The Ricardian equivalence hypothesis: evidence from Bangladesh

This paper examines the Ricardian equivalence hypothesis (REH) and its sources of failure in the case of Bangladesh using various theoretical specifications, annual data from 1974-2001 and linear and non-linear time series techniques. The general findings tend to invalidate the REH: a finite time horizon and the presence of liquidity-constrained individuals are the sources of deviation from the REH. Empirical results reveal that real per capita private consumption (C) under various specifications is cointegrated generally at the 5% level with real per capita income (Y), government expenditure before and after interest rate repayments (G & G2), taxes (T) and the interest rate (r). Results reveal that an increase in G, G2, T and r reduces C and that that an increase in budget deficits raises trade deficits. These results highlight the importance of fiscal policies in boosting private consumption and controlling trade deficits, which are th e prime goals of stabilisation policies being followed by Bangladesh.