We estimate the extent to which idiosyncratic and disaggregate macro shocks (such as regional and industry shocks) are not shared in the economy. Comparing the degree to which idiosyncratic and disaggregate macro shocks are not shared grants a deeper understanding as to why the economy lacks in...

This paper looks at the advantages and disadvantages of mixing banking and commerce, using the "liquidity" approach to financial intermediation. Adding a commercial firm makes it easier for a bank to dispose of assets seized in a loan default. This 'internal market' increases the liquidity of...

Policy-makers have increasingly come to focus on the role of economic factors in fuelling or dampening regional and border conflicts. This issue can be highly relevant in the case of nonrecognized entities where some economic interests may benefit from the resulting distortions while others...