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Is the exchange rate a shock absorber? The shocks matter

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  • Beckmann, Joscha
  • Breitenlechner, Max
  • Scharler, Johann

Abstract

This paper provides a new perspective on the relationship between exchange rate fluctuations and business cycle dynamics by focusing on the underlying macroeconomic shocks. We study how domestic and global macroeconomic shocks, which we identify using zero and sign restrictions, are transmitted through exchange rate adjustments in 8 small open economies. Based on a counterfactual analysis, we find that the capacity of the exchange rate to absorb business cycle fluctuations depends on the underlying shock and differs across the short and the medium run. Following domestic aggregate demand shocks, endogenous exchange rate dynamics stabilize real GDP, primarily in the short run, and inflation dynamics over the medium run, while they amplify the effects of monetary policy shocks. Following domestic aggregate supply as well as global shocks the exchange rate exerts only small effects.

Suggested Citation

  • Beckmann, Joscha & Breitenlechner, Max & Scharler, Johann, 2024. "Is the exchange rate a shock absorber? The shocks matter," International Review of Economics & Finance, Elsevier, vol. 89(PB), pages 114-130.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:reveco:v:89:y:2024:i:pb:p:114-130
    DOI: 10.1016/j.iref.2023.08.005
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Exchange rates; Structural vector autoregressions; Zero and sign restrictions; Counterfactuals;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • C32 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Multiple or Simultaneous Equation Models; Multiple Variables - - - Time-Series Models; Dynamic Quantile Regressions; Dynamic Treatment Effect Models; Diffusion Processes; State Space Models
    • E32 - Macroeconomics and Monetary Economics - - Prices, Business Fluctuations, and Cycles - - - Business Fluctuations; Cycles
    • F31 - International Economics - - International Finance - - - Foreign Exchange
    • F44 - International Economics - - Macroeconomic Aspects of International Trade and Finance - - - International Business Cycles

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