The annual inflation rate in the Eurozone rose significantly in October 2024, reaching 2.0% compared to 1.7% in September. Annual inflation in the EU also rose to 2.3% in October 2024, up from 2.1% in the previous month. In contrast, the rate in the same month last year was much higher, reaching 2.9% in the Eurozone and 3.6% in the EU. According to Eurostat, statistical office of the European Union, this increase reflects important economic changes in region.
Factors influencing the rise in inflation
Several factors contributed to the rise in annual inflation. In the Eurozone, services were the largest contributor to the increase (+1.77 percentage points), reflecting an increase in the prices of several services such as transport, education and housing. This was followed by food, alcohol and tobacco, which contributed (+0.56 percentage points) to the rate, indicating continued pressure on prices in these key sectors. On the other hand, non-energy industrial goods contributed (+0.13 percentage points) to this increase, while the decline in energy prices had the opposite effect, recording a negative contribution (-0.45 percentage points).
In European Union, the data showed that inflation rose 19 of the 27 member states. This increase in inflation indicates increasing economic pressures on member states, especially in light of the volatile global economic situation.
Differences between countries
When comparing inflation between EU countries, it appears that there is a large disparity in rates between member states. Slovenia recorded lowest annual inflation rate of 0.0%, followed by Lithuania and Ireland with 0.1%. In contrast, Romania recorded the highest inflation rate in the region at 5.0%, followed by Belgium and Estonia with 4.5% each. This disparity shows how economic conditions differ between EU member states, with some countries facing greater pressures than others due to a combination of local and global economic factors.
Economic and social impacts of high inflation
High inflation is one of the most prominent challenges facing economies around the world, and it has wide-ranging effects on various aspects of the economy and society. The impact of inflation is not limited to prices only, but extends to include various economic and social dimensions, leading to changes in the behavior of individuals and companies alike. In this article, we will discuss the economic and social effects of high inflation and its possible causes.
Economic Effects
1. Increased Cost of Living
One of the most prominent direct effects of high inflation is the increase in the cost of living. When the prices of goods and services rise, individuals find themselves forced to pay more money for the same amount of goods. This erodes the purchasing power of families, especially for families with fixed incomes. For example, if food or fuel prices rise significantly, individuals may be forced to cut back on their spending in other areas such as entertainment or healthcare.
2. Pressure on wages
High inflation often leads to increased demand for higher wages. However, in many cases, employers are unable to meet these demands, leading to a decrease in the purchasing power of wages. As a result, workers may feel that their wages are no longer sufficient to keep up with the rising cost of living. Sometimes, some companies may have to cut jobs or reduce working hours to reduce costs, which increases tensions in the labor market.
3. Economic instability
When inflation rises significantly, it becomes difficult to plan economically, whether at the individual or corporate level. High inflation leads to price fluctuations, which makes it difficult to predict future costs. Therefore, it may be difficult for companies to make sound investment decisions or set appropriate prices for products and services.
Factors affecting high inflation
Several factors contributed to this increase in annual inflation. In the euro area, services were the largest contributor to the increase (+1.77 percentage points), reflecting an increase in the prices of many services such as transport, education and housing. This was followed by food, alcohol and tobacco, which contributed (+0.56 percentage points) to the rate, indicating continued pressure on prices in these key sectors. On the other hand, non-energy industrial goods contributed (+0.13 percentage points) to this increase, while the decline in energy prices had the opposite effect, recording a negative contribution (-0.45 percentage points). In the European Union, the data showed that inflation rose in 19 of the 27 member states. This increase in inflation indicates increasing economic pressures on member states, especially in light of the volatile global economic situation.
Social effects
Increasing poverty and inequality
High inflation is considered a major cause of worsening poverty and widening the gap in inequality in society. As prices rise, low-income individuals suffer the most due to the erosion of their purchasing power. In contrast, individuals or families with higher incomes may be able to adapt more quickly to changing economic conditions. Therefore, high inflation increases the gap between social classes, with the people with low-income. being more affected than the rich.
Increased social and psychological pressures
High inflation may increase psychological and social pressures on individuals. As prices rise, many people feel frustrated and anxious about not being able to meet their basic needs. This anxiety can affect mental health, increase depression and anxiety, and increase social tension. In some cases, inflation may lead to demonstrations and protests against the government due to the deterioration of the economic situation.
