Islam says
NO 
to INTEREST (Riba)

The Qurán has pointed out 'Riba' (interest) in business transactions as a source of 'unjustified' enrichment, and prohibited both giving of interest (Qurán 30:39, 2:279), and taking of interest (Qurán 4:161, 3:130-2, 2:275-81).

• Riba (Interest) in The Qurán - Verses from the Quran giving rationale for the prohibition of Riba (Interest) in business transactions.

• THE KORAN, INTEREST & THE ECONOMY - by Muhammad A Asadi

• Interest is identified as a source of Injustice to society. Giving up Interest is like charity in the sight of God for which rewards are manifold.

• Don't Take Interest: Taking Interest = Committing Injustice
• Don't Give Interest: Giving Riba (Interest) = Being subjected to Injustice

Islam says
YES
to TRADE & CHARITY

The Qurán encourages Trade as a means of 'lawful' earnings in the sight of God, and has stressed that Trade is NOT the same as earnings through interest. (Qurán 2:275). Earnings through 'Interest' introduce socio-economic 'Injustices' in society, while earnings through just Trade do not. It must be remembered that those who believe in the message of Islam cannot do Trade of prohibited items (like selling alcohol, etc).

• Islamic Guidelines for Business Basic guidelines from the Qur'aan and Sunnah for Muslim businesses.

• ISLAMIC BANKING The essential feature of Islamic banking is that it is interest-free. How does this contribute towards a more equitable distribution of income and wealth, and increased equity participation in the economy?