Premium #132 – The US Airlines, the Ex-Im Bank and Boeing

There has been a lot written about the possible defunding of the US Export-Import Bank.  Let’s start with some history.  The Ex-Im Bank has been in business for 80 years.  It’s primary role is to help US exports and thereby create or protect jobs.  The bank is proud to say that in 2013, 90% of its transactions were for small business.  Clearly the controversy around the possible defunding of the bank is not driven by problems with small business.  The problem is big business, specifically Boeing.  Some perceive the EX-IM Bank as “corporate welfare” for Boeing in the politically charged atmosphere in DC.

For a useful summary of the role the EX-Im Bank plays in the US economy, and aerospace in particular, John Lewis Managing Director of Bank of America produced this article.