IMF announces new Chief Economist

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has named a Chief Economist to replace Olivier Blanchard.

Maurice Obstfeld, an economic adviser to Barack Obama, will be taking on the new role. He is currently a professor of Economics at the University of California.

Obstfeld is known for his views and expertise on the need for more Eurozone integration, and the dangers of investment imbalances. The IMF Managing Director, Christine Lagarde, referred to him as “one of the most influential macroeconomists in the world.”

“His outstanding academic credentials and extensive international experience make him exceptionally well placed to provide intellectual leadership to the IMF at this important juncture,” she added.