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Democratization and real exchange rates

Author

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  • Furlan, Benjamin

    (University of Salzburg)

  • Gächter, Martin

    (Foreign Research Division, Oesterreichische Nationalbank)

  • Krebs, Bob

    (Economics and Research Department, Banque centrale du Luxembourg)

  • Oberhofer, Harald

    (University of Salzburg)

Abstract

This paper empirically assesses how democratization affects real exchange rates. Specifically, in line with the democratic peace theory we argue that democratization reduces currency undervaluation, and thus, might bring misalignments in foreign exchange markets to an end. We test this hypothesis for a sample of countries observed from 1980 to 2007. Econometrically, we combine a difference-in-difference (DID) approach with propensity score matching estimators. Our estimation results reveal that democratization causes real exchange rates to appreciate, lending empirical support to the democratic peace theory in this specific economic context.

Suggested Citation

  • Furlan, Benjamin & Gächter, Martin & Krebs, Bob & Oberhofer, Harald, 2012. "Democratization and real exchange rates," Working Papers in Economics 2012-6, University of Salzburg, revised 28 Oct 2013.
    • Handle: RePEc:ris:sbgwpe:2012_006
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Real exchange rates; democratization; democratic peace theory; difference-in-differences-estimator; matching estimators;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • C21 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Single Equation Models; Single Variables - - - Cross-Sectional Models; Spatial Models; Treatment Effect Models
    • C23 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Single Equation Models; Single Variables - - - Models with Panel Data; Spatio-temporal Models
    • F02 - International Economics - - General - - - International Economic Order and Integration
    • F31 - International Economics - - International Finance - - - Foreign Exchange
    • F59 - International Economics - - International Relations, National Security, and International Political Economy - - - Other
    • N20 - Economic History - - Financial Markets and Institutions - - - General, International, or Comparative

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