menu-control
The Jerusalem Post
The Jerusalem Post: Business and Innovation

Professor: Modern economic theory is lacking

 
 Professor: Modern economic theory is lacking (photo credit: SHUTTERSTOCK)
Professor: Modern economic theory is lacking
(photo credit: SHUTTERSTOCK)

Steve Hanke bullish on gold while losing faith in Fed; China private demand having a noticeable effect on metals rally

Johns Hopkins Professor of Applied Economics Steve Hanke recently told Kitco News that the modern way of teaching economics has led to the Federal Reserve implementing subpar strategies to combat inflation.

The well-respected educational leader, who is a frequent guest on Kitco and CNBC, also said he believes private demand for gold in China has played a prominent role in driving the significant upward momentum gold has shown in 2024.

 The price of gold closed trading on Friday at $2,656 an ounce. (Source:TradingView)
The price of gold closed trading on Friday at $2,656 an ounce. (Source:TradingView)

“China is part of the bullish story on gold and one reason I’m bullish on it,” Hanke said. “Not only the central bank buying big time in China, but private investors have been buying big time because they’re worried about what’s going on in China. There’s a huge private demand in China for gold. In a way, the private buying is a little bit of the tail wagging the Chinese dog.”

Money supply in the U.S.

The U.S. M2 money supply, which is growing at a rate of 1.98% year-over-year, is far below the growth it should be experiencing, according to Hanke.

To get to the “gold rate” of 2% inflation, which is often cited as the Federal Reserve’s primary inflation target, Hanke said the M2 supply should be growing 6% year over year.

 Shown is the year-over-year growth of the M2 money supply. (Source:TradingView)
Shown is the year-over-year growth of the M2 money supply. (Source:TradingView)

Shown is the year-over-year growth of the M2 money supply. (Source:TradingView)

“Right now, they’re in quantitative tightening. They’re shrinking the money supply. They’re not buying bonds and letting them mature and causing the money supply to decrease because the government still has to sell the bonds to somebody. They sell it to the public and we have to write a check and we get the bond,” he explained.

Hanke said the effect of quantitative tightening has been exacerbated by commercial banks loaning at a slower rate than typical.

Not looking to teach supply

Hanke said his experience in education has exposed him to modern economic theory, which he said does not include the teaching of money supply and its effect on economies.

“All of the theoretical models and training of graduates in the research department (of the Federal Reserve) are shown models that don’t show the money supply, called post-Keynesian models,” he said. “Once you get into post-Keynesian models you’re getting into the technical weeds and it’s hard for people who aren’t formally trained in economics to know what you’re talking about.

Featured Gold Investment Companies (Ad)

Augusta Precious Metals

Fees:

$0 (10 Years)

Minimum:

$50,000

"Best Overall" by Money Magazine, Award-Winning for 6 Years, Thousands of 5-Star Rankings

Expand DetailsRenowned for its exceptional customer service and commitment to transparency, Augusta Precious Metals has garnered numerous accolades, including "Best Overall" from Money magazine and "Most Transparent" from Investopedia. The company's dedication to educating and supporting its clients has earned it top ratings from organizations such as A+ from BBB and AAA from BCA.

Goldco

Fees:

Vary

Minimum:

$25,000

Industry leader with over $2 Billion in gold and silver. Top rated precious metals company with buy back guarantee

Expand DetailsFrom precious metals iras to direct purchases of gold and silver, goldco have helped thousands of americans place over $2 billion in gold and silver. Top-rated precious metals company rated A+ by the better business bureau rated triple a by business consumer alliance earned over 6,000+ 5-star customer ratings Money.Com 2024 best customer service 2024 inc. 5000 regionals: pacific ranked #17 2024 gold stevie award, fastest growing company inc. 5000 award recipient, 8+ years

American Hartford Gold

Fees:

Vary

Minimum:

$10,000

American Hartford Gold, ranked #1 Gold Company on Inc. 5000, boasts thousands of A+ BBB ratings and 5-star reviews, endorsed by Bill O'Reilly and Rick Harrison..

Expand DetailsWith over $2 billion in precious metals sold, American Hartford Gold helps individuals and families diversify and protect their wealth. Their expert team provides investors with the latest market insights and a historical perspective, ensuring informed decisions. Trusted by public figures and praised for exceptional customer service, the company offers competitive pricing on top-tier gold and silver coins, backed by a 100% customer satisfaction guarantee

This article is for informational purposes only. The opinions and analysis herein are those of the author and are not financial advice. The Jerusalem Post (JPost.com) does not endorse or recommend any investments based on this information. Investors should consider their financial situation, investment goals, and risk tolerance before making any decisions. Consulting a qualified financial advisor is recommended. JPost.com is not liable for any investment losses from using this information. The information provided is for educational purposes only and should not be considered as trading or investment advice.

×
Email:
×
Email: