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Can A Subset Of Forecasters Beat The Simple Average In The Spf?

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  • Constantin Burgi

    (The George Washington University)

Abstract

The forecast combination literature has optimal combination methods, however, empirical studies have shown that the simple average is notoriously difficult to improve upon. This paper introduces a novel way to choose a subset of forecasters who might have specialized knowledge to improve upon the simple average over all forecasters in the SPF. In particular, taking the average of forecasters that recently beat the simple average more than the calibrated threshold of 52.5% of times can statistically significantly outperform the simple average for 10-year treasury bond yields, CPI inflation and unemployment at some horizons.

Suggested Citation

  • Constantin Burgi, 2015. "Can A Subset Of Forecasters Beat The Simple Average In The Spf?," Working Papers 2015-001, The George Washington University, Department of Economics, H. O. Stekler Research Program on Forecasting.
    • Handle: RePEc:gwc:wpaper:2015-001
    as

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    File URL: https://www2.gwu.edu/~forcpgm/2015-001.pdf
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
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    6. Genre, Véronique & Kenny, Geoff & Meyler, Aidan & Timmermann, Allan, 2013. "Combining expert forecasts: Can anything beat the simple average?," International Journal of Forecasting, Elsevier, vol. 29(1), pages 108-121.
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    Full references (including those not matched with items on IDEAS)

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Forecast combination; Forecast evaluation; Multiple model comparisons; Real-time data; Survey of Professional Forecasters;
    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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