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A test for bivariate normality with applications in microeconometric models

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  • Riccardo Lucchetti
  • Claudia Pigini

Abstract

In this paper, we propose a test for bivariate normality in imperfectly observed models, based on the information matrix test for censored models with bootstrap critical values. In order to evaluate its properties, we run a comprehensive Monte Carlo experiment, in which we use the bivariate probit model and Heckman sample selection model as examples. We find that, while asymptotic critical values can be seriously misleading, the use of bootstrap critical values results in a test that has excellent size and power properties even in small samples. Since this procedure is relatively inexpensive from a computational viewpoint and is easy to generalise to models with arbitrary censoring schemes, we recommend it as an important and valuable testing tool. Copyright Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg 2013

Suggested Citation

  • Riccardo Lucchetti & Claudia Pigini, 2013. "A test for bivariate normality with applications in microeconometric models," Statistical Methods & Applications, Springer;Società Italiana di Statistica, vol. 22(4), pages 535-572, November.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:stmapp:v:22:y:2013:i:4:p:535-572
    DOI: 10.1007/s10260-013-0236-5
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    Cited by:

    1. Lucchetti, Riccardo & Pigini, Claudia, 2014. "A simple and effective misspecification test for the double-hurdle model," Economics Letters, Elsevier, vol. 123(1), pages 75-78.
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    3. Dalla Valle Luciana, 2016. "The Use of Official Statistics in Self-Selection Bias Modeling," Journal of Official Statistics, Sciendo, vol. 32(4), pages 887-905, December.

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Information matrix test; Monte Carlo simulation; Bootstrap; Sample selection model; Bivariate probit model; C12; C15; C24; C35;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • C12 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Econometric and Statistical Methods and Methodology: General - - - Hypothesis Testing: General
    • C15 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Econometric and Statistical Methods and Methodology: General - - - Statistical Simulation Methods: General
    • C24 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Single Equation Models; Single Variables - - - Truncated and Censored Models; Switching Regression Models; Threshold Regression Models
    • C35 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Multiple or Simultaneous Equation Models; Multiple Variables - - - Discrete Regression and Qualitative Choice Models; Discrete Regressors; Proportions

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