Design and Estimation of Quadratic Term Structure Models

Abstract

We consider the design and estimation of quadratic term structure models. We start with a list of stylized facts on interest rates and interest rate derivatives, classified into three layers: (1) general statistical properties, (2) forecasting relations, and (3) conditional dynamics. We then investigate the implications of each layer of property on model design and strive to establish a mapping between evidence and model structures. We calibrate a two­factor model that approximates these three layers of properties well, and illustrate how the model can be applied to pricing interest rate derivatives.quadratic model; term structure; positive interest rates; humps; expectation hy­pothesis; GMM; caps and floors.