What is an example of expansionary fiscal policy?

Increasing transfer payments is an example of expansionary fiscal policy because it directly puts more money into the hands of consumers, which can stimulate economic activity. Transfer payments, such as unemployment benefits or social assistance, help boost the disposable income of individuals, leading to increased consumption and demand for goods and services. This increased demand can encourage businesses to invest and hire, facilitating economic growth.

In contrast, reducing taxes for corporations may also stimulate investment but is not as direct in addressing consumer spending as transfer payments are. Cutting government spending can have a contractionary effect on the economy by reducing overall demand. Increasing interest rates typically serves as a tool for monetary policy aimed at controlling inflation rather than stimulating the economy. Thus, increasing transfer payments is the most direct example of expansionary fiscal policy, aimed at bolstering economic activity through increased consumer spending.