Large-Dimensional Dynamic Factor Models: Estimation of Impulse-Response Functions with I(1) Cointegrated Factors

We study a large-dimensional Dynamic Factor Model where: (i) the vector of factors Ft is I(1) and driven by a number of shocks that is smaller than the dimension of Ft; and, (ii) the idiosyncratic components are either I(1) or I(0). Under (i), the factors Ft are cointegrated and can be modeled as a Vector Error Correction Model (VECM). Under (i) and (ii), we provide consistent estimators, as both the cross-sectional size n and the time dimension T go to infinity, for the factors, the loadings, the shocks, the coefficients of the VECM and therefore the Impulse-Response Functions (IRF) of the observed variables to the shocks. Furthermore: possible deterministic linear trends are fully accounted for, and the case of an unrestricted VAR in the levels Ft, instead of a VECM, is also studied. The finite-sample properties the proposed estimators are explored by means of a MonteCarlo exercise. Finally, we revisit two distinct and widely studied empirical applications. By correctly modeling the long-run dynamics of the factors, our results partly overturn those obtained by recent literature. Specifically, we find that: (i) oil price shocks have just a temporary effect on US real activity; and, (ii) in response to a positive news shock, the economy first experiences a significant boom, and then a milder recession.