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A tale of two correlations: Evidence and theory regarding the phase shift between the price level and output

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  • Brock, William A.
  • Haslag, Joseph H.

Abstract

We examine the relationship between the price level and output at business-cycle frequencies. In the postwar period, there is evidence of a phase shift between the price level and output. Such a phase shift is manifested in the price level being countercyclical and the inflation rate being procyclical or acyclical, depending on the detrending method used. Our examination takes three approaches. First, we apply bootstrapping methods to characterize the two correlations, though the methodology could easily be extended to any set of facts. Second, we specify a model economy with forecast heterogeneity, showing numerically that this model economy can match the observed pair of correlations. Third, we apply robust control theory, deriving conditions in which the price level is countercyclical and the inflation rate is procyclical.

Suggested Citation

  • Brock, William A. & Haslag, Joseph H., 2016. "A tale of two correlations: Evidence and theory regarding the phase shift between the price level and output," Journal of Economic Dynamics and Control, Elsevier, vol. 67(C), pages 40-57.
  • Handle: RePEc:eee:dyncon:v:67:y:2016:i:c:p:40-57
    DOI: 10.1016/j.jedc.2016.03.004
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    2. Li, Xue & Haslag, Joseph H., 2021. "On Phase Shifts In A New Keynesian Model Economy," Macroeconomic Dynamics, Cambridge University Press, vol. 25(8), pages 2080-2101, December.

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Model uncertainty; Filter; Price level; Output;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • C82 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Data Collection and Data Estimation Methodology; Computer Programs - - - Methodology for Collecting, Estimating, and Organizing Macroeconomic Data; Data Access
    • E31 - Macroeconomics and Monetary Economics - - Prices, Business Fluctuations, and Cycles - - - Price Level; Inflation; Deflation
    • E32 - Macroeconomics and Monetary Economics - - Prices, Business Fluctuations, and Cycles - - - Business Fluctuations; Cycles

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