This paper provides evidence on the size, composition and cyclicality of discretionary tax measures (DTM), using a new database developed by the Output Gap Working Group. While their average magnitude is fairly limited over a long period with discretionary tax cuts being offset by discretionary...

The cyclically-adjusted budget balance (CAB) is the backbone of the EU framework of fiscal surveillance, both in its preventive and corrective arms. The concept corresponds to the budget balance prevailing if the economy was running at potential. After correcting for the one-off and temporary...

This paper investigates how tax revenue elasticities develop with respect to their tax base and analyses the specific impact of the business cycle. The main novelty of the paper is to use revenue data net of discretionary tax measures. Based on an EU country panel for the period 2001-13, we...

The cyclically-adjusted budget balance (CAB) is the backbone of the EU framework of fiscal surveillance, both in its preventive and corrective arms. The concept corresponds to the budget balance prevailing if the economy was running at potential. After correcting for the one-off and temporary...

The paper consists in the proceedings of the workshop organised by the Directorate General for Economic and Financial Affairs held in Brussels on 18 October 2012. Against the background of severe consolidation needs in many EU Member States, the workshop addressed the macroeconomic impact and...

A country's tax system affects its government revenues but also has broader economic and societal implications. The question how to effectively address these different dimensions is at the fore of policy discussions in the EU and its Member States. Carefully designed tax systems can help...

Tax reforms in EU Member States to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of tax systems can contribute to the stability of public finances; boost economic growth, employment and competitiveness; and improve social fairness. Applying an indicator-based approach, this report identifies the tax...

A country's tax system affects its government revenues but also has broader economic and societal implications. The question how to effectively address these different dimensions is at the fore of policy discussions in the EU and its Member States. Carefully designed tax systems can help...