Shows
IMF PodcastsDriving Change: Rumana Huque on the Real Costs of Bangladesh’s Tobacco DependencyDriving Change: Women-Led Development Economics from the Ground Up The International Economic Association’s Women in Leadership in Economics Initiative (IEA-WE) connects women economists worldwide and helps showcase their important empirical research, especially in developing countries. IMF Podcasts has partnered with the IEA-WE to produce a special series featuring the economists behind the invaluable local research that informs policymakers in places often overlooked. This episode of Driving Change features Bangladeshi economist Rumana Huque, whose research into the real costs of tobacco consumption is prompting a rethink of the country’s tobacco tax system. Transcript: https://bit...2025-02-2818 min
IMF PodcastsDriving Change: Marcela Eslava on Latin America’s Social Security WoesDriving Change: Women-Led Development Economics from the Ground Up The International Economic Association’s Women in Leadership in Economics Initiative (IEA-WE) connects women economists worldwide and helps showcase their important empirical research, especially in developing countries. IMF Podcasts has partnered with the IEA-WE to produce a special series featuring the economists behind the invaluable local research that informs policymakers in places often overlooked. This episode of Driving Change features Colombian economics Professor Marcela Eslava, whose research looks to fix Latin America’s dysfunctional social security network. Other episodes in the series include Turkish economist Ipek Ilkk...2024-12-0417 min
IMF PodcastsDriving Change: Rose Ngugi on how Indices are giving Kenya an EdgeDriving Change: Women-Led Development Economics from the Ground Up The International Economic Association’s Women in Leadership in Economics Initiative (IEA-WE) connects women economists worldwide and helps showcase their important empirical research, especially in developing countries. IMF Podcasts has partnered with the IEA-WE to produce a special series featuring the economists behind the invaluable local research that informs policymakers in places often overlooked. This episode of Driving Change features Kenyan economist Rose Ngugi, whose indices are helping local counties design policies that work. Other episodes in the series include Colombian economics Professor Marcela Eslava, who lo...2024-12-0422 min
IMF PodcastsDriving Change: Ipek Ilkkaracan on Why Investing in Care Pays OffDriving Change: Women-Led Development Economics from the Ground Up The International Economic Association’s Women in Leadership in Economics Initiative (IEA-WE) connects women economists worldwide and helps showcase their important empirical research, especially in developing countries. IMF Podcasts has partnered with the IEA-WE to produce a special series featuring the economists behind the invaluable local research that informs policymakers in places often overlooked. Driving Change kicks off this limited-run series from Turkey, with economist Ipek Ilkkaracan, who makes a strong business case for investing in social care infrastructure. Other episodes include Kenyan economist Rose Ngugi, wh...2024-12-0423 min
IMF PodcastsEgypt: Stability Lays Groundwork for TransformationWith all the instability within the Middle East and North Africa region of late, Egypt has nonetheless managed to reign in soaring inflation and win its largest-ever foreign investment. Egypt’s efforts to restore macroeconomic stability in recent years have led to an arrangement under the IMF’s Extended Fund Facility for Egypt, which makes available US$820 million to help support its reform agenda. Ivanna Vladkova Hollar leads the IMF’s work in Egypt. In this podcast, she says that while stabilizing its economy is positive, Egypt’s next big step is an economic transformation that will lift its private...2024-09-2520 min
IMF PodcastsJames Boughton on The Messy Legacy of Harry Dexter WhiteIt’s no mystery where the IMF was born but its origin story might surprise you. While the spotlight was on the charismatic British economist John Maynard Keynes during the 1944 Bretton Woods Conference, a little-known American economist was working in the shadows. Harry Dexter White’s plan would lead to the creation of the IMF and forever change the world economy. In this podcast, IMF historian and author, James Boughton speaks with Rhoda Metcalfe about how Harry White made history without making a splash. Transcript: https://bit.ly/456YgLB Read the article in Finance and Deve...2024-06-0323 min
IMF PodcastsKristalina Georgieva: The 2020s: Turbulent, Tepid or Transformational?IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva kicks off the 2024 IMF-World Bank Spring Meetings from the Atlantic Council in Washington, DC, with her customary curtain raiser speech. Go to IMF.org to follow the Spring Meetings and find all the IMF flagship reports, including the World Economic Outlook, the Global Financial Stability Report, and the Fiscal Monitor. Webcast and transcript: https://bit.ly/4aRkmDg2024-04-1224 min
IMF PodcastsNot Your Grandmother’s Industrial Policy: Michele RutaIndustrial policy had its heyday in the 1950s and 60s when governments moved to boost national competitiveness amid burgeoning global trade. Economists have been predicting the return of industrial policy of late- and there’s no question it’s back, but what does today’s industrial policy look like? Michele Ruta is a trade expert at the IMF, and along with some colleagues compiled a new dataset that shows the extent to which new industrial policies are being used and what their real impact might be on the global economy. Transcript: https://bit.ly/49LjmQW Check...2024-02-2226 min
IMF PodcastsMeasuring Money in the Digital Age: Jim TebrakeBehind any good policy stands good data. And as the global economy becomes increasingly digitalized, effective policy and regulation are critical to ensure a stable and equitable financial system. Jim Tebrake is Deputy Director and heads the data and methodology efforts in the IMF Statistics Department. In this podcast, Tebrake says the world of digital money is changing quickly and statisticians should be prepared to provide the data that policymakers need to respond effectively. Transcript: https://bit.ly/3Su8pgA Check out the latest IMF Statistical Forum at IMF.org2024-01-2318 min
IMF PodcastsJamaica’s Nigel Clarke: Stability First then GrowthNavigating an economy through multiple crises is not for the faint-hearted. Policy responses must be quick- often with little to go on, and decisions have lasting effects. Nigel Clarke has been Jamaica’s Minister of Finance since 2018 and led its economy through the pandemic as well as devastating natural disasters caused by climate change. In this podcast, Clarke sits down with IMF Western Hemisphere Department head, Rodrigo Valdés, to discuss Jamaica’s strong track record of investing in institutions and prioritizing macroeconomic stability. The conversation took place as part of the IMF’s Governor Talks series held during the Annu...2023-11-0216 min
IMF PodcastsKristalina Georgieva: Building Bridges to Strong Future GrowthInternational cooperation is weakening. The bridges that connect countries are corroding as trade and investment barriers are rising, and Africa stands to suffer the biggest economic losses from severe fragmentation. IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva kicked off the 2023 Annual Meetings in Marrakech with her customary curtain raiser speech from Cote d’Ivoire. It’s the first time since 1973 that the Annual Meetings are held in Africa and Georgieva says it’s an opportunity to pave the way to the next 50 years. Transcript: https://bit.ly/3LRsJoC Go to IMF.org to follow the Annual Meetings and fi...2023-10-0625 min
IMF PodcastsNadia Fettah and Jihad Azour: Morocco Gives Voice to the Global SouthLike so many countries across the Middle East and North Africa, Morocco faced successive shocks over the past three years including a devastating drought. But the country managed well thanks to an aggressive reform agenda. In this podcast, Morocco’s Finance Minister Nadia Fettah, and IMF Regional Director Jihad Azour, discuss how Morocco is keeping reforms on track despite the challenging circumstances, and what lessons other countries in the region might learn from Morocco’s experience. Their conversation was part of the Governor Talks series hosted by the IMF during the IMF-World Bank Spring Meetings, and a preamble to the...2023-05-2626 min
IMF PodcastsNicolas Kazadi on DRC’s Natural Wealth and the Energy TransitionThe Democratic Republic of the Congo faces many challenges to its development, but the country’s natural wealth has the potential to lift more people out of poverty and help the world make the transition to renewable energy. In this podcast, IMF African Department head Abebe Aemro Selassie sits down with DRC’s Minister of Finance, Nicolas Kazadi to discuss the country’s pivotal role in the fight for climate preservation and sustainable development. Their conversation took place as part of the Governor Talks series hosted by the IMF during the IMF-World Bank Spring Meetings.2023-04-2819 min
IMF PodcastsGillian Tett: Lessons from Anthropology for the Modern EconomistEconomists often share a common understanding of the world based on their training and what they’ve learned from other like-minded professionals. In this podcast, author and Financial Times journalist, Gillian Tett says anthropology offers insights into public policy challenges and helps economists better understand socioeconomic problems. IMF Deputy Secretary, Sabina Bhatia, sits down with Gillian Tett to discuss her recent book Anthro-Vision, a New Way to See in Business and in Life. The conversation took place before a live audience during the IMF and World Bank Group Spring Meetings. Watch the webcast at IMF.org.2023-04-2134 min
IMF PodcastsAbebe Aemro Selassie and Ken Opalo on Making Reforms Stick in AfricaAs global economic uncertainty surges, Sub-Saharan Africa faces a host of challenges that will require effective policy responses if it is to regain the ground it lost during the pandemic. But what does it take to design and implement successful policy reforms? In this podcast, IMF African Department head Abebe Aemro Selassie and Georgetown University’s Ken Opalo discuss why some reforms work and others do not. This conversation is part of a series of talks hosted by the IMF African Department called Africa Perspectives. Watch the webcast: www.imf.org/en/News/Seminars/Conferences/2022/06/10/africa-speaker-series#2023-03-3039 min
IMF PodcastsResilience and Sustainability Trust: New Tool for a Changing WorldThe IMF’s Resilience and Sustainability Trust (RST) helps low-income and vulnerable middle-income countries build resilience to external shocks and ensure sustainable growth, contributing to their longer-term balance of payments stability. It complements the IMF’s existing lending toolkit by providing longer-term, affordable financing to address longer-term challenges, including climate change and pandemic preparedness. In this podcast, IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva discusses the RST with Prime Minister Mia Motley of Barbados, Rwanda’s President Paul Kagame, WTO Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, and Makhtar Diop, Managing Director of the International Finance Corporation. The discussion is moderated by Rajiv Shah, President of the...2023-01-2632 min
IMF PodcastsA Sustainable Future: Ratna Sahay on Mainstreaming GenderHow can multilateral institutions like the IMF help close the gender gap? IMF Senior Advisor on Gender, Dr. Ratna Sahay joins Jason Mitchell, Head of Responsible Investment Research at Man Group, on their A Sustainable Future podcast to talk about how gender disparities hurt economic growth. Dr. Sahay has been a gender equality pioneer over the years- helping to break down barriers within her own institution. She now heads the IMF's first strategy toward mainstreaming gender into its core work. Transcript: https://bit.ly/3dNaCm1 Go to man.com/ri-podcast to see more episodes of A Sustainable Fu...2022-09-2936 min
IMF PodcastsFrançois Villeroy de Galhau on the Ethics of CurrencyThe Michel Camdessus Central Banking Lecture is an annual event honoring the IMF's longest-serving Managing Director. This year's lecture was presented by François Villeroy de Galhau, Governor of the Banque De France, and introduced by IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva. In his lecture, Governor de Galhau says today's multiple crises are challenging public trust in central banks. Transcript: https://bit.ly/3Sna8Bx Go to IMF.org to watch the webcast of the entire event including a post-lecture discussion.2022-09-2235 min
IMF PodcastsMay Khamis on Financial Stability Assessment ProgramsWelcome to the 5th and final episode of Fintech Forward, the IMF podcast that focuses on financial technology. Hosted by IMF economist Tara Iyer, the special 5-part series draws from the expertise of the IMF Monetary and Capital Markets Department (MCM) to better understand the impact of emerging technologies on financial systems and local economies around the world. In this podcast, MCM's May Khamis talks about how the IMF's Financial Stability Assessment Programs, which started in the early 2000s, are adapting to the rapid rise of FinTech. Transcript: https://bit.ly/3wJ9HZM2022-09-0111 min
IMF PodcastsAditya Narain and Marina Moretti on Regulating FintechWelcome to episode 4 of Fintech Forward, the IMF podcast that focuses on financial technology. Hosted by IMF economist Tara Iyer, the special 5-part series draws from the expertise of the IMF Monetary and Capital Markets Department (MCM) to better understand the impact of emerging technologies on financial systems and local economies around the world. In this podcast, MCM's Aditya Narain and Marina Moretti say regulation of financial technology aims to protect consumers and markets, not stifle innovation. Transcript: https://bit.ly/3wkEMCY2022-08-2321 min
IMF PodcastsFabio Natalucci on Financial StabilityWelcome to episode 3 of Fintech Forward, the IMF podcast that focuses on financial technology. Hosted by IMF economist Tara Iyer, this special 5-part series draws from the expertise of the IMF Monetary and Capital Markets Department (MCM) to better understand the impact of emerging technologies on financial systems and local economies around the world. In this podcast, Fabio Natalucci, Head of the Global Financial Stability Report, discusses the growing correlation between crypto and equity markets and what that means for financial stability. Transcript: https://bit.ly/3zJn2lO2022-08-1019 min
IMF PodcastsDong He on Central Bank Digital CurrenciesWelcome to episode 2 of Fintech Forward, a new IMF podcast series with a focus on financial technology. Hosted by IMF economist Tara Iyer, Fintech Forward draws from the expertise of the IMF Monetary and Capital Markets Department (MCM) to better understand the impact of emerging technologies on financial systems and local economies around the world. In this podcast, MCM Deputy Director, Dong He, discusses how central bank digital currencies (CBDC) are set to transform the global monetary system. Transcript: https://bit.ly/3v2T8rb2022-07-2131 min
IMF PodcastsTobias Adrian on the Future of FinanceWelcome to Fintech Forward, a new IMF podcast series with a focus on financial technology. Fintech has grown exponentially in recent years and prompted a paradigm shift in virtually all areas of finance, with significant implications for financial stability. Fintech Forward, hosted by IMF economist Tara Iyer, will draw from the expertise of the IMF Monetary and Capital Markets Department to better understand the impact of emerging technologies on financial systems and local economies around the world. In this first episode, Tobias Adrian, Director of the IMF's Monetary and Capital Markets Department, says fintech is causing nothing less than...2022-06-0925 min
IMF PodcastsGlobal Financial Stability: Implications of the War in UkraineWhile financial stability risks have risen on several fronts since the beginning of the war in Ukraine, the latest Global Financial Stability Report (GFSR) says no global systemic event affecting financial institutions or markets has materialized so far. Fabio Natalucci heads the GFSR as well as IMF Global Financial Markets Monitoring. In this podcast, he says stronger banking systems, higher capital and higher liquidity have helped to absorb the shock, but an intensification of the war could further test the resilience of the global financial system. Transcript: https://bit.ly/36qyl7D Read the full report at...2022-04-1916 min
IMF PodcastsKristalina Georgieva: Crisis Upon Crisis: How the World Can RespondJust as many countries were beginning to feel the grip of the pandemic start to ease, another global calamity is threatening the recovery. In her customary curtain-raiser speech to the IMF-World Bank Spring Meetings, IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva said the war in Ukraine has disrupted millions of lives and many aspects of the global economy. Transcript: https://bit.ly/3KJjeFt Go to IMF.org to follow the Spring Meetings and find all the IMF flagship reports, including the World Economic Outlook, the Global Financial Stability Report, and the Fiscal Monitor.2022-04-1421 min
IMF PodcastsMinouche Shafik and Kristalina Georgieva on a New Social ContractAs part of the IMF Exchange speaker series, London School of Economics Director, Minouche Shafik and IMF Managing Director, Kristalina Georgieva discuss how current economic trends are straining social safety nets and fueling disaffection among people across the globe. In her latest book What We Owe Each Other, Shafik argues the need for a new social contract. The discussion is moderated by CNN Anchor and Correspondent Eleni Giokos. The podcast is an abridged version of the conversation, you'll find a webcast of the entire event at IMF.org.2022-02-1732 min
IMF PodcastsWomen in Economics: Lisa D. CookThis is the first in a series of IMF podcasts that will showcase extraordinary work by extraordinary women in economics. In this episode, Dr. Lisa Cook, speaks with journalist Rhoda Metcalfe about her work using data on lynching and racial violence in the US to study the impact of violence on innovation and economic growth. Cook has made her mark not only as a black woman economist in a field dominated by white men but for her ground-breaking research on how racism, sexism and violence prevent economies from achieving their potential. Transcript: https://bit.ly/3zsucIG 2021-09-2023 min
IMF PodcastsWhat $650bn in SDRs Means for the Global RecoverySpecial Drawing Rights (SDR) are international reserve assets and used as the accounting unit for IMF transactions with its member countries. Earlier this month, in a historic multilateral response to the pandemic, the IMF board of governors approved a new SDR allocation of $650 billion, the largest in the institution's history. Ceyla Pazarbasioglu heads the Strategy, Policy and Review Department at the IMF. In this podcast, she says the SDR allocation will go a long way toward helping vulnerable countries and minimize the dangerous divergence in recovery paths around the world. Transcript: https://bit.ly/3y6inY12021-08-2313 min
IMF PodcastsOral Williams: How Technical Assistance Translates into Better LivesCapacity development is one of the IMF's best-kept secrets. Strong institutions are key to a country's long-term development, and a third of the IMF's operating budget goes toward helping governments build the institutional capacity they need to fulfill their development goals. Oral Williams heads the IMF Regional Capacity Development Center for Anglophone West Africa and is coauthor with economists Ralph Chami and Elorm Darkey of a study that shows a direct relationship between technical assistance and the improvement in tax revenues. In this podcast, Williams says providing technical assistance and training to governments means better living standards for more...2021-07-1516 min
IMF PodcastsChrystia Freeland and Kristalina Georgieva: Budgeting for Gender EquityNew IMF research shows that women with young children, mothers, particularly less educated ones, have been the most adversely affected group during the pandemic. Chrystia Freeland is Canada's Deputy Prime Minister and its first-ever female Finance Minister. In this podcast, Freeland and IMF Managing Director, Kristalina Georgieva, discuss policies to help prevent the covid-19 pandemic from rolling back gains in women's economic opportunities, and how Canada has aligned its gender strategy with the budget process. Watch the webcast at IMF.org2021-05-0730 min
IMF PodcastsAverting a COVID-19 Debt TrapDebt levels in many countries were high when the pandemic hit. But today, global public debt is reaching 100 percent of GDP. In this podcast, we hear a panel discussion about the very real danger for some countries of falling into a debt trap. The seminar was held during the 2021 IMF-World Bank Spring Meetings and featured IMF Managing Director, Kristalina Georgieva, Mohamed El-Erian, President of Queens’ College, Cambridge, and Vera Songwe, Under-Secretary-General at the United Nations. The Panel was moderated by Martin Wolf, Chief Economics Commentator at the Financial Times. Go to IMF.org to watch the webcast.2021-04-0923 min
IMF PodcastsWorld Economic Outlook: Divergent RecoveriesGlobal prospects are looking better one year into the pandemic, albeit highly uncertain. The latest World Economic Outlook (WEO) places growth at 6% for 2021, compared to 2020's unprecedented contraction of -3.3%. But recovery is by and large vaccine-dependent and the lack of access to vaccines is making recovery hard to imagine for some countries, while others are well on their way. Malhar Nabar is Division Chief in the IMF Research Department and heads the WEO. In this podcast, he says these divergent recoveries are a big concern. Transcript Read the WEO and the blog at IMF.org 2021-04-0610 min
IMF PodcastsGlobal Financial Stability and Interest RatesWhile emerging markets suffered huge portfolio outflows at the beginning of the pandemic, the latest Global Financial Stability Report (GFSR) shows capital flows have returned and the outlook continues to improve, partly because of low interest rates in countries such as the United States. The new report takes a close look at the possibility of rising interest rates and what that would mean for emerging market economies trying to recover from the pandemic. Fabio Natalucci is Deputy Director of the Monetary and Capital Markets Department and heads the GFSR. In this podcast, he says a lagging recovery in emerging...2021-04-0615 min
IMF PodcastsKristalina Georgieva: A Time of Promise and DangerMore than a year into the COVID-19 crisis, signs of a recovery for some countries are slowly beginning to emerge. But in her customary curtain-raiser speech ahead of next week's virtual IMF-World Bank Spring Meetings, IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva said high uncertainty is one of the greatest dangers facing the global economy. Go to IMF.org to follow the Spring Meetings and find all the IMF flagship reports, including the World Economic Outlook, the Global Financial Stability Report, and the Fiscal Monitor.2021-04-0115 min
IMF PodcastsCommercial Real Estate under Pressure2020 was a record-breaking year for housing markets in many countries- including the US, but for the commercial real estate sector, it was a completely different story. Lockdown and containment measures severely affected economic activity, pushing down commercial property transactions and prices in cities around the world. A new analytical chapter in the IMF Global Financial Stability Report looks at how continued downward pressure on prices could threaten financial stability and hamper the recovery. In this podcast, lead author Andrea Deghi and team lead Mahvash Qureshi say vacancy rates of office space in the US almost doubled in 2020 due to...2021-03-2919 min
IMF PodcastsRomain Duval on Rising Market PowerCorporate market power has been on the rise in recent decades, but a new IMF study shows the pandemic has strengthened price markups for dominant firms and increased the concentration of revenues among the biggest players in sectors such as technology and pharma. The Brookings Institution and Bruegel hosted a conversation with Kristalina Georgieva, IMF Managing Director, U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), and Margrethe Vestager, Executive Vice President of the European Commission, to talk about the research and discuss policy responses. In this podcast, lead author Romain Duval says a further rise in corporate market power would stifle...2021-03-1820 min
IMF PodcastsPaul Krugman on Zombie ideas and Economic RecoveryThere are many facets of the IMF's work that people don't often hear about, one is capacity development; helping governments strengthen their ability to make good policy decisions and to implement them. Nobel Laureate, Paul Krugman was invited by the Institute for Capacity Development to share his insight into where the economy stands now in the context of the global pandemic; his thoughts on what an economic recovery might look like and what policies may help it along. Professor Krugman joined me after his IMF presentation to talk about the current crisis and how zombie ideas–the topic of hi...2020-07-1620 min
IMF PodcastsVietnam: A Remarkable Response with Limited Means“The storm is a good opportunity for the pine and the cypress to show their strength and stability,” said Ho Chi Minh, the Father of the Vietnamese Nation. And it turns out Vietnam has shown its strength in weathering the COVID-19 storm. Era Dabla-Norris and Anne-Marie Gulde-Wolf are both economists in the IMF's Asia Pacific Department, and in this podcast, they say Vietnam's approach should allow for a quicker rebound. TRANSCRIPT You can read the Country Focus story at IMF2020-06-2813 min
IMF PodcastsMigration Part and Parcel of Healthy Global EconomyMigration has been the focus of heated political debate in recent years, surfacing misconceptions of its real economic impact. But a new study in The World Economic Outlook shows migration improves economic growth and productivity in host countries. In this podcast, IMF economist and co-author of the study, Margaux MacDonald, says supporting migrants now and ensuring migration trends continue beyond the pandemic will help the global economy recover. TRANSCRIPT Look for the BLOG at Blogs.IMF.org Margaux MacDonald is an economist in the IMF's Research Department.2020-06-1811 min
IMF PodcastsRalph Chami: Umbilical Cord of Remittances Under ThreatThe pandemic is crippling economies across the globe but for many countries, the economic shock will be magnified by the loss of remittances—money sent home by migrant and guest workers employed in foreign countries. Ralph Chami is an Assistant Director for the Institute for Capacity Development at the IMF. In this podcast, he says remittances are a lifeline for low-income and fragile states and when migrants lose their jobs those remittance flows stop. Chami says it's in everyone's interest for host countries to help support migrant workers through the pandemic. Chami and IMF Deputy Managing Director An...2020-05-2918 min
IMF PodcastsJonathan Ostry on How Pandemics Widen the GapWhile rich and poor are equally vulnerable to the debilitating physical effects of the coronavirus, economist Jonathan Ostry says the economic and social impact of the pandemic is much less equal. Ostry is Deputy Director of the Asia and Pacific Department at the IMF and in this podcast, he says the poor and the working class bear the brunt of pandemics and that policies need to pay specific attention to prevent long-term damage to the livelihoods of society's most vulnerable. Ostry's latest study on Inequality and pandemics is published by the Center for Economic Policy Research (CEPR) where he...2020-05-1815 min
IMF PodcastsKristalina Georgieva: Confronting the Covid-19 CrisiIn this podcast, IMF Managing Director, Kristalina Georgieva gives a preview of the World Economic Outlook to be released next week during the IMF's first-ever "virtual" Spring Meetings. In normal times, the IMF-World Bank Spring Meetings are preceded by a curtain-raiser speech delivered by the Managing Director at a crowded public venue full of economists, academics and journalists. But these are not normal times. Kristalina Georgieva's speech for next week's Spring Meetings was to camera and solemn in tone. The outlook anticipates the worst economic fallout since the Great Depression. TRANSCRIPT2020-04-0913 min
IMF PodcastsMartin Mühleisen: Mitigating Economic Fallout of CoronavirusThe coronavirus has wreaked havoc on just about every aspect of life around the world. The limited human contact required to contain the spread of the virus is hindering economic activity and in turn, putting enormous pressure on the global economy. Martin Mühleisen heads the IMF's Strategy, Policy, and Review Department, which looks at IMF policies and advises management on strategic issues. In this podcast, Mühleisen says even if an individual country is fortunate enough to escape widespread viral contagion of the coronavirus, it's likely it will still feel the economic fallout. Read the TRANSCRIPT...2020-03-2016 min
IMF PodcastsCybersecurity: A Global Threat Needs a Global ResponseOver two-thirds of global financial institutions have seen an increase in cyberattacks in recent years. In the UK alone, the number of security breaches has increased by over 480%. Cybersecurity is no longer just about firewalls, data encryption, and strong passwords. While those are still necessary, they are not enough to fight a threat that knows no borders. One recent law enforcement operation that started in Spain busted a cyber gang operating in 15 countries and required coordinated efforts with the FBI, Europol and other private companies. In this podcast, three leading specialists in cybersecurity discuss how to create a safer d...2020-01-1016 min
IMF PodcastsKristalina Georgieva on Gender Parity: Inequalities Erode SocietyIn her first IMF-World Bank Annual Meetings as IMF Managing Director, Kristalina Georgieva talks with Foreign Policy Magazine's Ravi Agrawal about breaking down barriers to women's career growth. Georgieva is the first person from an emerging market economy, and only the second woman to lead the IMF since its inception in 1944. In this podcast, Georgieva and Agrawal discuss the economic benefits of gender equality and the societal transformation that is required to correct the injustices of the past. Read the IMFBlog on The Economic Cost of Devaluing “Women’s Work”2019-11-0218 min
IMF PodcastsThree Chief Economists on Why Income Inequality MattersAchieving inclusive growth is one of the critical challenges of our time. In this podcast, IMF Managing Director Christine Lagarde opens a public discussion between IMF Chief Economist, Gita Gopinath, World Bank Chief Economist, Pinelopi Koujianou Goldberg and OECD Chief Economist, Laurence Boone, about how to ensure economic growth benefits the many and not only the few. In her introduction, Lagarde points out that it’s a first for these three multilateral institutions to have women Chief Economists at the same time. The seminar entitled Income Inequality Matters took place during the IMF World-Bank Spring Meetings. Gita Go...2019-04-2524 min
IMF PodcastsVulnerabilities in a Maturing Credit CycleA key objective of the IMF is to pick up on trends that could potentially compromise economic stability, and the Global Financial Stability Report is designed to help do just that. Fabio Natalucci heads the team of economists who write the biannual publication known as the GFSR. In this podcast, Natalucci says the latest report shows financial stability risks are higher than they were six months ago, due in part to rising corporate debt. Read the IMF BLOG Fabio Natalucci, is Deputy Director in the IMF's Monetary and Capital Markets Department.2019-04-1016 min
IMF PodcastsSpotting Global Risks Through Global CollaborationRisk analysis is an important element in growth forecasting, and detecting vulnerabilities within the global financial system helps policymakers mitigate risks. In an effort to broaden the scope of its risk analysis, the IMF developed a new open-source tool that looks at the entire distribution of future GDP growth rather than the traditional point forecasts. The tool is now shared on GitHub, one of the world’s biggest software development platforms. Prasad Ananthakrishnan heads the strategy and planning unit in the IMF’s Monetary and Capital Markets department, and helped develop the Growth at Risk forecasting tool, as it is k...2019-03-2111 min
IMF PodcastsAmadou Sy: Fintech Breaking Down Barriers in AfricaWhile sub-Saharan Africa has lagged behind the rest of the world in access to finance, some countries in the region are bucking the trend thanks to advancements in financial technology known as Fintech. Mobile technology has made sub-Saharan Africa the global leader in mobile money transfer services, helping provide financial services to millions previously off the formal financial grid. A new IMF study shows Fintech is emerging as a technological enabler, improving financial inclusion and serving as a catalyst for innovations in other sectors. In this podcast, economist Amadou Sy, says Fintech could be a real game changer for...2019-02-1417 min
IMF PodcastsDavid Coady: Strong Safety Nets Strong GrowthFor many countries, broadening access to basic services like education and healthcare is fiscally daunting. Economies in developing countries are often informal for the most part, making it difficult for governments to collect the taxes that ultimately fund these programs. In this podcast, IMF economist David Coady says good policy decisions will help countries find the resources they need to strengthen their social safety nets. Coady is a social spending expert in the IMF’s Fiscal Affairs Department, and author of Creating Fiscal Space featured in the December 2018 edition of Finance and Development Magazine. David Coady heads th...2019-01-3016 min
IMF PodcastsVera Songwe: Closing the Tech Gender GapThere is a growing body of research that shows that more women in the labor force means higher economic growth, and for longer periods. And while some sectors have made progress in breaking down gender barriers, the rise of technology in others presents new challenges for women. Vera Songwe is the first woman to head the U.N.’s Economic Commission for Africa, and in this podcast, Songwe says African women are especially disadvantaged in the technology sector because they often don’t have access to the internet. Songwe talked to IMF’s Angela Gaviria while attending the IMF-World Bank A...2018-11-1612 min
IMF PodcastsRoberto Azevêdo: Trade is not the ProblemThe IMF-World Bank Annual meetings bring together people from around the world to discuss issues that affect the global economy. This year’s meetings were held in Bali, Indonesia, and one issue at the top of the agenda was the rising backlash to globalization by workers who feel they’re losing jobs to trade and immigration. Roberto Azevêdo, Director General of the World Trade Organization dispels those claims, and in this podcast, the IMF’s Camilla Andersen asks Azevêdo why he thinks international trade has been under fire of late. PHOTO: Roberto Azevêdo, World Trade Org...2018-10-1811 min
IMF PodcastsSouth Africa: Restoring Confidence to Oil the Wheels for GrowthIt’s been almost 25 years since the end of apartheid, the system of institutionalized racial segregation that left most South Africans with limited access to basic services. The post-apartheid years saw remarkable progress in poverty reduction, access to education and healthcare and reducing unemployment. But some of those early achievements have unwound recently amid slow growth and political uncertainty. The IMF’s latest assessment of South Africa’s economy projects real GDP growth will stay slightly below 2 percent in the medium term, not enough to increase living standards or make a dent in unemployment. Ana Lucia Coronel heads the IMF te...2018-07-3113 min
IMF PodcastsGood for Women Good for Growth: Closing Nigeria’s Gender GapPromoting gender equality can be an economic game changer. The IMF’s latest economic review of Nigeria’s economy says closing the gender gap would mean higher growth and productivity, and greater economic stability. In this podcast, IMF economist and coauthor, Monique Newiak, says Nigerian women could help transform the economy given the chance. The report says Nigeria suffers from wide-spread gender inequality and is therefore missing out on a key ingredient to economic success. Newiak says reducing gender inequality could boost growth by one and one-quarter percent on average. Monique Newiak, is an economist in the IMF’...2018-03-0811 min
IMF PodcastsNigeria Exits Recession and Looks Beyond OilNigeria’s economy is picking up according to the IMF’s latest economic review. Growth hit 0.8 percent in 2017 after contracting by 1.6 percent in 2016. The report attributes the increase—in part—to the recent recovery in oil prices. But as the country emerges from recession, the IMF’s Amine Mati says following through on planned reforms regardless of oil price swings and upcoming elections, is key to lifting Nigeria’s growth rates to where they should be. Mati heads the IMF team for Nigeria and oversaw this latest economic assessment. Amine Mati, International Monetary Fund's mission chief and senior resid...2018-03-0712 min
IMF PodcastsIMF iLab: New Space for InnovationThe technological revolution has far reaching implications and is rapidly changing the way the world does business. But technology also offers the potential for finding solutions to some of the challenges facing the global economy. To encourage creative thinking among its economists, the IMF recently opened an innovation lab. In this podcast, Tristan Walker, first iLab Chief, says innovation will help make the institution more agile. Contributors: Tristan Walker, Innovation Lab Unit Chief2017-10-0611 min
IMF PodcastsGrowing Pains: Malawi’s Struggle with Hunger, Climate ChangeExtreme weather has hit Malawi’s economy hard over the last two years. Severe flooding followed by a drought—the worst in its history—caused widespread crop failure and placed 6.7 million people at risk of starvation. But a remarkable humanitarian effort helped reduce the impact of the drought on the most vulnerable segment of the population. An increase by the IMF to the amount of resources it provides to Malawi, as well as sizable contributions from Malawi’s development partners like the World Food Program and the World Bank, enabled the country to address the worst humanitarian crisis in its hist...2017-08-0342 min
IMF PodcastsMohamed El-Erian: New Life for the SDR?The IMF’s Special Drawing Rights have failed to gain real traction in the international monetary system, but Mohamed El-Erian, Chief Economic Advisor at Allianz and former IMF Deputy Director, believes a greater role for the SDR in global markets could help strengthen the world economy. Contibutors: Mohamed El-Erian, Chief Economic Advisor at Allianz and former IMF Deputy Director.2017-05-2609 min
IMF PodcastsIMF World Economic OutlookThe IMF’s latest World Economic Outlook projects global growth at 3.5 percent in 2017 and 3.6 percent in 2018. In this podcast, IMF Chief Economist Maurice Obstfeld says global growth is gaining momentum. Contributors: Maurice Obstfeld, IMF Economic Counselor2017-04-1804 min
IMF PodcastsThe Economics of Natural Disasters in Sub-Saharan AfricaThe IMF’s latest Regional Economic Outlook for Sub-Saharan Africa dedicates an entire chapter on what a drought, an earthquake or a pandemic can do to a country’s economy. In this podcast, lead authors Marshall Mills and Vimal Thakoor say natural disasters have a much bigger impact in sub-Saharan Africa than any other region. Contributors: Marshall Mills: Economist and Mission Chief for Madagascar, IMF African Department. Vimal Thakoor: Economist, IMF African Department.2016-11-1612 min
IMF PodcastsOne-on-One with Christine Lagarde, Featuring Michael LewisIn this podcast, IMF Managing Director, Christine Lagarde, and best-selling author Michael Lewis (The Big Short), reflect on lessons learned from the financial crisis and other issues facing the world economy. The discussion took place before a live audience during the IMF World-Bank Annual meetings last month. Contributors: Christine Lagarde: IMF Managing Director. Michael Lewis: Author, columnist and financial journalist.2016-11-0213 min
IMF PodcastsIMF World Economic OutlookThe IMF’s latest World Economic Outlook projects global growth at 3.1 percent in 2016 and 3.4 percent in 2017. In this podcast, IMF Chief Economist Maurice Obstfeld says growth has been too slow for too long. Contributors: Maurice Obstfeld, IMF Chief Economic Counselor2016-10-0404 min
IMF PodcastsGhana: IMF Approves Third $116.2m DisbursementGhana’s economy—once a model for growth in West Africa, took a turn for the worse in 2012. It’s been getting help from the IMF under a 3-year program known as the Extended Credit Facility. The IMF board has approved another US$116m, and under the arrangement Ghana could receive more than US$900m if all targets are met. In this podcast, Joël Toujas-Bernaté, IMF mission chief for Ghana, says the country is making good progress. Contributors: Joël Toujas-Bernaté, IMF Mission Chief for Ghana2016-10-0110 min
IMF PodcastsEthiopia: Drought, Low Commodities Dampen GrowthWhile Ethiopia has been experiencing strong growth since the early 2000s, the IMF’s latest review of the country’s economy says low commodity prices and a drought have put growth levels well below 10 percent for the first time in a decade. In this podcast, we speak with Julio Escolano, IMF Mission Chief for Ethiopia, who oversaw the writing of the report. Contributors: Julio Escolano, IMF Mission Chief for Ethiopia.2016-09-2911 min
IMF PodcastsMadagascar Gets a BoostThe IMF says Madagascar has built a good track record since it’s reengagement in 2014, showing the country is capable of sustaining recent reforms that have improved its economic outlook. In this podcast, Mission Chief, Marshall Mills talks about a new IMF program for Madagascar that includes US$ 310 million over three years. Contributors: Marshall Mills, IMF Mission Chief for Madagascar2016-08-1909 min
IMF PodcastsSouth Africa: Urgent Need for Policy ReformsSouth Africa faces significant challenges and needs decisive action to revive growth, the IMF said in its latest economic review. While the report acknowledges considerable economic and social progress, it shows income inequality and unemployment are unacceptably high. In this podcast, we speak with Laura Papi, IMF Mission Chief for South Africa. Contributors: Laura Papi, IMF Mission Chief for South Africa2016-07-0608 min
IMF PodcastsToo Slow Too Long; New IMF Global Growth ForecastThe new World Economic Outlook anticipates a slight acceleration in growth this year, from 3.1 to 3.2 percent, followed by 3.5 percent growth in 2017. But IMF Chief Economist Maurice Obstfeld says projections continue to be progressively less optimistic over time.
Contributors:
Maurice Obstfeld, IMF Chief Economic Counselor2016-04-1205 min
IMF PodcastsPublic Investment Payoff Not Necessarily About EfficiencyWhile many economists would argue public investment projects in highly efficient countries have a greater impact on growth, recent research by some IMF economists shows that’s not necessarily the case. In this podcast we speak with the IMF’s Andy Berg, who suggests the impact on growth from public investment spending is similar in both high and low-efficiency countries.
Contributors:
Andy Berg, a Deputy Director in the IMF’s Institute for Capacity Development2016-04-0113 min
IMF PodcastsGabon Hit by Oil Price SlideThe IMF’s most recent review of Gabon’s economy shows it’s been hit hard by the oil price decline. In this podcast, we speak with IMF Mission Chief for Gabon, Montfort Mlachila, who says the country can build resilience and revive growth by diversifying its economy.
Contributors:
Montfort Mlachila, IMF Mission Chief for Gabon2016-03-1609 min
IMF PodcastsGlobal Growth Slows Further, IMF’s latest World Economic OutlookThe IMF’s latest World Economic Outlook (WEO) shows global growth at 3.1 percent this year, down from 3.4 percent in 2014. The report says while outlooks vary from country to country, the new WEO forecasts predict slower near-term growth nearly across the board, with increasing downside risks to the world economy as commodity prices continue to fall.2015-10-0704 min
PodcastsGlobal Growth Slows Further, IMF’s latest World Economic OutlookThe IMF’s latest World Economic Outlook (WEO) shows global growth at 3.1 percent this year, down from 3.4 percent in 2014. The report says while outlooks vary from country to country, the new WEO forecasts predict slower near-term growth nearly across the board, with increasing downside risks to the world economy as commodity prices continue to fall.2015-10-0704 min
IMF PodcastsIMF Grants Help Ebola-hit Countries Drive Down DebtThe IMF will provide grants totaling $100 million to the three countries worst hit by the Ebola epidemic. Guinea, Liberia, and Sierra Leone will use the funds to cover the cost of servicing their debt.2015-02-0508 min
IMF PodcastsWomen In The Workforce: Breaking The BarriersMore than half of all countries in the world have laws that restrict women from joining the workforce. The IMF says the global economy would benefit by Boosting Women’s Participation in the Labor Force, and hosted a seminar on the topic last fall during the Fund’s annual meetings. Sarah Iqbal participated in that forum and talks in this podcast about the hurdles women face when starting a business.
Read as well the IMF Survey story on Unleashing the Economic Power of Women [http://www.imf.org/external/pubs/ft/survey/so/2014/car091514b.htm]2014-12-3106 min
PodcastsWomen In The Workforce: Breaking The BarriersMore than half of all countries in the world have laws that restrict women from joining the workforce. The IMF says the global economy would benefit by Boosting Women’s Participation in the Labor Force, and hosted a seminar on the topic last fall during the Fund’s annual meetings. Sarah Iqbal participated in that forum and talks in this podcast about the hurdles women face when starting a business.
Read as well the IMF Survey story on Unleashing the Economic Power of Women [http://www.imf.org/external/pubs/ft/survey/so/2014/car091514b.htm]2014-12-3106 min
IMF PodcastsIMF’s Recipe to Escape Prolonged Slow GrowthThe world needs more growth, and more jobs to escape the prospect of prolonged, mediocre economic future, says the head of the International Monetary Fund who laid out the prospects for the global economy, and the priorities for the international organization at the start of the IMF-World Bank Meetings.2014-10-0902 min
PodcastsIMF’s Recipe to Escape Prolonged Slow GrowthThe world needs more growth, and more jobs to escape the prospect of prolonged, mediocre economic future, says the head of the International Monetary Fund who laid out the prospects for the global economy, and the priorities for the international organization at the start of the IMF-World Bank Meetings.2014-10-0902 min
PodcastsModest Growth Pickup in 2013, says IMF Chief EconomistThe global economy is set to strengthen gradually in 2013, but risks remain. In the latest update to its World Economic Outlook, the IMF projects growth will be 3.5% this year. In this podcast, the IMF chief economist explains that despite the brighter outlook, policymakers need to address risks to the global economy.2013-01-2303 min
IMF PodcastsModest Growth Pickup in 2013, says IMF Chief EconomistThe global economy is set to strengthen gradually in 2013, but risks remain. In the latest update to its World Economic Outlook, the IMF projects growth will be 3.5% this year. In this podcast, the IMF chief economist explains that despite the brighter outlook, policymakers need to address risks to the global economy.2013-01-2300 min
PodcastsView from the Ground at the IMF-World Bank Spring MeetingsEarlier this week, we heard from IMF experts about their expectations for the world economy. Now, with the IMF-World Bank Spring Meetings in full gear, we asked journalists from around the world for views from their region. What does state of the global economy look like, and what do they see are the biggest risks out there?2013-01-0804 min
IMF PodcastsView from the Ground at the IMF-World Bank Spring MeetingsEarlier this week, we heard from IMF experts about their expectations for the world economy. Now, with the IMF-World Bank Spring Meetings in full gear, we asked journalists from around the world for views from their region. What does state of the global economy look like, and what do they see are the biggest risks out there?2013-01-0804 min
PodcastsIMF Deputy Managing Director Min Zhu on Pacific ChallengesAhead of a conference jointly hosted by IMF and the government of Samoa in Apia on March 23, IMF Deputy Managing Director Min Zhu talks about how the Pacific region can promote inclusive growth and build resilience to shocks.2013-01-0804 min
IMF PodcastsIMF Deputy Managing Director Min Zhu on Pacific ChallengesAhead of a conference jointly hosted by IMF and the government of Samoa in Apia on March 23, IMF Deputy Managing Director Min Zhu talks about how the Pacific region can promote inclusive growth and build resilience to shocks.2013-01-0804 min
PodcastsIMF Marks Down Global Growth ForecastThe International Monetary Fund has sharply cut its forecast for world growth this year. In an interview to mark the publication of an update to its World Economic Outlook, the Chief Economist to the IMF, Olivier Blanchard, said the euro area is likely to fall into a mild recession affecting the rest of the world. Jennifer Beckman reports.2013-01-0803 min
IMF PodcastsIMF Marks Down Global Growth ForecastThe International Monetary Fund has sharply cut its forecast for world growth this year. In an interview to mark the publication of an update to its World Economic Outlook, the Chief Economist to the IMF, Olivier Blanchard, said the euro area is likely to fall into a mild recession affecting the rest of the world. Jennifer Beckman reports.2013-01-0803 min
PodcastsThe IMF and the Stormy DecadeThe 1990s was a momentous time for the IMF. The organization oversaw the transition of many former Eastern bloc countries into market economies, played an important role in the aftermath of major capital account crises, all the while, introducing historic reforms back at headquarters. The IMF’s official historian talks about this tumultuous era.2013-01-0808 min
IMF PodcastsThe IMF and the Stormy DecadeThe 1990s was a momentous time for the IMF. The organization oversaw the transition of many former Eastern bloc countries into market economies, played an important role in the aftermath of major capital account crises, all the while, introducing historic reforms back at headquarters. The IMF’s official historian talks about this tumultuous era.2013-01-0808 min
PodcastsIMF Chief Travels to AfricaChristine Lagarde is set to visit Africa for the first time since her appointment as Managing Director of the IMF. In this podcast, she explains the purpose of her trip to Nigeria and Niger and the deep partnership between the IMF and the continent.2013-01-0806 min
IMF PodcastsIMF Chief Travels to AfricaChristine Lagarde is set to visit Africa for the first time since her appointment as Managing Director of the IMF. In this podcast, she explains the purpose of her trip to Nigeria and Niger and the deep partnership between the IMF and the continent.2013-01-0806 min
IMF PodcastsIMF Opens New Technical CenterThe IMF has opened a new technical assistance center in Mauritius which will allow member countries in southern Africa to leverage IMF know-how. The opening of "Afritac" is in response to growing demand for IMF expertise.2013-01-0805 min
PodcastsIMF Opens New Technical CenterThe IMF has opened a new technical assistance center in Mauritius which will allow member countries in southern Africa to leverage IMF know-how. The opening of "Afritac" is in response to growing demand for IMF expertise.2013-01-0805 minIMF PodcastsIMF Responds to Horn of Africa DisasterSevere droughts are gripping the Horn of Africa, leaving millions needing emergency assistance. Antoinette Sayeh, director of the Africa Department at the IMF, speaks about the Fund's response to the crisis.2013-01-0805 min
PodcastsIMF Responds to Horn of Africa DisasterSevere droughts are gripping the Horn of Africa, leaving millions needing emergency assistance. Antoinette Sayeh, director of the Africa Department at the IMF, speaks about the Fund's response to the crisis.2013-01-0805 min
PodcastsIMF in Fight Against Money LaunderingEach year billions of dollars in proceeds from criminal activity are "laundered." It is estimated that the amounts involved could be as much as two to five percent of the world's GDP. In this podcast, a member of the IMF explains how the Fund is contributing to the international fight against money laundering and terrorism financing.2013-01-0807 min
Podcasts'Beware Complacency,' IMF Chief Warns World Not Out of CrisisStrauss-Kahn said that recent events in North Africa illustrated that economic recovery without jobs was meaningless (photo: IMF)
The head of the IMF, Dominique Strauss-Kahn has said the world is recovering from the global economic downturn but "it was not the recovery we want." At the start of the annual IMF-World Bank Spring Meetings in Washington DC, Strauss-Kahn called for urgent action on the challenges confronting future growth, including rising food and fuel prices and high unemployment.2013-01-0808 min
PodcastsIMF to Open Training Center in KuwaitThe IMF is set to double the amount of training to member states in the Middle East, with the opening of a new training center in the region. It will leverage the Fund's expertise to provide instruction to officials from Arab League countries who are responsible for economic management.2013-01-0805 min
PodcastsIMF Helps Ethiopia Tackle Falling Exports, Remittances, and InvestmentSix months after Addis Ababa approached the IMF for a loan to deal with the effects of the crisis, the Fund’s resident representative to Ethiopia explains how the country is weathering the slump and its prospects for the future.2013-01-0811 min
PodcastsIMF Chief Dominique Strauss-Kahn Speech - 2009 Annual Meetings PlenaryIMF Chief Dominique Strauss-Kahn Speech during the 2009 IMF/World Bank Annual Meetings Plenary in Istanbul, Turkey on Octoberober 6, 20092013-01-0818 min
PodcastsThe IMF`s new policy and lending framework for Low Income Countries (LICs)Podcast of a meeting hosted by the German Marshall Fund, Brussels, on The IMF`s new policy and lending framework for Low Income Countries (LICs). IMF Speakers: Dominique Desruelle, Roger Nord and Christian Mumssen2013-01-0810 min
PodcastsThe Changing IMFAmid the worst slump in half a century, the International Monetary Fund is rising to the challenge posed by the global economic crisis. The Fund has dramatically increased its lending, is using its cross-country experience to advise on policy solutions, and is introducing reforms to modernise its operations. Three experts from the IMF discuss the transformation of the international body.2013-01-0820 min
PodcastsAfrica Sustains Growth Despite Global UncertaintyAfrica Sustains Growth Despite Global Uncertainty by IMF Podcasts2012-12-1206 min