why is inflation so widely feared?
During inflationary times, prices increase, but wages often don't go up as fast as prices.
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http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Inflation
Inflation is a major disadvantage to certain groups.
Keep in mind the major element in the definition of inflation is rising prices.
One group that it harms are those who are on fixed incomes. Inflation means that the prices that people pay for necessities such as rent, ford clothing and in today's time gasoline goes up. At the same time their fixed income(money) remains the same. These people, therefore, find that they can buy fewer goods and services with the money that they receive.
Another group that is harmed are those who are creditors. These are the peopleor institutions to whom money is owed. When the debts are paid back they are paid back with money that is worth less (cheap money).
There are other effects of inflation such as rising interest rates and the stock and bond markets,
Bear in mind that some groups benefit from the rise of prices.
inflation is a decrease in the value of the money supplie. Like the Federal Resevere printing money.
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Inflation is widely feared because it can have significant negative effects on people's finances and the overall economy. One of the main reasons for this fear is that during periods of inflation, prices tend to increase faster than wages. This means that people's purchasing power decreases over time, as their income cannot keep up with the rising cost of goods and services.
To understand why inflation is feared, it's important to consider a few key factors. Fixed income earners, such as retirees or individuals on pensions, are particularly vulnerable to inflation. This is because their income remains the same, while the prices of necessities like rent, food, and gasoline rise. As a result, they find themselves unable to afford the same quantity of goods and services they could before, leading to a decline in their standard of living.
Inflation also has a negative impact on creditors, which are individuals or institutions to whom money is owed. When debts are repaid, they are paid back with money that is worth less due to inflation. This means that creditors receive a decreased value for the money they are owed, which can have serious consequences for their financial stability.
Additionally, inflation can cause other problems in the economy, such as rising interest rates. Central banks may increase interest rates in an attempt to control inflation, which affects borrowing costs for businesses and individuals. This can slow down economic growth and make it more difficult for businesses to invest and expand. Similarly, inflation can have an impact on the stock and bond markets, making it harder for investors to make profitable investments.
While inflation can negatively impact certain groups, it's important to note that some individuals or sectors may benefit from rising prices. For example, businesses that can increase prices faster than their production costs might experience increased profit margins during inflationary periods. Additionally, individuals who hold assets like real estate or commodities could see the value of their investments rise.
Ultimately, the fear of inflation stems from its potential to erode purchasing power, decrease income relative to expenses, and disrupt the stability of financial markets. It's important for individuals and policymakers to closely monitor inflation rates and take appropriate actions to mitigate its negative effects.