Business cycle synchronization and its determinants in the OECD countries: panel data evidence

Abstract

ABSTRACT The primary determinants of business cycle synchronization among OECD countries and their interactions are examined using panel Granger causality tests, single-equation panel regressions, simultaneous equations model error component three-stage least squares (EC3SLS), and cross-sectional 3SLS econometric techniques. The sample spans the years 1990 through 2021. The results demonstrate the direct and indirect effects of the key macroeconomic variables on the synchronization of the business cycles of the sample economies, as well as the complementary and competing nature of these variables. The magnitude and significance of these macroeconomic factors in relation to the business cycle synchronization before and after the global financial crisis of 2009 are also examined in this study. Furthermore, the analysis supports the ex-post argument for entering the euro currency union. The study article contributes by providing direction for future empirical research on the sources and propagation mechanisms of international business cycle transmission.