Unit 4 · The global economy · Topic 4.6

IB Economics HL — Balance of payments

Current/financial accounts, deficits/surpluses, and policy responses.

Higher Level students should use this topic hub as a map: start with the shared sub-topics, then follow the HL-only extensions and exam-skill links where this topic asks for deeper analysis.

Exam technique guide Practice questions

What you'll learn in Topic 4.6

4.6.1 Components of the balance of payments
4.6.2 Current account imbalances and corrective policies

Suggested study order: Read the notes for each sub-topic below → test yourself with flashcards → attempt practice questions → review exam technique.

Study resources — 4.6 Balance of payments

4.6.1

Components of the balance of payments

Notes

4.6.2

Current account imbalances and corrective policies

Notes

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Topic 4.6 Balance of payments forms a core part of Unit 4: The global economy in IB Economics HL. Mastering these concepts will strengthen your understanding of connected topics across the syllabus and prepare you for exam questions that require analysis, evaluation, and real-world application.

Frequently asked questions

What does Topic 4.6 Balance of payments cover in IB Economics?

Topic 4.6 covers balance of payments as part of the IB Economics syllabus. Students learn key economic concepts, models, and real-world applications that are assessed in Paper 1, Paper 2, and Paper 3 exams.

How should I revise Balance of payments for IB Economics exams?

Start by reading the micro-topic notes to understand each concept, then use flashcards to memorise key terms and diagrams. Practise drawing and explaining economic models, and work through past paper questions to apply your knowledge under exam conditions.

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Frequently asked questions

What does Topic 4.6 Balance of payments cover in IB Economics?

How should I revise Balance of payments for IB Economics exams?