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Inequality, Fiscal Policy and COVID19 Restrictions in a Demand-Determined Economy

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  • Alan J. Auerbach
  • Yuriy Gorodnichenko
  • Daniel Murphy

Abstract

We evaluate the effects of inequality, fiscal policy, and COVID19 restrictions in a model of economic slack with potentially rigid capital operating costs. Inequality has large negative effects on output, while also diminishing the effects of demand-side fiscal stimulus. COVID restrictions can reduce current-period GDP by more than is directly associated with the restrictions themselves when rigid capital costs induce firm exit. Higher inequality is associated with larger restriction multipliers. The effectiveness of fiscal policies depends on inequality and the joint distribution of capital operating costs and firm revenues. Furthermore, COVID19 restrictions can cause future inflation, as households tilt their expenditure toward the future.

Suggested Citation

  • Alan J. Auerbach & Yuriy Gorodnichenko & Daniel Murphy, 2020. "Inequality, Fiscal Policy and COVID19 Restrictions in a Demand-Determined Economy," NBER Working Papers 27366, National Bureau of Economic Research, Inc.
    • Handle: RePEc:nbr:nberwo:27366
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    JEL classification:

    • E32 - Macroeconomics and Monetary Economics - - Prices, Business Fluctuations, and Cycles - - - Business Fluctuations; Cycles
    • E62 - Macroeconomics and Monetary Economics - - Macroeconomic Policy, Macroeconomic Aspects of Public Finance, and General Outlook - - - Fiscal Policy; Modern Monetary Theory
    • H2 - Public Economics - - Taxation, Subsidies, and Revenue

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