We analyze holdings of public bonds by over 20,000 banks in 191 countries, and the role of these bonds in 20 sovereign defaults over 1998-2012. Banks hold many public bonds (on average 9% of their assets), particularly in less financially-developed countries. During sovereign defaults, banks increase their exposure to public bonds, especially large banks and when expected bond returns are high. At the bank level, bondholdings correlate negatively with subsequent lending during sovereign defaults. This correlation is mostly due to bonds acquired in pre-default years. These findings shed light on alternative theories of the sovereign default-banking crisis nexus.

Provides an in-depth overview of the Federal Reserve System, including information about monetary policy and the economy, the Federal Reserve in the international sphere, supervision and regulation, consumer and community affairs and services offered by Reserve Banks. Contains several appendixes, including a brief explanation of Federal Reserve regulations, a glossary of terms, and a list of additional publications.

Most people have heard of savings bonds. You may even own some of these low-risk Treasuries yourself, but did you know that there are other types of Treasuries—or bonds—issued by the United States government, as well? Bonds are among the most common investments in the world today. Buying them isn’t diffi cult, but it can be confusing, especially for new investors. Use this guide to learn the important differences between Treasuries, municipal bonds (including general obligation and revenue bonds), and corporate bonds. Together these investments can help you create a diversifi ed fi nancial portfolio.