Welcome to today’s episode, where we delve into two key concepts shaping economic policy and debate: discretionary fiscal policy and austerity. From government strategies to stimulate growth to controversial spending cuts, we’ll break down what these terms mean, how they’re applied, and their impact on economies worldwide. Whether you’re an A-level economics student or just curious about how governments manage their budgets, this episode is for you. Let’s explore the tools that drive economic decisions and the trade-offs policymakers face.