Uncertainty and the Zero Lower Bound: A Theoretical Analysis

Mendes, Rhys R. (2011): Uncertainty and the Zero Lower Bound: A Theoretical Analysis.

Abstract

This paper demonstrates how to analytically characterize the set of rational expectations equilibria in a simple stochastic New Keynesian model with the zero lower bound. In this environment, purely forward-looking (non-history-dependent) monetary policies are not generally consistent with existence of rational expectations equilibria. In particular, equilibria exist only when the volatility of the shocks is below some threshold level. This non-existence result is a consequence of the fact that the expected average policy rate rises with the level of uncertainty in the presence of the zero lower bound under forward-looking policies. History-dependent policies can be designed to eliminate the tendency of the expected average policy rate to rise with uncertainty, thereby potentially mitigating the non-existence problems. The non-existence results are likely quite robust, as the only structural feature of the economy upon which they depend is the Fisher condition.

• Item Type: MPRA Paper
• Language: English
• Keywords: Monetary Policy; Zero Lower Bound; New Keynesian Models
• Subjects: E - Macroeconomics and Monetary Economics > E3 - Prices, Business Fluctuations, and Cycles; E - Macroeconomics and Monetary Economics > E4 - Money and Interest Rates; E - Macroeconomics and Monetary Economics > E5 - Monetary Policy, Central Banking, and the Supply of Money and Credit; E - Macroeconomics and Monetary Economics > E5 - Monetary Policy, Central Banking, and the Supply of Money and Credit > E52 - Monetary Policy; E - Macroeconomics and Monetary Economics > E5 - Monetary Policy, Central Banking, and the Supply of Money and Credit > E58 - Central Banks and Their Policies

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