The Expectations Hypothesis of the Term Structure: The Case of Ireland

Abstract

Using Irish money market rates (spot rates) with a term to maturity of 1, 3, and 6 months and monthly data, 1984-1997, we provide a number of tests of the expectations hypothesis (EH) of the term structure. The paper draws on co-integration techniques and the methodological approach of Campbell and Shiller (1987, 1991). On balance our results lend support to the EH and are broadly consistent with the recent findings for the UK, but are in sharp contrast to those for the US. It is encouraging that our results are consistent with those of recent studies at the short end of the maturity spectrum for the UK, (e.g. Cuthbertson, 1996).