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The Effectiveness of Fiscal Stimulus Packages in Times of Crisis

Author

Listed:
  • Walpurga Köhler-Töglhofer
  • Lukas Reiss

    (Oesterreichische Nationalbank, Economic Analysis Division)

Abstract

This paper provides theoretical and empirical evidence on the effectiveness of discretionary fiscal policy in times of crisis. In “normal” times, a whole range of arguments speaks against the use of discretionary fiscal policy for stabilization purposes – yet amid the current sharp economic downturn, many of those arguments (such as implementation lags or low fiscal multipliers) have comparatively little weight. The OeNB estimates that the measures the Austrian government has adopted so far – an inflation package, two economic stimulus packages, personal income tax reform brought forward – will increase GDP by roughly ¾% and will provide for 12,000 additional jobs in 2009. The effects of those measures are expected to continue into 2010. However, as Austria’s debt ratio stands to increase substantially at the same time, the government would be well-advised to commit itself to cutting the deficit and debt ratios when the crisis is over.

Suggested Citation

  • Walpurga Köhler-Töglhofer & Lukas Reiss, 2009. "The Effectiveness of Fiscal Stimulus Packages in Times of Crisis," Monetary Policy & the Economy, Oesterreichische Nationalbank (Austrian Central Bank), issue Q1/09, pages 78-99.
    • Handle: RePEc:onb:oenbmp:y:2009:i:q1/09:b:5
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

    1. Christian Ragacs & Klaus Vondra, 2009. "Economic Crisis Unleashes Deep Recession in Austria – Stabilization Expected at Year-End," Monetary Policy & the Economy, Oesterreichische Nationalbank (Austrian Central Bank), issue 2, pages 6-40.

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    discretionary fiscal policy; effectiveness of fiscal policy; fiscal multipliers;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • E32 - Macroeconomics and Monetary Economics - - Prices, Business Fluctuations, and Cycles - - - Business Fluctuations; Cycles
    • E62 - Macroeconomics and Monetary Economics - - Macroeconomic Policy, Macroeconomic Aspects of Public Finance, and General Outlook - - - Fiscal Policy; Modern Monetary Theory
    • E65 - Macroeconomics and Monetary Economics - - Macroeconomic Policy, Macroeconomic Aspects of Public Finance, and General Outlook - - - Studies of Particular Policy Episodes

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