Question

The balance sheet below reflects Zee Bank after its purchase of $50 million in government securities from the Fed. Assume a required reserve ratio of 10%, that banks hold no excess reserves, and all currency is deposited into the banking system. Assets Liabilites and net worth Reserves $15 million Liabilities: Checking Deposits $150 million Loans $275 million Net Worth $190 Treasuries $50 million How did the purchase of $50 million in government securities from the Fed affect the money supply

Answer 1

$500 million

Explanation:

The solution of the money supply and its effect is here below:-

Decrease in money supply = $50 million ÷ reserve ratio

= $50 million ÷ 10%

= $500 million

If $50 million were used to repay loans, that will have raised money supply. Thus, buying $50 million in government securities from the fed reduces the supply of capital.