This paper provides an analytic overview of independent currency authorities (ICAs), sometimes called currency boards. ICAs issue and redeem domestic currency against an exchange standard on demand and back such operations through a 100 percent marginal foreign reserve cover. They also impose...

This study examines the challenges and issues facing policymakers in highly dollarized economies. Focusing on Cambodia, which achieved almost complete dollarization during 1991-95, the authors review recent developments in the literature on dollarization and examine the costs and benefits of...

The sharp global recession has been taking a toll on the St. Kitts and Nevis economy. The staff report examines the St. Kitts and Nevis 2009 Article IV Consultation and request for Emergency Natural Disaster Assistance. Economic activity has weakened markedly, particularly in tourism and foreign...

This 2009 Article IV Consultation highlights that the Lithuanian economy is undergoing a severe adjustment, after years of rapid economic growth and financial integration. With the global financial crisis, the unwinding of the imbalances accumulated during the boom has led to a sharp economic...

Grenada quickly recovered from the devastating effects of Hurricane Ivan. Executive Directors welcomed the economic reform program aimed to promote economic growth, restore fiscal and debt sustainability, reduce vulnerabilities, and alleviate poverty. They emphasized the need to strengthen the...

This paper presents findings of the Fifth Review of Djibouti’s economic performance under the extended credit facility (ECF) arrangement. The drought in Djibouti has worsened water scarcity, reduced agricultural production and cattle stock, and accelerated refugee inflows. The authorities...

The study focuses on corrective fiscal policies for 2000, the budgets for 2001, and the agenda for structural reform. An important issue discussed in revising the 2000 budgets was the expenditure policy required to contain spending commitments within available resources. The authorities have...

Bulgaria did not have any exchange rate crisis, international bailout, bank intervention, or build-up of public debt. This attests to the strength of the policy framework and policy implementation. The fiscal adjustment achieved so far should be preserved, but improving the composition of the...

The staff report for St. Kitts and Nevis’ first review under the Stand-By Arrangement and the Financing Assurances Review is presented. Economic activity is estimated to have been flat in 2011, as continued weakness in the construction sector offset the moderate recovery in tourism and...