Question

A country whose currency is the primary reserve currency can likely borrow at lower interest rates than it could if its currency were not the primary reserve currency. Do you agree or disagree? Explain.

Short answer

Agree. Countries whose currency is the primary reserve currency can likely borrow at lower interest rates due to the high demand for their currency and the global economic confidence in their stability.

Step-by-step solution

Understand the Concept of Reserve Currency

A reserve currency is a foreign currency that central banks and major financial institutions hold as a means to pay off international debt obligations, or to influence their domestic exchange rate. A large amount of a certain currency being held as reserve currency often signifies global confidence in that currency and its issuing economy.

Analyze the Effects of Being a Primary Reserve Currency

Countries with currencies that are the primary reserve currency often experience 'exorbitant privilege'. This means, they can borrow money at a lower interest rate, as there is a high global demand for their currency. Also, these countries do not face a 'balance of payment' constraint and can run current account deficits persistently.

Agree or Disagree

Given the above analysis, one could argue in agreement that a country whose currency is the primary reserve currency can likely borrow at lower interest rates than it could if its currency were not the primary reserve currency. This is because of the high demand for that currency and the trust and confidence in its economic stability.