Exchange rates are determined by factors, such as interest rates, confidence, the current account on balance of payments, economic growth and relative inflation rates. For example: If US business became relatively more competitive, there would be greater demand for American goods; this increase in demand for US goods would cause an appreciation (increase in value) …
Despite unprecedented economic sanctions imposed on Russia, the Russian Rouble has become the best performing currency in the world. Rising 30% in the year 2022 to 26 May 22 (source: Reuters) After the initial sanctions and freezing of Russian foreign currency reserves, the Russian rouble fell 25%. But, since then the Rouble has performed a …
Is net positive migration a factor behind the UK’s recent rise in house prices? Given the rapid rise in house prices since the mid-1990s and the corresponding rise in the number of immigrants, it is hard to avoid the conclusion that levels of net migration are having, at least, some effect on exacerbating the UK …
Definition: The product life-cycle (PLC) refers to the different stages a product goes through from introduction to withdrawal. The product life-cycle refers to a likely pathway a product may take. It has implications for the marketing strategy of a firm as it seeks to introduce, grow and maintain market share. In this case, the product …
Reader’s Question: The Central bank is raising interest rates (I understand why). At the same time, the government is being called to reduce taxes. These appear contradictory policies to me? What am I missing? In summary You are right they tend to have opposite impacts on consumer spending and economic growth. Higher interest rates tend …
Current UK Inflation Rate CPI inflation rate: 2.3% (headline rate) CPI – D7G7 at ONS Source: Raw data General inflation tables | CPI annual % change D7G7 at ONS Other measures of inflation (CPIH) CPI including owner occupiers’ housing costs – 6.2% (CPIH – L550) See: Measures of inflation Reasons for low inflation in …
A look at different methods to reduce budget deficits. In summary, the three main policies are: Cut government spending Increase tax Achieve faster economic growth. A budget deficit occurs when a government spending is greater than tax revenues. This leads to an accumulation of public sector debt. If the deficits are unsustainable, this can cause …
Definition Real wages show the value of wages adjusted for inflation. Real wages are a guide to how living standards have changed. For example, if nominal (actual) wages increased 5%, but inflation was 5%. This would mean the purchasing power of your wages had stayed the same. The net effect would be the same as …