In an economic downturn, which monetary tool can be employed to increase the money supply and stimulate economic activity? A. Raising reserve requirements B. Lowering interest rates C. Selling government bonds in the open market D. Raising interest rates
Question
In an economic downturn, which monetary tool can be employed to increase the money supply and stimulate economic activity? A. Raising reserve requirements B. Lowering interest rates C. Selling government bonds in the open market D. Raising interest rates
Solution
The correct answer is B. Lowering interest rates.
Here's why:
In an economic downturn, the central bank can stimulate economic activity by lowering interest rates. Lower interest rates make borrowing cheaper. This encourages businesses to take out loans to invest in their operations and individuals to borrow money for spending and investment. This increased borrowing and spending can help stimulate economic activity.
Option A, raising reserve requirements, would actually decrease the money supply. Banks would be required to hold more money in reserve, meaning they have less to lend out, which could slow economic activity.
Option C, selling government bonds in the open market, would also decrease the money supply. When the government sells bonds, it essentially takes money out of the economy and gives bondholders a promise to repay them in the future.
Option D, raising interest rates, would make borrowing more expensive, which could slow economic activity. This is typically a tool used to slow down the economy and prevent inflation when it's growing too quickly.
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