We use a new dataset on non –resource GDP to examine the performance of commodity –exporting countries in terms of macro-economic stability and economic growth in a panel of up to 129 countries during the period 1970-2007. Our main finds are threefold. First, we find that overall government spending in commodity –exporting countries has been pro-cyclical. Second, we find that resource windfalls initially crowd out non-resource GDP which then increase as a result of the fiscal expansion. Third, we find that in the long run resource windfalls have negative effects on non-resource sector GDP growth. Yet, the effects turn out to be statistically insignificant when controlling for government spending. Both effects of resource windfalls on macroeconomic stability and economic growth are moderated by the quality of political institutions.