A subset of the balance of payments current account that records the difference between the payments received for exports of goods to other nations and the payments made for the imports of goods from other nations. The goods included are physical or tangible goods, but not intangible services. The balance on merchandise trade is thus appropriately divided into merchandise exported and merchandise imported. Two other subsets of the current account include the balance on services and unilateral transfers. The commonly termed balance of trade is the sum of the balance on merchandise trade and the balance on services.

Complete Entry | Visit the WEB*pedia

We never know whom we might encounter on our leisurely stroll through the economy. Passing by the marble columns of Interstate OmniBank -- the beacon of safety and security -- we have the good fortune of crossing paths with our Ivy-League-educated pillar of the financial community -- Winston Smythe Kennsington III. Although he seems to be a touch condescending, he's kind enough to show us a freshly signed check for $37 gadzillion, which is but a small part of a multi-gadzillion dollar loan from the Interstate OmniBank. To what constructive purpose Winnie will put these funds remains unclear; how this loan will be repaid, he never says; but Winnie proudly reminds us several times that this loan once again proves his unchallenged standing as the majordomo of the financial markets.
Tell me more...

Visit the PEDestrian's Guide

Today, you are likely to spend a great deal of time at a flea market seeking to buy either a set of steel-belted radial snow tires or a wall poster commemorating the 2000 Presidential election. Be on the lookout for florescent light bulbs that hum folk songs from the sixties.
Your Complete Scope

This isn't me! What am I?

-- Belva Davis, Journalist

User Feedback