Powering the energy future of Europe and Central Asia
The prosperity and economic transformation of Europe and Central Asia (ECA) hinge on making energy reliable and affordable for all. Across the region, many countries
Keeping an eye on budgetary forecasts: The new Forecast Tracker of the Secretariat of the European Fiscal Board
Forecasts underpinning budgetary plans have a well-documented impact on fiscal performance especially when policymakers view the world through rosy lenses. Combined with inertia in the
Default to mum: How institutions quietly shape gender roles in parenting
Mothers continue to shoulder the majority of childcare responsibilities even in dual-earner households, contributing to gender gaps in earnings, labour force participation, and career advancement.
Micro and macro cost-price dynamics in normal times and during inflation surges
Recent evolutions in US attitudes and policies have raised questions about the future of the dollar’s role in the global economy. This column explores a
Japan to raise foreign direct investment target to $1trln by mid-2030s, sources say
The new targets, to be formally included in the government’s upcoming fiscal and economic policy guidelines in June, represent a sharp escalation from the previous
Fiscal stagnation
Public debt-to-GDP ratios have climbed to historic highs in most advanced economies. This column studies the connection between productivity growth, fiscal policy, and public debt.
Bridging the gap: revenue mobilization in South Asia
South Asia is grappling with significant fiscal challenges that affect its governments’ ability to provide essential public services. Although its tax rates are often higher
Disentangling trade policy uncertainty and equity market performance
Despite headlines dominated by threats and implementations of US and retaliatory tariffs since President Trump’s inauguration, it was not until his “Liberation Day” announcement on
Expanding private insurance for long-term care to reduce public spending
As populations age, the demand for long-term care will increase dramatically. This column argues that markets for long-term care insurance in the US have failed
The Nordic model of wage coordination at a crossroads
Strong coordination of wage setting has been maintained in Nordic countries through pattern bargaining. The tradables sector sets the first agreement, which then serves as
