Testing Fiscal Reaction Function in Iran: An Application of Nonlinear Dickey-Fuller (NDF) Test

Abstract T his paper is to convince the usage of the nonlinear unit root tests when dealing with a nonlinear model. To do so, the stationary test for variables in a model titles “Fiscal Reaction Function in Iran” has been applied according to both the ordinary and the Nonlinear Dickey-Fuller (NDF) tests. Results show that while variables under investigation are stationary in a nonlinear form, augmented Dickey-Fuller test indicates tendency to fail and reject the null hypothesis of a unit root in the presence of nonlinear dynamics. Therefore based on the results of Nonlinear Dickey-Fuller (NDF), the paper estimates the fiscal reaction function (FRF) in Iran. The estimated nonlinear regression supports a threshold behavior of two regimes in applying the fiscal reaction. Finally, findings confirm that fiscal policy in Iran is countercyclical though not sensitive in order to react to accumulation of the government debt.