Term structure, market expectations of the short rate, and expected inflation

Abstract

Based on the classic Gaussian dynamic term structure model A 0 3, we rotate the model to a special representation, the so called “Companion Form Realization”, in which the state variables comprise the short rate and its related expectations. This unique feature makes the representation very useful in analyzing the response of the yield curve to the shocks in the short rate and its related expectations, and monitoring market expectations. Using the estimated model, we quantify a variety of yield responses to the changes in these important state variables; and also give an “unsurprising” pattern in which changes in state variables have little impact on the long end of the yield curve. Estimated state variables have strong explanatory power for expected inflation. Three case studies of the unconventional monetary policies are presented.