Outward arbitrage is a type of financial arbitrage that involves taking advantage of differences in interest rates. Banks and financial institutions borrow money from the United States, where the interest rate is typically lower, and lend to another country where the interest rate is higher, profiting from the difference. For example, if the interest rate in the U.S. for lending is 3%, and the interest rate elsewhere is 6%, the bank can borrow in the U.S. and then lend elsewhere, effectively profiting by 3% in the process.

Inward arbitrage is the opposite of outward arbitrage and occurs when domestic interests rates are higher than those abroad. This can also be used as a means of profiting by banking institutions. For example, if the interest rate in the US is 6% and the interest rate abroad is 3%, the bank could borrow money in the US and then put it at a higher interest rate in another country, thereby profiting by the difference of 3%.

Outward arbitrage was first broadcasted in the mid-20th century, due to increasing demands for savings accounts in foreign countries denominated in U.S. dollars. It is important to note that financial arbitrage opportunities shrink quickly due to the immediacy of information reception and the speed of banking institutions, thus the need for fast operation amidst such opportunities. Banks and financial institutions have to move quickly to take advantage of arbitrage situations, as such opportunities rarely last for a long period of time.

Outward arbitrage is a popular tool among banking institutions, as it helps to maximize their profit potential. It is also an important means of stimulating the global economy, while helping to stabilize the global financial system.