Research of lecturer Matti Laaksonen

Main interests in the research

Non-linear Business Cycle Theories

In my licentiate thesis (1994) I considered a nonlinear business cycle theory proposed by professor Tönu Puu (Umeå University, Sweden). I managed to prove a 'majorant principle' by which one can estimate the limit cycle of the model. This is same as estimate the variation of the national income in the Puu's model.

In the doctoral thesis I will continue analyzing this model.

Chaos and Nonlinearity in Economy

In the beginning of my career I made co-operation with Irma Luhta. We calculated the correlation dimensions of some time series of Finnish stock market. This theme is coming active again.

Publications

Laaksonen Matti (1994): Limit Cycles for Some Nonlinear Dynamical Models, with an Application to Business Cycle Theory, Proceedings of the University of Vaasa research papers, No. 194, University of Vaasa.

In course of preparation:
Laaksonen Matti (1995): Oscillations in some Nonlinear Economic Relationships,
Abstract

Larger manuscript

Acknowledgement

With the greatest pleasure I express my gratitude to those people who have contributed to the progress of my study and research. Especially, I like to express my appreciation to Professor Ilkka Virtanen of the University of Vaasa. He has given numerous valuable comments and instructions. His encouragement and expertise keep me in the motion on the right course.

I also appreciate the support of Professor Paavo Yli-Olli and Professor Paavo Okko. I participated in year 1991-92 the research project financed by Neste foundation and organized by Professor Yli-Olli. This year of complete concentration made me possible to reach the first inspiring results. Without the inspiring lectures of Professor Okko about micro- and macroeconomics, I would never noticed the work of Professor Tönu Puu (Umeå, Sweden) in the field of business cycle theory.

I would also like to thank my fellow-researcher Irma Luhta for her encouragement. Her personal views and (some times critical) comments have continuing useful effect on my thinking. I would also like to thank the other colleagues in the department and faculty for their support.

University of Vaasa offers excellent conditions for intensive research. The ability to use mathematical methods in the field of economy is in high level in Vaasa. I look forward to see the respond to my thesis in my environment.

My research has been supported by several foundations and organizations. I am grateful to Neste Oy:n säätiö, Alfred Kordelinin säätiö, Liikesivistysrahasto, Jenny ja Antti Wihurin rahasto, Vaasan Yliopistosäätiö, kauppias Gustaf Swanljungin rahasto.

You can e-mail me here:
Matti-Laaksonen@uwasa.fi
Updated Fri 01-Sep-1995