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Macroeconomic Effects of Household Pessimism and Optimism

Author

Listed:
  • Anmol Bhandari
  • Jaroslav Borovicka
  • Paul Ho

Abstract

Survey data on households' expectations about macroeconomic outcomes reveal systematic differences from statistical (or rational) forecasts. We construct an empirical measure of these differences, which we refer to as "belief wedges." Across economic variables, such as inflation and unemployment, these belief wedges are significant and move in parallel with the business cycle. We present a theory of time-varying belief wedges that accounts for these empirical facts. Our theory provides a formal interpretation of these wedges as pessimism and optimism. Embedding the theory into a quantitative macroeconomic model, we show that belief wedges drive a substantial share of movements in macroeconomic aggregates, particularly in the labor market.

Suggested Citation

  • Anmol Bhandari & Jaroslav Borovicka & Paul Ho, 2021. "Macroeconomic Effects of Household Pessimism and Optimism," Richmond Fed Economic Brief, Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond, vol. 21(03), January.
    • Handle: RePEc:fip:fedreb:92721
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