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What can go wrong for the markets?

"Like Chicken Little, we can't know with any certainty what the greatest risk will be in the future. That suggests a broad hedge against risk is prudent - especially when it's inexpensive. Risk management is not just for chickens"
By · 10 Oct 2014
By ·
10 Oct 2014
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“Like Chicken Little, we can't know with any certainty what the greatest risk will be in the future. That suggests a broad hedge against risk is prudent – especially when it's inexpensive. Risk management is not just for chickens”-Vineer Bhansali, PIMCO

Below Summary by Chris Walker

A team of portfolio risk specialists from global investment firm PIMCO, in drawing up a list of events that could derail world markets, were able firstly, to arrive at a particularly long list of potential risks, and secondly, conclude that a suite of tools are essential for structurally sound portfolio construction and the mitigation of those diverse risks.

The tools include a combination of dynamic risk balancing, diversified beta sources, explicit options-based tail hedging and a minimum amount of liquidity. Furthermore, given how inexpensive tail hedging is today, the team concluded that the risk-reward trade-off also favours hedging.

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Frequently Asked Questions about this Article…

Global markets face a variety of potential risks, and it's challenging to predict which will have the greatest impact. A team from PIMCO has identified a long list of such risks, emphasizing the importance of being prepared for diverse scenarios.

Everyday investors can manage risks by employing a combination of strategies such as dynamic risk balancing, using diversified beta sources, and incorporating options-based tail hedging. Maintaining a minimum level of liquidity is also crucial.

Tail hedging is a strategy that involves using options to protect against extreme market movements. It's important because it provides a safety net for investors, especially when the cost of hedging is relatively low, as it is today.

A diversified investment portfolio helps spread risk across different asset classes, reducing the impact of any single market event. This approach is part of a sound risk management strategy recommended by experts like those at PIMCO.

Dynamic risk balancing involves adjusting the risk exposure of a portfolio in response to changing market conditions. This proactive approach helps investors maintain a stable risk profile over time.

Maintaining liquidity ensures that investors have access to cash or easily sellable assets, which can be crucial during market downturns or when unexpected opportunities arise. It provides flexibility and security in uncertain times.

The risk-reward trade-off refers to the balance between the potential risks and rewards of an investment. In the context of hedging, it means that the potential benefits of protecting against market downturns outweigh the costs, especially when hedging is inexpensive.

Risk management strategies are crucial because they help protect investments from unforeseen market events. By being prepared and having a plan in place, investors can mitigate potential losses and achieve more stable returns over time.