Answer:
Market segmentation theorists would argue that the upward slope is due to the fact that under current economic conditions there is greater demand for long-term loans for items such as real estate than for short-term loans for seasonal needs.
Correct option A
Step-by-step explanation:
Market segmentation theory is based on the belief that the market for each segment of bond maturities consists mainly of investors who have a preference for investing in securities with specific durations: short, intermediate, or long-term.
Market segmentation theory asserts that the buyers and sellers who make up the market for short-term securities have different characteristics and motivations than buyers and sellers of intermediate and long-term maturity securities.
Followers of the market segmentation theory would say that the slope upward is evidence that the market has a greater demand for long term loans as opposed to short term loans.