Parameter estimation for the truncated Pareto distribution

Abstract

The Pareto distribution is a simple model for nonnegative data with a power law probability tail. In many practical applications, there is a natural upper bound that truncates the probability tail. This article derives estimators for the truncated Pareto distribution, investigates their properties, and illustrates a way to check for fit. These methods are illustrated with applications from finance, hydrology, and atmospheric science. © 2006 American Statistical Association.