Final Answer:
In the short run, bond prices would decrease, and interest rates would increase as a result of a central bank selling bonds through open-market operations. Option B is answer.
Step-by-step explanation:
When a central bank sells bonds through open-market operations, it results in increased bond supply in the market. According to the law of supply and demand, an increase in the supply of bonds puts downward pressure on bond prices. As a result, option B is correct—bond prices would decrease.
Simultaneously, the increase in bond yields, which moves inversely to bond prices, leads to higher interest rates. This relationship between bond prices and interest rates is a fundamental aspect of the fixed-income market. Therefore, when a central bank conducts bond sales, it triggers a short-term impact of lower bond prices and higher interest rates.
Option B is answer.
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Complete Question
In the short run, which of the following would occur to bond prices and interest rates if a central bank sold bonds through open-market operations?
A. Bond prices would increase, and interest rates would decrease.
B. Bond prices would decrease, and interest rates would increase.
C. Bond prices and interest rates would both increase.
D. Bond prices and interest rates would both decrease.
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