Hagemann, describing the IMF's methodology to calculate the output gap, shows that no standardised procedure is imposed for all countries, though the production function approach tends to dominate. For some countries, the estimates of the IMF are based on direct HP filtering. The HP filter is...

Generational accounts provide answers to a simple question: how much will future generations have to pay in net taxes as compared to today`s generations? In this paper, we review the concept of generational accounting and provide estimates for Sweden, where public finances deteriorated...

This paper describes the methodology used by the IMF staff to calculate the structural budget balance, estimates of which are published regularly in the IMF`s World Economic Outlook. The structural budget balance is the government`s actual fiscal position purged of the estimated budgetary...

Demographic changes, such as those anticipated in most OECD countries, have many economics effects that impinge on a country's fiscal viability. Evaluation of the effects of associated changes in capital-labor ratios and the welfare and behavior of different generations requires the use of a...

Demographic changes, such as those anticipated in most OECD countries, have many economic effects that impinge on a country's fiscal viability. Evaluation of the effects of associated changes in capital-labour ratios and the welfare and behaviour of different generations requires the use of a...

This paper examines the question of tax reform in OECD countries. First, the reasons for tax reform are reviewed. These include economic efficiency arguments as well as concerns about equity which are often a major consideration. Next, the paper considers the many factors which constrain...

Hungary has faced a considerable challenge to regain credibility following persistent and high fiscal deficits. Efforts during recent years have produced substantial results. The fiscal deficit has been brought down significantly and, despite the recession, fiscal consolidation has continued to...