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Internal Debt Crises and Sovereign Defaults

Author

Listed:
  • Narayana Kocherlakota

    (University of Minnesota)

  • Cristina Arellano

    (University of Minnesota)

Abstract

In this paper, we use data from developing countries to argue that sovereign defaults are often caused by fiscal pressures generated by large-scale domestic defaults. We argue that these systemic domestic defaults are caused by shocks best interpreted as being non-fundamental. We construct a model that is consistent with these observations. The key ingredient of the model is that it is impossible to liquidate large amounts of entrepreneurial assets. This restriction generates the possibility of a domestic coordinated default crisis, in which domestic borrowers find it optimal to default because all other borrowers are also defaulting. We conclude that avoiding sovereign defaults requires better internal institutions, not better external ones.

Suggested Citation

  • Narayana Kocherlakota & Cristina Arellano, 2008. "Internal Debt Crises and Sovereign Defaults," 2008 Meeting Papers 139, Society for Economic Dynamics.
    • Handle: RePEc:red:sed008:139
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    JEL classification:

    • F34 - International Economics - - International Finance - - - International Lending and Debt Problems
    • G33 - Financial Economics - - Corporate Finance and Governance - - - Bankruptcy; Liquidation

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