We investigate changepoints in the cross-section of stock returns using an ensemble of dedicated unsupervised learning methods. Our large-scale study reveals a sustained incidence of changepoints in the mean, variance, and distribution. This finding is robust to the choice of the changepoint...

In this paper, we extend the literature on crash prediction models in three main ways. First, we explicitly relate crash prediction measures and asset pricing models. Second, we present a simple, effective statistical significance test for crash prediction models. Finally, we propose a...

What makes financial institutions, banks and hedge funds fail? The common ingredient is over betting and not being diversified in some bad scenarios that can lead to disaster. Once troubles arise, it is difficult to take the necessary actions that eliminate the problem. Moreover, many hedge fund...

In this paper, the authors describe a simple procedure for blending statistical estimates with expert opinions to produce a forward-looking view of the performance of assets. They discuss the impact of behavioural biases on the views and propose general modelling principles to biases. Standard...

This paper examines the effect of biased expert opinions on asset allocation. Expert opinions, such as brokerage research and analyst views, are an essential component of the asset management sector and an important research topic. However, the effect of behavioral biases on expert opinions is...

In this article, we extend the Black-Litterman approach to a continuous time setting. We model analyst views jointly with asset prices to estimate the unobservable factors driving asset returns. The key in our approach is that the filtering problem and the stochastic control problem are...

This paper presents three definitions of time diversification and analyzes their implications for investment horizons. Using decision quality criteria and methodology, we question standard advice. In analyzing time diversification with a minimum of assumptions, we answer two main questions: how...

In this paper, we use risk-sensitive control methods to solve a jump-diffusion Asset-Liability Management (ALM) problem. We show that the ALM problem admits a unique classical solution under two different sets of assumptions

In this paper we estimate behavioural factors -- Keynes' 'animal spirits' -- in the property market. An enhanced Hidden Markov Model is used, for both the Shiller Home Price Index and a consumer confidence index. We conclude that both house prices and consumer confidence are driven by another...

In several countries a major factor contributing to the current economic crisis was massive borrowing to fund investment projects on the basis of, in retrospect, grossly optimistic valuations. The purpose of this paper is to initiate an approach to project valuation and risk management in which...