Debt Buildup and Currency Vulnerability: Evidence from Global Markets
28 Pages Posted: 26 Jan 2021
Date Written: October 20, 2020
Abstract
In this study, we examine how public and private debt buildup is related to currency depreciation pressure. Our empirical analysis of a panel dataset of 59 advanced and emerging markets reveals that both private and public debt exacerbate currency vulnerability. However, the evidence of a significant effect on currency depreciation pressure is more robust and consistent for private debt than public debt. Furthermore, we find that excessive private debt buildup can be particularly harmful in emerging markets. In addition, our evidence suggests that greater dependence on external financing exacerbates the impact of debt buildup on currency stress. Overall, the evidence highlights the importance of a comprehensive debt surveillance framework which monitors both public and private debt buildup, especially in emerging markets.
Keywords: currency stress, exchange rate, financial vulnerability, private debt, public debt
JEL Classification: E44, E50, F31, G15
Suggested Citation: Suggested Citation