MasteryExams
Economics • Economic BasicsMedium

Which of the following describes cost-push inflation within an economy?

A. Excess aggregate demand chasing a limited supply of goods and services
B. An increase in the general price level driven by rising costs of wages and raw materials✓ Correct Answer
C. A sudden decrease in consumer spending leading to widespread inventory accumulation
D. An expansionary monetary policy increasing the total money supply beyond optimal levels

💡 Solution & Explanation

Cost-push inflation occurs when overall prices increase because producers face higher expenses for essential inputs like labor, energy, and raw materials, forcing them to pass those costs onto consumers. Demand-pull inflation arises when total spending in the economy outpaces aggregate production capacity. Expansionary monetary policy typically fuels demand-pull pressures rather than direct cost-push shocks. Inventory accumulation resulting from low consumer spending generally causes deflationary pressure or economic stagnation.

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