In the context of GDP (Gross Domestic Product) calculations, "investment" typically refers to spending on capital goods that will be used to produce goods and services in the future, as well as changes in business inventories.
Among the options provided:
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An individual purchases stock in a company. - This does not count as investment in GDP because buying stocks is a financial transaction and does not involve the production of new goods or services.
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A child places money under his mattress for safe keeping. - This is not considered investment as it doesn't contribute to economic activity or production.
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A school district deposits excess funds into a savings account. - This is also not considered investment for GDP purposes; it represents saving rather than investment in physical capital.
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A manufacturing firm builds a new plant in Mexico. - Although this represents investment for the firm, it is not included in the GDP calculation of the country where the firm is based because it is an investment made outside of its domestic economy.
Therefore, none of the options provided would be counted as "investment" in the calculation of GDP in the firm’s home economy.