So foreign asset prices responded accordingly and there were complaints from emerging economies worried about further inflows of hot money.

Such products are attractive for speculators and investors who wish to have exposure to a foreign asset, but without the corresponding exchange rate risk.

At the end of the day, the country's net foreign asset position remains unchanged, despite the $700 billion current account deficit.

Western intelligence agencies have been increasing security around foreign assets for five days.

All are subject to visa bans and a freeze on their foreign assets.