Suchergebnisse

Evaluates impacts of the global economic crisis on the euro & considers implications for EU fiscal policy. The situation of current & aspiring EU members is described & impacts on banking, inflation, & public debt are considered. Adapted from the source document.

The rhythm of financial development in south-eastern Europe has accelerated. In a setting of low inflation and robust growth, domestic credit and cross-border flows are expanding. This process can strengthen real convergence by supporting productivity gains that enhance competitiveness and a smooth servicing of external liabilities. But such an outcome is not guaranteed. It depends on a favourable investment climate. Otherwise a normal expansion of household borrowing and housing investment might not be balanced by rising financial support for the traded goods sector, implying weak foundations for sustained growth. EU Accession - with its potential for trade and investment integration, and an acquis-based strengthening of institutions - improves the chances of good outcomes. It also triggers accelerated financial development, including through the role of EU-15 banks. There is a setting that raises the stakes for policy: it can spur the expansion of the productive economy; but it can also magnify distortions, as seen in the proliferation of unhedged foreign currency borrowing. Prudent fiscal policies and bold structural reforms are needed to underpin the medium-term outlook for growth and forestall risks of financial stress.

This volume argues that a renewed commitment to sound macroeconomic policies and structural reforms is needed for countries in South East Europe, or 'the Balkans' achieve to sustainable prosperity, along with enhanced support from the international community. New fiscal and financial architecture has valuable lessons for policymakers in SEE