This paper compares the boom-bust cycle in Finland and Sweden 1984-1995 with the average boom-bust pattern in industrialized countries as calculated from an international sample for the period 1970-2002. Two clear conclusions emerge. First, the Finnish-Swedish experience is much more volatile...

The rationale for the independence of central banks is the so-called 'Rules versus Discretion' debate, which is described in this article. Central bank independence is considered an effective measure against governments from manipulating policy instruments to spur short-term economic growth and...

The rationale for the independence of central banks is the so-called 'Rules versus Discretion' debate, which is described in this article. Central bank independence is considered an effective measure against governments from manipulating policy instruments to spur short-term economic growth and...

Finland is committed to high quality and extensive public services and a high level of income redistribution. The heavy tax burden these commitments require is becoming increasingly difficult to sustain due to tax competition and the need to harmonise certain taxes with other EU countries. These...