Portfolio Optimization for Sustainable Investments
62 Pages Posted: 16 Nov 2022
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Portfolio Optimization for Sustainable Investments
Abstract
In mean-variance portfolio optimization, factor models can accelerate computation, reduce input requirements, facilitate understanding and allow easy adjustment to changing conditions more effectively than full covariance matrix estimation. In this paper, we develop a factor model-based portfolio optimization approach that takes into account aspects of the environment, social responsibility and corporate governance (ESG). Investments in assets related to ESG have recently grown, attracting interest from both academic research and investment fund practice. Various literature strands in this area address the theoretical and empirical relation among return, risk and ESG. Our portfolio optimization approach is flexible enough to take these literature strands into account and does not require large-scale covariance matrix estimation. An extension of our approach even allows investors to empirically discriminate among the literature strands. A case study demonstrates the application of our portfolio optimization approach.
Keywords: portfolio optimization, sustainable investment, investor preferences
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