EconLearn
AP MacroeconomicsMoney & Monetary Policy

Expansionary Monetary Policy

Expansionary monetary policy increases the money supply to lower interest rates and stimulate aggregate demand.

The central bank buys bonds, lowers the discount rate, or cuts the reserve requirement. Lower interest rates boost investment and interest-sensitive consumption, shifting aggregate demand right. It is used to fight recession and unemployment.

Formula / Example

Buy bonds → ↑ money supply → ↓ interest rate → ↑ investment → ↑ AD.

Related terms

AP® is a trademark registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse, EconLearn.