Oecd Economic Surveys Denmark 2019

Living standards and wellbeing are high in Denmark. Economic conditions have improved in recent years and the steady expansion is projected to continue. A prolonged series of pension and benefit reforms has delivered sound public finances and strengthened potential growth, among others by ...

The Swedish economy is growing steadily, but the expansion has peaked and global uncertainties weigh on the outlook. Monetary and fiscal stimulus has supported the recovery, but is being gradually withdrawn as the economy operates close to full capacity. Strong public finances provide space for fiscal loosening in the case of a downturn, especially as low interest rates reduce monetary policy margins. Beyond a strong economy, Sweden enjoys high well-being, low inequality and strong environmental performance. Nevertheless, some structural issues need to be addressed, notably alleviating obstacles to housing affordability and enhancing the efficiency of public services by seizing the opportunities offered by digitalisation. Maintaining a high level of workforce skills is essential to sustain growth, competitiveness and social cohesion, calling for action to lift educational performance and promote lifelong learning. Against a background of lacklustre school results and increasing segregation, this Survey proposes a coherent set of reforms to strengthen education institutions, better target funding to pupils' needs, enhance the steering of competition and school choice, increase the attractiveness of the teaching profession and reinforce teacher education. SPECIAL FEATURE: EDUCATION

OECD's periodic survey of the Danish economy. After examining some of the key challenges faced by Denmark, the survey looks in more detail at the fiscal strategy; promoting employment and inclusiveness; tax reform, hours worked and growth; health ...

India has been a growth champion in recent years and has succeeded in taming inflation, the current account deficit and non-performing loans. India's participation in the global economy has risen, with outstanding performances in some services, while the largest diaspora in the world is an asset in developing new markets. India has also lifted many millions of people out of poverty and has made access to housing for all a priority. Ambitious structural reforms -- including better targeted household support, financial inclusion initiatives, the implementation of the Goods and Services Tax, the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, the new approach to federalism and the corporate income tax reform -- have played a key role.

Swiss citizens continue to enjoy high living standards on a range of dimensions. Economic growth has slowed but the healthy labour market is still supporting incomes and consumption. However, risks to the outlook are building. Monetary policy has been very accommodative but low interest rates are adding to financial risks. Fiscal policy is sound and debt low. There is scope to make greater use of available fiscal space. Adapting to population ageing is becoming pressing. This trend, along with digital transformation, will bring new opportunities for the economy and society, but challenges as well. Policies have not kept up with rising life expectancy, particularly the statutory retirement age. Updating the pension system and lowering barriers to working longer would ensure that workers continue to receive adequate incomes during retirement.

Well-being in New Zealand is generally high, although there is room for improvement in incomes, housing affordability, distribution, water quality and GHG emissions. Economic growth is projected to remain around 21⁄2 per cent. The main risks to the outlook are rising trade restrictions and a housing market correction. Labour market reforms have been initiated to increase wages for the low paid but will need to be implemented cautiously to minimise potential adverse effects. Substantial planned increases in bank capital requirements should reduce the expected costs of financial crises but might reduce economic activity.

Following a robust recovery, growth has slowed and the economy has been running at two speeds. Headline inflation has fallen, but underlying price pressures remain high.

This 2016 OECD Economic Survey of the Denmark examines recent economic developments, policies and prospects. The special chapters cover: Macroeconomic and financial risk; Ageing and wellbeing.