Volatility connectedness on the central European forex markets

Abstract

We perform a comprehensive assessment of volatility connectedness between the currencies of Central European (CE) countries using high-frequency data from 2009 to 2022. We provide evidence of asymmetries in connectedness that are dominated by negative volatility, especially during periods of economic distress. We also detect statistically significant economic or political events that lead to increased volatility connectedness. Plus, we document the impact of global shocks, not local ones. Further, the existing lag in the response of the spillover index to stressful events offers an opportunity to effectively hedge foreign exchange risk and to use the CE currencies as hedging tools. Finally, in terms of market-specific factors, liquidity dominates uncertainty as a connectedness driver. Our results are robust with respect to volatility measures and provide direct policy implications for portfolio composition and hedging.