This paper provides theoretical and empirical elements to analyze the relation between real exchange rates and domestic savings. We show from a theoretical perspective how a competitive exchange rate may stimulate domestic savings by avoiding consumption booms based on currency overvaluation and by increasing profits in the tradable sector. Our baseline model shows from a short run perspective how a competitive exchange rate may stimulate investment, exports, profits and thus domestic savings. We also present econometric evidence based on a panel with developing countries which shows a robust connection between real exchange rates and domestic savings as a share of GDP.
real exchange rate; savings; investment and economic development; savings displacement
