While markets seem calm for now, the failure of the EU’s recent summit, combined with Portugal’s recent request for aid and other political setbacks, leaves the euro area vulnerable to a relapse of crisis. […]
For primarily political reasons, the fiscal policies of the United States and the United Kingdom diverged dramatically in 2010, as British leaders introduced a harsh austerity program while U.S. policy makers agreed to extend tax cuts. […]
The economic costs of the Japanese earthquake will be major, but are unlikely to derail the Japanese or global recovery. However, a number of risks—beginning with unresolved nuclear crisis—could worsen the outcome considerably. […]
In order to prevent another boom-bust episode—this time in developing countries—policy makers must act soon to cool the rising temperatures in several rapidly growing emerging markets. […]
After stagnating for decades, economic growth in Africa has accelerated, but maintaining this rapid growth is far from guaranteed. Policy makers must build on past successes and tackle tough reforms before the world’s poorest continent can make sustained economic progress. […]
Reform of the international monetary system tops France’s agenda as chair of the G20 but a review of the system during the crisis suggests no major overhaul is needed. Instead, major economies must change their domestic policies to ensure that the system functions smoothly. […]
The increased use of intermediate inputs in world trade distorts bilateral trade balances, reduces the importance of exports as drivers of demand, and hides the true cost of protectionism. […]
Despite the recent optimism in Europe, evidence that countries are dealing adequately with the underlying causes of the euro crisis remains scarce. For the European rescue to succeed, leaders must focus on structural problems, not just fiscal ones. […]
The recent emphasis on global economic rebalancing stokes current tensions and contributes to protectionist sentiment while diverting attention away from what is really needed—domestic reforms in the world’s largest economies. […]
Policy makers around the world who are pushing China to revalue its exchange rate should note that an appreciation of the renminbi—unless accompanied by an acceleration of China’s domestic demand—will be of little benefit to most economies. […]
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