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A Fear Index to Predict Oil Futures Returns

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  • Julien, Chevallier
  • Sévi, Benoît

Abstract

This paper evaluates the predictability of WTI light sweet crude oil futures by using the variance risk premium, i.e. the difference between model-free measures of implied and realized volatilities. Additional regressors known for their ability to explain crude oil futures prices are also considered, capturing macroeconomic, financial and oil-specific influences. The results indicate that the explanatory power of the (negative) variance risk premium on oil excess returns is particularly strong (up to 25% for the adjusted Rsquared across our regressions). It complements other financial (e.g. default spread) and oil-specific (e.g. US oil stocks) factors highlighted in previous literature.

Suggested Citation

  • Julien, Chevallier & Sévi, Benoît, 2013. "A Fear Index to Predict Oil Futures Returns," Energy: Resources and Markets 156489, Fondazione Eni Enrico Mattei (FEEM).
    • Handle: RePEc:ags:feemer:156489
    DOI: 10.22004/ag.econ.156489
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Financial Economics;

    JEL classification:

    • C32 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Multiple or Simultaneous Equation Models; Multiple Variables - - - Time-Series Models; Dynamic Quantile Regressions; Dynamic Treatment Effect Models; Diffusion Processes; State Space Models
    • G17 - Financial Economics - - General Financial Markets - - - Financial Forecasting and Simulation
    • Q47 - Agricultural and Natural Resource Economics; Environmental and Ecological Economics - - Energy - - - Energy Forecasting

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