VARMAX Procedure

Bayesian Vector Error Correction Model

Bayesian inference on a cointegrated system begins by using the priors of bold-italic beta, which are obtained from the VECM(p) form. Bayesian vector error correction models can improve forecast accuracy for cointegrated processes.

To use a Bayesian vector error correction model, you specify both the PRIOR= option in the MODEL statement and the COINTEG statement. The following statements fit a BVECM(2) form to the simulated data:

/*--- Bayesian Vector Error Correction Model ---*/

proc varmax data=simul2;
   model y1 y2 / p=2 noint
                 prior=( lambda=0.5 theta=0.2 )
                 print=(estimates);
   cointeg rank=1 normalize=y1;
run;

The VARMAX procedure output in Figure 18 shows the model type fitted to the data, the estimates of the adjustment coefficient (bold-italic alpha), the parameter estimates in terms of lag 1 coefficients (bold y Subscript t minus 1), and lag 1 first-differenced coefficients (normal upper Delta bold y Subscript t minus 1).

Figure 18: Parameter Estimates for the BVECM(2) Form

The VARMAX Procedure

Type of Model BVECM(2)
Estimation Method Maximum Likelihood Estimation
Cointegrated Rank 1
Prior Lambda 0.5
Prior Theta 0.2

Alpha
Variable 1
y1 -0.34173
y2 0.17202

Parameter Alpha * Beta' Estimates
Variable y1 y2
y1 -0.34173 0.66835
y2 0.17202 -0.33643

AR Coefficients of Differenced Lag
DIF Lag Variable y1 y2
1 y1 -0.80345 -0.59201
  y2 0.33192 -0.52779


Last updated: June 19, 2025