According to the theory of purchasing power parity, if the inflation rate in Australia is higher than the inflation rate in New Zealand, what should happen to the exchange rate between the Australian dollar and the New Zealand dollar? Briefly explain.

Short Answer

Expert verified
In terms of the Purchasing Power Parity theory, due to a higher inflation rate in Australia compared to New Zealand, the Australian dollar should depreciate against the New Zealand dollar. This is to maintain the same purchasing power for the same basket of goods in both countries.

Step by step solution

01

Understanding Purchasing Power Parity (PPP)

The theory of Purchasing Power Parity (PPP) stipulates that for two countries, the exchange rate should adjust so that a basket of goods costs the same amount in either country. If one country's inflation rate is higher, it means the currency is depreciating since more of the currency is needed to purchase the same goods.
02

Identify the country with higher inflation

According to the exercise, Australia has a higher inflation rate than New Zealand.
03

Analyze the impact on the exchange rate

When a country experiences higher inflation, the value of its currency decreases relative to other currencies. In this case, assuming that New Zealand's inflation remains unchanged, the Australian dollar should depreciate against the New Zealand dollar in order to maintain PPP.
04

Summing it up

In light of the PPP theory, a higher inflation rate in Australia as opposed to New Zealand would cause the value of the Australian dollar to decrease relative to the New Zealand dollar so that the same basket of goods cost the same in both countries. The depreciation of the Australian dollar would help restore parity in terms of purchasing power by making goods in Australia less expensive when bought with New Zealand dollars.

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