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Real Exchange Rates and Sectoral Productivity in the Eurozone

Author

Listed:
  • Martin Berka

    (University of Auckland)

  • Michael B. Devereux

    (University of British Columbia)

  • Charles Engel

    (University of Wisconsin at Madison)

Abstract

We investigate the link between real exchange rates and sectoral TFP for Eurozone countries. We show that real exchange rate variation, both cross-country and time series, closely accords with an amended Balassa-Samuelson interpretation, incorporating sectoral productivity shocks and a labor market wedge. We construct a DSGE model to generate a cross-section and time series of real exchange rates to compare to data. Estimates from simulated regressions are very similar to estimates for Eurozone data. Our findings contrast with previous studies that have found little relationship between productivity and real exchange rates among high-income countries that have floating nominal exchange rates.

Suggested Citation

  • Martin Berka & Michael B. Devereux & Charles Engel, 2017. "Real Exchange Rates and Sectoral Productivity in the Eurozone," GRU Working Paper Series GRU_2017_009, City University of Hong Kong, Department of Economics and Finance, Global Research Unit.
    • Handle: RePEc:cth:wpaper:gru_2017_009
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Balassa-Samuelson; Real Exchange Rates; Eurozone; Total Factor Productivity; Labor Wedge; Unit Labor Cost;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • F41 - International Economics - - Macroeconomic Aspects of International Trade and Finance - - - Open Economy Macroeconomics
    • F31 - International Economics - - International Finance - - - Foreign Exchange

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