Portfolio Management Flashcards

What is 'tracking error' in the context of fund management?

Answer: The standard deviation of the difference between a fund's return and its benchmark return

Tracking error measures the consistency with which a fund follows its benchmark. It is calculated as the standard deviation of the active return (fund return minus benchmark return). A low tracking error indicates the fund closely tracks its benchmark; a high value suggests significant deviation.

An investment manager is described as having a 'top-down' approach. What does this mean?

Answer: The manager starts with macroeconomic and sector analysis before selecting individual holdings

A top-down approach begins with macroeconomic analysis (GDP, interest rates, inflation), then identifies attractive regions and sectors, and finally selects individual securities within those preferred areas. This contrasts with bottom-up investing, which focuses on individual company analysis regardless of macro conditions.

Which of the following best describes 'strategic asset allocation'?

Answer: The long-term target mix of asset classes based on an investor's objectives and risk tolerance

Strategic asset allocation sets the long-term target proportions for each asset class (equities, bonds, property, cash) based on the investor's goals, risk tolerance, and time horizon. It provides the baseline allocation, which may be temporarily adjusted through tactical asset allocation.

What does Jensen's alpha measure?

Answer: The excess return of a portfolio above what CAPM predicts for its level of systematic risk

Jensen's alpha measures the abnormal return of a portfolio over the theoretical expected return predicted by CAPM, given its beta. A positive alpha indicates the manager has added value through skill (outperformed on a risk-adjusted basis); a negative alpha indicates underperformance.

In portfolio construction, what is the purpose of correlation analysis between asset classes?

Answer: To understand how assets move relative to each other and optimise diversification benefits

Correlation measures the degree to which two asset classes move together. Assets with low or negative correlation provide the greatest diversification benefits when combined. A correlation of +1 means assets move perfectly together; -1 means they move in opposite directions; 0 means no linear relationship.

What is a 'model portfolio' as used by UK wealth managers?

Answer: A pre-defined asset allocation template that can be applied consistently across multiple client accounts

A model portfolio is a standardised asset allocation strategy designed for a particular risk profile or investment objective. UK wealth managers use model portfolios to ensure consistency across client accounts with similar needs, improve efficiency, and maintain compliance with the firm's investment process.