Globalization & International Financial System

Economic globalization has given rise to frequent and severe financial crises in emerging market economies. Other countries are also unsuccessful in their efforts to generate economic growth and reduce poverty. This book provides perspectives on various aspects of the international financial system that contribute to financial crises and growth failures, and discusses the remedies that economists have proposed for addressing the underlying problems. It also sheds light on a central feature of the international financial system that remains mysterious to many economists and most non-economists: the activities of the International Monetary Fund and the factors that influence its effectiveness. Dr Isard offers policy perspectives on what countries can do to reduce their vulnerabilities to financial crises and growth failures, and a number of general directions for systemic reform. The breadth of the agenda provides grounds for optimism that the international financial system can be strengthened considerably without revolutionary change. • Demystifies the International Monetary Fund and elaborates on the factors that influence its effectiveness • Accessibly surveys the literature on the causes of international financial crises and current thinking about crisis prevention and resolution • Summarizes the factors that can stimulate or impede economic growth and poverty reduction, using no math'Peter Isard brings deep scholarship and experience to the bewildering array of problems surrounding the brave new world of globalized international finance. No single volume I know does a better job of evaluating the current international financial system and its history, and drawing sensible implications for national and global policy. This book will be required reading for every serious student of the world economy.' Maurice Obstfeld, University of California, Berkeley'A masterful survey of what ails the international financial system and how to fix it. Peter Isard writes with clarity, objectivity, and good sense. Anyone interested in the ongoing debate on globalization - and in particular, on the changing role of the IMF in the system - will find this book worthwhile reading.' Morris Goldstein, Institute for International Economics, Washington, DC'Peter Isard provides a thoughtful and thorough review of the accomplishments and challenges of the international financial system and its principal multilateral institution - the International Monetary Fund - in an era of inevitable, rapid globalization. He blends crisp analysis with deep institutional knowledge to produce an insightful and valuable tour de force.' Edwin M. Truman, Institute for International Economics'This book is a wonderful blend of economic analysis and front line experience with the mysterious world of international finance A serious read, it takes on two great problems of our times, recurrent financial crises and the failure of financial and economic development and sets out what we do and do not know about these problems. The IMF is a prominent player in this game and Isard provides an even handed and thorough explanation of what it does and why. Globalization is much maligned but little understood. This book provides a concise and accessible path to understanding.' Michael Dooley, University of California, Santa Cruz