Classical Theory of Interest
The classical theory of interest is an economic theory developed in the 18th century by Scottish economist Adam Smith and other economists of his time. This theory states that in a free market, the rate of interest is determined by the supply and demand for saving, borrowing, and lending. It is based on the notion that the price of any asset is determined by the supply and demand of that asset.
In the classical theory of interest, the rate of interest is determined by the amount of savings available in the economy. If there is an abundant supply of savings, then the rate of interest will be low. On the other hand, if there is a limited amount of savings, then the rate of interest will increase. This occurs because individuals and businesses need to borrow funds to carry out their activities. In order for them to borrow funds, they need to pay interest. Thus, the rate of interest is determined by the amount of savings in the economy.
The classical theory of interest also posits that the rate of interest is determined by the level of risk associated with borrowing. If individuals and businesses perceive that the risk of borrowing is high, then the rate of interest will be higher. Conversely, if the risk associated with borrowing is perceived to be low, then the rate of interest will be lower.
The classical theory of interest posits that the rate of interest is determined by the productivity of the funds used in borrowing. This means that if funds are used to finance investments that are expected to generate high returns, then the rate of interest will be higher. Conversely, if the investments are not expected to generate high returns, then the rate of interest will be lower.
The classical theory of interest also posits that the rate of interest is determined by the inflation rate in the economy. Inflation reduces the value of money over time, so borrowers and lenders will demand a higher rate of interest when the inflation rate is high. On the other hand, if the inflation rate is low, then the rate of interest will be lower.
Lastly, the classical theory of interest holds that the rate of interest is determined by the financial policy of the government. Governments can influence the rate of interest in the economy by altering the money supply, taxes, and borrowing. If a government increases the money supply, then the rate of interest will decrease. On the other hand, if a government taxes interest-bearing investments, then the rate of interest will increase.
The classical theory of interest is still applicable today. Its basic principles continue to be used in modern-day economic analysis. The theory states that the rate of interest is determined by the supply and demand of saving, borrowing, and lending and the level of risk associated with them. It also states that inflation and the financial policy of the government can influence the rate of interest in the economy.