To make high-quality research more accessible and easier to explore.

Fields:
2 results ✕ Clear filters

Uniqueness of Equilibrium in the Classical Capital Asset Pricing Model

Journal of Financial and Quantitative Analysis 1988 23(3), 329
General equilibrium in the classical two-period mean-variance capital asset pricing model is not unique. Corresponding to one single set of expectations, utility functions, and an initial wealth distribution, there may be several equilibria, and an asset may have different prices, expected rates of return, and betas in different equilibria. However, any equilibrium portfolio is sustained by a unique price system, and if investors have decreasing risk aversion, then any equilibrium allocation of the risky assets is sustained by a unique price system.

Sharpe Ratios and Alphas in Continuous Time

Journal of Financial and Quantitative Analysis 2004 39(1), 103-114
This paper proposes modified versions of the Sharpe ratio and Jensen's alpha, which are appropriate in a simple continuous-time model. Both are derived from optimal portfolio selection. The modified Sharpe ratio equals the ordinary Sharpe ratio plus half of the volatility of the fund. The modified alpha also differs from the ordinary alpha by a second-moment adjustment. The modified and the ordinary Sharpe ratios may rank funds differently. In particular, if two funds have the same ordinary Sharpe ratio, then the one with the higher volatility will rank higher according to the modified Sharpe ratio. This is justified by the underlying dynamic portfolio theory. Unlike their discrete-time versions, the continuous-time performance measures take into account that it is optimal for investors to change the fractions of their wealth held in the fund vs. the riskless asset over time.