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Forecasting with VAR-teXt and DFM-teXt Models:exploring the predictive power of central bank communication

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  • Leonardo N. Ferreira

Abstract

This paper explores the complementarity between traditional econometrics and machine learning and applies the resulting model – the VAR-teXt – to central bank communication. The VAR-teXt is a vector autoregressive (VAR) model augmented with information retrieved from text, turned into quantitative data via a Latent Dirichlet Allocation (LDA) model, whereby the number of topics (or textual factors) is chosen based on their predictive performance. A Markov chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) sampling algorithm for the estimation of the VAR-teXt that takes into account the fact that the textual factors are estimates is also provided. The approach is then extended to dynamic factor models (DFM) generating the DFM-teXt. Results show that textual factors based on Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) statements are indeed useful for forecasting.

Suggested Citation

  • Leonardo N. Ferreira, 2021. "Forecasting with VAR-teXt and DFM-teXt Models:exploring the predictive power of central bank communication," Working Papers Series 559, Central Bank of Brazil, Research Department.
    • Handle: RePEc:bcb:wpaper:559
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    References listed on IDEAS

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