Real term structure inflation expectations

Using the prices of index-linked bonds, it is possible to estimate a term structure of real interest rates. The estimation of such a curve provides a real interest counterpart to the nominal term structure that was discussed in the previous chapters. More important it enables us to derive a real forward rate curve. This enables the real yield curve to be used as a somce of information on the market s view of expected future inflation. In the United Kingdom market, there are two factors that present problems for the estimation of the real term structure the first is the 8-month lag between the indexation uplift and the cash flow date, and the second is the fact that there are fewer index-linked bonds in issue, compared to the number of conventional bonds. The indexation lag means that in the absence of a measure of expected inflation, real bond yields are dependent to some extent on the assumed rate of future inflatiOTi. The second factor presents practical problems in curve estimation in December 1999 there were only 11 index-linked gilts in existence, and this is not sufficient for most models. Neither of these factors presents an insurmountable problem however, and it is stiU possible to estimate a real term structure. 

The U.S. Federal Reserve uses an iterative technique to construct a term structure of expected inflation rates. First the nominal interest rate term structure is constructed using a version of the model described in Waggoner (1997) and discussed in James and Webber (2000). An initial assumed inflation term structure is then used to infer a term structure of real interest rates. This assumed inflation curve is usually set at a flat 3 or 5 percent. The real interest rate curve is then used to calculate an implied real interest rate forward curve. Next, the Fisher identity is applied at each point along the nominal and real interest rate forward... 

Observing the trading patterns of a liquid market in inflation-indexed bonds enables analysts to draw conclusions about nominal versus real interest rates and to construct an inflation term structure. Such analysis is problematic, since conventional and indexed bonds typically differ considerably in liquidity. Nevertheless, as explained above, it is usually possible to infer market estimates of inflation expectations from the difference between the yields of the two types of bonds. 

Where a liquid market in indexed bonds exists across a reasonable maturity term structure, it is possible to construct a term structure of inflation rates. In essence, the process involves constructing the nominal and real interest rate term structures, then using them to infer an inflation term structure. This, in turn, can be used to calculate a forward expected inflation rate for any term or a forward inflation curve in the same way that a forward interest rate curve is constructed. 

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See also in sourсe #XX -- [ ]

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