Speculative Attacks, Forward Market Intervention and the Classic Bear Squeeze

Author/Editor:

Subir Lall

Publication Date:

December 1, 1997

Electronic Access:

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Disclaimer: This Working Paper should not be reported as representing the views of the IMF.The views expressed in this Working Paper are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent those of the IMF or IMF policy. Working Papers describe research in progress by the author(s) and are published to elicit comments and to further debate

Summary:

A typical strategy used by speculators to launch an attack on a fixed exchange regime is the use of forward markets. Central banks also intervene in forward markets to counter speculation. This paper addresses the question of how an attack is launched on the forward market, and what the optimal policy response to such speculation is in the forward and spot markets. The paper also demonstrates how central banks can impose a bear squeeze on speculators. Recent events in South East Asian currency markets are interpreted within the framework of the model’s predictions.

Series:

Working Paper No. 1997/164

Subject:

English

Publication Date:

December 1, 1997

ISBN/ISSN:

9781451980202/1018-5941

Stock No:

WPIEA1641997

Pages:

37

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