Examining the role of capital markets in the economy

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Examining the role of capital markets in the economy

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Examining the role of capital markets in the economy

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Introductory remarks and background on capital markets

Douglas J. Elliott

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Viewpoint of users of capital

Martin Neil Baily, David Hirschmann, James J. Angel, and Huw Richards

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Viewpoint of investors

Douglas J. Elliott, David Blass, Robert Tipp, and Eric Bendickson

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Viewpoint of regulators

Martin Neil Baily, Kathleen Weiss Hanley, Gregg E. Berman, and Paul Atkins

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Capital markets are the largest source of financing for the U.S. economy, supplying over $8 trillion in corporate debt and trillions more in mortgage funding. They also provide investment opportunities for families, both directly and through mutual funds, 401(k)’s, and pension funds. Further, capital markets affect the health and profitability of banks, insurers, and other financial institutions. Despite these important functions, capital markets are often poorly understood.

On April 29, the Initiative on Business and Public Policy at Brookings explored the economic role of capital markets. The event began with a background presentation on the nature of capital markets followed by three panels of experts presenting perspectives from securities issuers, investors, and regulators.

Event Materials

Paul Atkins’ remarks (PDF)