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Panel discussion on the European Economy. 16th Dubrovnik Economic Conference June 2010 Athanasios Vamvakidis International Monetary Fund. The author’s views, not necessarily the IMF’s. Outline. Fiscal risks to the fore in advanced Europe When Greece sneezes, who gets a cold?
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Panel discussion on the European Economy 16th Dubrovnik Economic Conference June 2010 Athanasios Vamvakidis International Monetary Fund
Outline • Fiscal risks to the fore in advanced Europe • When Greece sneezes, who gets a cold? • Can everyone become more competitive? • Don’t forget emerging Europe • Recent policy initiatives in Europe and… • …what else can be done
How did we get here? July 2007 May 2010
Recent policies in South Europe to address unfavorable debt dynamics
Adjustment without macro support a challenge in Greece… Lower Interest Rates Weaker Currency Higher Exports Top 10 Past AM Consolidations Greece
Recent policy initiatives respond to financial sector contagion risks
A weaker euro could help; less so if driven by risk aversion
Structural reforms could address bottlenecks and foster growth
Vulnerabilities have declined but remain in emerging Europe…
Policies to address sovereign risks • Front-loaded deficit reduction in affected countries • Extended liquidity support and dollar swaps • ECB securities market program • Emergency loans (EU, IMF): Greece, EFSM, EFSF • Reforms to establish medium-term and long-term fiscal sustainability • Completion of financial sector repair • Structural reforms for growth • Reform of euro area fiscal governance