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2016

Chapter 02

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Full-Text Articles in Business

Asset Allocation, Risk Tolerance And Shortfall Risk, Steven D. Dolvin Apr 2016

Asset Allocation, Risk Tolerance And Shortfall Risk, Steven D. Dolvin

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Asset allocation is the biggest driver of portfolio performance, particularly over the long-term. Moreover, it also is reflective of an investor's risk tolerance. The recent financial crisis has negatively impacted investment psychology, particularly among younger investors. As a result, the so-called "Generation-Y" has over half of their assets held in cash -- a "non-earning" asset. While this is safe, there is a risk of loss in value, as cash does not even hold up with inflation. In the long-term, such an allocation means a lower retirement balance--i.e., shortfall risk. Thus, these investors have essentially traded one type of risk for …


Short Interest At High Levels, Steven D. Dolvin Apr 2016

Short Interest At High Levels, Steven D. Dolvin

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Short interest has been high even though the market has recovered significantly. In fact, in the wake of the recovery, short sellers have increased their positions. If they are correct, we could see a market pullback. Their short positions, however, create a large "sideline" demand, which has actually made market moves more positive in the wake of neutral news (due to short covering). See article here, Yahoo/Bloomberg.


Conflict Of Interest In 401(K) Funds, Steven D. Dolvin Mar 2016

Conflict Of Interest In 401(K) Funds, Steven D. Dolvin

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Companies often hire third party administrators (TPAs) to manage their respective 401(k) plans. Some companies simply provide documentation and advice; however, other TPAs actually offer their own proprietary (in-house) funds as investment alternatives. New research () shows that these funds often carry higher fees and have lower returns, illustrating the impact of a conflict of interest. This is particularly pronounced for banks and insurance companies acting as TPAs.


The Rise Of The Robo-Advisor, Steven D. Dolvin Mar 2016

The Rise Of The Robo-Advisor, Steven D. Dolvin

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In response to high fees and varying levels of quality/service across traditional human advisors, new firms are transitioning to a fully automated framework. These so-called "Robo-Advisors" provide fully automated allocation and management strategies. This approach significantly reduces costs and standardizes risk-return matching strategies. See article here, CFA Institute.