Credit Inflation
Credit inflation can be defined as a phenomenon in which the amount of money and credit circulating in an economy exceeds the amount of goods and services available in the economy. This type of inflation is caused by increased access to credit, meaning that more individuals and businesses are able to borrow and purchase than before.
As credit becomes more widely available, it leads to an increase in demand for goods and services. This is because people and businesses are able to purchase items on credit and the demand created will put pressure on suppliers to increase production to meet the increased demand. This in turn causes further demand, leading to increased prices and ultimately, inflation.
There are a number of factors that can lead to an increase in credit availability, which could in turn cause credit inflation. Firstly, an increase in the amount of money in circulation in an economy can increase the amount of credit available. If the amount of money increases, then the amount of funds available for lending increases, leading to an increase in credit. This can be a result of central banks increasing the money supply or from increased consumer spending.
Secondly, an increase in borrowing can lead to an increase in credit availability. This could be a result of a new government policy that enhances the ability of individuals or businesses to borrow or due to increased consumer confidence which leads to increased borrowing.
Thirdly, an increase in the rate of interest can lead to an increase in borrowing and consequently, an increase in credit once again. Generally, when the rate of interest is low, businesses and individuals will be more inclined to borrow. This can lead to increased spending and investment which can further accelerate economic activity.
Inflation created through credit expansion can lead to a number of different economic problems. Firstly, an increase in the money supply not backed by an increase in production can lead to higher prices and consequently, a decrease in the purchasing power of money. Furthermore, excessive borrowing and lending can lead to an increase in asset prices, such as property and stocks, creating a bubble that eventually bursts, leading to a decrease in asset prices. This in turn can lead to a decrease in economic activity, as those who own assets lose money and are less likely to spend and invest.
To help combat credit inflation, central banks and governments can use a variety of different tools. Firstly, increasing interest rates can help decrease demand for debt and slow the rate of economic activity, leading to a decrease in inflation. Secondly, governments can adjust their fiscal policy, making taxation and spending changes to try to encourage or discourage economic activity. Finally, central banks may also intervene and change their monetary policy through using quantitative easing or other instruments to try and make credit less widely available.
Overall, credit inflation is a phenomenon caused by the increased availability of credit, created through a number of interrelated factors. It can lead to a number of different economic problems, particularly if it is not handled effectively, through the use of different economic tools. As such, it is important for governments and central banks to understand the causes of credit inflation and how to combat it.