We provide a versatile nowcasting toolbox that supports three model classes (dynamic factor models, large Bayesian VAR, bridge equations) and offers methods to manage data selection and adjust for Covid-19 observations. The toolbox aims at simplifying two key tasks: creating new nowcasting...

This paper discusses how the forecast accuracy of a Bayesian vector autoregression (BVAR) is affected by introducing the zero lower bound on the federal funds rate. As a benchmark I adopt a common BVAR specification, including 18 variables, estimated shrinkage, and no nonlinearity. Then I...

In the context of latent factor models that are widely used in economics, a common assumption made is one of factor pervasiveness, which implies that all available predictor or informative variables in a dataset, with the possible exception of a negligible number of them, load significantly on...

When specifying and estimating latent factor models, a common assumption made is one of factor pervasiveness, which requires that Γ'Γ/N converges to a positive definite matrix, as N → ∞, where Γ denotes the loading matrix of the factor model. This paper builds on the recent nascent...

We propose a new data-rich environment model of the yield curve, the macroeconomy, monetary policies and effective exchange rates for a panel of 11 countries: the iDREAM. The endogenous variables are observable (short- and long-term interest rates, exchange rates) and latent factors (economic...

It is now an accepted fact that the majority of financial markets worldwide are neither normal nor constant, and South Africa is no exception. One idea that can be used to understand such markets and has been gaining popularity recently is that of regimes and regime-switching models. In this...

Structural VAR and Structural VEC models were estimated for Chile and Colombia, aiming at identifying fiscal policy shocks in both countries between 1990 and 2005. The impulse responses obtained allow the calculation of a peso-for-peso ($/$) effect on output of a shock to public spending and to...

We present a simple new methodology to allow for time-variation in volatilities using a recursive updating scheme similar to the familiar RiskMetrics approach. It exploits the link between exponentially weighted moving average and integrated dynamics of score driven time varying parameter...

We study the relationship between VARMA and factor representations of a vector stochastic process. We observe that, in general, vector time series and factors cannot both follow finite-order VAR models. Instead, a VAR factor dynamics induces a VARMA process, while a VAR process entails VARMA...