According to an article in the Wall Street Journal, "Brazil's economy grew just 2.3% in 2013, compared with 7.5% in 2010. The country also has struggled with persistently high inflation, which has forced its central bank to raise interest rates."
a. Why would the Brazilian central bank have been "forced" to raise interest rates because of rising inflation?
b. Could the increase in interest rates be connected to the slowing rate of economic growth? Briefly explain.