Betting Against IMF Forecast Track Record: Bhagwati

The transcript covers a range of topics including a personal anecdote about the Nobel Prize, a critique of IMF forecasts, and discussions on global economic issues such as trade policies and protectionism. It highlights the impact of President Obama's decisions on the Doha Round and the rise of protectionism. The conversation also delves into the effects of sanctions on Russia, leading to inward-focused policies and the absence of foreign goods like mozzarella in Moscow.

What was the humorous exchange between the speaker and Peter Diamond about?

• The Nobel Prize announcement

• The size of their respective audiences

• Their favorite economics books

• A shared research project

What is the main concern regarding the IMF's forecasts?

• They are overly optimistic

• They ignore developing countries

• They have been revised multiple times

• They focus too much on Europe

What was President Obama's role in the Doha Round according to the speaker?

• He supported it strongly

• He was indifferent to it

• He effectively ended it

• He revitalized it

Which country is highlighted as a major concern due to its inward economic policies?

• United States

• China

• Russia

• Brazil

What specific example is given to illustrate the impact of sanctions on Russia?

• Protests due to no mozzarella

• Lack of foreign investments

• Closure of international banks

• Decrease in oil exports