currency

Tokens used as money in a country. In addition to the metal coins and paper bank notes, modern currency also includes checks drawn on bank accounts, money orders, travelers checks, and will soon include electronic money or digital cash.

When the U.S. dollar is weak, U.S. manufacturers have a competitive advantage -- they don't have to lower prices on exports to boost sales and capture market share overseas. Just by keeping prices steady, they benefit because the weak dollar means foreign buyers won't have to pay as much in their respective currencies. The profit margin on each unit is constant, so earnings go up. (from November 2004)

• How a Weak US Dollar Can be Good