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How many currencies in Saarc countries? a multivariate structural var approach

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  • Md. Abdur Rahman Forhad

    (Dhaka University of Engineering and Technology, Bangladesh)

Abstract

This paper examines whether or not the South Asian Association Regional Cooperation (SAARC), can introduce a single currency across the region. A four-variable structural vector autoregressive (SVAR) model is used to identify the underlying shocks and to examine the correlation in shocks for a specified sample period of 1974-2010. The results show asymmetric correlations among domestic shocks, which do not suggest forming a common currency area across the region. The paper also finds lower factor mobility; lower degree of intra-regional trades, and lack of political cooperation, suggesting the SAARC countries are not yet ready to introduce a common currency.

Suggested Citation

  • Md. Abdur Rahman Forhad, 2014. "How many currencies in Saarc countries? a multivariate structural var approach," Journal of Developing Areas, Tennessee State University, College of Business, vol. 48(4), pages 265-286, October-D.
    • Handle: RePEc:jda:journl:vol.48:year:2014:issue4:pp:265-286
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    SAARC; common currency; SVAR;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • E52 - Macroeconomics and Monetary Economics - - Monetary Policy, Central Banking, and the Supply of Money and Credit - - - Monetary Policy
    • E58 - Macroeconomics and Monetary Economics - - Monetary Policy, Central Banking, and the Supply of Money and Credit - - - Central Banks and Their Policies
    • E59 - Macroeconomics and Monetary Economics - - Monetary Policy, Central Banking, and the Supply of Money and Credit - - - Other
    • F15 - International Economics - - Trade - - - Economic Integration

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