Monetary and fiscal policy interaction in the Euro area with different assumptions on the Phillips curve

In this paper we carry over a static version of a New Keynesian Macro Model developed in previous papers (see Bofinger, Mayer, and Wollmershäuser 2002) to a monetary union. For a similar approach see (Uhlig 2002). We will show in particular that a harmonious functioning of a monetary union critically depends on the correlation of shocks that hit the currency area. Additionally a high degree of integration in product markets is advantageous for the ECB as it prevents that national real interest rates can drive a wedge between macroeconomic outcomes across member states. In particular small countries are in a vulnerable position exposed to asymmetric shocks and therefore in need for fiscal policy as an independent stabilization agent with room to breath.