Phase out of the crisis support measures

A new database on exceptional fiscal spending adopted during the COVID-19 crisis is presented for 14 EU countries. The composition and evolution of fiscal measures differ across countries. We analyse (a) whether national economic characteristics determined the type of fiscal response adopted and (b) how the different fiscal measures affected the macroeconomic outcomes and consumer confidence. We assess whether measures have been sufficiently targeted and make recommendations as to which adjustments should be made as the crisis subsides.