Currency depreciation occurs whena)Increase in the domestic currency p...
Explanation:
Currency depreciation refers to the decrease in the value of a currency in relation to another currency or a basket of currencies. It is measured in terms of the domestic currency price of the foreign currency.
Example:
Suppose the exchange rate between the US dollar and the Indian rupee is 1 USD = 75 INR. If the exchange rate changes to 1 USD = 80 INR, it means that the Indian rupee has depreciated against the US dollar. Now, it will cost more Indian rupees to buy one US dollar.
Factors that lead to currency depreciation:
1. Trade deficit: If a country imports more than it exports, it leads to an increase in the demand for foreign currency. This, in turn, leads to a depreciation of the domestic currency.
2. Inflation: If a country experiences high inflation, its goods become relatively more expensive compared to other countries. This leads to a decrease in demand for its exports and an increase in demand for imports, leading to currency depreciation.
3. Speculation: If investors believe that the value of a currency is going to decrease, they may sell it, leading to a decrease in demand and a depreciation of the currency.
4. Interest rates: If a country has lower interest rates compared to other countries, it makes its currency less attractive to investors, leading to currency depreciation.
Impact of currency depreciation:
1. Exports become cheaper: A weaker currency makes exports cheaper and more competitive in international markets.
2. Imports become expensive: A weaker currency makes imports more expensive, leading to inflation.
3. Increase in foreign debt: If a country has borrowed in foreign currency, a depreciation of the domestic currency increases the cost of servicing the debt.
4. Increase in inflation: A weaker currency leads to an increase in the cost of imports, leading to inflation.
Conclusion:
Currency depreciation can have both positive and negative impacts on a country's economy. It can boost exports but also lead to inflation and an increase in foreign debt. Therefore, it is important for policymakers to carefully manage their currency exchange rates.