The economy recovered quickly from the global crisis of 2008–09, with healthy growth and low inflation. Growth has, however, slowed recently and is expected to remain subdued in the short run, since gains from recovery in the U.S. will be offset by the closure of the Intel manufacturing...

This paper studies the potential for the export sector to play a more important role in promoting growth in Central America, Panama, and the Dominican Republic (CAPDR) through deeper intra-regional and global trade integration. CAPDR countries have enacted many free trade agreements and other...

This article is a synopsis on Costa Rica’s international spillovers, potential estimates, fiscal challenges, and banking systems. Spillovers are originated by cross-country trade and financial linkages, and also by the impact of global fiscal consolidation. The banking sector has about...

This article is an analytical report of the economic developments of Costa Rica. The economy showed rapid growth in the aftermath of the global crisis with low inflation; but for further stable growth, certain policy frameworks and reforms need to be reinforced. The fiscal stance should be made...

This paper examines the financial strength of central banks in Central America and the Dominican Republic (CADR). Some central banks are working off the effects of intervention in distressed financial institutions during the 1990’s and early 2000’s. Their net income has improved...

This staff report for Zimbabwe highlights the key macroeconomic challenges of taking steps to improve fiscal and external sustainability and increase financial sector stability. Zimbabwe has made good progress in restoring macroeconomic stability since the end of hyperinflation in 2009, but the...

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The first review discussions took place in a context of heightened geopolitical tensions and deepening economic crisis. Intensification of the conflict in the East and escalation of the gas dispute with Gazprom, two of the key risks identified at the time of the program...