What is the quantity theory of money? What explanation does the quantity theory provide for inflation?

Short Answer

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The Quantity Theory of Money proposes that the general price level of goods and services is directly proportional to the quantity of money in circulation, usually expressed as MV = PT. It explains inflation by suggesting that a faster increase in the money supply than the real output of goods and services leads to inflation since there will be more money chasing the same quantity of goods and services, resulting in a sustained rise in the general price level.

Step by step solution

01

Explanation of Quantity Theory of Money

Start by explaining the Quantity Theory of Money. This theory asserts that the general price level of goods and services is directly proportional to the amount of money in circulation or the money supply. It is often expressed using the equation MV = PT, where 'M' stands for the money supply, 'V' stands for the velocity of money (how often each unit of currency is used to purchase goods and services), 'P' stands for the price level, and 'T' stands for the number of transactions (or real output).
02

Connecting To Inflation

The next step is to establish a link between the Quantity Theory of Money and Inflation. According to the quantity theory, an increase in the volume of money leads to an increase in the price level (assuming V and T are constant). In other words, if the money supply grows at a faster rate than the real output of goods and services, there will be inflation. This is because there will be more money chasing the same quantity of goods and services leading to increased competition and therefore, rise in prices.
03

Expansion on Inflation

Expand on inflation concept. Inflation is a sustained rise in the general price level of goods and services in an economy over a period of time. When the general price level rises, each unit of currency buys fewer goods and services, leading to a decrease in the purchasing power of money. It may be worth mentioning that severe inflation can lead to hyperinflation, a situation where the prices of goods and services rise drastically.

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