What is the difference between depreciation and inflation?

pound-sterling-er-index-1980-2020-with-depreciations

Readers’s question: What is the difference between depreciation and inflation? Depreciation refers to a fall in the value of an asset. A depreciation of the exchange rate means a currency becomes worth less than others. For example, the Pound sterling falls in value against the dollar/euro/Yen. This graphs shows that the value of the Pound …

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Why war is becoming more costly

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War has always had substantial economic costs, but war is becoming increasingly costly for both belligerents and bystanders. This is due to both the monetary costs of fighting and the economic fallout of sanctions. During the cold war, there was a theory that nuclear war would ensure a mutual self-destruction – and this assured mutual …

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Why is value of Yuan so important?

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Summary – impact of devaluation in Yuan If the Yuan falls in value, Chinese exports will become cheaper compared to other countries (e.g. US, India, EU) A falling Yuan will increase demand for Chinese goods contributing to higher growth in China. However, a fall in the Yuan will make US and Indian goods relatively more …

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Policy trilemma – the impossible trinity

policy-trilemma

The policy trilemma refers to the trade-offs a government faces when deciding international monetary policy. In particular, the policy trilemma contends that it is not possible to have all three objectives at the same time, but has to choose two from the following three options: Free movement of capital Independent (autonomous) monetary policy Fixed (managed) …

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What is the difference between Yuan and Renminbi?

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The Renminbi (RMB) is the name of the Chinese Currency. Renminbi roughly translates as ‘people’s currency’ The Yuan refers to its unit of account. So for example, we might use the following sentences The Renminbi is the 6th largest traded currency in 2006. The Chinese government issues a 100 Yuan note. In practice, they can …

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How to reduce value of a currency

Sometimes governments may wish to reduce the value of their currency. A depreciation in the value of a currency would make exports cheaper, imports more expensive and can provide a boost to domestic demand. If the economy is stuck in recession or unemployment rising, reducing the value of a currency can help increase economic growth …

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Should I worry about savings in the bank?

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Readers Question: I only have $10,000 in my bank. With this virus situation, what is going to happen to the value of my money? Serious question. Do I try to exchange my money to another foreign country currency? Help, please. I am 68 years old, no pension and no job. George Firstly, I would not …

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