The paper provides a measure of the performance differentials among Italian manufacturing firms, viewed in the light of the marked changes brought about by globalisation and the more recent economic crisis. On the basis of an original data- set it is shown that the profitability registered by...

The paper claims that the shrinking in domestic consumption - both public and private - has made Italian industry increasingly dependent upon external market demand in recent years. We expect a relatively slow recovery once the present crisis in industrial activity draws to an end.

<em>The logic of industrial policy in Italy from world war II to "Industria 2015"</em> - The paper aims at discussing the logic lying behind sixty years of industrial policy in Italy. It is argued that during this time State intervention has been characterised by the issue of an increasing number of laws...