This paper revives the question of whether a temporary VAT change is an adequate instrument for crisis stabilization. In empirical assessments, we find that durable goods consumption fluctuates strongly over the business cycle and that VAT rate changes affect durable goods in particular....

Chapter 1. Introduction -- Chapter 2. Trends in Growth since the GFC -- Chapter 3. Credit, Employment and the Current Account -- Chapter 4. Capital Formation and Foreign Investment -- Chapter 5. Inflation and Monetary Developments -- Chapter 6. Policy and Analyses Chapter -- 7. Reflexive, not...