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Forecast Comparisons in Unstable Environments

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  • Giacomini, Raffaella
  • Rossi, Barbara

Abstract

We propose new methods for comparing the relative out-of-sample forecasting performance of two competing models in the presence of possible instabilities. The main idea is to develop a measure of the relative ìlocal forecasting performanceî for the two models, and to investigate its stability over time by means of statistical tests. We propose two tests (the ìFluctuation testî and the test against a ìOne-time Reversalî) that analyze the evolution of the modelsí relative performance over historical samples. In contrast to previous approaches to forecast comparison, which are based on measures of ìglobal performanceî, we focus on the entire time path of the modelsí relative performance, which may contain useful information that is lost when looking for the model that forecasts best on average. We apply our tests to the analysis of the time variation in the out-of-sample forecasting performance of monetary models of exchange rate determination relative to the random walk.

Suggested Citation

  • Giacomini, Raffaella & Rossi, Barbara, 2008. "Forecast Comparisons in Unstable Environments," Working Papers 08-04, Duke University, Department of Economics.
    • Handle: RePEc:duk:dukeec:08-4
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Predictive Ability Testing; Instability; Structural Change; Forecast Evaluation;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • C22 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Single Equation Models; Single Variables - - - Time-Series Models; Dynamic Quantile Regressions; Dynamic Treatment Effect Models; Diffusion Processes
    • C52 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Econometric Modeling - - - Model Evaluation, Validation, and Selection
    • C53 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Econometric Modeling - - - Forecasting and Prediction Models; Simulation Methods

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