Short Answer
The Nominal GDP for 2018 is calculated to be $1,600 based on consumption, investment, government spending, and net exports. Both the Income and Expenditure approaches to GDP provide a consistent measure, while the CPI focuses on consumer prices, contrasting with the GDP deflator, which considers all produced goods and services.
Step 1: Understand Nominal GDP Calculation
To determine the Nominal GDP for 2018, we take into account various components of economic activity. This includes:
- Consumption Spending: $1,000
- Investment Spending: $300
- Government Spending: $400
- Net Exports: -$100
Adding these values together gives a Nominal GDP of $1,600, indicating the total market value of all finished goods and services produced during the year.
Step 2: Explore Income and Expenditure Approaches
The Income Approach and Expenditure Approach to GDP calculation yield the same figure as they represent two sides of the same economic coin. The income approach sums all incomes earned, while the expenditure approach totals all spending on final goods and services. In a closed economy, spending equates to income, establishing a balance between these two methods.
Step 3: Differentiate Between CPI and GDP Deflator
When comparing the Consumer Price Index (CPI) and the GDP Deflator, it’s crucial to note their scopes. The CPI tracks a fixed set of goods representing consumer purchases, highlighting changes in living costs. Conversely, the GDP deflator encompasses all goods and services produced in the economy, offering a comprehensive view of price fluctuations across a broader economic landscape.