Merchant capitalism

Merchant capitalism is an early form of commerce where merchants or traders control the buying, selling, and transportation of goods across regions or countries. They accumulate wealth by importing and exporting products, often establishing networks that facilitate trade over long distances. This system played a key role in the development of modern capitalism by promoting market expansion and creating wealth through active trading. Merchants often gained influence and power as they expanded trade routes, leading to the growth of cities and economies, laying the groundwork for later industrial and financial systems.