One index fits none: the conundrum of euro area inflation-linked bonds

Abstract

Recent empirical research has questioned the added value of inflation-linked bonds (ILBs) in a diversified portfolio, especially in the euro area. This paper relates this finding to the choice of price index. Euro area issuers of ILBs can choose between linking to a euro area or a national price index. We theoretically show that bonds linked to euro area inflation are less useful for diversification purposes than nationally ILBs. We also show that bonds linked to national price indices are imperfect hedges for national inflation. The latter finding is counterintuitive and arises because of monetary union. Our findings suggest that euro area governments may better service international investors with ILBs linked to their national price indices.