Selective credit controls refer to the ability of the Federal Reserve Board (FRB) to establish specific terms and conditions for various credit instruments. These controls are a critical component of the FRB’s monetary policy toolkit, allowing it to influence the availability and cost of credit in targeted sectors of the economy, such as the stock market.
Federal Reserve Board’s Authority
The Federal Reserve Board is the central banking system of the United States, responsible for implementing the nation’s monetary policy. Through selective credit controls, the FRB can regulate the terms under which credit is extended for specific purposes. This selective approach enables the FRB to address particular economic issues without broader market disruption.
Margin Requirements
One of the primary tools of selective credit controls is the establishment and adjustment of margin requirements. Margin requirements dictate the proportion of the purchase price of securities that must be paid for with funds (rather than borrowed money). By altering these requirements, the FRB can influence investor behavior and the level of speculative trading in the stock market.
- Formula: If the initial margin requirement is \(X%\), then a minimum of \(X%\) of the total purchase cost must be funded by the investor’s own equity.
Impact on the Stock Market
Adjusting margin requirements can have significant effects on the stock market:
- Increased Margin Requirements: By raising margin requirements, the FRB reduces the amount of credit available for purchasing securities, which can dampen speculative trading and reduce stock market volatility.
- Decreased Margin Requirements: Lowering margin requirements can encourage more borrowing and investment, potentially boosting stock prices and increasing market activity.
Historical Context
The concept of selective credit controls dates back to the early 20th century. The FRB’s authority to regulate margin requirements was established by the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, following the stock market crash of 1929 and subsequent Great Depression. Since then, selective credit controls have remained a vital tool for maintaining financial stability.
Key Historical Milestones
- 1934: Introduction of margin requirements under the Securities Exchange Act.
- 1950s-1960s: Heightened use of selective credit controls during economic booms and busts.
- 2008 Financial Crisis: Evaluations of selective credit controls’ effectiveness in modern economic crises.
Applicability and Considerations
Selective credit controls are primarily used to:
- Prevent Excessive Speculation: Reducing overly speculative trading that can lead to market bubbles.
- Maintain Financial Stability: Ensuring the stability of financial markets by managing credit availability.
- Address Sector-Specific Issues: Tailoring policy responses to specific economic conditions without wider market impacts.
Related Terms
- Monetary Policy: The broader set of tools used by the FRB to manage economic conditions.
- Financial Regulation: Laws and rules governing financial institutions and markets.
- Speculative Trading: High-risk trading aiming for significant short-term gains.
FAQs
What are selective credit controls?
How do margin requirements impact the stock market?
Can selective credit controls prevent financial crises?
References
- Federal Reserve Board - Monetary Policy Tools: Fed’s Official Website
- Securities Exchange Act of 1934: SEC.gov
Summary
Selective credit controls are a nuanced and powerful tool within the Federal Reserve Board’s suite of monetary policy strategies. By adjusting terms for specific credit instruments, particularly margin requirements, the FRB can exert targeted control over the financial markets, promoting stability and mitigating speculative risks. These controls have evolved significantly since their inception and continue to play a crucial role in modern financial regulation.
