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Optimal monetary policy rules in a rational expectations model of the Phillips curve

Author

Listed:
  • Clark, Peter
  • Goodhart, C. A. E.
  • Huang, Haizhou

Abstract

In this paper we construct a rational expectations model based on a Phillips curve that embodies persistence in inflation. As we assume that the central bank targets the natural rate of output, there is no inflation bias. We derive optimal monetary policy rules that are state-contingent and shock-dependent both in the case where the central bank follows a commitment strategy and where it pursues a discretionary procedure. Numerical solutions show that in the state-contingent part there always exists a tradeoff between these two optimal rules in that the commitment rule involves smaller expected deviations of inflation from its target but larger expected deviations of output from its target; in the shock-dependent part there can be situations in which the discretionary rule is more effective in reducing the impact of the random shock on inflation and less effective in reducing the random shock on output. Only in the latter case it is possible that one rule is superior; otherwise it is generally the case that a tradeoff exists between these two rules.

Suggested Citation

  • Clark, Peter & Goodhart, C. A. E. & Huang, Haizhou, 1996. "Optimal monetary policy rules in a rational expectations model of the Phillips curve," LSE Research Online Documents on Economics 119163, London School of Economics and Political Science, LSE Library.
    • Handle: RePEc:ehl:lserod:119163
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Phillips curve; rational expectations model; optimal monetary policy rules; commitments versus discretion; policy effectiveness;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • E52 - Macroeconomics and Monetary Economics - - Monetary Policy, Central Banking, and the Supply of Money and Credit - - - Monetary Policy
    • E58 - Macroeconomics and Monetary Economics - - Monetary Policy, Central Banking, and the Supply of Money and Credit - - - Central Banks and Their Policies
    • C61 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Mathematical Methods; Programming Models; Mathematical and Simulation Modeling - - - Optimization Techniques; Programming Models; Dynamic Analysis

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