We relax assumptions on individual risk preference, and set two theoretical rules for portfolio choices: either minimize or maximize risk, for any return. Risk is modeled by four alternative formulas. We empirically test these rules by observing N=690 individuals (Caucasians, bank customers and...

The aim of financial institutions and regulators is to find an effective way to measure the risk profile of different segments of investors. Both economists and psychologists developed several methodologies to elicit and assess individual risk attitude, but these are not perfect and show several...