Many indicators suggest that the U.S. economy is thriving, yet Americans continue to have a negative overall economic outlook. Stubbornly high inflation has played a significant role in this negative sentiment among consumers, even as wage growth has caught up with the rate of inflation. In a new study, “Why do we dislike inflation?” Stefanie Stantcheva fielded a survey to explore how Americans experience inflation and why they have such strong feelings about it. In this episode of the Brookings Podcast on Economic Activity, Stantcheva discusses her findings with Economic Studies Vice President and Director Ben Harris.
If you have debt, and if your ability to earn at least matches inflation, then inflation actually helps your situation. Not a ton of people are in that boat right now, but eventually wages will go up.
Also, not all prices go up evenly, so unfortunately needed goods like groceries, fuel, and housing are some of the biggest drivers of increased costs.
We like it. We need it. It’s so good. Love it.
If you have debt, and if your ability to earn at least matches inflation, then inflation actually helps your situation. Not a ton of people are in that boat right now, but eventually wages will go up.
Also, not all prices go up evenly, so unfortunately needed goods like groceries, fuel, and housing are some of the biggest drivers of increased costs.