On categorical time series models with covariates

Abstract

We study the problem of stationarity and ergodicity for autoregressive multinomial logistic time series models which possibly include a latent process and are defined by a GARCH-type recursive equation. We improve considerably upon the existing conditions about stationarity and ergodicity of those models. Proofs are based on theory developed for chains with complete connections. A useful coupling technique is employed for studying ergodicity of infinite order finite-state stochastic processes which generalize finite-state Markov chains. Furthermore, for the case of finite order Markov chains, we discuss ergodicity properties of a model which includes strongly exogenous but not necessarily bounded covariates.