The economic cycle plays an important role in macroeconomics. Typically every 8-10 years, there is a recession (fall in output) or at least an economic downturn. Recessions tend to last for between six months and up to 2 or 3 years. But, even the deepest recession tends to end and the economy returns to a …
Debt is one of the oldest financial instruments, but is it good or bad? To some debt is a sinful way of living beyond your means. Debt is an instrument which increases inequality and can cause economic hardship because of the fixed repayment costs. Furthermore, others point to debt as one of the main causes …
Stakeholders are groups of people who are involved or affected by a particular business. The main stakeholders of a business are: Shareholders – people who own shares in the company Employees – workers employed by the company Customers – People who buy and use the products the firm makes Suppliers – Firms who sell raw …
The difference between CPI and PCE seemed relatively insignificant. However, a big issue is the difference between CPI and Core CPI. CPI is the consumer price index. A measure of the cost of living for the typical person. Core CPI is the CPI – energy and food prices. Energy and food prices are removed because …
The interest rate cycle is closely related to the economic or trade cycle. In theory, movements in interest rates should mirror the economic cycle. If the economy is growing strongly and inflationary pressures increasing – Central Banks will increase interest rates to slow down the economy and prevent inflation. If the economy enters into recession …
House prices fall where there is a decline in demand and/or excess supply. The main factors that cause a fall in house prices involve: Rising interest rates (making mortgage payments more expensive) Economic recession / high unemployment (reducing demand and causing home repossessions). Fall in bank lending and fall in availability of mortgages (making it …
Globalisation refers to the increased integration of the world economy. The process of globalisation involves increased trade, greater mobility of labour and capital and the increased interdependence of national economies. There are many aspects of globalisation that are irreversible. Improvement in transport and communication. Air travel has made it easier for people to travel around …
Supply and demand are a fundamental basis of economics; they help explain the determination of price and output in different markets. The supply curve shows the amount of goods firms are willing to sell at different prices. At higher prices, it becomes more profitable to sell the goods, so supply tends to rise with the …