Google Econometrics and Unemployment Forecasting
25 Pages Posted: 8 Jun 2009 Last revised: 16 Apr 2023
There are 3 versions of this paper
Google Econometrics and Unemployment Forecasting
DIW Berlin Discussion Paper No. 899
Number of pages: 26
Posted: 02 Sep 2009
Downloads
1,183
Google Econometrics and Unemployment Forecasting
German Council for Social and Economic Data (RatSWD) Research Notes No. 41
Number of pages: 20
Posted: 30 Sep 2009
Downloads
443
Abstract
The current economic crisis requires fast information to predict economic behavior early, which is difficult at times of structural changes. This paper suggests an innovative new method of using data on internet activity for that purpose. It demonstrates strong correlations between keyword searches and unemployment rates using monthly German data and exhibits a strong potential for the method used.
Keywords: unemployment, time-series analysis, internet, Google, keyword search, search engine, predictions
JEL Classification: C22, C82, E17, E24, E37
Suggested Citation: Suggested Citation
Askitas, Nikos and Zimmermann, Klaus F., Google Econometrics and Unemployment Forecasting. IZA Discussion Paper No. 4201, Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=1415585 or http://dx.doi.org/10.2139/ssrn.1415585
Do you have negative results from your research you’d like to share?
Feedback
Feedback to SSRN
If you need immediate assistance, call 877-SSRNHelp (877 777 6435) in the United States, or +1 212 448 2500 outside of the United States, 8:30AM to 6:00PM U.S. Eastern, Monday - Friday.