Discussion paper

DP2997 Mean Variance Portfolio Allocation with a Value at Risk Constraint

In this Paper, I first provide a simple unifying approach to static Mean-Variance analysis and Value at Risk, which highlights their similarities and differences. Then I use it to explain how fund managers can take investment decisions that satisfy the VaR restrictions imposed on them by regulators, within the well-known Mean-Variance allocation framework. I do so by introducing a new type of line to the usual mean-standard deviation diagram, called IsoVaR,which represents all the portfolios that share the same VaR for a fixed probability level. Finally, I analyse the 'shadow cost' of a VaR constraint.

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Citation

Sentana, E (2001), ‘DP2997 Mean Variance Portfolio Allocation with a Value at Risk Constraint‘, CEPR Discussion Paper No. 2997. CEPR Press, Paris & London. https://cepr.org/publications/dp2997