Why this is the biggest global bailout in history
Enjoy the relatively positive economic data while it lasts. But do not believe for a second it is sustainable. [...]
Publications
Let’s keep hoping
To deal with the country's boiling problems requires a different approach to policymaking – one based on sound economics, not just opinion polls. [...]
Shovel-ready or not
Though shovel-ready, current government projects are just as useful as building pyramids, burying banknotes and creating earthquakes. It is not what Keynes had in mind, but it is the best his disciples can come up with these days. [...]
Government caution needed in these uncertain times
Though it is tough to reliably forecast what Covid-19 will do to key economic indicators over the coming years, the true legacy of Covid-19 will be for the Government to occupy the commanding heights of the economy once again. And make everyone poorer. [...]
Turning cities into ghost towns
To avoid creating ghost towns, we must find a way of saving lives without destroying the cities they inhabit. [...]
Europe’s lockdown lessons
Europe has left the early stage of the pandemic behind. With more information at hand, European countries are managing Covid-19 in a controlled way. It is a step towards normality on a long road ahead. [...]
The vexing issue of Damien Grant’s ‘career-ending’ convictions
Should a convicted fraudster be allowed to work as an insolvency practitioner? It ought to depend on how many years have passed since his conviction. [...]
Bordering on policy
It is good to see some policy thinking from the opposition. The Government should engage with these ideas and build on the proposals. It can only improve its border management. [...]
Learning to live with Covid-19?
If the Government does not urgently improve its border handling capacity, there is no point pursuing elimination in New Zealand. We cannot afford to put our largest city into lockdown every few months because the border practices are not virus-tight. [...]
Turkey on the brink
Perhaps only one thing might eventually lead Turkey back onto a more sustainable path, both economically and politically. And that is a change in the presidency. [...]