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This paper develops a calibrated dynamic stochastic general equilibrium model incorporating a banking sector and some unique features of China's macroeconomic policies to simulate China's monetary and macroprudential policies. The quantitative results show, first, that the interest rate is a better instrument for China's monetary policy than the required reserve ratio (RRR) when the central bank is solely concerned about price stability; second, that the loan-to-value ratio is a very useful macroprudential tool for China's financial stability, and the RRR could be used as an instrument for both objectives; third, monetary and macroprudential policies could be either complements or substitutes in China, depending on the choices of instruments for the two policies. Our policy experiments recommend three combination choices of instruments for China's monetary and macroprudential policies. (JEL codes: E52, E61and G18) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper looks at the ‘new normal’ in so many of the world's central banks, and specifically the UK. It examines the position of the monetary policy framework, instrument settings, the underlying models, unconventional policy measures, real interest rates, and the interface with macroprudential policy. It explores both the advantages and challenges involved in any move to return towards pre-crisis arrangements, and offers suggestions for possible ways in which current policy dilemmas might be resolved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding how import prices adjust to exchange rates helps anticipate inflation effects and monetary policy responses. This article examines exchange rate pass-through to the monthly import price index in South Africa during 1980–2009. Short-horizon pass-through estimates are calculated using both single equation equilibrium correction models and systems (Johansen) models, controlling for both domestic and foreign costs. Average pass-through is incomplete at about 50 per cent within a year and 30 per cent in six months, and in the long-run, from the Johansen analysis including feedback effects, is about 55 per cent. There is evidence of slower pass-through under inflation targeting; pass-through is found to decline with recent exchange rate volatility and there is evidence for asymmetry, with greater pass-through occurring for small appreciations. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Discusses the links between inflation and monetary and fiscal policy variables. Discussion of how inflation and the ratio of interest-bearing debt to national income, are determined in the long-run; Consequences of changes in fiscal parameters, the currency/bond financing mix for the budget deficit and the rates of growth and real interest; Issue of ambiguity surrounding future fiscal policy.