Background
Security in economics typically refers to a financial asset represented by a contract that delineates the terms and conditions under which payments will be made. Such securities can span various categories including government debts, company shares, and company debts.
Historical Context
The concept of securities has evolved significantly since the early days of market economies. Historically, debt instruments like government bonds have existed for centuries, but widespread trading of diversified securities such as stocks emerged prominently during the 17th century with the formation of stock exchanges like the Amsterdam Stock Exchange.
Definitions and Concepts
- Security: A financial asset constituted by a contract outlining terms and conditions for payments.
- Registered Security: Securities where legal ownership is recorded in a register.
- Bearer Security: Securities where ownership is determined by possession of the document.
Major Analytical Frameworks
Classical Economics
Emphasizes the role of markets in resource allocation, hence examines securities in the context of revenue streams and ownership rights.
Neoclassical Economics
Focuses on the utility maximization and market equilibrium aspects, offering insights on how securities are priced based on risk and return.
Keynesian Economic
Evaluates securities in terms of their impact on aggregate demand and investment, crucial for understanding economic cycles.
Marxian Economics
Critiques the role of securities in capitalist economies, often viewed as instruments of wealth concentration and capital accumulation.
Institutional Economics
Considers the impact of socio-economic institutions on securities markets, including regulation and corporate governance.
Behavioral Economics
Assesses how psychological factors influence investor behavior and the valuation of securities.
Post-Keynesian Economics
Studies securities markets with a focus on liquidity preferences and the role of financial institutions in stabilizing or destabilizing the economy.
Austrian Economics
Analyzes securities through the lens of time preference and capital structure theories.
Development Economics
Views securities as mechanisms for capital mobilization critical for economic growth, particularly in developing nations.
Monetarism
Emphasizes the role of money supply and interest rates, examining how securities influence broader financial stability.
Comparative Analysis
Different schools of thought offer varied perspectives on securities, from tools for optimizing individual welfare (neoclassical) to instruments of systemic financial risk (Post-Keynesian).
Case Studies
- The U.S. Government Securities Market
- The 2008 Financial Crisis and Mortgage-Backed Securities
- The Role of Corporate Bonds in Modern China
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “Security Analysis” by Benjamin Graham and David Dodd
- “The Ascent of Money” by Niall Ferguson
- “In the Shadow of Banking” by Gary B. Gorton
Related Terms with Definitions
- Bearer Bond: A bond without named owner, payable to whoever holds the bond.
- Blue Chip: Shares in well-established and financially sound companies.
- Collateral: Asset pledged as security for a loan.
- Fixed-Interest Security: Securities with predetermined interest rates.
- Gilt-Edged Security: High-grade securities issued by a government.
- Irredeemable Security: Securities that have no fixed redemption date.
- Long-Dated Security: Securities with a long time until they mature.
- Marketable Security: Securities that can be easily sold on the market.
- Redeemable Security: Securities with a predetermined redemption date.
- Short-Dated Security: Securities with a short duration before maturity.
- Undated Security: Securities without a fixed maturity date.
