Forecasting

 

 

This course studies methods for constructing forecasts, with applications in macroeconomics. The emphasis is on time series statistical forecasting tools and their application to practical forecasting. The approaches covered span single equation time series to large, complex, simultaneous equations systems. Different measures to assess the forecasting accuracy of these approaches are addressed. A discussion of these approaches and their relevance for policy recommendations is also covered.

 

Textbook:

Elements of Forecasting, Francis X. Diebold (South-Western Cengage Learning)

 

 

Syllabus

 

Topics:

 

·            first week: Modeling and forecasting trend. Lecture Slides

o   Principles to forecasting

o   Modeling, estimating and forecasting trend

o   Selecting forecasting models

·           second week: Forecasting cycles . Lecture Slides

o   Modeling cycles: MA, AR, ARMA

o   Optimal forecast

o   Forecasting Moving Average Process

·           third week:  Forecasting with large information set. Lecture Slides

o   Dynamic Factor Model

o   Bridge equations

o   Combining forecast

·           forth week:  Real Time data analysis . Lecture Slides

 

 

 

Problem Sets:

·         Problem Set 2

·         Problem Set 3 (Data; General Notes)