Testing for Cointegration using Induced-Order Statistics

In this paper we explore the usefulness of induced-order statistics in the characterization of integrated series and of cointegration relationships. We propose a non-parametric test statistic for testing the null hypothesis of two independent random walks against wide cointegrating alternatives including monotonic nonlinearities and certain types of level shifts in the cointegration relationship. We call our testing device the induced-order cointegration test (IOC), since it is constructed from the induced-order statistics of the series, and we derive its limiting distribution. This non-parametric statistic endows the test with a number of desirable properties: invariance to monotonic transformations of the series, and robustness for the presence of important parameter shifts. By Monte Carlo simulations we analyze the small sample properties of this test. Our simulation results show the robustness of the IOC test against departures from linear and constant parameter models.