Minimum distance estimators for random coefficient autoregressive models

Abstract

This paper discusses a class of minimum distance (MD) estimators for a class of pth-order random coefficient autoregressive (RCAR( p)) models. These estimators are defined via certain weighted empiricals as in Koul (1986). The class of estimators considered includes the least absolute deviation estimator and an analogue of the Hodges-Lehmann estimator. The paper contains a proof of the asymptotic normality of these estimators and a simulation study. It is observed that the RCAR(2) model with the Hodges-Lehmann type estimator fits the Canadian lynx data at least as well as with the least square estimator.