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Transparency and central bank losses in developing countries

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  • Sweidan, Osama D.
  • Widner, Benjamin

Abstract

Recent evidence shows central banks suffering from losses in some developing countries. This is a surprise to economists and policymakers. At the same time, these banks are asked to conduct monetary policy within a more transparent framework. Therefore, this paper seeks to answer the following question: Would more transparency in developing countries suffering from central bank losses be beneficial? This paper shows that the cost constraints of conducting monetary policy, central bank losses, in both transparency and opacity alike is significant and affects positively the error of the private sector in expected inflation rate and the output gap. In a country suffering from central bank losses, the expected benefits of transparency and the existence of cost constraint move in two opposite directions. As a result, it is unwise for developing countries suffering from central bank losses to focus on transparency. Priority should be given to fixing monetary policy and to developing financial markets.

Suggested Citation

  • Sweidan, Osama D. & Widner, Benjamin, 2008. "Transparency and central bank losses in developing countries," Research in Economics, Elsevier, vol. 62(1), pages 45-54, March.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:reecon:v:62:y:2008:i:1:p:45-54
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

    1. Julien Pinter, 2018. "Does Central Bank Financial Strength Really Matter for Inflation? The Key Role of the Fiscal Support," Open Economies Review, Springer, vol. 29(5), pages 911-952, November.
    2. Camos, Daniel & Estache, Antonio & Hamid, Mohamad M., 2024. "The macroeconomic costs of energy policies: Quasi-fiscal deficit in the Middle East and North Africa," Energy Economics, Elsevier, vol. 133(C).
    3. Osama Sweidan, 2010. "Central bank inability and Taylor rule in developing countries," International Review of Economics, Springer;Happiness Economics and Interpersonal Relations (HEIRS), vol. 57(4), pages 395-409, December.
    4. Perera, Anil & Ralston, Deborah & Wickramanayake, Jayasinghe, 2013. "Central bank financial strength and inflation: Is there a robust link?," Journal of Financial Stability, Elsevier, vol. 9(3), pages 399-414.

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