Home > Glossary > Boom and bust cycle

Boom and Bust Cycle

The boom and bust cycle is an economic cycle characterized by periods of rapid economic growth (boom) followed by sharp declines (bust). During the boom phase, high consumer confidence, increased investment, and rising asset prices lead to economic expansion. The bust phase is marked by a contraction in economic activity, falling asset prices, and often a recession. The boom and bust cycle is a natural part of the economic landscape, driven by factors such as market speculation, changes in consumer behavior, and shifts in monetary policy.

Example

The housing market in the United States experienced a significant boom in the early 2000s, driven by easy credit and rising home prices. This boom was followed by a bust in 2008 when the housing bubble burst, leading to the global financial crisis.

Key points

• Boom and bust cycles are characterized by rapid economic growth followed by sharp declines.

• The boom phase is marked by expansion, high confidence, and rising asset prices.

• The bust phase involves economic contraction, falling asset prices, and often a recession.

Quick Answers to Curious Questions

TFactors such as market speculation, excessive risk-taking, and shifts in monetary policy can lead to a boom, which is often followed by a bust when these factors reverse.

TThey lead to periods of economic expansion followed by sharp contractions, impacting employment, investment, and consumer confidence.

TWhile it is difficult to prevent these cycles entirely, effective monetary and fiscal policies can help mitigate their severity.