Performance of Quarterly Econometric Models of the United States: A New Round of Model Comparisons

Authors:
  • FAF. Gerard Adams
    F. Gerard Adams
  • LKLawrence R. Klein
    Lawrence R. Klein

Abstract
This chapter focuses on the response of the various econometric models to a number of alternatively specified external shocks. Altogether, 11 model groups supplied simulation results for the model comparisons. These groups represent a cross section of the currently active model operators and forecasters. They run from the now traditional Keynesian to the monetarist and the rational expectations approaches. The participating model groups and the special characteristics of their models are listed in the chapter. Early in the meetings of the model comparison seminar, the philosophy of model comparisons was a topic of some extensive discussion. The approach was to compare alternative “disturbed” model solutions to a base solution. Each model operator was instructed to prepare a so-called “tracking solution” that would approximately reproduce history over the period 1975 to 1984.