Pengemængde

Pengemængde refers to the total amount of money in circulation within an economy at a specific point in time. It encompasses various forms of money, including physical currency like banknotes and coins, as well as demand deposits held in commercial banks. Economists typically categorize pengemængde into different measures, often denoted as M0, M1, M2, and M3, each with increasing breadth. M0, the narrowest measure, usually includes only physical currency. M1 typically adds demand deposits. Broader measures like M2 and M3 incorporate less liquid assets such as savings accounts, time deposits, and money market funds.

The level of pengemængde is a crucial indicator for central banks and policymakers. Changes in pengemængde can significantly influence inflation, interest rates, and overall economic activity. An increase in pengemængde, if not matched by a corresponding increase in the production of goods and services, can lead to inflation as there is more money chasing fewer goods. Conversely, a contraction in pengemængde might lead to deflation or a slowdown in economic growth. Central banks use monetary policy tools, such as adjusting reserve requirements for banks or engaging in open market operations, to manage and control the pengemængde in line with their economic objectives, such as price stability and full employment.