The euro area (EA) plays a major role in the global economy. Market perceptions of events in the EA program countries illustrate the possibility of large spillovers from the area in times of stress. The prospect of large spillovers underscores the urgent need for actions to contain, and...

Paraguay weathered the global economic crisis well, supported by an appropriate policy response. The strong rebound of economic growth has given rise to overheating pressures. Policies need to adjust further to ensure a soft landing of the economy. The banking system remains sound, but there is...

This paper investigates the determinants of FDI inflows to emerging market economies, concentrating on the effects of economic policies. The empirical analysis also addresses the role of external push factors and of political stability using a domestic conflict events database. The results...

Korea has made a spectacular recovery from the Asian crisis. Executive Directors commended this developments, and stressed the need to implement monetary and fiscal polices. They commended the structural reforms, and emphasized the need to strengthen the asset management sector. They welcomed...

A decade of strong expansion in the Spanish economy led by a credit-fueled housing boom was hit by three major shocks. The policy response to Spain’s economic challenges has been strong and wide-ranging, helping to strengthen market confidence. A decisive implementation of the envisaged...

This 1999 Article IV Consultation highlights that since the early 1990s, Barbados has been experiencing steady economic growth founded on prudent economic management and generally favorable external conditions. Economic policy has incorporated fiscal and wage restraint, consistent with the...

Kosovo is still in the process of building key social and economic institutions. Economic performance over the past decade has been robust, but growth has been tilted toward domestic demand, fuelled by transfers and non-debt creating capital inflows. The adoption of the euro provides a strong...

The U.S. economy continues to recover at a modest pace, in line with international experience following severe financial crises. The key priority for fiscal policy is to stabilize the debt ratio and gradually reduce it. The fiscal framework should include an endorsement of the main medium-term...

This paper reviews Albania’s 1999 Article IV Consultation, Request for the Second Annual Arrangement Under the Enhanced Structural Adjustment Facility, and a Request for Augmentation. Inflation fell to 2 percent in March 1999. The return to growth and low inflation reflected the government's...

This 1999 Article IV Consultation highlights that the Netherlands posted a strong economic performance during the 1990s, based on sound macroeconomic policies and complementary and interlocking reforms to fiscal policy, social security, and labor and product markets. Robust real GDP growth was...