Application of Least Squares Regression to Relationships Containing Auto-Correlated Error Terms

Abstract

We point out that autocorrelated error terms require modification of the usual methods of estimation and prediction; and we present evidence showing that the error terms involved in most current formulations of economic relations are highly positively autocorrelated. In doing this we demonstrate that when estimates of autoregressive properties of error terms are based on calculated residuals there is a large bias towards randomness. We demonstrate how much efficiency may be lost by current methods of estimation and prediction; and we give a tentative method of procedure for regaining the lost efficiency.