But in the longer term, economists say, it could hasten a fundamental shift in the Czech economy.

Though the Czech economy grew 2.8 percent last year, the loosely regulated stock market is all but dead.

Though the Czech economy is in a deep recession, Skoda sales jumped 17.3 percent in 1998, and profits doubled to about $65 million.

"The Slovak economy as well as the Czech economy have been developing together since 1918," he said.

In the last five years, the Czech economy has shrunk by 20 percent, the Institute says.

Industry accounts for 35% of the Czech economy.

They have also sought sensitive information on the Czech economy and contacts with politicians and state officials.

While the fund's investments have performed poorly, the Czech economy has been booming and its entrepreneurs thriving.

Special conditions must apply to the less-developed economies, such as the Czech economy.

The Czech economy gets a substantial income from tourism.