International imbalances again? Still? Forever?

Date
April 16, 2026, 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM EDT
Virtual Event

Joseph E. Gagnon (PIIE), Maurice Obstfeld (PIIE), Hélène Rey (London Business School; Centre for Economic Policy Research) and Alan Taylor (Columbia University; Bank of England)

Event Summary

The Peterson Institute for International Economics will host an exclusive discussion titled "International Imbalances Again? Still? Forever?" examining the persistence, drivers, and policy implications of global trade and current account imbalances in today's economic landscape. Moderated by PIIE C. Fred Bergsten Senior Fellow Maurice Obstfeld, the session will feature PIIE senior fellow Joseph E. Gagnon, Hélène Rey of the London Business School and CEPR, and Alan Taylor of Columbia University.  In a focused conversation based on their up-to-the-minute research, they will address what aspects of imbalances matter for current policy negotiations, the potential impact and responses to a second China shock amid record surpluses, and the outlook for shifts in the international monetary system in 2026 and beyond. 

This timely discussion will cut through the headlines to deliver evidence-based insights and forward-looking analysis from leading experts.   

MODERATOR

Maurice Obstfeld 
C. Fred Bergsten Senior Fellow, PIIE

SPEAKERS

Joseph E. Gagnon 
Senior Fellow, PIIE

Hélène Rey 
Lord Bagri Professor of Economics, London Business School; Vice President, Centre for Economic Policy Research (CEPR)

Alan Taylor
Professor of International and Public Affairs, Columbia University; External Member, Monetary Policy Committee, Bank of England

Video