Why are demand deposits considered as money?
Due to following reasons the demand deposits are considered as money
(i) Demand deposits can be withdrawn from the bank whenever it is required.
(ii) They are widely accepted as a means of payment, along with the currency, thus they aqre considered as money.
(iii) They are accepted widely as means of payment by way of a cheque instead of cash.
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Why are demand deposits considered as money?
Demand Deposits as Money
Demand deposits are considered as money due to their essential characteristics and functions within the economy. As a type of deposit account held at a bank or other financial institution, demand deposits possess the following attributes that make them suitable for use as money:
1. Liquidity:
Demand deposits are highly liquid, meaning they can be readily converted into cash or used for payments and transactions. Account holders can easily access their funds through various channels such as ATMs, checks, or online transfers. This liquidity feature allows individuals and businesses to use demand deposits as a medium of exchange.
2. Acceptability:
Demand deposits are widely accepted as a form of payment. They are recognized and honored by most merchants, service providers, and individuals, making them a universally accepted means of settling debts and obligations. This acceptance is crucial for demand deposits to function effectively as money within an economy.
3. Store of Value:
Although demand deposits do not possess the same store of value characteristics as other forms of money (e.g., cash or certain investments), they still hold value in the form of readily accessible funds. Account holders can maintain balances in their demand deposit accounts for future use or to meet their financial requirements, making these deposits a convenient store of value.
4. Unit of Account:
Demand deposits serve as a common unit of account within an economy. They provide a standardized measure for pricing goods, services, and assets. By using demand deposits as a unit of account, individuals and businesses can easily compare and evaluate the value of different products and make informed decisions regarding their purchases or investments.
5. Medium of Exchange:
One of the primary functions of money is to act as a medium of exchange. Demand deposits fulfill this function by facilitating the transfer of funds between parties. Through electronic transfers, checks, or debit cards, individuals and businesses can utilize demand deposits to make payments, settle debts, and conduct transactions efficiently.
Conclusion:
Demand deposits possess the essential characteristics required for an item to be considered as money. Their liquidity, acceptability, store of value, unit of account, and medium of exchange functions make them an integral part of modern economies. These deposits provide individuals and businesses with a convenient and widely accepted means of conducting financial transactions, thereby contributing to the overall functioning of the economy.
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