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Nowcasting in real time: Large Bayesian vector autoregression in a test

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  • Juvonen, Petteri
  • Lindblad, Annika

Abstract

We analyse the accuracy of an econometric model for nowcasting GDP growth in a true real-time setting. The analysis is based on a unique sample of nowcasts that were produced in real time and stored. Our results support the use of econometric models for nowcasting because the accuracy of these real-time nowcasts is found to be comparable to the first GDP estimates of the statistical authority. The nowcasts are produced by a large Bayesian vector autoregressive model. We find the model fares well against other statistical models, and the results suggest that its performance has been more robust to COVID-19 fluctuations than that of a dynamic factor model. We also analyse comments on the nowcast tweets published on Twitter in real time.

Suggested Citation

  • Juvonen, Petteri & Lindblad, Annika, 2025. "Nowcasting in real time: Large Bayesian vector autoregression in a test," Bank of Finland Research Discussion Papers 6/2025, Bank of Finland.
    • Handle: RePEc:zbw:bofrdp:319609
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Keywords

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    JEL classification:

    • C11 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Econometric and Statistical Methods and Methodology: General - - - Bayesian Analysis: General
    • 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
    • E32 - Macroeconomics and Monetary Economics - - Prices, Business Fluctuations, and Cycles - - - Business Fluctuations; Cycles
    • E37 - Macroeconomics and Monetary Economics - - Prices, Business Fluctuations, and Cycles - - - Forecasting and Simulation: Models and Applications

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