📚 Learning Guide
Contractionary Monetary Policy
hard

A country is experiencing rapid inflation, with prices rising significantly over the past few months. The central bank decides to implement a contractionary monetary policy. Which of the following outcomes is the most likely result of this policy in the short term?

Master this concept with our detailed explanation and step-by-step learning approach

Learning Path
Learning Path

Question & Answer
1
Understand Question
2
Review Options
3
Learn Explanation
4
Explore Topic

Choose the Best Answer

A

Increased consumer spending due to lower interest rates

B

Decreased investment as borrowing costs rise and money supply contracts

C

A sudden increase in inflation as consumers anticipate higher future prices

D

Stabilization of the economy through increased money supply

Understanding the Answer

Let's break down why this is correct

Answer

When a country faces rapid inflation, the central bank may choose to implement a contractionary monetary policy to help control rising prices. This means they will reduce the amount of money in circulation and increase interest rates, making it more expensive to borrow money. As a result, people and businesses might spend less because loans are costlier, leading to a decrease in overall demand for goods and services. For example, if a small business finds it harder to afford a loan to expand, it may delay hiring new employees or purchasing new equipment. In the short term, this can help slow down inflation, but it may also lead to slower economic growth or even a recession.

Detailed Explanation

When the central bank uses contractionary policy, it raises interest rates. Other options are incorrect because Some might think lower interest rates lead to more spending; It's a common mistake to think that higher prices will always come quickly.

Key Concepts

Contractionary Monetary Policy
Inflation Control
Consumer Behavior
Topic

Contractionary Monetary Policy

Difficulty

hard level question

Cognitive Level

understand

Ready to Master More Topics?

Join thousands of students using Seekh's interactive learning platform to excel in their studies with personalized practice and detailed explanations.