In this paper we measure the extent to which countries are converging in per capita productivity levels. We formally define convergence in a time series analytical context, derive the necessary and sufficient conditions and introduce a cluster analytical procedure that enables us to distinguish...

We examine the diffusion of real-time gross settlement (RTGS) technology across all 174 central banks. RTGS reduces settlement risk and facilitates financial innovation in the settlement of foreign exchange trades. In 1985, only three central banks had implemented RTGS systems, and by year-end...

A new index of the U.S. high-tech sector - drawing upon a range of technology-specific data - has the potential to offer a more timely assessment of economic activity than has been possible to date. The index suggests that while the tech sector has rebounded from its poor performance in the...

The paper documents the shift in the Beveridge curve in the United States since the Great Recession. It argues that a decline in quits, the relatively poor performance of the construction sector, and the extension of unemployment insurance benefits have largely driven this shift. The paper then...