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The expected time to cross a threshold and its determinants: a simple and flexible framework

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  • Zsurkis, Gabriel
  • Nicolau, João
  • Rodrigues, Paulo M. M

Abstract

In this paper we introduce a flexible framework to estimate the expected time (ET) an outcome variable takes to cross a threshold conditional on covariates. The proposed methodology makes use of the Markovian property and allows us to infer the impacts that covariates have on the ET an outcome variable takes to revert to a value of interest (for instance, its mean) given a specific starting point. An empirical analysis of the response of U.S. unemployment persistence to monetary policy and government spending shocks is provided, contributing to a still limited literature which simultaneously allows for both types of shocks. Our results suggest that unexpected monetary and fiscal expansions seem to have a relevant role in accelerating the pace of unemployment decline towards its natural rate; and that contractionary monetary and fiscal shocks in a context of labor market slack may result in high ETs.

Suggested Citation

  • Zsurkis, Gabriel & Nicolau, João & Rodrigues, Paulo M. M, 2021. "The expected time to cross a threshold and its determinants: a simple and flexible framework," Journal of Economic Dynamics and Control, Elsevier, vol. 122(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:dyncon:v:122:y:2021:i:c:s0165188920302153
    DOI: 10.1016/j.jedc.2020.104047
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Expected time; Markov chains; Nonlinearity; Unemployment gap; Natural rate of unemployment; Fiscal shocks; Monetary shocks;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • C32 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Multiple or Simultaneous Equation Models; Multiple Variables - - - Time-Series Models; Dynamic Quantile Regressions; Dynamic Treatment Effect Models; Diffusion Processes; State Space Models
    • C41 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Econometric and Statistical Methods: Special Topics - - - Duration Analysis; Optimal Timing Strategies
    • C51 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Econometric Modeling - - - Model Construction and Estimation
    • E63 - Macroeconomics and Monetary Economics - - Macroeconomic Policy, Macroeconomic Aspects of Public Finance, and General Outlook - - - Comparative or Joint Analysis of Fiscal and Monetary Policy; Stabilization; Treasury Policy

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