Applied Economics

Objectives

This course aims to identify, measure and understand recent macroeconomic developments. The discipline follows a methodology based on the use of available statistical information, contributing to a critical analysis of the main indicators and discussion of relevant themes of recent economic debate.

In particular, there are six learning objectives:

LO1 Know the main concepts of macroeconomic aggregates. How has the Portuguese economy evolved in recent years? What components explain this evolution? How does Portugal compare with other countries? What was the impact of the pandemic on the economy and on the different economic agents?

Know the main characteristics of economic agents:

LO2. Households. Where are the Portuguese putting their savings? Do the Portuguese spend more than they earn? What are the loans that the Portuguese ask for from banks for? On average, what rate do Portuguese people pay for their home loan?

LO3. Companies. What are the most significant economic activities in Portugal? Which regions have the highest sales volume in Portugal? What is the most profitable sector of activity in Portugal?

LO4. Banks. How were the first 20 years of the euro? What is monetary policy? What does the European Central Bank do?

LO5. Public sector. The Maastricht treaty stipulates that the public deficit must be less than 3% of GDP and that public debt must be less than 60% of GDP. Portugal is complying? And the other countries? How are State expenditures distributed in Portugal? And in other countries? Who finances the Portuguese State?

LO6. Understand the international relations of the economy. In which countries do Portuguese companies invest? Which countries invest in Portugal? How much do tourists spend in Portugal and where do they come from? How much money do Portuguese families receive from their emigrant relatives?