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Is a monetary union feasible for Latin America? Evidence from real effective exchange rates and interest rate pass-through levels

Author

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  • Stephen McKnight

    (El Colegio de México)

  • Marco Robles Sánchez

    (Centro de Estudios Monetarios Latinoamericanos)

Abstract

This paper assesses the feasibility of forming a common currency in Latin America. First, we examine the cointegration and Granger causality of real effective exchange rates and find evidence supporting a monetary union comprised of Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Mexico, and Paraguay. Second, we examine the degree of heterogeneity in the transmission of monetary policy within the hypothetical monetary union. Considerable asymmetries in the pass-through levels of interest rates are found to exist indicating the need for substantial reforms before a Latin American monetary union could take place.

Suggested Citation

  • Stephen McKnight & Marco Robles Sánchez, 2014. "Is a monetary union feasible for Latin America? Evidence from real effective exchange rates and interest rate pass-through levels," Estudios Económicos, El Colegio de México, Centro de Estudios Económicos, vol. 29(2), pages 225-262.
    • Handle: RePEc:emx:esteco:v:29:y:2014:i:2:p:225-262
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    monetary union; cointegration; granger causality; interest rate pass-through; monetary policy;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • E43 - Macroeconomics and Monetary Economics - - Money and Interest Rates - - - Interest Rates: Determination, Term Structure, and Effects
    • E52 - Macroeconomics and Monetary Economics - - Monetary Policy, Central Banking, and the Supply of Money and Credit - - - Monetary Policy
    • F15 - International Economics - - Trade - - - Economic Integration
    • F33 - International Economics - - International Finance - - - International Monetary Arrangements and Institutions
    • F36 - International Economics - - International Finance - - - Financial Aspects of Economic Integration

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