Optimal Currency Areas: A Review of the Recent Literature

This paper surveys the recent literature on optimal currency areas (OCAs). Topics that are covered include theoretical developments in the context of general-equilibrium models and empirical work on shocks asymmetry and adjustment mechanisms. Issues relating to the endogeneity of OCA criteria, the role of exchange rate flexibility in promoting greater macroeconomic stability, and the links between productivity and the exchange rate are also surveyed. We conclude with suggestions for future research.