How Italy Will Change
Europe needs to help, but even with help, Italy faces big changes and, assuming all goes well, two or three difficult years lie ahead. […]
Economy
IMF Chief Economist Olivier Blanchard on the Global Economy in 2012
2012 has the markings of a difficult year. The future of the euro is inscrutable and Europe is likely already in recession. Growth is slowing in the major emerging economies, and the recovery in the United States remains slow and fragile. […]
Budget Policy and Politics in an Election Year
Congressman Chris Van Hollen, the senior Democrat on the House Budget Committee, discussed what steps Congress can realistically take during the months ahead to reduce unemployment and improve America’s long-term economic outlook. […]
Globalization, Labor Markets, and Inequality
Though globalization is increasing labor market integration and income inequality, policymakers should help workers adjust to a changing world rather than erecting protectionist measures. […]
Is There Life for the G20 Beyond the Global Financial Crisis?
In 2008, the G20 proved to be an effective forum for coordinating action to stem the global financial crisis. But now that the storm has passed, it remains to be seen if the G20 is capable of assuming leadership on key economic governance issues. […]
Seek Outside Help
Though Europe can help itself economically by lowering interest rates and accelerating structural reforms, financial contributions from non-European countries through the IMF are needed most. […]
The United States Beyond 2012
The United States is well positioned to benefit from globalization and the rise of emerging markets, but it must first confront its economic challenges, regain a measure of political consensus, and reestablish its capacity to lead. […]
Is the Labor Market Global?
While it may no longer be possible to provide manufacturing workers the kind of security they once enjoyed, given the fact that technology and globalized markets are changing too quickly, a much better job can be done to help workers adjust to these changes. […]
Wounded Giants
French President Sarkozy’s request for Chinese money in support of the euro rescue symbolized three historic shifts in great power relations: the fragility and endangerment of the European project, the ascendance of China, and the beginning of the end of the American era. […]
Happy New Year?
With the global economy on unstable ground and little economic space remaining for additional policy support, world leaders must focus on preventing a catastrophe in Europe. […]