Predicting recessions: Some evidence for Germany

Predicting Recessions: Some Evidence for Germany. - This paper assesses the information content and performance of selected series as indicators and predictors of recessions in Germany. The series are a composite leading indicator, a business confidence measure, and seven financial variables. The estimation of in- and out-of-sample probabilities of recessions based on probit analyses indicates that in the past the yield spread has been the most promising indicator, with a lead time to recession of around four quarters. However, the performance of the yield spread may be reduced in the future if yield spreads are more influenced by international rather than domestic factors.