In 2008, Jamaica was hit by the world economic downturn when it was already plagued by years of weak economic performance as well as high and increasing debt levels. As a result of the additional pressure from the global financial crisis, Jamaica's fiscal situation quickly became unsustainable. Starting in 2010, Jamaica’s government took decisive actions, including two domestic … [Read more...] about Jamaica’s Economic Stabilization Program: Four Lessons from its Debt Operations
Economy & Investment
Pushing on a string? Low inflation and the curious case of monetary policy near the zero bound
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
The women lighting up rural Suriname
On the occasion of International Women’s Day 2019, we shine the spotlight on some of Suriname’s rural women who are being credited with leading the expansion of the country’s electricity supply. A 24-hour supply of electricity is a top priority for the South American nation of Suriname. However, despite its obvious benefits, many villagers in rural communities are reluctant … [Read more...] about The women lighting up rural Suriname
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?