Timelines for Change: Timing Issues in Port Reforms
In port reform, timing isn’t just another detail — it represents the difference between a smooth transition and a stalled project. Master plans run for
Reinforced regional integration fosters inclusive growth and human development
Despite years of regional integration efforts, African countries trade more with Europe and Asia than with each other. This column estimates the gap between the
How AI chatbots can improve voter information
Citizens need clear, accessible information to make informed decisions, but today’s digital landscape can be overwhelming. This column tests whether an AI chatbot can ease
Prudential instruments and the recent inflationary episode
Since the Global Crisis, prudential instruments to address financial stability concerns have been enhanced and broadly adopted across countries. Using the recently updated International Banking
Loose monetary policy, dollar depreciation, and debt sustainability: Do not forget Venice
History suggests that using lax monetary policy and a weaker currency to address debt sustainability is a dangerous game. This column revisits a unique early
Europe’s trade surplus, international relative prices, and the productivity growth gap
The euro area faces persistently weak productivity growth alongside a sustained trade surplus and a trendless real exchange rate. This column shows that persistent productivity
Unlocking SME growth: Key lessons from Ecuador’s loan program
Governments and development institutions spend billions to help small businesses access financing, hoping this will create jobs and support inclusive economic growth. But we don’t
How institutions interact with exchange rates after the 2024 US presidential election
Within minutes of the result of the 2024 US presidential election becoming clear, it triggered a global tremor in currency markets. This column investigates how
The financial sector and global dollar system
The current US administration’s approach to financial markets and institutions mixes familiar deregulatory policies with a range of other policies that are largely without precedent.
Industrial policy and retaliatory protection under the WTO: Lessons from China
Industrial policy is increasingly implemented worldwide, with many policymakers and researchers highlighting its benefits. However, the cost of industrial policy remains less understood. Using Chinese
