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Current Account Imbalances and Structural Adjustment in the Euro Area: How to Rebalance Competitiveness

Author

Listed:
  • Zemanek, Holger

    (University of Leipzig)

  • Belke, Ansgar H.

    (University of Duisburg-Essen)

  • Schnabl, Gunther

    (University of Leipzig)

Abstract

Low international competitiveness of a set of euro area countries, which have become evident by large current account deficits and rising risk premiums on government bonds, is one of the most challenging economic policy issues for Europe. We analyse the role of private restructuring and public structural reforms for the urgently needed readjustment of intra-euro area imbalances. A panel regression reveals a significant impact of private restructuring and public structural reforms on intra-euro area competitiveness. This implies that private restructuring and public reforms are rather than public transfers the best way to preserve long-term economic stability in Europe.

Suggested Citation

  • Zemanek, Holger & Belke, Ansgar H. & Schnabl, Gunther, 2009. "Current Account Imbalances and Structural Adjustment in the Euro Area: How to Rebalance Competitiveness," IZA Policy Papers 7, Institute of Labor Economics (IZA).
    • Handle: RePEc:iza:izapps:pp7
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    interaction term; dynamic panel estimation; European Monetary Union; euro area; current account imbalances; competitiveness; structural reforms;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • E24 - Macroeconomics and Monetary Economics - - Consumption, Saving, Production, Employment, and Investment - - - Employment; Unemployment; Wages; Intergenerational Income Distribution; Aggregate Human Capital; Aggregate Labor Productivity
    • F15 - International Economics - - Trade - - - Economic Integration
    • F16 - International Economics - - Trade - - - Trade and Labor Market Interactions
    • F32 - International Economics - - International Finance - - - Current Account Adjustment; Short-term Capital Movements
    • F33 - International Economics - - International Finance - - - International Monetary Arrangements and Institutions

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