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VAR Models with Non-Gaussian Shocks

Author

Listed:
  • Ching-Wai Chiu

    (Bank of England)

  • Haroon Mumtaz

    (School of Economics and Finance Queen Mary)

  • Gabor Pinter

    (Bank of England
    Centre for Macroeconomics (CFM))

Abstract

We introduce a Bayesian VAR model with non-Gaussian disturbances that are modelled with a finite mixture of normal distributions. Importantly, we allow for regime switching among the different components of the mixture of normals. Our model is highly flexible and can capture distributions that are fat-tailed, skewed and even multimodal. We show that our model can generate large out-of-sample forecast gains relative to standard forecasting models, especially during tranquil periods. Our model forecasts are also competitive with those generated by the conventional VAR model with stochastic volatility.

Suggested Citation

  • Ching-Wai Chiu & Haroon Mumtaz & Gabor Pinter, 2016. "VAR Models with Non-Gaussian Shocks," Discussion Papers 1609, Centre for Macroeconomics (CFM).
    • Handle: RePEc:cfm:wpaper:1609
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    Cited by:

    1. Maxand, Simone, 2020. "Identification of independent structural shocks in the presence of multiple Gaussian components," Econometrics and Statistics, Elsevier, vol. 16(C), pages 55-68.
    2. Gergely Akos Ganics, 2017. "Optimal density forecast combinations," Working Papers 1751, Banco de España.
    3. Ching-Wai (Jeremy) Chiu & Haroon Mumtaz & Gabor Pinter, 2016. "Bayesian Vector Autoregressions with Non-Gaussian Shocks," CReMFi Discussion Papers 5, CReMFi, School of Economics and Finance, QMUL.

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    More about this item

    JEL classification:

    • C11 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Econometric and Statistical Methods and Methodology: General - - - Bayesian Analysis: General
    • 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
    • C52 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Econometric Modeling - - - Model Evaluation, Validation, and Selection

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