The sharp increase in fiscal deficits and public debt in most advanced and several developing economies has raised concerns about the sustainability of public finances and highlighted the need for a significant adjustment over the medium term. This paper assesses the usefulness of fiscal rules...

The composition of Italian household wealth has undergone significant changes in the last decade, partly reflecting the growth of public debt and monetary policies aimed at encouraging its absorption by the household sector. Within a theoretical framework consistent with the “money in the...

IMF advice on fiscal policy is given within a strong accounting framework. Published sources in the last ten years show the direction and change of advice. The treatment of central bank losses, government arrears, and credit subsidies are discussed as examples. Advice on taxation, expenditure,...

In recent years, the IMF has released a growing number of reports and other documents covering economic and financial developments and trends in member countries. Each report, prepared by a staff team after discussions with government officials, is published at the option of the member country

According to IMF and IDA authorities, Guinea-Bissau had met the requirements for reaching the decision point under the Enhanced Heavily Indebted Poor Countries (HIPC) Initiative. The authorities appreciated the country’s tremendous efforts to reestablish economic, social, and...

This paper discusses Togo’s progress under the Enhanced Heavily Indebted Poor Countries (HIPC) Initiative. In November 2008, the Boards of Executive Directors of the IDA and the IMF agreed that Togo had met the requirements for reaching the decision point under the Enhanced HIPC...

This study is carried out against a backdrop of deep divisions in Greece and in Europe over how to handle the challenges now confronting Greece. Greece’s deeper medium-term policy needs and identifying ways to replace the expected market financing are discussed. Structural reforms tackled...

Policy implementation has improved since the completion point. Recent economic performance has been encouraging, but sustaining it will require an acceleration of reforms by the government. Rwanda’s medium-term program aligned with the Poverty Reduction Strategy Program priorities...

Recent performance suggests further economic stabilization in the Central African Republic, but uncertainties remain related to the general elections. The fiscal program aims at supporting domestic demand, financing the peace process and the elections, and mobilizing more revenue. Structural...

The post-conflict economic stabilization in Liberia is now complete. Inflation pressure is easing owing to lower fuel and food prices, and there is a rebound in exports. Sound macroeconomic policies, strengthened institutions, and debt relief have stabilized the economy and have supported...