Foreign Branches of American Banks

Abstract

Like the fabled Hermes American banks have undertaken the great trek, and have moved and extended their field of operations to service a global commerce and travel. This multi-nationalisation could not have proceeded as speedily nor as efficiently as it has in the past decade without resort to the overseas branch. The expansion in number of foreign branches, in number of U.S. banks with foreign branches, and in the assets and deposits held by these branches has been impressive. However, more impressive is the impact this overseas branching has had on the pattern of international bank expansion, the degree of competition, and the channels branching has provided for international short-term capital flows. Foreign branches of American banks provide major links between international financial centres, and permit a more efficient accommodation between the supply and demand for funds in regional sub-markets around the world.