Question
The COVID-19 pandemic, and associated public health responses such as shutdowns, can be thought to include both a negative supply shock and a negative demand
The COVID-19 pandemic, and associated public health responses such as shutdowns, can be thought to include both a negative supply shock and a negative demand shock. Supply and demand and the COVID-19 shock COVID-19 have had clear supply effects: quarantines, closed factories, supply chain disruptions, and impaired mobility obviously affect production[1]. The effects on demand are more difficult to gauge but it is critical from an economic policy point of view to get a sense of them because we have more confidence about how to deal with demand (through monetary and fiscal tools) than with supply deficiencies. Changes in real goods prices can indicate whether COVID-19 is causing major demand effects. Specifically, if aggregate supply effects dominate demand effects, we should see prices going up as activity goes down, in a kind of a repeat of the stagflation of the 1970s. At that time, central banks were in a dilemma about whether to increase rates to fight inflation or to reduce rates to support economic activity. If prices remain largely unchanged, we can conclude that aggregate demand has also been substantially negatively affected by the spread of the virus.
Use the AD-AS model, including your own diagram/s, to explain why looking at prices would be a useful way to compare the relative magnitudes of the supply shock and demand shock.
Step by Step Solution
3.48 Rating (165 Votes )
There are 3 Steps involved in it
Step: 1
The COVID19 pandemic means that many of us are staying at home and doing less in terms of social interactions and exercise This can have a negative effect on your physical and mental health Below is a...Get Instant Access to Expert-Tailored Solutions
See step-by-step solutions with expert insights and AI powered tools for academic success
Step: 2
Step: 3
Ace Your Homework with AI
Get the answers you need in no time with our AI-driven, step-by-step assistance
Get Started