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Finance and Credit
 

Money, debt, and the budget deficit: Contrasting views of the mainstream and modern monetary theory

ISSUE 10, OCTOBER 2025

PDF  Article PDF Version

Received: 21 April 2025

Accepted: 26 May 2025

Available online: 30 October 2025

Subject Heading: THEORY OF FINANCE

JEL Classification: E12, Е52, E60, E62

Pages: 103-117

https://doi.org/10.24891/qmfebd

Vladimir A. BELYAEV Moscow State Institute of International Relations (University) of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation (MGIMO University), Moscow, Russian Federation
v.a.belyaeff@gmail.com

https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7422-5515

Subject. This article analyzes the fundamental differences between the Modern Monetary Theory (MMT) and mainstream economic theory. It focuses on the opposing approaches to fiscal policy, monetary policy, inflation, and the role of the State in the economy.
Objectives. The article aims to identify and analyze the key differences between the MMT and mainstream economics, as well as rethink traditional concepts such as government financing and the relationship between fiscal and monetary authorities.
Methods. For the study, I used a comparative analysis.
Results. The article identifies the key differences between the approaches of the MMT and mainstream economics. The article also highlights the weaknesses and contentious issues of the MMT, such as the politicization of economic policy and the impact of budget deficits on the external sector.
Conclusions and Relevance. Applying alternative approaches in the face of global economic challenges, especially in the context of developing countries, is highly important. The results obtained may be useful for further study and development of effective economic strategies.

Keywords: modern monetary theory, MMT, macroeconomic policy, fiscal policy, sovereign state

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