Verðbólgumælikvarði

Verðbólgumælikvarði is an Icelandic term that translates to "inflation index" or "inflation measure" in English. It refers to any statistical tool or indicator used to quantify the rate at which the general level of prices for goods and services is rising, and subsequently, purchasing power is falling. In Iceland, like in many other countries, the most commonly used verðbólgumælikvarði is the consumer price index (Vísitala neysluverðs).

The consumer price index tracks the average change over time in the prices paid by urban consumers for a market basket of consumer goods and services. This basket typically includes items such as food, housing, transportation, clothing, and healthcare. By comparing the cost of this basket in different periods, economists and policymakers can determine the rate of inflation.

Central banks and governments utilize verðbólgumælikvarði for various purposes. It is crucial for monetary policy decisions, as central banks often aim to maintain price stability by adjusting interest rates to control inflation. It also informs economic forecasting, wage negotiations, and the adjustment of pensions and social benefits, ensuring that their real value is maintained over time. Different verðbólgumælikvarðar might exist or be calculated to focus on specific sectors or price levels, but the consumer price index remains the primary indicator for general inflation.