Economists are a depressing bunch. Our role is to anticipate and assess risks, which one could argue makes us too despondent. And if you’re lucky enough to get an optimistic outlook from one of us, it will follow by something like ‘on the other hand, the risks are skewed to the downside’. That said, we just published the December 2018 Caribbean Regional Quarterly Bulletin, … [Read more...] about The Caribbean Economic Outlook in Three Graphs
Economy & Investment
A friend in need is a friend indeed: IDB support for Barbados moves into high gear
An election year is always a very active period for the Inter-American Development Bank. Even when an incumbent administration is returned to office, this period signals that it is time for a new Country Strategy to be prepared, with new areas of intervention, goals and expected results. In Barbados, the general election on May 24th , 2018 was no ordinary change in government … [Read more...] about A friend in need is a friend indeed: IDB support for Barbados moves into high gear
Developing Geothermal Power in Small Islands Developing States
In order to develop geothermal power, abundant underground heat and steam is required, which is not that easy to find. At the same time, large investments are needed in assessing the resource, conducting exploratory drilling, constructing geothermal plants, and building transmission lines. Small Islands Developing States (SIDS), like those in the Eastern Caribbean, have the … [Read more...] about Developing Geothermal Power in Small Islands Developing States
Not Standing Still: Takeaways for Jamaica from the book “Nurturing Institutions for a Resilient Caribbean”
A new publication entitled, “Nurturing Institutions for a Resilient Caribbean” was recently launched in Jamaica. Strong interest in the subject and the lively discussion that ensued at the launch event highlights the importance of institutions for Jamaica’s future development. In this context, a chapter of the publication focused on Jamaica offers insights regarding four key … [Read more...] about Not Standing Still: Takeaways for Jamaica from the book “Nurturing Institutions for a Resilient Caribbean”
How The Bahamas’ Fiscal Responsibility Framework of 2018 will aid governance and accountability
The Bahamas’ Fiscal Responsibility Bill (FRB) 2018, can be compared with some standard principles that typically guide the formation of a Fiscal Responsibility Framework (FRF). Based on our examination, we conclude that the objectives of The Bahamas’ proposed FRF are clear, sound and are in accord with the typical objectives of a standard rules-based framework. We also find … [Read more...] about How The Bahamas’ Fiscal Responsibility Framework of 2018 will aid governance and accountability