9.1.3

Changes in Interest Rates

Test yourself

Changes in Interest Rates and Money Supply

Some governments manipulate interest rates or the money supply to stimulate economic growth.

Illustrative background for Venezuela 2018Illustrative background for Venezuela 2018 ?? "content

Venezuela 2018

  • In 2018, it is estimated that Venezuela suffered from 1 million % inflation.
  • Oil prices have fallen, but the government refused to reduce government spending.
  • The government printed money, increasing the money supply and this created hyperinflation.
  • Large increases in the money supply can lead to hyperinflation and the failure of an economy and its currency.
  • This also happened in Germany in the 1920s.
Illustrative background for UK 2007-08Illustrative background for UK 2007-08 ?? "content

UK 2007-08

  • When the global financial crisis hit in 2007 and 2008, UK interest rates were 5%.
  • By March 2009, interest rates had fallen to 0.5%.
  • By reducing interest rates, the Bank of England hoped to increase consumer spending and corporate investment via the monetary transmission mechanism.

Jump to other topics

1Introduction to Markets

2Market Failure

3The UK Macroeconomy

4The UK Economy - Policies

5Business Behaviour

6Market Structures

7A Global Perspective

8Finance & Inequality

9Examples of Global Policy

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