Will the effects of the high Russian inflation and the decline in the ruble offset each other for U.S. importers? That is, how will U.S. importers of Russian products be affected by the conditions?

a. Russia commonly experiences a high rate of inflation. Explain why the high Russian inflation typically places severe downward pressure on the value of the Russian ruble.

b. In some periods, the Russian government intervenes in the foreign exchange market and imposes some restrictions on international trade. Why might these conditions prevent purchasing power parity (PPP)?

c. Will the effects of the high Russian inflation and the decline in the ruble offset each other for U.S. importers? That is, how will U.S. importers of Russian products be affected by the conditions?