The digital transformation creates scope to make workflows and production processes more efficient. To quantify the impact of digital transformation on labour productivity, research often focuses on investments in digital technologies. This perspective neglects the fact that digital intermediate inputs, such as microchips or integrated software, also represent an important transmission channel for the efficiency gains from digitalisation. In a new study, Bundesbank researchers have examined how efficiency gains in the digital sectors have affected labour productivity in Germany, France and the United States.

Dr. Andreas Dombret, Member of the Executive Board of the Deutsche Bundesbank, Luncheon Speech at the American Council on Germany

Bundesbank President Jens Weidmann takes a critical view of the ECB Governing Council's latest monetary policy easing. In a speech in Vaduz, Mr Weidmann said that, while the need for monetary policy action was agreed, he thinks the decisions go too far when looking at the bigger picture.