Global economic outlook

  • the global economic outlook refers to :: the projected changes to the level of economic growth throughout the world.
  • If the outlook is positive:
    • increasing demand for products and services businesses need to increase production to meet demand requires more funds
    • decreased interest rates on funds borrowed internationally
      • because of a decrease in the level of risk associated with repayments
  • ^^ Vice versa if the outlook is negative

Availability of funds

  • The availability of funds refers to :: the ease with which a business can access funds (for borrowing) on the international financial markets
  • The international financial markets have a range of institutions willing to lend money overseas
    • conditions and rates apply, based primarily on:
      • risk
      • demand and supply
      • domestic economic conditions.

Interest rates

  • Interest rates are :: the cost of borrowing money.
  • a ==higher risk== (chance of being unable to repay) involved in lending to a business
    • leads to higher interest rates
  • Australian interest rates tend to be above those of other countries
    • Therefore tempting Australian businesses to borrow finance from overseas
      • this poses the additional risk of exchange rate movements