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Optimal Fiscal Policy in a Small Open Economy: Insights from the Growth Model with Human Capital and Public Debt

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  • Michał Konopczyński

    (Poznań University of Economics)

Abstract

This paper investigates the linkages between economic growth and fiscal policy under perfect capital mobility. The model incorporates wide range of fiscal policy instruments: the budget deficit, the structure of public debt, public expenditures on education, public consumption, and four tax rates. We prove that two tax rates – on consumption and interest on government bonds held by domestic lenders – are neutral for economic growth: both for the balance growth path (BGP), and for transitory dynamics. All other parameters of fiscal policy are not neutral. Theoretical results are illustrated with an empirical analysis for Poland based on post-global financial crisis data for the Polish economy (2009–2018). Numerical simulations show that if fiscal policy remains unchanged, Polish economy will converge to the BGP with GDP growing at 2.3%. The best way to accelerate growth is to increase public investment in education. The other budgetary policy instruments are less effective in shaping economic growth.

Suggested Citation

  • Michał Konopczyński, 2022. "Optimal Fiscal Policy in a Small Open Economy: Insights from the Growth Model with Human Capital and Public Debt," Central European Journal of Economic Modelling and Econometrics, Central European Journal of Economic Modelling and Econometrics, vol. 14(2), pages 131-160, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:psc:journl:v:14:y:2022:i:2:p:131-160
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    optimal fiscal policy; economic growth; human capital; budget deficit; public debt;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • E62 - Macroeconomics and Monetary Economics - - Macroeconomic Policy, Macroeconomic Aspects of Public Finance, and General Outlook - - - Fiscal Policy; Modern Monetary Theory
    • F43 - International Economics - - Macroeconomic Aspects of International Trade and Finance - - - Economic Growth of Open Economies
    • H6 - Public Economics - - National Budget, Deficit, and Debt
    • H52 - Public Economics - - National Government Expenditures and Related Policies - - - Government Expenditures and Education
    • H63 - Public Economics - - National Budget, Deficit, and Debt - - - Debt; Debt Management; Sovereign Debt
    • I2 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Education

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