The primary questions addressed by this study, first published in 1988, focus on how private bankers made decisions on the creditworthiness of developing countries during the 1970s and what the implications of these decision rules are for the developing countries today. Based on interviews with senior bankers about their decision rules, the author has developed artificial intelligence-based simulations of their images of creditworthiness. Discussed are contemporary proposals for solving the debt crisis.

The primary questions addressed by this study, first published in 1988, focus on how private bankers made decisions on the creditworthiness of developing countries during the 1970s and what the implications of these decision rules are for the developing countries today. Based on interviews with senior bankers about their decision rules, the author has developed artificial intelligence-based simulations of their images of creditworthiness. Discussed are contemporary proposals for solving the debt crisis.

As the linchpin of the global financial system, the International Monetary Fund provides the balance of payments support, chiefly to developing countries, conditional on strict remedial policy measures. Its approach to policy remains highly controversial, however. While the Fund claims it has adapted, critics allege its policies are harshly doctrinaire, imposing hardships on already poverty-stricken people. For the critics, the half century of its existence is `fifty years too long' and radical change is essential. This book examines the arguments, tracing the extent of Fund adaption, presenting major new evidence on the consequences of fund programes, and considering its future role.

UN publication sales no. E.89.II.G.12

This volume tracks DAC Members’ efforts -- qualitative and quantitative -- in the field of development assistance. Policy progress underway and expectations for further action are examined alongside the disturbing picture of further decline in 1997 in aid flows.

The growing levels of income inequality, an explosion of global financial flows, and a worldwide decline of economic growth have combined to challenge accepted economic wisdom. Utilizing a heterodox approach, Pablo G. Bortz provides a fresh look for understanding the interaction between these three factors while identifying challenges and possible alternatives for an expansionary and progressive economic policy. Reviewing several schools of thought, Inequality, Growth and ‘Hot’ Money explores the risks generated by capital flows and the limitations they impose on progressive economic policies. Professor Bortz then provides instruments and alternatives to pursue an expansionary and equalitarian program, including theoretical contributions to enrich heterodox and progressive economics. Standout features of this book include a review of the challenges that financial flows pose for developing countries; a redefinition of the role of capital controls; a policy approach that separates interest rate policies from a broader credit policy; and a rejection of the negative relationship between a more egalitarian income distribution and sustained economic expansion. Expanding the Kaleckian approach to include financial flows, this accessible introduction to heterodox growth models will be appreciated by graduate students and committed heterodox economists. Research departments at official institutions such as central banks may also be interested, specifically in the book’s models and policy prescription.

Assesses the changing landscape of international development finance from a global and a developing-country perspective.