ISSUES
Most recently, there has been a remarkable fall in the energy and commodity prices. Many have
been debating the possible explanations for this phenomenon, whether the low prices will persist,
and most importantly the possible impact on different countries, in particular commodity
exporters. The project may discuss the reasons behind the fall in prices, comment on the possible
factors which may push up/down their prices in the future, and using time series models (for
instance VARs) assess how economic activity and/or key indicators across different countries
depend on the energy/commodity prices, in particular major oil exporters and possibly major
importers. Finally, empirical results can be used to discuss which countries are more
vulnerable/sensitive and possible impact of prolonged low prices.
Two copies of the assignment must be uploaded:
① The first one needs to be uploaded by the 25th of March—a draft which should specify the
research idea, techniquesto be used and data sourcesrequired as well asreferencesto
a few articlesthat look at the same issue or use similar techniques.
② 5th August-Deadline for dissertation submission
