This thesis consists of three independent chapters on nominal exchange rates. The first chapter adds to the forward bias puzzle by noting that while the exchange rate of a small commodity-exporting economy can be closely tied to commodity prices, a portfolio of commodity futures exhibits little...

The concept of risk-based capital requirements enjoys widespread support. Effective implementation, however, requires that risk be measured accurately both across borrowers and across time. Under the New Capital Accord, the cornerstone of this risk measurement process is the rating of the...