Niklas Potrafke

Prof. Dr. Niklas Potrafke is a Professor of Economics, specializing in Public Finance, at the Faculty of Economics of Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich (LMU). He also leads the ifo Center for Public Finance and Political Economy at the ifo Institute in Munich. His research focuses on political economy, fiscal policy, electoral cycles, and the interplay between globalization and governance. He has authored numerous articles in top journals like the Journal of Public Economics and European Journal of Political Economy, analyzing topics such as tax policies, minority governments' fiscal performance, and the impact of political leadership on macroeconomic expectations. Potrafke holds a postdoctoral background from the University of Konstanz and has collaborated extensively with institutions like the CESifo Group and the ifo Institute. His work bridges empirical economics with policy analysis, contributing to debates on public finance reforms, climate policies, and defense spending.

His research interests include:

• Public Finance: Taxation, fiscal rules, and budgetary cycles
• Political Economy: Partisan politics, electoral behavior, and policy outcomes
• Globalization: Trade openness, inequality, and institutional quality
• Institutional Analysis: Governance structures, minority governments, and policy reforms

Recent studies highlight his focus on contemporary issues like the U.S. Inflation Reduction Act’s global implications and the role of female leaders in political representation. He regularly publishes expert surveys and policy reports, offering evidence-based insights for policymakers. His interdisciplinary approach integrates quantitative methods with real-world policy challenges, making him a prominent figure in both academic and applied economics.

Notable contributions include:

• Leading the Economic Experts Survey (EES), a global quarterly survey analyzing expert opinions on economic trends
• Foundational work on how political institutions shape fiscal and monetary policies
• Analysis of post-pandemic vaccination preferences linked to crisis experience

Potrafke’s advisory roles and collaborative networks further solidify his influence in shaping economic discourse on governance and public finance.