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Fiscal Decentralization, Macrostability And Growth

Author

Listed:
  • Jorge Martínez-Vázquez

    (Georgia State University)

  • Robert M. McNab

    (Defense Resources Management Institute and Naval Postgraduate School)

Abstract

This paper examines how fiscal decentralization may influence economic growth. Previous research on this question has primarily focused on the direct relationship between decentralization and growth. In this paper, we also incorporate the potential indirect influence of decentralization on growth through its impact on macroeconomic stability. We build an augmented neoclassical model of economic growth that allows for both the direct and indirect effects of fiscal decentralization on economic growth. Using panel data, we find that decentralization appears to reduce the rate of inflation in the sample countries, does not appear to directly influence economic growth, and has an indirect, positive effect on growth through its positive influence on macroeconomic stability. An important contribution of the paper is to identify the role of the indirect effects of fiscal decentralization on economic growth.

Suggested Citation

  • Jorge Martínez-Vázquez & Robert M. McNab, "undated". "Fiscal Decentralization, Macrostability And Growth," Working Papers 11-03 Classification-JEL , Instituto de Estudios Fiscales.
    • Handle: RePEc:hpe:wpaper:y:2003:i:11
    as

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    References listed on IDEAS

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Fiscal Decentralization; Economic Growth; Macroeconomic Stability.;
    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
    • H77 - Public Economics - - State and Local Government; Intergovernmental Relations - - - Intergovernmental Relations; Federalism
    • O20 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Development Planning and Policy - - - General
    • O40 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Economic Growth and Aggregate Productivity - - - General

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