Charts three recession probability models — each converted to a common probability scale — alongside their equal-weight aggregate. Gray bars show official NBER recession dates. Use the date picker to zoom into any period.

Models

  • Probability — equal-weight average of the three component models. When only one model has data for a given date, the total equals that model's value.
  • Estrella-Mishkin — probit model using the 10 Yr - 3 Mo Treasury spread, computed live from yield curve data. Based on the 1996 NY Fed paper. A deeply inverted curve pushes probability above 50%.
  • Sahm Rule — the raw value (3-month average unemployment rise from its 12-month low) is converted to a probability via a logistic function centered at the 0.50 pp trigger threshold. Updated monthly from FRED.
  • Chauvet-Piger — smoothed transition probability from a dynamic Markov-switching model of coincident indicators. Updated monthly from FRED. Already expressed as a probability (0-100%).

Use Cases

  • monitor recession risk from multiple angles
  • compare model signals during curve inversion episodes
  • see how each model performed around historical recessions
  • CFA Level III portfolio strategy scenario planning

Start
End