Question

Central banks that engage in inflation targeting usually announce the inflation target and time period for which that target will be relevant. In addition, central bank officials are held accountable for their actions (e.g., they could be fired if the target is not reached), and their success or lack thereof is also public information. Explain why transparency is such a fundamental ingredient of inflation targeting.

Short answer

It gives central banks an added incentive to meet their objectives and makes their policies more credible.

Step-by-step solution

Content Introduction

Transparency is vital for inflation targeting since it leads to particular levels of inflation expectations.

Content Explanation

Inflation expectations play a significant role in the actual behavior of the inflation rate. As a result, openness aids in guiding these expectations to the level that the Federal Reserve is aiming for. They're going to be completely open about it. They'll lay out their plans and let you know when to anticipate them. As a result, inflation expectations will be modest, which will aid in maintaining the current level of inflation. Now. If the Federal Reserve wants to aim more inflation, they could do the exact opposite. They'd announce a rise in inflation. They'd be extremely open about what's going to happen, and as a result, inflation expectations will rise.

Because of how these inflation expectations impact the short run aggregate supply curve, and how those expectations directly influence the actual price level, openness is vital.