Several researchers have recently documented a large reduction in output volatility. In contrast, this paper examines whether output has become more predictable. Using forecasts from the Federal Reserve Greenbooks, I find the evidence is somewhat mixed. Output seems to have become more predictable at short horizons, but not necessarily at longer horizons. The reduction in unpredictability is mu...

Google Econometrics and Unemployment Forecasting The current economic crisis requires fast information to predict economic behavior early, which is difficult at times of structural changes. This paper suggests an innovative new method of using data on internet activity for that purpose. It demonstrates strong correlations between keyword searches and unemployment rates using monthly German data...

A wave matrix is presented consisting of price and quantity elasticities. Its eigenvalues determine the feasible cycles of a dynamic Leontief system. A numerical illustration and a 20-year trajectory are computed with the aid of a seven sector USA matrix for the year 1958. A short discussion of further work required closes the paper. © 2000 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved. JEL classif...

This is a discussion of the paper "Simple versus Optimal Rules as Guides to Policy" by Brock, Durlauf, Nason and Rondina (BDNR) presented in November 2006 at Carnegie-Mellon University under the auspices of the Carnegie-Rochester Conference Series on Public Policy. I review the authors’arguments, present a few suggestions for extension and outline where I think at least one strand of the litera...

We develop a theory of low-frequency movements in inflation expectations, and use it to interpret joint dynamics expectations for the United States other countries over postwar period. In our theory, long-run are endogenous. They driven by short-run surprises, way that depends on recent forecasting performance monetary policy. This distinguishes from common explanations properties inflation. Th...