Surrogate Data Models: Interpreting Large-scale Machine Learning Crisis Prediction Models

Author/Editor:

Jorge A Chan-Lau ; Ruofei Hu ; Maksym Ivanyna ; Ritong Qu ; Cheng Zhong

Publication Date:

February 24, 2023

Electronic Access:

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Disclaimer: IMF Working Papers describe research in progress by the author(s) and are published to elicit comments and to encourage debate. The views expressed in IMF Working Papers are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the views of the IMF, its Executive Board, or IMF management.

Summary:

Machine learning models are becoming increasingly important in the prediction of economic crises. The models, however, use datasets comprising a large number of predictors (features) which impairs model interpretability and their ability to provide adequate guidance in the design of crisis prevention and mitigation policies. This paper introduces surrogate data models as dimensionality reduction tools in large-scale crisis prediction models. The appropriateness of this approach is assessed by their application to large-scale crisis prediction models developed at the IMF. The results are consistent with economic intuition and validate the use of surrogates as interpretability tools.

Series:

Working Paper No. 2023/041

Frequency:

regular

English

Publication Date:

February 24, 2023

ISBN/ISSN:

9798400234828/1018-5941

Stock No:

WPIEA2023041

Pages:

31

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