We analyze the spatial relationships of economic output dynamics in European regions from 2000 to 2019 using dynamic spatial autoregressive growth models. In contrast to previous studies that rely on exogenous spatial weight matrices based solely on geographical proximity, we use a novel Bayesian approach to fully estimate the spatial weight matrix. Our results show that economic and sectoral characteristics (e.g. sectoral production structure, education, etc.) significantly influence the degree of regional interdependence. The approach thus allows to study the complex dynamics of regional economic development beyond mere distance.

This paper analyses the effects of quantitative easing (QE) on households' income and consumption inequality in the Euro Area. Using a SVAR with high frequency identification, I show that an identified QE shock is redistributive and expansionary. To rationalize the empirical findings, I build a New Keynesian DSGE model with household heterogeneity and financial frictions which explains the empirical results and provides insights on the inequality channel. Bond purchases increase aggregate demand and benefit financially restricted households more than investors, due to the dominance of QE's indirect effects and the foregoing term spread between bonds and reserves. Thus, income and consumption inequality decline in line with the evidence.

We analyse the transmission mechanism of commodity price shocks in inflation targeting emerging economies. Using a panel vector autoregression, we find that for a commodity exporter, the shock causes a real exchange rate appreciation, increases in output, inflation, the nominal interest rate and the trade balance, and a fall in the unemployment rate. The mechanism underlying the dynamics driving the VAR can be understood using a dynamic stochastic general equilibrium model. Search and matching frictions in the labour market and the conduct of monetary policy are key for the model to match the data.