A record current account deficit: causes and implications

Jack Hervey and Loula S. Merkel

Economic Perspectives, 2000, vol. 25, issue Q IV, 2-13

Abstract: The U.S. current account deficit was at a record level in 1999 and is expected to increase further in 2000. How large can this deficit get? Will an eventual adjustment in the deficit place the U.S. economy at risk? This article examines three arguments often put forth to explain the increase in the deficit--a consumption boom, the U.S. as a safe haven for short-term foreign capital and technological change affecting the U.S. economy. The authors find the strongest evidence in support of technological change and suggest why, under these conditions, an economic adjustment to the deficit need not to have as adverse an impact as some observes fear.

Keywords: Deficit financing; economic conditions - United States (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2000
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