Existential threats, elections, and economic policy
‘As we enter 2024, results of the Forum’s Global Risks Perception Survey 2023-2024 (GRPS) highlight a predominantly negative outlook for the world over the short term that is expected to…
Some important economic policy questions
The first important policy question facing policymakers is how much role aggregate demand plays in determining inflation? This needs a clear presentation of analysis by policymakers, since the way inflation…
Capital suggestion: Industrial policy?
Three questions: can industrialists be impartial architects of change when they have reaped the benefits of the existing system? Will industrialists, who have thrived within the current status quo, suggest…
Unwarranted austerity policy
As another monetary policy statement is about to be released, as the writer contributes this article, it is time to indicate why it is very important that it is over-due…
A sudden change of heart and policy
The issue of refugees is not new in Pakistan. Since its inception, the country has faced challenges in accommodating refugees from across the borders and even from faraway countries such…
World Bank needs to revisit its policy and lending focus
In its recently released report ‘Pakistan development update October 2023: restoring fiscal sustainability’ the World Bank (WB), just like the International Monetary Fund (IMF) policy thinking, including as highlighted in…
Capital suggestion: Measures v policy
Administrative measures are actions, steps, or decisions taken by government officials or administrative bodies to address immediate issues. Administrative measures are typically aimed at managing day-to-day affairs, ensuring compliance with…
Reforming the forex policy
When Great Britain ruled British India, policy was made to serve the purpose of London. Objectives were elaborated there, based on the geopolitical/strategic circumstances of the time. Many British laws…
Economic policy needs a hard reset
The present currency crisis in Pakistan is unprecedented. PKR has depreciated against USD from 180 to 305 since March 2022, and now it is a creating a self-feeding bubble. People…
Fixing fiscal policy
Fiscal discipline and effective financial management are the cornerstones of a nation’s economic stability and growth. In Pakistan, however, persistent fiscal mismanagement has been a recurring challenge for both federal…
