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The Behavior of Currencies during Risk-off Episodes

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  • Mr. Reinout De Bock
  • Mr. Irineu E de Carvalho Filho

Abstract

Episodes of increased global risk aversion, also known as risk-off episodes, have become more frequent and severe since 2007. During these episodes, currency markets exhibit recurrent patterns, as the Japanese yen, Swiss franc, and U.S. dollar appreciate against other G-10 and emerging market currencies. The pattern of these moves can be explained by a combination of fundamental factors, such as the nominal interest rate, the international investment position and measures of exchange rate misalignment, and market-liquidity factors, such as bid-offer spreads and restrictions on international capital flows. We also find that currency performance in a risk-off episode has become more related to a currency?s yield and relationship to broader risks in recent years.

Suggested Citation

  • Mr. Reinout De Bock & Mr. Irineu E de Carvalho Filho, 2013. "The Behavior of Currencies during Risk-off Episodes," IMF Working Papers 2013/008, International Monetary Fund.
    • Handle: RePEc:imf:imfwpa:2013/008
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