This paper examines the methods used by the Bank of Japan for the estimation of the output gap. Attention is paid to the real-time estimation problem. After reviewing the evolution of output gap estimation at the Bank, I discuss advantages and disadvantages of the various output gap measures....

This paper introduces financial cycle indexes and uses them in an early warning exercise. The indexes are based on the traditional theory of business cycles. Juglar cycles are deduced from a number of financial indicators, categorized as leading and lagging indicators, and aggregated into...