CPA
Intermediate Leval
Economics May 2018 Suggested Solutions
Revision Kit
➦ | Economics-September-2015-Pilot-Paper |
➦ | Economics-November-2015-Past-Paper |
➦ | Economics-May-2016-Past-paper |
➦ | Economics-November-2016-Past-Paper |
➦ | Economics-November-2017-Past-paper |
➦ | Economics-May-2017-Past-paper |
➦ | Economics-November-2018-Past-paper |
➦ | Economics-May-2018-Past-paper |
➦ | Economics-May-2019-Past-paper |
➦ | Economics-November-2019-Past-paper |
➦ | Economics-November-2020-Past-paper |
➦ | Economics-December-2021-Past-paper |
➦ | Economics-May-2021-Past-paper |
➦ | Economics-August-2021-Past-paper |
QUESTION 1a
QUESTION 1b
QUESTION 2(a)
QUESTION 2(b)
QUESTION 2(c)
QUESTION 3(a)
Where: |
Q is quity of the product P is the price of the product |
QUESTION 3(b)
QUESTION 3(c)
An oligopoly is a market structure characterized by few sellers dealing with either a differentiated or homogeneous product.
An oligopolistic firm maximizes profit at the point where marginal revenue (MR) equals marginal cost (MC).
The marginal revenue curve is ACD with a discontinuity between points D & C.
The demand curve is ABD, which also serves as the average revenue curve. The equilibrium point is at B where a kink is observed.
Above point B, the firm faces elastic demand. If the firm raises prices, it risks losing customers to other firms. On the other hand, if the firm reduces prices past point B, other firms are likely to follow suit to protect market share.
QUESTION 3(d)
QUESTION 4a
QUESTION 4b
QUESTION 4c
QUESTION 5(a)
Example: For instance, when analyzing the market for oranges, partial equilibrium analysis would focus solely on factors affecting the supply and demand for oranges, such as changes in weather conditions or consumer preferences for orange juice. It would not consider how changes in the orange market might affect markets for other fruits or agricultural products.
QUESTION 5(b)
➫ Interest Rate Adjustments: Central banks can use monetary policy tools to influence interest rates. Raising interest rates can attract foreign capital seeking higher returns, leading to an increase in demand for the domestic currency.
➫ Balanced Budgets: Implementing fiscal policies that aim for a balanced budget or a budget surplus can instill confidence in the economy. This can attract foreign investment and strengthen the currency.
➫ Accumulation of Reserves: Governments can build and maintain substantial foreign exchange reserves. This can act as a buffer against currency depreciation and signal to the market that the government is committed to stability.
➫ Export Promotion: Encouraging exports and reducing trade deficits can contribute to currency strength. Governments can provide incentives for exporters, negotiate trade agreements, and invest in industries that have a competitive advantage.
➫ Economic Diversification: Implementing structural reforms to diversify the economy can attract foreign investment. A more diversified and robust economy can contribute to currency strength.
➫ Inflation Targeting: Maintaining low and stable inflation rates can enhance a country's currency. Central banks may adopt inflation targeting policies to anchor expectations and promote currency stability.
➫ Political Stability: A stable political environment is crucial for attracting foreign investment. Governments should pursue policies that promote political stability and good governance to enhance confidence in the currency.
➫ Debt Reduction: Managing and reducing national debt can positively impact currency strength. High levels of debt may erode investor confidence and lead to currency depreciation.
➫ Transparent Communication: Clear and transparent communication from central banks and government officials about their economic policies and intentions can help manage market expectations and build confidence.
QUESTION 5(c)
2. Real Output:
Quantity Theory of Money: Assumes real output to be constant, implying full employment in the economy.
Liquidity Preference Theory of Money: Acknowledges that real output levels can vary, and the economy may not always be at full employment.
3. Nature of Money:
Quantity Theory of Money: Views money primarily as a medium of exchange.
Liquidity Preference Theory of Money: Recognizes money as serving the functions of a medium of exchange, store of value, and standard of deferred payment.
4. Determinants of Money Demand:
Quantity Theory of Money: Suggests that only real variables (like real output) influence money demand.
Liquidity Preference Theory of Money: Keynes argues that interest rates, a monetary variable, play a crucial role in determining the demand for money.
5. Number of Assets:
Quantity Theory of Money: Typically focuses on money as a single asset.
Liquidity Preference Theory of Money: Recognizes a variety of assets and their role in influencing individuals' decisions to hold money.
6. Impact of Interest Rates on Money Demand:
Quantity Theory of Money: Modern versions often predict that changes in interest rates have little effect on money demand.
Liquidity Preference Theory of Money: Emphasizes the impact of interest rate changes on the demand for money.
QUESTION 5(d)
An isoquant is negatively sloped because, at the same level of output of one factor, we have to reduce the units of another input factor.
Point A:
Point A represents just one possible combination of K (capital) and L (labor) that can be used to produce Q units of output. However, there are an infinite number of other points on the isoquant Q, all representing different combinations of K and L that can be used to produce Q units.
Output Q2 and Q3:
Output Q2 and Q3 can be produced by points along the isoquants. Any of the combinations of K and L represented by points along the isoquants can achieve these output levels.
Bowed Inward Isoquant:
Moreover, an isoquant is bowed inward due to the marginal rate of technical substitution effect. This indicates that factors of production may be substituted with one another. The increase in one factor must still be used in conjunction with the decrease of another input factor.
QUESTION 6(a)
A price floor is the minimum price set by the government below which the market price of a product cannot fall.
A price ceiling, also known as a maximum price, is the legal limit set by the government on how high a product's price can be.
In the diagram, the government sets a price (P1) below the equilibrium price (Pe) as it deems the current equilibrium prices to be too high. This intervention aims to address concerns related to affordability and fairness.
QUESTION 6(b)
QUESTION 6(c)
Necessary Condition: MR = MC
When a firm maximizes profit, it operates at a point where the additional revenue from selling one more unit (MR) is equal to the additional cost of producing that unit (MC). This is a necessary condition because any deviation from this equality implies that the firm could increase profit by adjusting output.
Why MR = MC is Necessary:
Why MR = MC is Not Sufficient:
Conclusion:
In summary, while MR = MC is a necessary condition for profit maximization, it is not sufficient on its own. Achieving the highest total profit requires considering fixed costs, long-term goals, and the broader market and strategic context in which the firm operates. Therefore, MR = MC serves as a crucial guide, but a comprehensive analysis is needed for effective profit maximization.
QUESTION 7(a)
Unemployment contributes to a decrease in overall economic output as there are fewer people actively participating in the workforce, leading to lower production levels and reduced economic growth.
Unemployed individuals often face financial hardships, leading to poverty and income inequality. The loss of income can result in a decline in the standard of living for affected households.
Unemployed individuals have less disposable income, leading to a decrease in consumer spending. This reduction in demand for goods and services can further contribute to economic downturns.
Long-term unemploymen can lead to social issues such as increased stress, mental health problems, and a sense of isolation. It can also negatively impact family relationships and community well-being.
Prolonged unemployment can result in a loss of skills and a decrease in employability. This erosion of skills can make it more challenging for individuals to re-enter the workforce even when job opportunities arise.
High levels of unemployment can strain social services such as unemployment benefits, healthcare, and housing assistance. Governments may face increased financial burdens in providing support to the unemployed.
Unemployment represents a waste of human capital and talent in the economy. The skills and potential contributions of unemployed individuals are not utilized, leading to an underutilization of resources.
There is often a correlation between high unemployment rates and increased crime rates. Economic desperation and lack of opportunities may lead some individuals to engage in criminal activities as an alternative means of survival.
A high level of unemployment can lead to a decline in overall workforce productivity. With fewer workers contributing to economic activities, the efficiency and output of industries may suffer.
Unemployment places pressure on government budgets due to increased spending on unemployment benefits and social assistance programs. Simultaneously, tax revenues may decrease as fewer people are earning income.
Uncertainty stemming from high unemployment rates can discourage business investment. Companies may delay expansion plans and capital projects, contributing to a slowdown in economic development.
QUESTION 7(b)
Wage controls may lead to reduced motivation and work effort among employees as they may feel that their efforts are not adequately rewarded.
With controlled wages, skilled workers may seek higher-paying opportunities elsewhere, leading to skill shortages in certain industries or professions.
Wage controls can create distortions in the labor market by suppressing the natural forces of supply and demand, potentially leading to imbalances in the availability of jobs and workers.
In some cases, wage controls may contribute to higher unemployment or underemployment as employers may be less inclined to hire when wages are artificially limited.
Employees may be less motivated to increase productivity when wages are controlled, impacting overall economic efficiency and growth.
High levels of unemployment can strain social services such as unemployment benefits, healthcare, and housing assistance. Governments may face increased financial burdens in providing support to the unemployed.
Unemployment represents a waste of human capital and talent in the economy. The skills and potential contributions of unemployed individuals are not utilized, leading to an underutilization of resources.
A high level of unemployment can lead to a decline in overall workforce productivity. With fewer workers contributing to economic activities, the efficiency and output of industries may suffer.
There is often a correlation between high unemployment rates and increased crime rates. Economic desperation and lack of opportunities may lead some individuals to engage in criminal activities as an alternative means of survival.
Unemployment places pressure on government budgets due to increased spending on unemployment benefits and social assistance programs. Simultaneously, tax revenues may decrease as fewer people are earning income.
Uncertainty stemming from high unemployment rates can discourage business investment. Companies may delay expansion plans and capital projects, contributing to a slowdown in economic development.
QUESTION 7(c)
Where: |
P is the price TC is the total cost Q is the quantity |
➧ | Financial Accounting -September-2015-Pilot-Paper |
➧ | Financial Accounting -November-2015-Past-Paper |
➧ | Financial Accounting -May-2016-Past-paper |
➧ | Financial Accounting-November-2016-Past-Paper |
➧ | Financial Accounting-November-2017-Past-paper |
➧ | Financial Accounting-May-2017-Past-paper |
➧ | Financial Accounting-November-2018-Past-paper |
➧ | Financial Accounting-May-2018-Past-paper |
➧ | Financial Accounting-May-2019-Past-paper |
➧ | Financial Accounting-November-2019-Past-paper |
➧ | Financial Accounting-November-2020-Past-paper |
➧ | Financial Accounting-December-2021-Past-paper |
➧ | Financial Accounting-April-2021-Past-paper |
➧ | Financial Accounting-August-2021-Past-paper |
➧ | Quantitative Analysis -September-2015-Pilot-Paper |
➧ | Quantitative Analysis-November-2015-Past-Paper |
➧ | Quantitative Analysis-May-2016-Past-paper |
➧ | Quantitative Analysis-November-2016-Past-Paper |
➧ | Quantitative Analysis-December-2017-Past-paper |
➧ | Quantitative Analysis-May-2017-Past-paper |
➧ | Quantitative Analysis-November-2018-Past-paper |
➧ | Quantitative Analysis-May-2018-Past-paper |
➧ | Quantitative Analysis-May-2019-Past-paper |
➧ | Quantitative Analysis-November-2019-Past-paper |
➧ | Quantitative Analysis-November-2020-Past-paper |
➧ | Quantitative Analysis-December-2021-Past-paper |
➧ | Quantitative Analysis-April-2021-Past-paper |
➧ | Quantitative Analysis-August-2021-Past-paper |
➧ | Introduction to Law and Governance-September-2015-Pilot-Paper |
➧ | Introduction to Law and Governance-November-2015-Past-Paper |
➧ | Introduction to Law and Governance-May-2016-Past-paper |
➧ | Introduction to Law and Governance-November-2016-Past-Paper |
➧ | Introduction to Law and Governance-May-2017-Past-paper |
➧ | Introduction to Law and Governance-November-2017-Past-Paper |
➧ | Introduction to Law and Governance-November-2018-Past-paper |
➧ | Introduction to Law and Governance-May-2018-Past-paper |
➧ | Introduction to Law and Governance-May-2019-Past-paper |
➧ | Introduction to Law and Governance-November-2019-Past-paper |
➧ | Introduction to Law and Governance-November-2020-Past-paper |
➧ | Introduction to Law and Governance-December-2021-Past-paper |
➧ | Introduction to Law and Governance-April-2021-Past-paper |
➧ | Introduction to Law and Governance-August-2021-Past-paper |
➫ | Public finance & taxation-September-2015-Pilot-Paper |
➫ | Public finance & taxation-November-2015-Past-Paper |
➫ | Public finance & taxation-May-2016-Past-paper |
➫ | Public finance & taxation-2016-Past-Paper |
➫ | Public finance & taxation-November-2017-Past-paper |
➫ | Public finance & taxation-May-2017-Past-paper |
➫ | Public finance & taxation-November-2018-Past-paper |
➫ | Public finance & taxation-May-2018-Past-paper |
➫ | Public finance & taxation-May-2019-Past-paper |
➫ | Public finance & taxation-November-2019-Past-paper |
➫ | Public finance & taxation-November-2020-Past-paper |
➫ | Public finance & taxation-December-2021-Past-paper |
➫ | Public finance & taxation-April-2021-Past-paper |
➫ | Public finance & taxation-August-2021-Past-paper |
CPA past papers with answers