We study the composition of bank loan portfolios during the transition of the real sec-tor to a knowledge economy where firms increasingly use intangible capital. Exploiting heterogeneity in bank exposure to the compositional shift from tangible to intangible capital, we show that exposed banks...

The economy of Honduras contracted as a result of the global economic crisis. In the economic policy area, the authorities gave priority to strengthening the financial position of the public sector and restarting the external assistance. Measures are taken to strengthen the fiscal position, in...

This paper presents key findings of the Second Review for the Kyrgyz Republic under the Extended Credit Facility. Buoyant revenue collection and significant shortfalls in external financing led to a lower-than-programmed fiscal deficit for 2011. The overall health of the banking sector continued...

This paper discusses key findings of the Fourth Review for the Central African Republic (CAR) under the three-year arrangement under the Poverty Reduction and Growth Facility (PRGF). Short-term fiscal policy of the CAR attempts to stabilize demand through government spending while preserving...

This paper discusses Togo’s progress under the Enhanced Heavily Indebted Poor Countries (HIPC) Initiative. In November 2008, the Boards of Executive Directors of the IDA and the IMF agreed that Togo had met the requirements for reaching the decision point under the Enhanced HIPC...

The Kyrgyz Republic has stabilized with the formation of a new coalition, but political uncertainty remains. Despite a slump in gold production and delays in donor financing, monetary and fiscal policies remained prudent. Improving the business climate, good governance, and strong institutions...

In this study, macroeconomic development, its performance, and outlook are reviewed. Narrowing of the infrastructure gap and public financial management (PFM) are focused to safeguard investment quality. Fiscal reform has been introduced to improve the design of the tax system and to strengthen...

This paper discusses key findings of the Second Review Under the Poverty Reduction and Growth Facility for Albania. The outlook for 2007 is positive, with growth projected at 6 percent. These developments owe much to good macroeconomic policies. All quantitative program targets were met. The...