Simplify the following text for a Grade 13 native English-speaking person.
Original: During it , economic assets ( or capital ) were represented by bullion ( gold , silver , and trade value ) , which was best increased through a positive and healthy balance of trade with other states ( exports minus imports ) .
Simplified: Economic assets ( or capital ) are represented by bullion ( gold , silver , and trade value ) held by the state , which is best increased through a positive balance of trade with other nations ( exports minus imports ) .