Realization of the regions’ budget capacity: a new integrative approach to the research

The paper investigates theoretical aspects related to the implementation of budget capacity at the stages of its formation and use. Having studied the determinants of socio-economic development contained in various economic doctrines, and taking into consideration the modern context of the functioning of the Russian economy, we show that the realization of budget capacity is an important factor in socio-economic development. The systematization of diverse views on the essence, definition of a set of controversial issues regarding the content and problems of implementing the regions’ budget capacity shows that the theoretical and methodological basis for its formation and use is limited. The paper considers the economic category “region’s budget capacity” from the perspective of integrating resource, fiscal and institutional characteristics, representing a set of not only created, but also attracted gratuitous / non-gratuitous budget resources, as well as reserves that can be realized under the influence of external / internal constraints and incentives. This interpretation makes it possible to specify the concept of “maximum achieved budget capacity of the region” as a capacity that has been implemented, and “the maximum achievable budget capacity of the region” as a set of implemented, reserve and hidden capacities. The article substantiates basic provisions of the integrative approach. The materials can be used in educational activities in studying disciplines in the field of finance, economics and management; they can also be useful to researchers as a basis for further research, and to management bodies of different levels to substantiate management decisions.