The Opportunity Cost of Hedging under Incomplete Information: Evidence from ETF/Ns

Abstract

This paper considers the optimal hedge ratio problem under estimation risk. Due to incomplete information, the decision-maker evaluates the opportunity cost of hedging using exchange-traded funds or notes (ETF/Ns). Using a back-testing procedure over the last five years and 13 different hedging instruments - both inverse-equity ETFs and volatility ETNs - we quantify the proposed opportunity cost using different out-of-sample performance metrics. Given the greater accessibility of commission-free brokers for small investors along with the popularity of ETF/Ns, our paper appeals to retail investors and provides guidance in terms of choosing the optimal hedge ratio under estimation risk.

Keywords: Linear Risk Management, Parameter Uncertainty, Robinhood, COVID-19

JEL Classification: C13, G11, G12, G50