11/23/2005

Holiday travel has huge impact on economy

As the Thanksgiving holiday draws near, the number of people traveling is up, and many industries within the field of transportation are having to accomodate the extra travelers. According to this holiday travel article, buses, trains, planes, and cars are all out in greater numbers. Despite higher flight prices, and increased traffic, those wanting to visit family and friends for Thanksgiving are still willing to fit the bill, and spend their time, in pursuit of being reunited with those they are close to. Because there is a boom in demand for transportation, be it driving, or flying, etc., some companies are able to raise their prices, while increasing demand, ultimately raising their revenues in the process. Also, while more customers, mean more potential variable costs, perhaps the large bulk of travelers enables some companies to ultimately save, and consolidate costs, shifting out revenues, and profits overall, in the long run. It is important to recognize that virtually all facets of life affect the economy, from visiting family for the holidays, to corporate stock changes, to politics, proving that all things influence the financial status of our country's, and global economy as a whole.

1 comment:

Dr. Tufte said...

There's a hidden message here: travel is a normal good (or even a luxury in some cases), so if traveling is up it means the economy is doing well too.