The qualities of a good tax

There are different ways for the government to raise tax revenue. While tax is often unpopular, economists set criteria for what makes a ‘good’ and ‘fair’ tax. This includes – fairness, easy to collect, non-distortionary and increases social welfare. Principles of a good tax include Vertical equity – Fair. Vertical equity is concerned with setting …

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Pros and Cons of Fat Tax

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A ‘fat tax’ is a specific tax placed on foods which are considered to be unhealthy and contribute towards obesity. The tax could be placed on foods high in sugar/fat, such as crisps, chocolate and deep fried takeaways. The argument is that a fat tax would encourage healthier eating and raise revenue to be spent …

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How to increase the value of a currency

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Summary. A look at policies a country can consider to increase the value of a currency. Readers Question: I was wondering, what are some of the policies and possibilities a country can use to increase the value of their currency? Specifically, countries who would be trying to “overthrow” the US dollar like China, India, Brazil, …

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Pros and Cons of Inflation

Readers Question: What are the advantages and disadvantages of inflation? The Government have an inflation target of CPI 2%. This suggests they would rather have moderate inflation than no inflation at all. Advantages of Inflation Deflation is potentially very damaging to the economy and can lead to lower consumer spending and lower growth. For example, …

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Indirect taxes

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An indirect tax is charged on producers of goods and services and is paid by the consumer indirectly. Examples of indirect taxes include VAT,  excise duties (cigarette, alcohol tax) and import levies. Example of VAT as an indirect tax VAT rates may be set at 20%. This percentage tax is known as an ad Valorem …

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How long do economic cycles last?

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The economic trade cycle shows how economic growth can fluctuate within different phases, for example: Boom (A period of high economic growth usually causing inflation) Peak (top of the trade cycle, where growth rates may start to fall) Economic downturn/recession (where the growth rate falls and may become negative – leading to a fall in national output) …

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Balanced and unbalanced economic growth

What do we mean by balanced economic growth? Also, is it important for an economy to promote a balanced approach to growth? A balanced economy suggests that economic growth is sustainable in the long-term, and the economy is also growing across different sectors – and not focused on one particular industry or area. A balanced …

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