In a study circulating within the banking community, money exchange is shown to be one of the most profitable businesses in the country. Last year, according to the study, the exchange sector showed profits of RD$2.8 billion. The hard currency markets, controlled by a handful of individuals, manipulated over US$4 billion last year. Not taking into account any price speculation, the usual margins for profit yield approximately 3 percent, but can go as high as 6 percent.
