Monopolies are generally considered to have several disadvantages (higher price, fewer incentives to be efficient e.t.c). However, monopolies can also give benefits, such as – economies of scale, (lower average costs) and a greater ability to fund research and development. In certain circumstances, the advantages of monopolies can outweigh their costs. Advantages of Monopoly Research …
A look at the economic impact of a fall in the exchange rate (termed depreciation or devaluation) A fall in the exchange rate is known as a depreciation in the exchange rate (or devaluation in a fixed exchange rate system). It means the currency is worth less compared to other countries. When there is a …
Readers question: What are the functions of government in a capitalist economy? In summary, the economic functions of a government include: Protection of private property and maintaining law and order / national defence. Raising taxes. Providing public services not provided in a free market (e.g. health care, education, street lighting) Limit market failure through the …
The fundamental economic problem is one of scarcity. The basic questions of economics become: What to produce? How to produce? For whom to produce? You could also add When to produce? What to produce? Given limited resources of labour, raw materials and time, economic agents have to decide what to produce. Most primitive economies …
Free trade means that countries can import and export goods without any tariff barriers or other non-tariff barriers to trade. Essentially, free trade enables lower prices for consumers, increased exports, benefits from economies of scale and a greater choice of goods. In more detail, the benefits of free trade include: 1. The theory of comparative …
The economic and social costs of unemployment include Personal costs to unemployed (lost income, loss of sense of value, lower on-the-job training) Costs to government (lost tax revenue and higher benefit spending) Costs to society in general (social problems, alienation, lost GDP). Personal Costs of unemployment Loss of earnings to the unemployed. Unemployment is one …
Globalisation is a complex and controversial issue. This is a look at some of the main benefits and costs associated with the greater globalisation of the world economy. Definition of Globalisation The process of increased integration and co-operation of different national economies. It involves national economies becoming increasingly inter-related and integrated. Globalisation has involved: Greater …
Economic growth is an increase in real GDP; it means an increase in the value of goods and services produced in an economy. The rate of economic growth is the annual percentage increase in real GDP. There are several factors affecting economic growth, but it is helpful to split them up into: Demand-side factors (e.g. …