Gianturco examines the roles played by export credit agencies (ECAs) which are specialized financial institutions that cover some $1 trillion of exports each year. ECAs provide loans, guarantees, insurance, and other financial services to their particular nation's exporters and foreign direct investors. In terms of their financial impact on international trade, these agencies are unsurpassed, but rarely do they receive attention in the financial press or broader recognition. Gianturco discusses the functions ECAs play in international business and economic development.