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Cash Quote by Paul Krugman

“If the price of everything is going down, that's going to include wages as well. People will have an incentive to sit on their cash and not spend it.” quote by Paul Krugman
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“If the price of everything is going down, that's going to include wages as well. People will have an incentive to sit on their cash and not spend it.”

Paul Krugman

About This Quote

Source Speech: Economic Column, The New York Times, 2010

When prices fall, wages tend to fall too, discouraging spending and prompting people to hoard cash.

In simple terms: Deflation can cause wages to drop and spending to stall.

Key Takeaway

Watch for deflationary pressures.

Themes

economics inflation consumer behavior

Mood

cautious analytical

Type

economic policy

When to use this quote

  • policy making
  • personal finance
  • business strategy

Key Concepts

deflation wage dynamics cash hoarding

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does deflation affect long‑term growth?
  • What policies can counter wage deflation?
A Different Perspective

Deflation may also spur unemployment and reduced investment.

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