Transition to FDI Openness: Reconciling Theory and Evidence

Ellen McGrattan

No 16774, NBER Working Papers from National Bureau of Economic Research, Inc

Abstract: Empirical studies quantifying the economic effects of increased foreign direct investment (FDI) have not provided conclusive evidence that they are positive, as theory predicts. This paper shows that the lack of empirical evidence is consistent with theory if countries are in transition to FDI openness. Anticipated welfare gains lead to temporary declines in domestic investment and employment. Also, growth measures miss some intangible FDI, which is expensed from company profits. The reconciliation of theory and evidence is accomplished with a multicountry dynamic general equilibrium model parameterized with data from a sample of 104 countries during 1980-2005. Although no systematic benefits of FDI openness are found, the model demonstrates that the eventual gains in growth and welfare can be huge, especially for small countries.

JEL-codes: E01 E2 F21 F23 F36 F41 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2011-02
Note: AP EFG
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (5)

Published as Ellen McGrattan, 2012. "Transition to FDI Openness: Reconciling Theory and Evidence," Review of Economic Dynamics, Elsevier for the Society for Economic Dynamics, vol. 15(4), pages 437-458, October.

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Journal Article: Transition to FDI Openness: Reconciling Theory and Evidence (2012)
Working Paper: Transition to FDI openness: reconciling theory and evidence (2012)
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