Pénzállományt

Pénzállományt, often translated as money supply, refers to the total amount of monetary assets available in an economy at a specific point in time. It encompasses currency in circulation, such as banknotes and coins, as well as various forms of bank deposits. Central banks and monetary authorities typically track and manage the money supply as a key component of their economic policy.

There are different measures of money supply, often categorized into aggregates. The most common are M0, M1, M2, and M3. M0 represents the most liquid forms of money, including physical currency and bank reserves held at the central bank. M1 broadens this to include demand deposits, which are easily accessible funds in checking accounts. M2 typically includes M1 plus savings deposits, money market mutual funds, and other less liquid, but still readily convertible, assets. Higher aggregates like M3 incorporate even broader categories of financial assets.

The level and growth rate of the money supply have significant implications for inflation, interest rates, and overall economic activity. An excessive increase in the money supply without a corresponding increase in goods and services can lead to inflation, as more money chases fewer goods. Conversely, a contraction in the money supply can slow economic growth. Central banks use tools such as open market operations, reserve requirements, and the discount rate to influence the money supply and achieve their macroeconomic objectives.