#1
1. What is inflation?
An increase in the general price level of goods and services.
ExplanationInflation represents a rise in overall prices for goods and services, reflecting a decrease in the purchasing power of a currency.
#2
2. How is inflation measured?
Consumer Price Index (CPI)
ExplanationInflation is quantified using the Consumer Price Index (CPI), which tracks changes in the prices of a basket of consumer goods and services over time.
#3
3. What is the relationship between inflation and interest rates?
Higher inflation leads to higher interest rates.
ExplanationAn increase in inflation generally prompts central banks to raise interest rates to curb economic overheating and stabilize prices.
#4
4. How does the Fisher effect explain the relationship between nominal and real interest rates?
Nominal interest rates include inflation, while real interest rates do not.
ExplanationThe Fisher effect elucidates that nominal interest rates encompass both real interest rates and expected inflation, influencing the true cost of borrowing or the return on investment.
#5
6. How does demand-pull inflation occur?
Arises when aggregate demand exceeds aggregate supply.
ExplanationDemand-pull inflation occurs when the total demand for goods and services surpasses the available supply, leading to increased prices.
#6
7. What is the Phillips curve, and what does it illustrate?
It shows the relationship between inflation and unemployment.
ExplanationThe Phillips curve illustrates an inverse relationship between inflation and unemployment; as one decreases, the other tends to rise.
#7
12. What impact does deflation have on an economy?
Increases the value of money but can discourage spending.
ExplanationDeflation, a decline in the general price level, increases the purchasing power of money, but it may lead to reduced consumer spending and economic stagnation.
#8
5. What is hyperinflation?
Extremely high and typically accelerating inflation.
ExplanationHyperinflation refers to an extreme and rapidly accelerating increase in the general price level, often resulting in a breakdown of the economic system.
#9
8. In the context of inflation targeting, what is the primary goal of central banks?
Achieve a specific inflation rate.
ExplanationCentral banks, in the pursuit of economic stability, aim to achieve a target inflation rate by adjusting monetary policy tools.
#10
9. What is the difference between anticipated and unanticipated inflation?
Anticipated inflation is expected, while unanticipated inflation is a surprise.
ExplanationAnticipated inflation is foreseen and incorporated into economic decisions, while unanticipated inflation catches individuals and businesses off guard.
#11
10. How does the quantity theory of money relate to inflation?
It states that inflation is caused by changes in the money supply.
ExplanationThe quantity theory of money posits that changes in the money supply directly impact the price level, contributing to inflation.
#12
11. What is the difference between headline inflation and core inflation?
Headline inflation includes all items, while core inflation excludes volatile items like food and energy.
ExplanationHeadline inflation encompasses the overall price index, whereas core inflation focuses on the index excluding volatile components like food and energy.