Smart Beta versus Smart Alpha
Posted: 21 May 2019
Date Written: May 2, 2014
Abstract
Smart beta strategies aim to outperform the capitalization-weighted market through relatively simple alternative weighting methods that emphasize a handful of factors such as size, value, momentum, or low volatility. Because of their simplicity, smart beta strategies bear a resemblance to passive investments. Yet, smart beta strategies are the product of active choices and can be compared with active multifactor strategies (“smart alpha”). When considering any active strategy, investors should have a clear understanding of the sources of expected returns, the stability and sustainability of those returns, the risk exposures and risk controls, the liquidity demands of the strategy, and whether the management costs are commensurate with expected results. Only then can investors determine which strategies are deserving of the “smart” label.
Keywords: Smart Beta, Smart Alpha, Alternative Beta, Passive, Active, Multifactor, Capitalization Weighting, Market Inefficiency, Fundamental Index, Turnover, Disentangling, Pure Returns, Factor Crash, Transparency, Rebalancing, Risk Exposure, Crowding, Beta, Size, Value, Momentum, Low Volatility
JEL Classification: G11
Suggested Citation: Suggested Citation