Agent-based modeling at central banks: recent developments and new challenges

Over the past decade, agent-based models (ABMs) have been increasingly employed as analytical tools within economic policy institutions. This paper documents this trend by surveying the ABM-relevant research and policy outputs of central banks and other related economic policy institutions. We classify these studies and reports into three main categories: (i) applied research connected to the mandates of central banks, (ii) technical and methodological research supporting the advancement of ABMs; and (iii) examples of the integration of ABMs into policy work. Our findings indicate that ABMs have emerged as effective complementary tools for central banks in carrying out their responsibilities, especially after the extension of their mandates following the global financial crisis of 2007–09. While acknowledging that room for improvement remains, we argue that integrating ABMs into the analytical frameworks of central banks can support more effective policy responses to both existing and emerging economic challenges, including financial innovation and climate change.