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A note on interpreting the beta-convergence effect

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  • Vu, K.M.

Abstract

This note elaborates on a potential misinterpretation of the convergence speeds that are associated with the beta-convergence effect. Practitioners and certain researchers often commit the common error of using the results from the logarithmic measure of the income gap to interpret the speed of convergence for the income gap in terms of levels. This mistake causes overstatements of the speed of convergence. These overstatements are more pronounced for developing countries than for developed countries. This note also implies that speeds of beta-convergence greater than the conventionally accepted rate of 2–3% are not implausible.

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  • Vu, K.M., 2013. "A note on interpreting the beta-convergence effect," Economics Letters, Elsevier, vol. 118(1), pages 46-49.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:ecolet:v:118:y:2013:i:1:p:46-49
    DOI: 10.1016/j.econlet.2012.09.008
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Beta-convergence effect; Economic growth; Speed of convergence; Developing countries; Steady state;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • O47 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Economic Growth and Aggregate Productivity - - - Empirical Studies of Economic Growth; Aggregate Productivity; Cross-Country Output Convergence

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