based on projections about future demand conditions that were unrealistic
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The Asian Crisis

2. Excess Capacity

investments made on the basis of unrealistic projections about future demand conditions created significant excess capacity
3. The Debt Bomb

investments were often supported by dollar-based debts
when inflation and increasing imports put pressure on the currencies, the resulting devaluations led to default on dollar denominated debts
4. Expanding Imports

by the mid 1990s, imports were expanding across the region causing balance of payments deficits
The balance of payments deficits made it difficult for countries to maintain their currencies against the U.S. dollar
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The Asian Crisis

By mid-1997, it became clear that several key Thai financial institutions were on the verge of default
Foreign exchange dealers and hedge funds started to speculate against the Thai baht, selling it short
After struggling to defend the peg, the Thai government abandoned its defense and announced that the baht would float freely against the dollar
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The Asian Crisis

Thailand turned to the IMF for help
Speculation continued to affect other Asian countries including Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore which all saw their currencies drop
These devaluations were mainly a result of excess investment, high borrowings, much of it in dollar denominated debt, and a deteriorating balance of payments position
South Korea was the final country in the region to fall
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Evaluating the IMF’s
Policy Prescriptions

Question: How successful is the IMF at getting countries back on track?
In 2006, 59 countries were working IMF programs
All IMF loan packages come with conditions attached, generally a combination of tight macroeconomic policy and tight monetary policy
Many experts have criticized these policy prescriptions for three reasons
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Evaluating the IMF’s
Policy Prescriptions

1. Inappropriate Policies

The IMF has been criticized for having a “one-size-fits-all” approach to macroeconomic policy that is inappropriate for many countries
2. Moral Hazard

The IMF has also been criticized for exacerbating moral hazard (when people behave recklessly because they know they will be saved if things go wrong)
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Evaluating the IMF’s
Policy Prescriptions

3. Lack of Accountability

The final criticism of the IMF is that it has become too powerful for an institution that lacks any real mechanism for accountability
Question: Who is right?

As with many debates about international economics, it is not clear who is right
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Country Focus: Turkey’s and the IMF

Summary

This feature explores Turkey’s 18th IMF program. In May 2001, the IMF agreed to lend $8 billion to Turkey to help stabilize its economy and halt a sharp slide in the value of its currency. While initially the Turkish government resisted IMF mandates on economic policy, in 2003, the government passed an austerity budget. By 2005, significant progress had been made and today, the country appears to be on track for recovery, with lower inflation rates, an increase in privatization, and a budget surplus. The following questions can be helpful in directing the discussion:

Suggested Discussion Questions

1. What led to Turkey’s financial crisis? What goals did the IMF establish as part of the loan agreement?

Discussion Points: Several factors led to Turkey’s financial crisis including a large and inefficient state sector and a subsidized agricultural sector, both of which were financed through debt. The IMF pushed for accelerated privatization of inefficient sectors, and a reduction in agricultural subsidies. In addition, the IMF called for pension reform and tax increases.

2. What are the challenges for a government to deal with a financial crisis like the one that Turkey experienced?

Discussion Points: Students will probably suggest that one of the biggest challenges for governments facing a financial crisis is the domino effect it seems to have throughout the economy. In the case of Turkey, IMF assistance to stabilize the situation meant that the country had to follow what initially seemed to be unattractive policies.

3. Was the IMF successful in Turkey?

Discussion Points: After several rocky attempts, most students will probably agree that the IMF’s programs in Turkey are finally beginning to show results. Inflation is down from over 80 percent a year in the 1990s to just 4 percent in 2007, economic growth is up, and the privatization program has continued to move along. In addition, government spending seems to be under control. In deed the government has a budget surplus in the period 2003-2006.

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Implications for Managers

Question: What are the implications of the international monetary system for managers?

The international monetary system affects international managers in three ways
Currency management

Business strategy

Corporate-government relations

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Currency Management

1. Currency Management

The current exchange rate system is a managed float
So, government intervention and speculative activity influence currency values
Firms can protect themselves from exchange rate volatility through forward markets and swaps
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Business Strategy

2. Business Strategy

Exchange rate movements can have a major impact on the competitive position of businesses
The forward market can offer some protection from volatile exchange rates in the shorter term
Firms can protect themselves from the uncertainty of exchange rate movements over the longer term by building strategic flexibility into their operations that minimizes economic exposure
Firms can disperse production to different locations
Firms can outsource manufacturing
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Management Focus: Airbus and the Euro

Summary

This feature describes how Airbus is protecting itself from exchange rate fluctuations. French aircraft maker Airbus prices its planes in dollars. However, because over half the company’s costs are in euros, the company has the potential to see significant fluctuations in its earnings if it does not hedge its foreign exchange exposure. The following questions can help in the discussion of the feature:

Suggested Discussion Questions

1. What type of foreign exchange exposure does Airbus face? How can Airbus protect itself from its exposure to changing exchange rates? How does the company’s switch to more U.S. suppliers help the company?

Discussion Points: Students should easily recognize the transaction exposure facing Airbus. Some students will point out that economic exposure is also a problem for the company. Airbus can hedge its transaction exposure in the foreign exchange markets using forward contracts, however to manage its economic exposure, the company is trying to reduce its costs by shifting to American suppliers, and asking European suppliers to price in dollars.

2. Airbus has asked its European based suppliers to start pricing in U.S. dollars. What does Airbus hope to gain by this request? What does it mean for suppliers?

Discussion Points: Airbus’ decision to ask suppliers to price their components in dollars is an effort to control exchange rate risk. The company prices its planes in dollars, but was paying for components in a variety of currencies. By shifting to a strictly dollar run business, the company not only consolidates all of its transactions and so hedges its exposure more easily and cheaply, it also increases the proportion of its costs that are in dollars. For American suppliers, the shift to pricing in dollars is beneficial because it eliminates exchange rate risk. For other suppliers however, the shift may mean an introduction of exchange rate risk.

Teaching Tip: Students can learn more about Airbus by going to the company’s web site at {http://www.airbus.com/en/}.

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Corporate-Government Relations

3. Corporate-Governance Relations

Firms can influence government policy towards the international monetary system
Firms should focus their efforts on encouraging the government to
promote the growth of international trade and investment
adopt an international monetary system that minimizes volatile exchange rates
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Critical Discussion Question

1. Why did the gold standard collapse? Is there a case for returning to some type of gold standard? What is it?

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Answer: The gold standard worked reasonably well from the 1870s until the start of World War I in 1914, when it was abandoned. During the war several governments financed their massive military expenditures by printing money. This resulted in inflation, and by the war's end in 1918, price levels were higher everywhere. Several countries returned to the gold standard after World War I. However, the period that ensued saw so many countries devalue their currencies that it became impossible to be certain how much gold a currency could buy. Instead of holding onto another country's currency, people often tried to exchange it into gold immediately, lest the country devalue its currency in the intervening period. This put pressure on the gold reserves of various countries, forcing them to suspend gold convertibility. As a result, by the start of World War II, the gold standard was dead. The great strength of the gold standard was that it contained a powerful mechanism for simultaneously achieving balance-of-trade equilibrium by all countries, as explained in the example provided in the textbook. This strength is the reason for reconsidering the gold standard as a basis for international monetary policy.

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Critical Discussion Question

2. What opportunities might current IMF lending policies to developing nations create for international businesses? What threats might they create?

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Answer: Current IMF lending policies require recipient countries to implement governmental reforms to stabilize monetary policy and encourage economic growth. One of the principal ways for a developing nation to spur economic growth is to solicit foreign direct investment and to provide a hospitable environment for the foreign investors. These characteristics of IMF lending policies work to the advantage of international businesses that are looking for investment opportunities in developing countries.

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Critical Discussion Question

3. Do you think the standard IMF policy prescriptions of tight monetary policy and reduced government spending are always appropriate for developing nations experiencing a currency crisis? How might the IMF change its approach? What would the implications be for international businesses?

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Answer: Critics argue that the tight macroeconomic policies imposed by the IMF in the recent Asian crisis were not well suited to countries that were not suffering from excessive government spending and inflation, but instead from a private-sector debt crisis with inflationary undertones. Anti-inflationary monetary policies and reductions in government spending usually result in a sharp contraction of demand, at least in the short run. In the longer term, the policies can promote economic growth and expansion of demand, which creates opportunities for international business.

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Critical Discussion Question

4. Debate the relative merits of fixed and floating exchange rate regimes. From the perspective of an international business, what are the most important criteria in a choice between the systems? Which system is the more desirable for an international business?

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Answer: The case for fixed exchange rates rests on arguments about monetary discipline, speculation, uncertainty, and the lack of connection between the trade balance and exchange rates. In terms of monetary discipline, the need to maintain fixed exchange rate parity ensures that governments do not expand their money supplies at inflationary rates. In terms of speculation, a fixed exchange rate regime precludes the possibility of speculation. In terms of uncertainty, a fixed rate regime introduces a degree of certainty in the international monetary system by reducing volatility in exchange rates. Finally, in terms of trade balance adjustments, critics question the closeness of the link between the exchange rate and the trade balance. The case for floating exchange rates has two main elements: monetary policy autonomy and automatic trade balance adjustments. In terms of the former, it is argued that a floating exchange rate regime gives countries monetary policy autonomy. Under a fixed rate system, a country’s ability to expand or contract its money supply as it sees fit is limited by the need to maintain exchange rate parity. In terms of the later, under the Bretton Woods system, if a country developed a permanent deficit in its balance of trade that could not be corrected by domestic policy, the IMF would agree to a currency devaluation. Critics of this system argue that the adjustment mechanism works much more smoothly under a floating exchange rate regime. They argue that if a country is running a trade deficit, the imbalance between the supply and demand of that country’s currency in the foreign exchange markets will lead to depreciation in its exchange rate. An exchange rate depreciation should correct the trade deficit by making the country’s exports cheaper and its imports more expensive. It is a matter of personal opinion in regard to which system is better for an international business. We do know, however, that a fixed exchange rate regime modeled along the lines of the Bretton Woods system will not work. Nevertheless, a different kind of fixed exchange rate system might be more enduring and might foster the kind of stability that would facilitate more rapid growth in international trade and investment.

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Critical Discussion Question

5. Imagine that Canada, the United States, and Mexico decide to adopt a fixed exchange rate system. What would be the likely consequences of such a system for (a) international businesses and (b) the flow of trade and investment among the three countries?

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Answer: In theory, a fixed exchange rate system similar to the ERM of the European Monetary System should impose monetary discipline, remove uncertainty, limit speculation, and promote trade and investment among member countries. Therefore, for international businesses, such a system should be positive, and the three countries should see increased trade and investment.

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Critical Discussion Question

6. Reread the Country Focus on the U.S. dollar, oil prices, and recycling petrodollars, then answer the following questions:

a) What will happen to the value of the U.S. dollar if oil producers decide to invest most of their earnings from oil sales in domestic infrastructure projects?

b) What factors determine the relative attractiveness of dollar, euro, and yen denominated assets to oil producers flush with petrodollars? What might lead them to direct more funds towards non-dollar denominated assets?

c) What will happen to the value of the dollar if OPEC members decide to invest more of their petrodollars towards non-dollar assets, such as euro denominated stocks and bonds?

d) In addition to oil producers, China is also accumulating a large stock of dollars, currently estimated to total $1.4 trillion. What would happen to the value of the dollar if China and oil producing nations all shifted out of dollar denominated assets at the same time? What would be the consequence for the United States economy?

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Answer:

a) If oil producers decide to invest their earnings in domestic infrastructure projects, it would be expected that the countries involved would see a boost in economic growth, and an increase in imports. This would put downward pressure on the dollar as the petrodollars are sold, or are invested in the local community, however the expected increase in imports that should result from greater economic growth would increase the demand for dollars.

b) The relative attractiveness of an investment whether it is denominated in dollars, euro, or yen depends on expected returns and the degree of risk associated with the investment. When considering different currencies, it would be important to consider expected shifts in the exchange rate. So, for example, if the dollar was expected to depreciate relative to the euro or yen, non-dollar denominated assets might be more attractive all else being equal.

c) Oil producers have significantly increased their holdings of dollars as a result of higher oil prices. Should OPEC members decide to sell their dollars to invest in non-dollar denominated assets such as euro denominated stocks or bonds, we would expect to see downward pressure on the dollar.

d) If China and the oil producers simultaneously decide to sell off their dollars, there would be significant downward pressure on the dollar. This downward pressure would probably cause considerable pessimism among investors, and the U.S. economy, and the world economy in general, would likely suffer.

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Classroom Performance System Answer: b

Multimedia Lecture Support Package to Accompany Basic Marketing

Lecture Script 6-*

Internet Extra: The IMF has an interactive web page designed especially for students. Go to {http://www.imf.org}. Click on For Students, then click on EconEd Online.

Several interactive activities are available to help students learn more about the IMF and its activities. For example, to see how the IMF evaluates a country, click on The IMF in Action. This interactive exercise allows students to pick an online team to help analyze a member country’s economy.

Multimedia Lecture Support Package to Accompany Basic Marketing

Lecture Script 6-*

Classroom Performance System Answer: b

Multimedia Lecture Support Package to Accompany Basic Marketing

Lecture Script 6-*

Country Focus: The U.S. Dollar, Oil Prices, and Recycling Petrodollars

Summary

This feature explores what oil producing nations are likely to do with the dollars they have earned. In 2008, oil prices reached new highs as a result of higher than expected demand, tight supplies, and perceived geopolitical risks. Since oil is priced in dollars, oil producers have seen their dollar reserves increase significantly. Now, speculation abounds as to what will happen to the petrodollars. Some believe that the dollars will go toward public infrastructure projects, others think that it is more likely that investments will be made in dollar denominated assets like U.S. bonds, stocks, and real estate, or in non-dollar denominated assets such as European or Japanese bonds and stocks. Discussion of the feature can revolve around the following questions:

Suggested Discussion Questions

1. With oil prices at record highs, there is significant speculation as to what oil producing states will do with the dollars they are earning. Discuss how a decision to invest in non-dollar denominated assets could affect the value of the U.S. dollar.

Suggested Discussion Points: As a result of higher demand from countries like China and India, tight supplies and perceived geo-political risks, oil prices reached a new high in 2008. For oil producing countries, this has proved to be an unexpected windfall. In 2007, the countries together earned over $1 trillion. Most students will probably recognize that if the countries decide to invest their earnings in non-dollar denominated assets, the value of the dollar could drop sharply.

2. How could a decision by oil producing countries to invest their petrodollars in public infrastructure projects help the value of the dollar?

Suggested Discussion Points: If the oil producing states invest the petrodollars in public infrastructure projects such as roads, telecommunications systems, and education, the U.S. dollar could actually rise in value. The infrastructure investments are likely to generate economic growth in the nations, which could then translate into market opportunities for U.S. firms.

Lecture Note: To extend this discussion, consider {http://www.economist.com/opinion/displaystory.cfm?story_id=11089616} and {http://www.businessweek.com/magazine/content/08_14/b4078084895408.htm?chan=search}.

Video Note: The iGlobes Oil and Gas Prices Rise Due to Pipeline Shutdown and Oil Market Focuses Attention on Middle East Conflict fit in well with this feature.

Multimedia Lecture Support Package to Accompany Basic Marketing

Lecture Script 6-*

Classroom Performance System Answer: c

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Lecture Script 6-*

Classroom Performance System Answer: b

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Lecture Script 6-*

Country Focus: Turkey’s and the IMF

Summary

This feature explores Turkey’s 18th IMF program. In May 2001, the IMF agreed to lend $8 billion to Turkey to help stabilize its economy and halt a sharp slide in the value of its currency. While initially the Turkish government resisted IMF mandates on economic policy, in 2003, the government passed an austerity budget. By 2005, significant progress had been made and today, the country appears to be on track for recovery, with lower inflation rates, an increase in privatization, and a budget surplus. The following questions can be helpful in directing the discussion:

Suggested Discussion Questions

1. What led to Turkey’s financial crisis? What goals did the IMF establish as part of the loan agreement?

Discussion Points: Several factors led to Turkey’s financial crisis including a large and inefficient state sector and a subsidized agricultural sector, both of which were financed through debt. The IMF pushed for accelerated privatization of inefficient sectors, and a reduction in agricultural subsidies. In addition, the IMF called for pension reform and tax increases.

2. What are the challenges for a government to deal with a financial crisis like the one that Turkey experienced?

Discussion Points: Students will probably suggest that one of the biggest challenges for governments facing a financial crisis is the domino effect it seems to have throughout the economy. In the case of Turkey, IMF assistance to stabilize the situation meant that the country had to follow what initially seemed to be unattractive policies.

3. Was the IMF successful in Turkey?

Discussion Points: After several rocky attempts, most students will probably agree that the IMF’s programs in Turkey are finally beginning to show results. Inflation is down from over 80 percent a year in the 1990s to just 4 percent in 2007, economic growth is up, and the privatization program has continued to move along. In addition, government spending seems to be under control. In deed the government has a budget surplus in the period 2003-2006.

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Lecture Script 6-*

Management Focus: Airbus and the Euro

Summary

This feature describes how Airbus is protecting itself from exchange rate fluctuations. French aircraft maker Airbus prices its planes in dollars. However, because over half the company’s costs are in euros, the company has the potential to see significant fluctuations in its earnings if it does not hedge its foreign exchange exposure. The following questions can help in the discussion of the feature:

Suggested Discussion Questions

1. What type of foreign exchange exposure does Airbus face? How can Airbus protect itself from its exposure to changing exchange rates? How does the company’s switch to more U.S. suppliers help the company?

Discussion Points: Students should easily recognize the transaction exposure facing Airbus. Some students will point out that economic exposure is also a problem for the company. Airbus can hedge its transaction exposure in the foreign exchange markets using forward contracts, however to manage its economic exposure, the company is trying to reduce its costs by shifting to American suppliers, and asking European suppliers to price in dollars.

2. Airbus has asked its European based suppliers to start pricing in U.S. dollars. What does Airbus hope to gain by this request? What does it mean for suppliers?

Discussion Points: Airbus’ decision to ask suppliers to price their components in dollars is an effort to control exchange rate risk. The company prices its planes in dollars, but was paying for components in a variety of currencies. By shifting to a strictly dollar run business, the company not only consolidates all of its transactions and so hedges its exposure more easily and cheaply, it also increases the proportion of its costs that are in dollars. For American suppliers, the shift to pricing in dollars is beneficial because it eliminates exchange rate risk. For other suppliers however, the shift may mean an introduction of exchange rate risk.

Teaching Tip: Students can learn more about Airbus by going to the company’s web site at {http://www.airbus.com/en/}.

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Lecture Script 6-*

Answer: The gold standard worked reasonably well from the 1870s until the start of World War I in 1914, when it was abandoned. During the war several governments financed their massive military expenditures by printing money. This resulted in inflation, and by the war's end in 1918, price levels were higher everywhere. Several countries returned to the gold standard after World War I. However, the period that ensued saw so many countries devalue their currencies that it became impossible to be certain how much gold a currency could buy. Instead of holding onto another country's currency, people often tried to exchange it into gold immediately, lest the country devalue its currency in the intervening period. This put pressure on the gold reserves of various countries, forcing them to suspend gold convertibility. As a result, by the start of World War II, the gold standard was dead. The great strength of the gold standard was that it contained a powerful mechanism for simultaneously achieving balance-of-trade equilibrium by all countries, as explained in the example provided in the textbook. This strength is the reason for reconsidering the gold standard as a basis for international monetary policy.

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Lecture Script 6-*

Answer: Current IMF lending policies require recipient countries to implement governmental reforms to stabilize monetary policy and encourage economic growth. One of the principal ways for a developing nation to spur economic growth is to solicit foreign direct investment and to provide a hospitable environment for the foreign investors. These characteristics of IMF lending policies work to the advantage of international businesses that are looking for investment opportunities in developing countries.

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Lecture Script 6-*

Answer: Critics argue that the tight macroeconomic policies imposed by the IMF in the recent Asian crisis were not well suited to countries that were not suffering from excessive government spending and inflation, but instead from a private-sector debt crisis with inflationary undertones. Anti-inflationary monetary policies and reductions in government spending usually result in a sharp contraction of demand, at least in the short run. In the longer term, the policies can promote economic growth and expansion of demand, which creates opportunities for international business.

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Lecture Script 6-*

Answer: The case for fixed exchange rates rests on arguments about monetary discipline, speculation, uncertainty, and the lack of connection between the trade balance and exchange rates. In terms of monetary discipline, the need to maintain fixed exchange rate parity ensures that governments do not expand their money supplies at inflationary rates. In terms of speculation, a fixed exchange rate regime precludes the possibility of speculation. In terms of uncertainty, a fixed rate regime introduces a degree of certainty in the international monetary system by reducing volatility in exchange rates. Finally, in terms of trade balance adjustments, critics question the closeness of the link between the exchange rate and the trade balance. The case for floating exchange rates has two main elements: monetary policy autonomy and automatic trade balance adjustments. In terms of the former, it is argued that a floating exchange rate regime gives countries monetary policy autonomy. Under a fixed rate system, a country’s ability to expand or contract its money supply as it sees fit is limited by the need to maintain exchange rate parity. In terms of the later, under the Bretton Woods system, if a country developed a permanent deficit in its balance of trade that could not be corrected by domestic policy, the IMF would agree to a currency devaluation. Critics of this system argue that the adjustment mechanism works much more smoothly under a floating exchange rate regime. They argue that if a country is running a trade deficit, the imbalance between the supply and demand of that country’s currency in the foreign exchange markets will lead to depreciation in its exchange rate. An exchange rate depreciation should correct the trade deficit by making the country’s exports cheaper and its imports more expensive. It is a matter of personal opinion in regard to which system is better for an international business. We do know, however, that a fixed exchange rate regime modeled along the lines of the Bretton Woods system will not work. Nevertheless, a different kind of fixed exchange rate system might be more enduring and might foster the kind of stability that would facilitate more rapid growth in international trade and investment.

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Lecture Script 6-*

Answer: In theory, a fixed exchange rate system similar to the ERM of the European Monetary System should impose monetary discipline, remove uncertainty, limit speculation, and promote trade and investment among member countries. Therefore, for international businesses, such a system should be positive, and the three countries should see increased trade and investment.

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Lecture Script 6-*

Answer:

a) If oil producers decide to invest their earnings in domestic infrastructure projects, it would be expected that the countries involved would see a boost in economic growth, and an increase in imports. This would put downward pressure on the dollar as the petrodollars are sold, or are invested in the local community, however the expected increase in imports that should result from greater economic growth would increase the demand for dollars.

b) The relative attractiveness of an investment whether it is denominated in dollars, euro, or yen depends on expected returns and the degree of risk associated with the investment. When considering different currencies, it would be important to consider expected shifts in the exchange rate. So, for example, if the dollar was expected to depreciate relative to the euro or yen, non-dollar denominated assets might be more attractive all else being equal.

c) Oil producers have significantly increased their holdings of dollars as a result of higher oil prices. Should OPEC members decide to sell their dollars to invest in non-dollar denominated assets such as euro denominated stocks or bonds, we would expect to see downward pressure on the dollar.

d) If China and the oil producers simultaneously decide to sell off their dollars, there would be significant downward pressure on the dollar. This downward pressure would probably cause considerable pessimism among investors, and the U.S. economy, and the world economy in general, would likely suffer.