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Measuring Natural Interest Rate in Morocco

Author

Listed:
  • Chaimae Lazzarou

    (Bank Al-Maghrib – Central Bank of Morocco)

Abstract

This paper estimates Morocco's natural interest rate (NIR) using two approaches: a standard HLW-type framework and an augmented specification that incorporates external factors, namely imported inflation, and movements in the real effective exchange rate. The results point to a downward trend in the natural rate following the Global Financial Crisis and an increase during the post pandemic inflationary episode. The REER-augmented model delivers higher estimates than the baseline, particularly in periods of inflationary pressures. On average, the natural interest rate is estimated to stand at around 2.6 percent over the sample period, implying a negative interest rate gap relative to the policy rate.

Suggested Citation

  • Chaimae Lazzarou, 2026. "Measuring Natural Interest Rate in Morocco," IHEID Working Papers 01-2026, Economics Section, The Graduate Institute of International Studies.
    • Handle: RePEc:gii:giihei:heidwp01-2026
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    JEL classification:

    • E43 - Macroeconomics and Monetary Economics - - Money and Interest Rates - - - Interest Rates: Determination, Term Structure, and Effects
    • E52 - Macroeconomics and Monetary Economics - - Monetary Policy, Central Banking, and the Supply of Money and Credit - - - Monetary Policy
    • F41 - International Economics - - Macroeconomic Aspects of International Trade and Finance - - - Open Economy Macroeconomics
    • C11 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Econometric and Statistical Methods and Methodology: General - - - Bayesian Analysis: General

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