Although the AEG agreed in principle with the market/non-market split of the output of central banks, it was recognized that it could be difficult, if not impossible for countries, to implement this proposal in practice. Countries were allowed some flexibility in applying the distinction.
Further, the AEG reviewed two options to treat the off-market interest rates applied by central banks: to record them as current transfers or as taxes/subsidies on production. On balance the group supported the second option i.e. deviations from market rates should be classified as taxes and subsidies. These should be identified explicitly when they are significant. However, due to the uncertainty surrounding the details, the AEG considered it useful to review these issues further and put them on the long-term research agenda. |