6 Economic Concepts Consumers Should Know
Knowing basic economics allows consumers to be more informed when making financial decisions. Economics is a part of consumers’ daily lives, from going to the grocery store or filling out a loan application. Here are 6 economic concepts consumers should know:
1. Supply and demand
When demand for a product is high, the price goes up and manufacturers make more of that product. When there is more supply of the product and less demand, the prices drop.
This refers to the gap between limited resources and the potential unlimited wants and needs of consumers.
3. Money supply
This is the amount of US currency circulating in the economy as well as in consumers’ bank accounts. Increases in money supply often result in decreased interest rates.
4. Opportunity cost
This refers to the benefits a consumer misses out on by picking one option over another.
These are rewards that are offered to motivate consumers to act a certain way, such as bonuses given to employees to encourage them to work hard.
6. Costs and benefits
This is when consumers compare the benefits a product or service will give them to see if those benefits outweigh the cost.