Political Economy of Financial Integration in Europe

Book excerpt: This timely volume traces the political, financial, and economicsteps toward financial union in Europe, focusing on the politicaleconomy of the process--notably the dynamics of a Europe ofsovereign states. Few aspects of the great European integration project have been as difficult and fraught with political conflict as the creation of a single financial market and monetary union. It is clear, however, that monetary union and financial integration are now on the front-burner in Europe, and will remain so until at least the year 2000. This timely volume traces the political, financial, and economic steps toward financial union in Europe, focusing on the political economy of the process--notably the dynamics of a Europe of sovereign states. It is the first integrated view of the issue, combining political, economic, and financial perspectives. Authoritative, comprehensive, and accessible, the volume is essential reading for students, researchers, policy makers, journalists, and anyone who needs to know about financial integration in Europe.