A comprehensive explanation of the way in which the financial system of the United Kingdom works, and discussion of issues raised by extensive changes to the system. This text provides both the institutional structure and the economic theory behind the financial systems. The 17 chapters each take one aspect of financial systems as its theme and then provides, through sub-sections, a comprehensive analysis of the various concerns of that area. Opening chapters provide an introduction to financial systems and a consideration of flow of funds accounting. Other chapters cover financial institutions; financial markets, including the equity and bond markets, the sterling and Euro-security markets, foreign exchange and financial futures markets; management of risk; the single European Market; efficiency of the United Kingdom financial system; and prudential regulation.