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A Dynamic Factor Model for Nowcasting Canadian GDP Growth

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  • Tony Chernis
  • Rodrigo Sekkel

Abstract

This paper estimates a dynamic factor model (DFM) for nowcasting Canadian gross domestic product. The model is estimated with a mix of soft and hard indicators, and it features a high share of international data. The model is then used to generate nowcasts, predictions of the recent past and current state of the economy. In a pseudo real-time setting, we show that the DFM outperforms univariate benchmarks as well as other commonly used nowcasting models, such as mixed-data sampling (MIDAS) and bridge regressions.

Suggested Citation

  • Tony Chernis & Rodrigo Sekkel, 2017. "A Dynamic Factor Model for Nowcasting Canadian GDP Growth," Staff Working Papers 17-2, Bank of Canada.
  • Handle: RePEc:bca:bocawp:17-2
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Business fluctuations and cycles; Econometric and statistical methods;

    JEL classification:

    • C38 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Multiple or Simultaneous Equation Models; Multiple Variables - - - Classification Methdos; Cluster Analysis; Principal Components; Factor Analysis
    • 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
    • C53 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Econometric Modeling - - - Forecasting and Prediction Models; Simulation Methods
    • E37 - Macroeconomics and Monetary Economics - - Prices, Business Fluctuations, and Cycles - - - Forecasting and Simulation: Models and Applications

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