ECS3701
ASSIGNMENT 2 SEMESTER 1 2024
, Monetary Economics
ECS3701
Assignment 2
Semester 1 2024
UNIQUE NO. 833704
Due Date: 29 April 2024
2.1 Given the global increase in inflation resulting from the Russian invasion of Ukraine, name and
explain the three tools that the South African Reserve Bank (SARB) can use to decrease inflation.
What adverse effects can these central banks' policies have on the economy? [10]
2.2 During the Covid-19, as much as economic activities and inflation generally declined, supply also
declined, which prompted an increase in inflation in some cases.
Explain the two main causes of inflation in any economy. Provide empirical evidence to support your
answer. [10]
2.3 The two ways in which government can finance its deficit are through monetizing the debt and
printing money. Explain each of these two ways in detail and what happens to the monetary base
and money supply. [10]
2.4 Differentiate between goal independence and operational independence of a central bank. Which
independence does the SARB have? Explain. [5]
, Monetary Economics
ECS3701
Assignment 2
Semester 1 2024
UNIQUE NO. 833704
Due Date: 29 April 2024
2.1 Given the global increase in inflation resulting from the Russian invasion of Ukraine, name and
explain the three tools that the South African Reserve Bank (SARB) can use to decrease inflation.
What adverse effects can these central banks' policies have on the economy? [10]
2.2 During the Covid-19, as much as economic activities and inflation generally declined, supply also
declined, which prompted an increase in inflation in some cases.
Explain the two main causes of inflation in any economy. Provide empirical evidence to support your
answer. [10]
2.3 The two ways in which government can finance its deficit are through monetizing the debt and
printing money. Explain each of these two ways in detail and what happens to the monetary base
and money supply. [10]
2.4 Differentiate between goal independence and operational independence of a central bank. Which
independence does the SARB have? Explain. [5]
2.5 Explain intermediate targets in monetary policy. [5]
2.6 Classify each of the following as either a policy instrument or an intermediary target. Explain your
answer. [10]
a. Long-term interest rates
b. Central bank interest rates
c. M2
d. Reserve requirements
e. Employment rates