Which of the following is a direct inflation effect?

Higher consumer prices represent a direct inflation effect because inflation is defined as a sustained rise in the general price levels of goods and services in an economy over a period of time. When inflation occurs, consumers face increased prices for everyday items, thereby reducing their purchasing power. This option directly ties to the very essence of inflation, which is the rise in prices.

In contrast, rising unemployment levels can be influenced by a variety of factors and may not directly correlate with inflation. Increased purchasing power is typically associated with deflation or economic growth rather than inflation. Stabilized interest rates also do not directly reflect inflation effects; in fact, interest rates may increase in response to inflation to curb spending. So, the connection between higher consumer prices and inflation makes it the most appropriate answer regarding direct inflation effects.