Asymmetric shocks and structural asymmetries
Asymmetric shocks and structural asymmetries are often confused in analyses of the euro zone’s problems. They are , in both cases, asymmetries between euro-zone countries, which make s the use of a single monetary and exchange-rate policy more detrimental. But very different policies are needed to correct these two types of heterogeneity: To reduce the effect of asymmetric shocks, countries must either conduct very countercyclical national fiscal policies; or there must be mechanisms to insure against asymmetric shocks: euro - zone budget , portfolio diversification between countries; To reduce structural asymmetries (that concern productivity gains, the sectoral structure of the economy, labour force skills, the employment rate, etc.) there is a need for structural reforms that restore the troubled countries ’ situation . So asymmetric shocks and structural asymmetries must be analysed separately .