Hawkish Vs Dovish: Differences Between Monetary Policies Explained

This article delves into the intricacies of monetary policy, unravelling its mechanisms and shedding light on the powerful influence it wields. We will explore the fundamental objectives, tools, and approaches employed by central banks to maintain price stability, foster sustainable economic growth, and keep unemployment at bay. Understanding how monetary policy shapes the economic tide is crucial for policymakers, economists, and individuals alike, as it directly impacts livelihoods and the overall financial well-being of nations.

Moreover, we will uncover fascinating facts about monetary policy, such as the origins of the hawkish and dovish terms, tools utilised by central banks, including interest rate adjustments, open market operations, reserve requirements, and the enigmatic concept of quantitative easing. By illuminating the inner workings of monetary policy, we aim to provide a deeper understanding of the forces that shape economies and the strategies employed by central banks to maintain a delicate balance. 

What do the terms Hawkish and Dovish mean?

Hawkish and dovish are terms used to describe different approaches to monetary policy. These terms primarily refer to the stance taken by central banks in managing interest rates and controlling the money supply to achieve specific economic goals. The term "hawkish" and "dovish" originated from the world of bird-watching. "Hawks" are known for their aggressive and vigilant nature, while "doves" symbolise peace and gentleness. These characteristics were metaphorically applied to describe different approaches to monetary policy. When it comes to monetary policy, being hawkish means keeping a sharp "eye" on inflation and swooping in to control it. Hawks generally believe that the primary goal of monetary policy should be to control inflation, even if it means slowing down economic growth. They favour raising interest rates to keep inflation in check. Whereas the term dovish refers to an economic policy advisor who advocates for monetary policies involving low-interest rates. Doves argue that inflation is not bad and that it is bound to have few negative effects on the economy. They believe that low interest rates are necessary to stimulate borrowing, economic growth and job creation.

What is a Monetary Policy?

Monetary policy refers to the actions and measures taken by a country's central bank or monetary authority to manage and control the money supply, interest rates, and other monetary variables in an economy. Its primary objective is to achieve specific economic goals, such as price stability, sustainable economic growth, and low unemployment. Monetary policy is one of the key tools available to policymakers to influence the overall economic conditions in a country.

Central banks use various tools to implement monetary policy. Some of the common tools include:

• Interest Rates: Central banks can adjust short-term interest rates, such as the policy or overnight lending rate, to influence borrowing costs for banks and other financial institutions. By raising or lowering interest rates, central banks can influence spending and investment decisions, impacting economic activity.
• Open Market Operations: Central banks can buy or sell government securities, such as treasury bonds or bills, in the open market to control the money supply. When they buy securities, they inject money into the economy, while selling securities withdraws money from circulation.
• Reserve Requirements: Central banks can set reserve requirements, which are the minimum amounts of reserves that banks must hold against their deposits. By adjusting these requirements, central banks can influence the amount of credit available in the banking system and control lending activities.
• Quantitative Easing: During times of economic crisis or when interest rates are already low, central banks may resort to quantitative easing. This involves purchasing large quantities of government bonds or other financial assets to increase the money supply and stimulate economic activity.

The specific approach and tools used in monetary policy can vary depending on the country's economic conditions, objectives, and the central bank's mandate. The aim is to strike a balance between promoting economic growth, maintaining price stability, and addressing other macroeconomic challenges.

It's important to note that fiscal policy, which involves government spending and taxation, works in conjunction with monetary policy to shape the overall economic environment and achieve desired outcomes.

What are the differences between Hawkish and Dovish Monetary Policies?

Hawkish Monetary Policy:

• Focus: Hawkish monetary policy emphasises controlling inflation as its primary objective. It aims to maintain price stability by keeping inflation levels low and within a target range.
• Interest Rates: A hawkish stance typically involves raising interest rates to curb borrowing and spending, which can help reduce inflationary pressures. Higher interest rates make borrowing more expensive, discouraging businesses and consumers from taking on excessive debt.
• Tightening Money Supply: Hawkish policy also involves reducing the money supply or limiting its growth. This can be achieved by selling government securities or tightening lending standards for banks, making it harder for businesses and individuals to access credit.
• Economic Impact: Hawkish policies tend to prioritise fighting inflation over stimulating economic growth. By raising interest rates and limiting credit, it can slow down economic activity, including consumer spending and investment, in the short term.

Dovish Monetary Policy:

• Focus: Dovish monetary policy prioritises promoting economic growth and reducing unemployment. It is more lenient towards higher inflation in the short term to support economic expansion and job creation.
• Interest Rates: A dovish stance typically involves lowering interest rates to encourage borrowing and spending. Lower rates make borrowing cheaper, stimulating business investment and consumer spending.
• Expanding Money Supply: Dovish policy may involve expanding the money supply through measures such as buying government securities or lowering reserve requirements for banks. This increases the availability of credit and makes it easier for businesses and individuals to borrow.
• Economic Impact: Dovish policies aim to stimulate economic activity and employment. By lowering interest rates and increasing the money supply, it encourages borrowing, investment, and spending, which can lead to increased economic growth in the short term. However, there is a risk of higher inflation if not carefully managed.

Central banks often adopt hawkish or dovish stances based on their assessment of current economic conditions, including inflation levels, employment rates, and overall economic performance. They may adjust their policies over time as the economic situation evolves. The choice between hawkish and dovish policies depends on the central bank's objectives and their assessment of the trade-offs between inflation and economic growth. It is worth noting that policies vary for different countries.