The chapter first examines the limitations of conventional open-economy macro models, such as the Mundell–Fleming model, when they are applied to developing countries. It discusses the Swan–Salter model and the three-sector dependent-economy model that better capture the reality of the external sector in poor countries. It then discusses the impact of devaluation under conditions of closed and open capital accounts and shows the limitation of a devaluation unaccompanied by structural measures in little diversified poor economies and in economies with large dollar liabilities. In this regard, it examines the results of the empirical literature on the contractionary or expansionary effect of devaluation in developing countries. Finally, it reviews the pros and cons of alternative exchange rate regimes, the impossible trinity theorem, and measures to control exchange rate volatility through capital controls.
Evaluating an estimated new Keynesian small open economy model
