3,442 research outputs found
Globalization, markups and the natural rate of interest
In this paper, we investigate how, in a stylised theoretical framework, an increase in the degree of globalization - modelled as a deline in trade costs - affects the real natural rate of interest by impacting firms markups. Outlining a two- country dynamic general equilibrium model with endogenous elasticity of substitution between goods, we suggest two main propositions: 1) Globalization - via the impplied variation in markups - has a potentially significant impact on the natural rate of interest. 2) Simple, plausible markup dynamics may have contributed to explain the recent "conundrum" of world interest rates.globalization, natural interest rate, trade costs
Should central banks lean against changes in asset prices?
How should monetary policy be conducted in the presence of endogenous feedback loops between asset prices, firms’ financial health, and economic activity? We reconsider this question in the context of the financial accelerator model and show that, when the level of natural output is inefficient, the optimal monetary policy under commitment leans considerably against movements in asset prices and risk premia. We demonstrate that an endogenous feedback loop is crucial for this result and that price stability is otherwise quasi-optimal absent this feature. We also show that the optimal policy can be closely approximated and implemented using a speed-limit rule that places a substantial weight on the growth of financial variables.Monetary policy ; Asset pricing
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