Norges Bank

Staff Memo

Short-term forecasting of GDP and inflation in real time: Norges Bank’s system for averaging models

Author:
Knut Are Aastveit, Karsten R. Gerdrup and Anne Sofie Jore
Series:
Staff Memo
Number:
9/2011

Abstract

In this paper we describe Norges Bank's system for averaging models (SAM) which produces model-based density forecasts for Norwegian Mainland GDP and inflation. We combine the forecasts from three main types of models typically used at central banks: Vector autoregressive models, leading indicator models and factor models. By combining models we hedge against uncertain instabilities. We update SAM several times during the quarter to highlight the importance of new data releases, and we show how the performance of SAM improves steadily as new information arrives. The framework is robust with regard to alternative vintages of data to evaluate against. We show that our chosen weighting scheme is superior or on a par with some common alternative weighting schemes, and, finally, that a strategy of trying to pick the best model, ex ante, is inferior to model combination.

Staff Memos present reports and documentation written by staff members and affiliates of Norges Bank, the central bank of Norway. Views and conclusions expressed in Staff Memos should not be taken to represent the views of Norges Bank.

ISSN 1504-2596 (online)

Published 19 August 2011 10:45
Published 19 August 2011 10:45