DP11559 Point, interval and density forecasts of exchange rates with time-varying parameter models
We explore whether modelling parameter time variation improves the point, interval and density forecasts of nine major exchange rates vis-a-vis the US dollar over the period 1976-2015. We fi nd that modelling parameter time variation is needed for an accurate calibration of forecast confi dence intervals, and is better suited at long horizons and in high-volatility periods. The biggest forecast improvements are obtained by modelling time variation in the volatilities of the innovations, rather than in the slope parameters. We do not find evidence
that parameter time variation helps to unravel exchange rate predictability by macroeconomic fundamentals. However, an economic evaluation of the diff erent forecast models reveals that controlling for parameter time variation and macroeconomic fundamentals leads
to higher portfolios returns, and to higher utility values for investors.
