Abstract
This study reveals the operation of the triangular settlement system for Asia’s silver absorption over the 1850s–60s, which contributed to the stabilization of the pre-1870 global monetary system. First, we demonstrate that the triangular settlement system among Britain, India, and China was established based on exchange operations. Second, we validate the bullion point method for Asia’s settlement analysis and devise the triangular silver point mechanism. Third, through reconstructing silver points and comparing the arbitrage profits with the silver trade, we found that silver was imported into Asia from Britain through both the bilateral and triangular settlement systems.
Publisher
Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Subject
Economics, Econometrics and Finance (miscellaneous),Economics and Econometrics,History
Reference56 articles.
1. The Rise and Decline of the Oriental Bank Corporation, 1842–84
2. British Parliamentary Papers (BPP). India and China (Exports and Imports), no. 347. London: UK Parliament, 1871.
3. Hong Kong, Overland Register and Price Current. May 1846–December 1860, various dates.