Background:

Since NTU's Econometric Modelling and Forecasting Unit sounded an early warning in March on bleaker economic prospects for Singapore this year, with a prediction of 3% real GDP growth in a worst case scenario, the global economic outlook has deteriorated substantially. In this seminar, the unit's members present updated forecasts of Singapore's output performances, inflation and labour market indicators for the rest of 2008 as well as 2009. These predictions incorporate  the latest developments in the US and world economies, the electronics cycle and recent trends in oil and food prices.
The Nanyang Technological University has a long history of forecasting the Singapore economy. In keeping up this momentum, the Econometric Modelling and Forecasting Unit (EMU) of the Economic Growth Centre (EGC) continues to issue prognostications on the Singapore economy. Members of the EMU are Dr. Choy Keen Meng (Chair), Associate Professor Low Chan Kee, Dr. Randolph Tan, Associate Professor Huang Weihong, Dr. Pradumna Rana, Dr. Ernie Teo and Dr. Kampon Adireksombat. Their forecasts are based on time series econometric models of the Singapore economy that take into account the major external and internal factors impinging on domestic economic performance.

Profile of the Economic Growth Centre (EGC)

The Economic Growth Centre (EGC) was set up by the Division of Economics in 2004. The Centre is presently headed by Professor Lim Chong Yah as Director, assisted by Associate Professor Euston Quah as Co-Director and supported by Associate Professor Tan Khye Chong as Deputy Director and a Working Committee. The Centre has three Research Units: The Econometric Modelling Unit (EMU), The Exchange Rate Dynamics Unit and The  Survey Research and Social Research Unit. The Centre analyzes economic policies related to education, social security, welfare, health, education and environmental management, among others. It hosts academic visitors,  and also organizes seminars, conferences, workshops, and public talks on key issues relevant to Singapore and the region, and publishes a working paper series. For more information, visit http://www.ntu.edu.sg/hss/egc/.
Reservation:

Admission is free.  Please reply to Christina, e-mail: achristina@ntu.edu.sg or Tel: 6790-5689 to confirm your attendance.