ECONOMICS (CBSE/UGC NET)

Detailed explanation-1: -Balance of trade (BoT) is the difference that is obtained from the export and import of goods. Balance of payments (BoP) is the difference between the inflow and outflow of foreign exchange. Transactions related to goods are included in BoT. Transactions related to transfers, goods, and services are included in BoP.

Detailed explanation-2: -Current account measures the nation’s earnings and spendings abroad and it consists of the balance of trade, net primary income or factor income (earnings on foreign investments minus payments made to foreign investors) and net unilateral transfers, that have taken place over a given period of time.

Detailed explanation-3: -There are three components to the current account – the ‘trade balance’, ‘primary income balance’ and ‘secondary income balance’. In economic analysis or commentary, most attention is usually given to the trade balance, which records the difference between the value of our exports and imports of goods and services.

Detailed explanation-4: -Note: Changes in the foreign exchange reserves are not included in the current account of the BoP. The foreign exchange reserves are the financial assets of the government-held in the central bank. A change in reserves serves as the financing item in India’s BOP.