Unconventional Monetary Policy and Asset Price Risk

Author/Editor:

Shaun K. Roache ; Marina V Rousset

Publication Date:

August 30, 2013

Electronic Access:

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Disclaimer: This Working Paper should not be reported as representing the views of the IMF.The views expressed in this Working Paper are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent those of the IMF or IMF policy. Working Papers describe research in progress by the author(s) and are published to elicit comments and to further debate

Summary:

We examine the effects of unconventional monetary policy (UMP) events in the United States on asset price risk using risk-neutral density functions estimated from options prices. Based on an event study including a key exchange rate, an equity index, and five commodities, we find that “tail risk” diminishes in the immediate aftermath of UMP events, particularly downside left tail risk. We also find that QE1 and QE3 had stronger effects than QE2. We conclude that UMP events that serve to ease policies can help to bolster market confidence in times of high uncertainty.

Series:

Working Paper No. 2013/190

Subject:

English

Publication Date:

August 30, 2013

ISBN/ISSN:

9781484383230/1018-5941

Stock No:

WPIEA2013190

Pages:

26

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