Questions and answers about
the economy.

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From crisis to stability: what next for Bolivia’s economy?

Bolivia is at a decisive moment in its modern economic and political history, after nearly two decades of dominance by the Movement Toward Socialism party. Whoever ends up taking charge will need to draw up an economic stabilisation programme – though implementing it will be challenging.

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Trade & supply chains

How has Brexit affected UK financial services?

Brexit has altered the way that UK financial firms are operating, particularly in their interactions with European partners. Since the referendum, British firms are exporting less but are investing more abroad, suggesting many have re-wired their strategies.

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Pizza eaten in the UK

Last week was International Beer and Pizza Day.

On average, people in the UK eat around 12 pizzas a year — but we’ve been ordering fewer takeaway pizzas in the last few years.

When it comes to beer, we drink around 10 pints each year. Consumption spiked during the Covid-19 pandemic, reaching about 14 pints (8 litres) per person.


Prices & interest rates

Could tensions between Iran and Israel trigger a new wave of inflation?

The immediate inflationary impact of widening conflict in the Middle East is likely to be limited. But potential trade and supply chain disruptions, weakening business sentiment and elevated uncertainty could have major consequences for the global economy. Governments face tough budgetary choices.

Energy & climate change

How can climate promises be met while maintaining fiscal sustainability?

While the public finances in many countries are now under great pressure, this is no time to forget commitments to tackling climate change. Indeed, conditional on action being taken early, governments’ support for the transition to net zero could ultimately improve fiscal sustainability.

Public spending, taxes & debt

How much revenue might be raised by a one-off wealth tax?

If the government decides to raise taxes after the pandemic, an alternative to taxes on work or spending could be a one-off wealth tax. A well-designed tax of this kind could raise significant revenue in a fair and efficient way without excessive administrative costs.

Public spending, taxes & debt

Might the UK really need a 1970s-style IMF bailout?

Given the precarious state of the UK’s public finances, there has been speculation about whether a loan from the International Monetary Fund will be needed, as happened in 1976. What’s really required is a reformulation of the fiscal framework to establish a credible commitment for fiscal policy.

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