Output Divergence in Fixed Exchange Rate Regimes: Is the Euro Area Growing Apart?

Yao Chen and Felix Ward

No 17902, CEPR Discussion Papers from C.E.P.R. Discussion Papers

Abstract: We show that output divergence is a long-run equilibrium characteristic of a two-region model with fixed exchange rates, heterogeneous labor markets, and endogenous growth. Under flexible exchange rates, region-specific monetary policies realize the maximum TFP growth in both regions. Upon fixing exchange rates, the common monetary policy pushes the region with higher wage inflation into a low-growth trap. When calibrated to the euro area, the model implies a slowdown in TFP growth in the euro area’s periphery relative to its core. Empirical tests confirm that countries with high wage inflation suffer lower TFP growth upon fixing the exchange rate.

JEL-codes: E50 F31 O40 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2023-02
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