📚 Learning Guide
Open Market Operations
easy

What is the primary effect of open market operations on interest rates in an economy?

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

Increase interest rates by selling government securities

B

Decrease interest rates by buying government securities

C

Have no effect on interest rates

D

Increase interest rates by buying government securities

Understanding the Answer

Let's break down why this is correct

Answer

Open market operations refer to the buying and selling of government securities by a central bank, like the Federal Reserve, to control the money supply in an economy. When the central bank buys securities, it injects money into the economy, increasing the money supply. This increase in money makes borrowing cheaper, which usually leads to lower interest rates. Conversely, if the central bank sells securities, it takes money out of circulation, which can raise interest rates since there is less money available for borrowing. For example, if a central bank buys bonds and lowers interest rates, a business might find it cheaper to take out a loan to expand, stimulating economic growth.

Detailed Explanation

When the government buys securities, it puts more money into the economy. Other options are incorrect because Some might think selling securities raises interest rates; It's a common mistake to think open market operations have no effect.

Key Concepts

Interest rates
Topic

Open Market Operations

Difficulty

easy 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.