We develop a numerical filtering procedure that facilitates efficient likelihood evaluation in applications involving non-linear and non-gaussian state-space models. The procedure approximates necessary integrals using continuous or piecewise-continuous approximations of target densities....

We develop a numerical procedure that facilitates efficient likelihood evaluation in applications involving non-linear and non-Gaussian state-space models. The procedure approximates necessary integrals using continuous approximations of target densities. Construction is achieved via efficient...

This paper examines the effect of banking on economic growth in modern Russia. To overcome simultaneity and selection, we exploit regional banking variation induced by the creation of ?specialized banks? (spetsbanks) in the last years of the Soviet Union (1988-1991). Consistent with the...