International capital flows involve the transfer of capital between countries with the goal of obtaining extra profit. There are two main types of international capital movement: short-term capital movements like deposits, bills, and loans which are usually less than a year; and long-term capital movements like direct investments, portfolio investments, and government assistance which last over a year. The composition of capital and financial flows includes capital investment, portfolio investment in debt or equity securities, direct investment through foreign direct investment, and changes in international reserves. The history of international capital flows shows a large increase from the 1990s to early 2000s, peaking at around $9 trillion in 2000 according to one figure, with flows going to industrialized countries, international organizations,