This paper introduces an upgraded version of MSVARlib, a Gauss and Ox- Gauss compliant library, focusing on Multivariate Markov Switching Regressions in their most general specification. This new set of procedures allows to estimate, through classical optimization methods, models belonging to...

This paper introduces a new open source Gauss library to estimate Multivariate Hidden Markov Models (HMM) in their simpler specification. These new programs are based upon the works of Hamilton (1994) and Krolzig (1998) and allow assessment of models with 2, 3 or 4 states through classical...

This paper explores 35 years of the American business cycle with the Hidden Markov Model (HMM) as a monitoring tool using monthly data. It exhibits ten US time series, which offer reliable information to detect recessions in real time. It also assesses the performances of different and...

This paper explores the American business cycle with the Hidden Markov Model (HMM) as a monitoring tool using monthly data. It exhibits ten US time series which offer reliable information to detect recessions in real time. It also proposes and assesses the performances of different and...

This paper develops a simple sequential multiple horizon non-causation test strategy for trivariate VAR models (with one auxiliary variable). We apply the test strategy to a rolling window study of money supply and real income, with the price of oil, the unemployment rate and the spread between...

This paper introduces methods for computing impulse response functions that do not require specification and estimation of the unknown dynamic multivariate system itself. The central idea behind these methods is to estimate flexible local projections at each period of interest rather than...

This paper discusses the role of the credit rating agencies during the recent financial crises. In particular, it examines whether the agencies can add to the dynamics of emerging market crises. Academics and investors often argue that sovereign credit ratings are responsible for pronounced...

This paper analyzes a model of investment with fixed investment costs and capital market imperfections. In this model finance influences the level of capital firms hold, as well as the frequency at which they invest. In consequence investment reacts nonlinearly with respect to shocks to...

In this paper we investigate the relationship between stock market returns and economic activity by using signal decomposition techniques based on wavelet analysis. In particular, we apply the maximum overlap discrete wavelet transform (MODWT) to the DJIA stock price index and the industrial...

In this paper a model of aggregate investment is derived which incorporates fixed investment costs and capital market imperfections on the micro-level. Aggregate investment reacts nonlinearily with respect to aggregate shocks to productivity and liquidity of firms. Employing non-parametric...