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Artificial neural network regression models in a panel setting: Predicting economic growth

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  • Jahn, Malte

Abstract

Economic time series often feature non-linear structures such as non-linear time trends, non-linear autoregressive effects, and non-linear interaction effects. In this paper, it is shown that artificial neural network regression models are suitable tools for the analysis of economic panel data because they allow for a compromise between the ability to model these features and the model size. As model specification is a concern in artificial neural network models, previous approaches are discussed critically. It is shown that the growth rates of the gross domestic product of 24 industrialized economies in the period 1992–2016 follow a non-linear time trend which cannot be explained by autoregressive features or polynomial time variables. The unrestricted functional form of the time trend in the artificial neural network model is also the main reason for the superior statistical performance compared to conventional panel models. This is confirmed by out-of-sample predictions for 2017.

Suggested Citation

  • Jahn, Malte, 2020. "Artificial neural network regression models in a panel setting: Predicting economic growth," Economic Modelling, Elsevier, vol. 91(C), pages 148-154.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:ecmode:v:91:y:2020:i:c:p:148-154
    DOI: 10.1016/j.econmod.2020.06.008
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    Keywords

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    JEL classification:

    • C45 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Econometric and Statistical Methods: Special Topics - - - Neural Networks and Related Topics
    • C53 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Econometric Modeling - - - Forecasting and Prediction Models; Simulation Methods
    • C61 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Mathematical Methods; Programming Models; Mathematical and Simulation Modeling - - - Optimization Techniques; Programming Models; Dynamic Analysis
    • O40 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Economic Growth and Aggregate Productivity - - - General

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