abstract = "This thesis explores the utility of computational
intelligent techniques and aims to contribute to the
growing literature of hybrid neural networks and
genetic programming applications in financial
forecasting. The theoretical background and the
description of the forecasting techniques are given in
the first part of the thesis (chapters 1-3), while the
contribution is provided through the last five
self-contained chapters (chapters 4-8). Chapter 4
investigates the utility of the Psi Sigma neural
network when applied to the task of forecasting and
trading the Euro/Dollar exchange rate, while Kalman
Filter estimation is tested in combining neural network
forecasts. A time-varying leverage trading strategy
based on volatility forecasts is also introduced. In
chapter 5 three neural networks are used to forecast an
exchange rate, while Kalman Filter, Genetic Programming
and Support Vector Regression are implemented to
provide stochastic and genetic forecast combinations.
In addition, a hybrid leverage trading strategy tests
if volatility forecasts and market shocks can be
combined to boost the trading performance of the
models. Chapter 6 presents a hybrid Genetic Algorithm,
Support Vector Regression model for optimal parameter
selection and feature subset combination. The model is
applied to the task of forecasting and trading three
euro exchange rates. The results of these chapters
suggest that the stochastic and genetic neural network
forecast combinations present superior forecasts and
high profitability. In that way, more light is shed in
the demanding issue of achieving statistical and
trading efficiency in the foreign exchange markets. The
focus of the next two chapters shifts from exchange
rate forecasting to inflation and unemployment
prediction through optimal macroeconomic variable
selection. Chapter 7 focuses on forecasting the US
inflation and unemployment, while chapter 8 presents
the Rolling Genetic, Support Vector Regression model.
The latter is applied to several forecasting exercises
of inflation and unemployment of EMU members. Both
chapters provide information on which set of
macroeconomic indicators is found relevant to inflation
and unemployment targeting on a monthly basis. The
proposed models statistically outperform traditional
ones. Hence, the voluminous literature, suggesting that
non-linear time-varying approaches are more efficient
and realistic in similar applications, is extended.
From a technical point of view, these algorithms are
superior to non-adaptive algorithms; avoid time
consuming optimisation approaches and efficiently cope
with dimensionality and data-snooping issues",
notes = "uk.bl.ethos.591971
Supervisors: Georgios Sermpinis and Dimitris
Korobilis",