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Francesco Luna, Alfredo Baldini, Evan Tanner, Adina Popescu, and Antonio David

In this macroeconomics course, you will improve your skills in macroeconomic policy analysis and learn to design an economic and financial program, using real economic data. The financial programming exercise simulates what IMF (International Monetary Fund) desk economists routinely do in their country surveillance and program work.

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In this macroeconomics course, you will improve your skills in macroeconomic policy analysis and learn to design an economic and financial program, using real economic data. The financial programming exercise simulates what IMF (International Monetary Fund) desk economists routinely do in their country surveillance and program work.

In the first part of the course (modules 1–7), you will analyze the economic outlook of a country case and then help to build a baseline scenario — namely, a set of projections for the main macroeconomic sectors (real, external, government and monetary) that reflects the analyst’s best guess of what will happen to the economy in the coming year, assuming no policy change.

In the second part (modules 8–10), you will learn and discuss how macroeconomic policies can be used to address poor performance and reduce macroeconomic imbalances. We will illustrate the workings of monetary, fiscal and exchange rate policies by using a simple Keynesian model of an open economy. In the final module you will design an IMF–supported lending program scenario for our country case.

Financial Programming and Policies, Part 2 is offered by the IMF with financial support from the Government of Japan.

What you'll learn

  • How to construct projections of the real, external, government, and monetary sectors under the assumption of unchanged policy
  • How to generate sectoral forecasts that are consistent from accounting and behavioral perspectives
  • How to use a macroeconomic model to analyze the effects of policy changes
  • How to identify and appraise the economic vulnerabilities inherent in an emerging market economy
  • How to prepare a macroeconomic policy program scenario

What's inside

Learning objectives

  • How to construct projections of the real, external, government, and monetary sectors under the assumption of unchanged policy
  • How to generate sectoral forecasts that are consistent from accounting and behavioral perspectives
  • How to use a macroeconomic model to analyze the effects of policy changes
  • How to identify and appraise the economic vulnerabilities inherent in an emerging market economy
  • How to prepare a macroeconomic policy program scenario

Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, and possible dealbreakers
Geared towards students whose interests lie in economics
Develops skills in macroeconomic policy analysis, crucial for economists
Taught by Francesco Luna, Adina Popescu, Antonio David, Alfredo Baldini, and Evan Tanner, experts in economics
Examines relevant economic vulnerabilities inherent in emerging market economies
Provides hands-on experience in preparing macroeconomic policy program scenarios
Supported by the International Monetary Fund (IMF)

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Reviews summary

Macroeconomic modeling with excel

Learners say that Financial Programming and Policies, Part 2: Program Design is an excellent, stimulating course that builds a foundation for analyzing the macroeconomy and developing policy recommendations with Excel and a simple economic model. This course is especially helpful for those with an undergraduate degree in economics.
Engaging course with applicable content.
"The course material was stimulating, enhancing my understanding of how to build economic scenarios on a spreadsheet."
The discussion forums were not very active.
"Discussions on the forum were rather poor."
The instructors were not very responsive to questions.
"The staff was unavailable to answer to my question, even after I followed the proper procedure."
The course covers a lot of material in a short amount of time.
"Overall, I found the course was rich in material condensed into seven weeks."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Financial Programming and Policies, Part 2: Program Design with these activities:
Review fundamental concepts in algebra and calculus
Refresh your understanding of algebra and calculus as foundational mathematical tools used extensively in macroeconomic analysis.
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  • Review notes or textbooks from previous coursework
  • Practice solving equations and inequalities
  • Review basic calculus concepts like differentiation and integration
Review: International Economics by Paul Krugman and Maurice Obstfeld
Supplement the course material by reading a classic textbook on international economics, providing a deeper understanding of the global economic landscape.
Show steps
  • Read the designated chapters
  • Take notes and highlight key concepts
  • Discuss the readings with classmates or the instructor
Follow tutorials on time series analysis in R or Python
Develop practical skills in time series analysis, a crucial technique for analyzing macroeconomic data, through guided tutorials.
Browse courses on Time Series Analysis
Show steps
  • Identify reputable online tutorials or courses on time series analysis
  • Choose a programming language (R or Python) and follow the tutorials
  • Practice analyzing time series data using the techniques learned
Four other activities
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Engage in peer-led discussion groups
Collaborate with peers to discuss course concepts, exchange perspectives, and reinforce understanding through peer-to-peer learning.
Browse courses on Macroeconomic Analysis
Show steps
  • Form study groups with classmates
  • Choose topics for discussion based on the course material
  • Prepare and present summaries or lead discussions
  • Engage in active listening and respectful dialogue
Practice macroeconomic modeling through online simulations
Practice using macroeconomic models to analyze economic data and forecast economic outcomes, reinforcing the key concepts of the course.
Show steps
  • Identify a reputable online simulation platform
  • Select a model that aligns with the course material
  • Input data and adjust parameters as guided by the course content
  • Run simulations and analyze the results
  • Compare your findings with the course material and refine your understanding
Contribute to macroeconomic open-source projects on GitHub
Enhance your practical skills and contribute to the macroeconomic community by working on open-source projects related to macroeconomic modeling.
Browse courses on Open Source
Show steps
  • Identify macroeconomic open-source projects on GitHub
  • Choose a project and review its documentation
  • Identify areas where you can contribute and submit pull requests
  • Collaborate with other contributors and maintainers
Develop a macroeconomic policy brief
Apply the knowledge gained in the course to create a comprehensive policy brief that addresses a specific macroeconomic issue, demonstrating a deep understanding of the material.
Browse courses on Fiscal Policy
Show steps
  • Identify a pressing macroeconomic issue
  • Research and analyze relevant data and literature
  • Develop policy recommendations based on the course concepts
  • Draft and refine the policy brief, ensuring clarity and persuasiveness
  • Present your brief to a peer group or instructor for feedback

Career center

Learners who complete Financial Programming and Policies, Part 2: Program Design will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Monetary Economist
Monetary economists analyze and interpret economic data and trends related to monetary policy. They advise governments and central banks on how to manage the money supply and interest rates. The Financial Programming and Policies course would provide you with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in this role. It would help you develop a strong understanding of monetary policy and its impact on the economy.
Risk Analyst
Risk analysts identify and assess risks to organizations. They develop and implement strategies to mitigate risks and protect organizations from financial losses. The Financial Programming and Policies course would provide you with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in this role. It would help you develop a strong understanding of risk management and financial analysis.
Quantitative Analyst
Quantitative analysts use mathematical and statistical techniques to analyze and interpret data. They develop and implement models to solve business problems and make predictions. The Financial Programming and Policies course would provide you with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in this role. It would help you develop a strong foundation in mathematics and statistics.
Investment Banker
Investment bankers provide advice to corporations and governments on mergers and acquisitions, capital raising, and other financial transactions. They help clients achieve their financial goals and raise capital. The Financial Programming and Policies course would provide you with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in this role. It would help you develop a strong understanding of financial markets and investment banking.
Portfolio Manager
Portfolio managers manage and invest portfolios of securities for individuals and institutions. They make investment decisions and allocate assets to achieve specific financial goals. The Financial Programming and Policies course would provide you with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in this role. It would help you develop a strong understanding of portfolio management and investment strategies.
Financial Planner
Financial planners provide advice to individuals and families on financial planning and investment strategies. They help clients achieve their financial goals and plan for the future. The Financial Programming and Policies course would provide you with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in this role. It would help you develop a strong understanding of financial planning and investment strategies.
Venture Capitalist
Venture capitalists provide funding and support to early-stage companies with high growth potential. They help companies develop their products and services and bring them to market. The Financial Programming and Policies course would provide you with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in this role. It would help you develop a strong understanding of venture capital and investment analysis.
Economist
Economists analyze and interpret economic data and trends to advise organizations and governments on economic policy and financial planning. They use economic models to forecast future economic conditions and develop strategies to address economic challenges. The Financial Programming and Policies course from the IMF would provide you with a strong foundation in macroeconomic analysis and policy design. It would help you develop the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in this role.
Budget Analyst
Budget analysts analyze and interpret financial data to develop and manage budgets. They help organizations allocate resources and make informed financial decisions. The Financial Programming and Policies course would provide you with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in this role. It would help you develop a strong understanding of budget analysis and financial management.
Financial Analyst
Financial analysts provide advice to individuals and organizations on investment decisions. They analyze financial data and make recommendations on how to allocate funds. The Financial Programming and Policies course would provide you with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in this role. It would help you develop a strong understanding of financial markets and investment strategies.
Public Policy Analyst
Public policy analysts analyze and interpret economic and social data to advise governments on public policy. They develop and evaluate policies to address social and economic issues. The Financial Programming and Policies course would provide you with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in this role. It would help you develop a strong understanding of public policy and its impact on society.
Economic Consultant
Economic consultants provide advice to businesses and governments on economic issues. They analyze data, develop models, and make recommendations on how to improve economic performance. The Financial Programming and Policies course would provide you with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in this role. It would help you develop a strong understanding of economic analysis and policy development.
International Economist
International economists analyze and interpret economic data and trends in different countries and regions. They advise governments and organizations on international economic policy and trade. The Financial Programming and Policies course would provide you with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in this role. It would help you develop a strong understanding of international economics and trade policy.
Private Equity Analyst
Private equity analysts analyze and invest in private companies. They help companies grow and expand their businesses. The Financial Programming and Policies course would provide you with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in this role. It would help you develop a strong understanding of private equity and investment analysis.
Financial Advisor
Financial advisors provide advice to individuals and families on financial planning and investment strategies. They help clients achieve their financial goals and plan for the future. The Financial Programming and Policies course may be useful for this role. It would help you develop a strong understanding of financial planning and investment strategies.

Reading list

We've selected 26 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Financial Programming and Policies, Part 2: Program Design.
Provides a comprehensive overview of financial programming and policies. It covers topics such as fiscal policy, monetary policy, and exchange rate policy.
This IMF publication provides a collection of working papers on financial policies and economic development. It covers a wide range of topics, including the role of financial development in economic growth, the determinants of financial development, and the challenges of financial development in developing countries.
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This IMF publication provides a comprehensive overview of monetary policy and its role in economic growth. It covers a wide range of topics, including the design of monetary policy, the impact of monetary policy on the economy, and the challenges of monetary policy in developing countries.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the economics of emerging markets. It covers a wide range of topics, including the challenges of economic development, the role of government in emerging markets, and the international financial system.
This IMF publication provides a comprehensive overview of macroeconomic policy and adjustment. It covers a wide range of topics, including the design of macroeconomic policy, the impact of macroeconomic policy on the economy, and the challenges of macroeconomic policy in developing countries.
Provides a comprehensive overview of monetary and fiscal policy. It covers topics such as inflation, unemployment, and economic growth.
Comprehensive textbook on international economics, covering trade theory, economic growth, and international finance. It provides a strong foundation for understanding the macroeconomic issues faced by emerging market economies.
Provides a comprehensive overview of economic forecasting principles and practice. It covers a wide range of topics, including the use of time series models for forecasting, the analysis of macroeconomic data, and the evaluation of forecasting models.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the econometrics of macroeconomic forecasting. It covers a wide range of topics, including the use of time series models for forecasting, the analysis of macroeconomic data, and the evaluation of forecasting models.
Provides a comprehensive overview of economic growth theory and policy. It covers a wide range of topics, including the determinants of economic growth, the role of government in economic growth, and the challenges of economic growth in developing countries.
Provides a comprehensive overview of financial development and economic growth. It covers a wide range of topics, including the role of financial development in economic growth, the determinants of financial development, and the challenges of financial development in developing countries.
Provides a comprehensive overview of international finance and open economy macroeconomics. It covers a wide range of topics, including the balance of payments, exchange rate determination, and international monetary policy.
Provides a comprehensive overview of macroeconometrics and time series analysis. It covers a wide range of topics, including the estimation of time series models, the analysis of macroeconomic data, and the use of time series models for forecasting.
Save
Provides a practical guide to macroeconomic policymaking in emerging market economies. It covers topics such as fiscal policy, monetary policy, and exchange rate policy.
Provides a clear and concise introduction to the macroeconomics of growth and development. It covers a wide range of topics, including the determinants of economic growth, the role of government in economic development, and the challenges of economic development in developing countries.
This textbook provides a clear and concise introduction to macroeconomic theory and policy. It covers both short-run and long-run macroeconomic issues, and it includes a number of case studies that illustrate the application of macroeconomic principles to real-world problems.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the economics of growth. It covers topics such as economic growth, innovation, and human capital.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the economics of emerging markets. It covers topics such as economic growth, inflation, and financial markets.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the macroeconomic challenges faced by emerging market economies. It covers topics such as exchange rate regimes, inflation, and fiscal policy.
Provides a comprehensive overview of macroeconomics for developing countries. It covers topics such as economic growth, inflation, and unemployment.
Provides a comprehensive overview of econometric analysis of cross section and panel data. It covers a wide range of topics, including the estimation of linear regression models, the analysis of variance, and the estimation of nonlinear models.
Provides a detailed overview of the international financial system. It covers topics such as foreign exchange markets, international investment, and risk management.

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