This blog post considers the theory and practice of monetary policy, particularly in the context of inflation targeting regimes such as the one recently adopted by the Bank of Jamaica (BOJ). We discuss factors affecting domestic prices, particularly in the context of persistently-low inflation when monetary authorities begin running out of scope for further conventional … [Read more...] about Pushing on a string? Low inflation and the curious case of monetary policy near the zero bound
Sustainable Development in the Caribbean: The Importance of Financial Access and Inclusion
In a recent publication “Financial Depth, Access, and Inclusion in the Caribbean” (March 2019), IDB economists from across the Caribbean region review the linked issues of financial development, access, and inclusion, with a view to identifying trends, common features, and potential areas for reform. The importance of financial access and inclusion for inclusive and sustainable … [Read more...] about Sustainable Development in the Caribbean: The Importance of Financial Access and Inclusion
Fiscal Councils: Cutting edge fiscal architecture, or panacea?
Independent fiscal councils are among the most recent innovations in terms of the architecture of fiscal institutions. The first council was established just after World War II, and by 2016, 37 countries had implemented them across the world—most of these in the wake of the global financial crisis that began in 2008. Caribbean countries are just the latest frontier in the … [Read more...] about Fiscal Councils: Cutting edge fiscal architecture, or panacea?
Why is financial inclusion so important, and what common challenges does Jamaica face? (Part 2)
Despite tremendous strides towards economic stabilization, fiscal responsibility, and debt reduction, financial sector depth and development in Jamaica lags behind many of its peers. Recent improvements in institutional capacity, policy discipline, and structural factors suggest that there is considerable scope to accelerate financial sector development and to broaden access … [Read more...] about Why is financial inclusion so important, and what common challenges does Jamaica face? (Part 2)
What’s holding back financial deepening and development in Jamaica? (Part 1)
Despite tremendous strides towards economic stabilization, fiscal responsibility, and debt reduction, financial sector development, access, and inclusion in Jamaica lag behind many of its peers. Recent improvements in institutional capacity, policy discipline, and structural factors suggest that there is considerable scope to accelerate financial sector development and to … [Read more...] about What’s holding back financial deepening and development in Jamaica? (Part 1)