HOW DO BANKS CREATE MONEY?
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UNVEILING THE MYSTERY IN A FRIENDLY, EASY-TO-UNDERSTAND WAY
Hello there! Today, we’re going to dive into a topic that might sound a bit like a magic trick: How do banks create money? Yes, you read that right. It’s not just about counting cash or storing gold in vaults; it’s a fascinating process that’s central to how our economy functions. So, let’s demystify this process in a way that’s easy to understand and, dare I say, a bit fun!
THE BASICS: MORE THAN JUST PIGGY BANKS
First things first, banks are not just giant piggy banks. While they do store our money, they also have a much more dynamic role. The key concept here is something called ‘fractional reserve banking’. This system allows banks to hold only a fraction of their depositors’ money in reserve and lend out the rest.
THE MAGIC OF LOANS: CREATING MONEY OUT OF THIN AIR
Imagine you deposit £1,000 in your bank. The bank keeps, let’s say, 10% (£100) in reserve and loans out the rest (£900) to someone else. Here’s where the magic happens: while your bank statement still shows your £1,000, the borrower also has £900. Voila! The bank has effectively created £900.
THE RIPPLE EFFECT: HOW YOUR MONEY MULTIPLIES
The story doesn’t end there. The person who receives the £900 might spend it on services or goods, and the recipient of this money might deposit it in their bank. This new bank can then lend out most of that £900, creating even more money. This chain reaction is known as the ‘money multiplier effect’.
INTEREST RATES: THE PUPPET STRINGS OF MONEY CREATION
Banks don’t do this for fun; they do it for profit. By charging interest on the money they lend, banks make money. Central banks also play a crucial role here. They set the base interest rate, influencing how much it costs for banks to borrow money and, in turn, affecting how much they lend.
SAFETY NETS: PREVENTING A HOUSE OF CARDS COLLAPSE
This might sound like a risky game, and it can be. That’s why there are regulations. Banks must meet certain reserve requirements, ensuring they have enough cash on hand for daily transactions and to prevent a bank run (where everyone tries to withdraw their money simultaneously).
THE DIGITAL TWIST: MONEY IN THE MODERN AGE
In today’s digital world, money creation isn’t just about physical cash. When banks make loans, they simply add numbers to a digital account. Most of our money now exists as numbers in computers, not as actual coins and notes.
CONCLUSION: A BALANCING ACT
So, banks create money through the act of lending, which is far more than just storing and safeguarding our deposits. This process is crucial for economic growth but requires careful balancing to prevent inflation or financial crises.
Isn’t it fascinating? Banks, in a way, wield a magic wand that keeps our economy spinning. But, like any magic trick, it requires skill, regulation, and a keen understanding of the risks involved. Thanks for joining me on this exploration into the intriguing world of money creation! You know it makes sense.*
*RISK WARNING
The value of investments can fall as well as rise. You may not get back what you invest. The information contained within this article is for guidance only and does not constitute advice which should be sought before taking any action or inaction. All information is based on our current understanding of taxation, legislation, regulations and case law in the current tax year. Any levels and bases of relief from taxation are subject to change. Tax treatment is based on individual circumstances and may be subject to change in the future. This blog is based on my own observations and opinions.
Tony Byrne
Chartered and Certified Financial Planner
Managing Director of Wealth and Tax Management
If you are looking for expert guidance in Financial Planning contact Wealth and Tax Management on 01908 523740 or email wealth@wealthandtax.co.uk