1. We observe very large and rapid declines in the policy rate (the very short rate) in late 2008 and early 2009. Considering the US, the UK, and Japan, did long rates fall as much around that time or less or more?
2. When you compare the fall in long interest rates to the change in inflation expectations in these same three countries, did the real long rate stay the same or rise or fall during that period?
3. The BIS Report shows estimates of expected inflation which are based on surveys. Use these estimates and combine them with actual nominal rates for 2013 (use the internet to find current values) to derive an estimate of the real long rate for the US, the UK and Japan
in June of this year.
4. With the help of the internet for the most recent data for the nominal 10-year bond yield also estimate the real long rates for Brazil, China and India.
5. Summarize the findings for the policy rate, the 10-year rate and the real long rate between the six countries you have looked at (US, UK, Japan, China, India, Brazil) over the period 2008-2012. What differences do you see between the countries?