In the context of an overlapping-generations model, we show that liqui
dity constraints on households (i) raise the saving rate, (ii) strengt
hen the effect of growth on saving, (iii) increase the growth rate if
productivity growth is endogenous, and (iv) may increase welfare. The
first three positions are supported by cross-country regressions of sa
ving and growth rates on indicators of liquidity contraints on househo
lds. The results suggest that financial deregulation in the 1980s has
contributed to the decline in national saving and growth rates in the
OECD countries.