Summary A reliable leading indicator should possess the following properties: (1) The movements in the indicator series should resemble those in the business cycle reference series. (2) The relation between the reference series and the indicator should be statistically significant and stable...

This paper tests for nonlinearity in EMS exchange rates using the bispectrum. The early experience of the ERM witnessed numerous realignments. We find that exchange rates follow a linear process over the period 1979-1987, consistent with the predictions of the realignment target zone model,...