Questions about external competitiveness, exchange rate misalignment, and the appropriate exchange rate policy feature prominently in the Russian policy debate. This paper furthers the debate by estimating empirically Russia''s equilibrium real exchange rate (ERER)-that is, the rate consistent...

In this paper we construct indices of transparency of monetary and financial policies, based on self-evaluations carried out by 135 IMF member countries in 1999, and use them to identify transparency patterns across different policies and country groups. We find that across all countries,...

Following an evaluation of the first Poverty Reduction Strategy Framework (PRSF) of Mali, the government adopted the Growth and Poverty Reduction Strategy Framework (GPRSF) document, which aims at reducing poverty and achieving the MDGs. The Accelerated Growth Strategy, which maintains...

The Cameroonian authorities found irregularities while implementing the first Poverty Reduction Strategy Paper (PRSP). The process of revising the strategy of PRSP I has resulted in the growth and employment strategy paper (GESP), designed for achieving the MDGs and realizing the vision with...

Sweden was among the first to falter in the great recession. The downturn was mitigated by aggressive stabilization policies, led by a sharp relaxation of monetary policy, a slew of emergency financial sector support measures, and actions raising bank capital. The policy actions taken were...

The Icelandic government has launched a review of the tax system, with a view to improving its income redistribution, growth orientation, and efficiency features, as well as increasing its revenue mobilization potential. It aims at minimizing detrimental effects on employment and growth, and at...

Five priority programs were identified to help stabilize the economy and lay the groundwork for equitable growth. The government's priority with this core strategy is to enhance macroeconomic management, government operations, and effective fiscal management to promote domestic and international...

Over the past several years, Nepal has pursued a prudent fiscal policy, which has resulted in a significant reduction of public debt as a percentage of GDP. This paper reexamines the fiscal stance in Nepal in light of recent developments. The optimal level of the fiscal deficit is constrained by...

This technical paper focuses on the challenges faced by Paraguay’s budget resources. Paraguay’s government should adopt a forward-looking fiscal strategy. The strategy’s main goals should be to contain budget dependence on Itaipu revenues, preserve fiscal discipline, and allow for the...

This Article IV Consultation reports that the overall balance of the central government of Paraguay is expected to be in equilibrium, while the central bank intends to withdraw excess liquidity as necessary to limit inflation to no more than 5 percent. Executive Directors commended the...