The 'long term refinancing operation' - LTRO - is supposed to stop a massive European credit crunch. But what is it and how does it work? Indeed, will it work at all? Tim Bennett explains.
Related videos
Subscribe to MoneyWeek
Subscribe to MoneyWeek today and get your first six magazine issues absolutely FREE
Sign up to Money Morning
Don't miss the latest investment and personal finances news, market analysis, plus money-saving tips with our free twice-daily newsletter
Don't miss the latest investment and personal finances news, market analysis, plus money-saving tips with our free twice-daily newsletter
LTRO
The banks in turn have to post collateral to secure these funds. The lower the quality of this collateral, the bigger the haircut' ie, the lower the amount that can be borrowed. These funds can find their way into sovereign bonds, which carry a higher yield than 1%, allowing the bank to make a profit on the exercise. This buying should also push up prices and force down yields.
Another possibility is the banks hoard the money by putting it back on deposit at the ECB (at a lower rate). It can then be use to repay private funding at a later date. The least likely option is the money is lent out to firms and individuals, most of whom are currently debt-averse.
Entry from MoneyWeek's Financial glossary.
-
Where are ISA savers and investors putting their money?With less than three months until the end of the tax year, where are ISA savers and investors putting their money? We look at the latest ISA trends.
-
More than £53 billion held in fixed-rate cash ISAs will mature by April - where should savers move their money?If your fixed-rate cash ISA is maturing soon, we look at the options available to you
