Unlike Greece — whose exit from the euro would require either a redenomination or outright repudiation of its euro-denominated debts (with potentially catastrophic financial consequences) — Germany would be able to reintroduce the mark without altering the form of any current asset, liability or contract. For example, euros deposited in German banks would remain euro-denominated. So would outstanding German sovereign and corporate debt now denominated in euros…

Germany’s industrial base would unquestionably endure hardship in the transition to a stronger currency. In the early years, Germany could use a variety of measures to manage the rate of appreciation of the mark, much as China or Switzerland do today. Over time, the industrial base of Germany would adapt and move forward.

Critics will say our plan invites financial chaos. To the contrary: capital would flow from “safe haven” assets toward more productive investments, boosting global growth prospects. Resources now dedicated to the alphabet soup of bailout programs and financial guarantees could be redirected. Besides, the current situation is hardly a model of stability.