The "Big Mac Theory of Exchange Rates" Tests the Accuracy

question 34

Essay

The "Big Mac Theory of Exchange Rates" tests the accuracy of purchasing power parity theory.In July 2011, The Economist reported that the average price of a Big Mac in Canada was $4.07.In Switzerland, the average price of a Big Mac was 6.50 Swiss francs.If the exchange rate between the Canadian dollar and the Swiss franc was 0.93 Swiss francs per Canadian dollar, how would purchasing power parity predict the exchange rate would change in the long run? Support your answer graphically.

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Definitions:

Compounded Annually

Compounded annually refers to the process of earning interest on both the initial principal and the accumulated interest from previous periods once a year.

Rate of Return

The increase or decrease in the value of an investment during a set timeframe, represented as a proportion of the investment's starting price.

CIFP Course Materials

Comprehensive learning materials provided for the Certified Financial Planner (CIFP) program covering financial planning, investment strategies, and ethical practices.

Ordinary Annuity

A financial product where payments are made at the end of each period for a fixed amount of time.