This Selected Issues paper on Algeria reports that the authorities have relied on an expansionary fiscal stance to stimulate growth and employment, but structural reforms have virtually stalled. Although the economy has recorded increasing growth, the nonhydrocarbon sector remains small and...

This paper describes potential benefits from Canada's expanding oil sands production, higher energy exports, and further improvements in the terms of trade. Contrary to the previous Canadian exchange rate literature, this paper finds that both energy and nonenergy commodity prices have an...

This paper undertakes an investigation into the efficiency of the crude oil futures market and the forecasting accuracy of futures prices. Efficiency of the market is analysed in terms of the expected excess returns to speculation in the futures market. Accuracy of futures prices is compared...

The Gulf of Guinea's tremendous potential is creating investment opportunities for the region. Some of its resources, such as oil, minerals, and forests, continue to attract significant investments whereas others, like natural gas, could be exploited to their full potential if necessary...

There has been a growing recognition of the importance of transparency for economic growth and social development in oil producing countries. This paper analyzes transparency issues in Cameroon's oil sector. It shows that, while substantial efforts have already been undertaken, continued action...

Budget revenue in FY2006/07 amounted to 42 percent of GDP, with hydrocarbon revenue mirroring rising oil prices. The current account recorded a surplus of about 31 percent of GDP in 2006. Monetary conditions were characterized by ample liquidity and strong credit growth. Qatar’s...

Kuwait’s 2006 Article IV Consultation reports that its macroeconomic performance has been strong in recent years reflecting sharply higher oil and non-oil activity. Over the medium term, Kuwait’s financial position is projected to remain strong. The large external current account...