The Experience of Free Banking

Free banking is an historic term to describe a system in which banks issue their own notes - without the presence of a central bank (such as the Bank of England in the UK). Free banking has already been explored in many countries around the world, and this second edition expands the list of countries studied.

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Many people mistakenly - but perhaps understandably - believe that 'free banking' means paying no charges for their bank accounts. But 'free banking' is really an historic term to describe a system in which banks issue their own notes - without the presence of a central bank (such as the Bank of England in the UK). For some, this may seem an alien concept. But free banking has already been explored in many countries around the world. The Experience of Free Banking (first published in 1992) analyses the impact of free banking in such countries as Australia, Canada, France, the US and more. And this revised second edition widens and updates its scope to encompass free banking in Belgium, Italy, China and further afield. Featuring chapters from distinguished economists around the world, it also incorporates an innovative guide, providing an invaluable starting point for researchers delving into the historical impact and effectiveness of free banking - or assessing its future potential.