Question

    In a small open economy with a floating exchange rate, the supply of real money balances is fixed and a rise in government spending ______

    A raises the interest rate, so that income must rise to maintain equilibrium in the money market Correct Answer Incorrect Answer
    B raises the interest rate so that net exports must fall to maintain equilibrium in the goods market. Correct Answer Incorrect Answer
    C cannot change the interest rate so that net exports must fall to maintain equilibrium in the goods market. Correct Answer Incorrect Answer
    D cannot change the interest rate so income must rise to maintain equilibrium in the money market. Correct Answer Incorrect Answer

    Solution

    As G increases, IS 1 shifts to IS 2 . At new equilibrium e', interest rate also increases and i > i*. Here,2 things are happening: a) there will now be capital inflow as a result capital A/c surplus b) Since, AD and Y increased, import demand will increase which will lead to current A/c deficit. Since, the magnitude of Capital A/c surplus will be much higher than the magnitude of current A/c deficit; there is BOP surplus. As a result domestic currency appreciates; dd for rupee has increased. So, there will be capital inflow which will bring back the interest rate to its original level. As a result, exports decrease and Imports increase (imports have become cheaper) [Net exports falls] IS shifts back to initial level and equilibrium in the goods market is restored. In a small open economy with a floating exchange rate, the supply of real money balances is fixed and a rise in government spending cannot change the interest rate so that net exports must fall to maintain equilibrium in the goods market.

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