Twinn Swan

In economics, the multiplier effect refers to the proportional amount of increase or decrease in final income, that results from an injection or withdrawal of capital. It measures the impact that a change in economic activity will have on the total economic output of something.

The most basic multiplier used in gauging the efficacy of investment is calculated through the change in income divided by change in spending. It is used by government and business to assess the efficiency and effectiveness of their investment.

Economic decision makers are primarily concerned with how injections of capital positively affect income. Capital investments—whether it be at the governmental or corporate level—should have a snowball effect on economic activity. The multiplier effect provides a numerical value or estimate of a magnified increase in income per dollar of investment.

While the tangible results can be assessed through the numerical values that are ascertained; the intangible results, however, cannot be assessed through the multiplier effect.

When an individual, government or company invests money, it has a snowball effect on other businesses and individuals. The resulting impact can be much bigger than the initial investment.

If a business has particular success with investment into a new product line, the multiplier effect can be seen through the increase in business of other companies that contribute to the new product: for instance, by producing raw materials, transportation and so on.

The company’s employees may also receive an increase in salary, which would lead to increased spending or investment. The impact on total output is thus increased, or multiplied, beyond the initial investment.

What are the three investments you would make to increase your total output?