Econometric testing of uncovered interest rate parity in Serbia

Abstract

This paper provides econometric evidence of the interest parity puzzle in Serbia over the period 2005-2016. Econometric findings are derived from the following techniques: long-run parameter estimation based on the autoregressive distributed lag model, impulse response function computed from the bivariate vector autoregressive model, and estimation of the two-regime Markov switching parameter model. Our results indicate that a positive interest differential corrected for country risk leads to significant dinar appreciation against the euro. The intensity of this impact is different across sub-periods of low exchange rate variability and high variability. Exchange rate movements are found to appreciate more strongly during lower variability episodes. Preliminary econometric investigation of four other European emerging economies documents similar findings only for Romania. Our results suggest that there is a huge incentive for shortterm carry trades in Serbia, regardless of substantial risks.

Keywords

• Uncovered interest rate parity
• Country risk
• Interest parity puzzle
• ARDL bounds test
• VAR model
• Regime switching