Has the dependence structure of the BRICS exchange rates changed after the financial crisis? Evidence from R-Vine copula model

Abstract

PurposeThe authors examine the dependence structure of the BRICS exchange rates.Design/methodology/approachThe authors construct a regular vine copula model to study the co-movements of exchange rates in BRICS controlling the influences from the SDR currencies and the oil prices.FindingsThe main findings show that, after the financial crisis, RMB pursued a more balanced strategy shifting from USD-centered to USD-EUR dependency and the oil prices become more dependent on RUB than USD, which could weaken the dollar hegemony. From robustness tests, we find that the inclusion of RMB in SDR has certain but limited impacts on the dependence structure and the influence of the GBP weakened as well. The results have important implications for currency trade, policy design and the future of the BRICS.Originality/valueThe contribution of this paper is twofold. First, we examine the interdependence structure of the BRICS exchange rates controlling for the influence of SDR currencies and the oil prices with R-Vine copula model. Second, we compare the pre- and after-crisis structure and see if the financial crisis and the BRICS summits have changed the structure.