The nation of Economica has increased their M1 money supply by 10% over the last year by printing currency. This policy causes no price inflation. Which of the following could explain this phenomenon?
I). The nation of Islandia begins using the Economican currency as a reserve.
II). Aggregate output increases in Economica.
III). The Central Bank begins a government debt buy-back program.
Correct Answer: B
Under the basic price level equation P = M / Y (Price Level = Money Supply / Output, ignoring the velocity of money for the moment), a 10% increase in the money supply would result in an increase in the price level. One obvious thing that could prevent price inflation would be a corresponding increase in output. Another possibility would be some reduction in the money available for purchase of goods, such as a foreign nation holding domestic currency as reserve.
When Central Banks buy government debt, they usually do so with newly printed cash, and even if not, a debt buy-back would serve to decrease interest rates, which would result in an expansion of the money supply.