A dynamic analysis of asymmetric shocks in EU manufacturing

Available empirical evidence regarding the degree of symmetry between European economies in the context of Monetary Unification is not conclusive. This study offers new empirical evidence concerning this issue related to the manufacturing sector. Instead of using a static approach as most empirical studies do, the dynamic evolution of shock symmetry is analysed using a state-space model. The results show a clear reduction of asymmetries in terms of demand shocks between 1978 and 1996, with an increase in terms of supply shocks at the end of the period.