Propose and defend a goals-based asset allocation for an individual investor
The idea
List each goal with its amount, horizon and required probability of success. Match each goal to a sub-portfolio module whose expected return and risk give the required probability over the horizon. The capital to set aside is the present value of the goal discounted at the module's return consistent with that probability: $1,000,000 in 10 years at 4% needs about $675,564 today. Urgent, near-term goals get conservative modules with high confidence; distant aspirational goals get growth modules with lower confidence. Any surplus capital is excess wealth, which can be allocated to further goals. A good justification checks the aggregate allocation remains efficient. The trap is discounting every goal at the same rate regardless of its required probability.
In the app: 2 practice questions on this outcome, a narrated walkthrough with diagrams, spaced review that brings it back before you forget it.
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- Explain how mean–variance optimisation is used to set an asset allocation and assess its strengths and weaknesses
- Select and defend an asset allocation using the results of mean–variance optimisation
- Analyse an asset allocation against a client's economic balance sheet and judge whether it fits
- Propose and defend an asset allocation that uses the global market portfolio as its reference point
- Explain how scenario analysis and Monte Carlo simulation are used to stress-test an asset allocation's robustness
- Explain how the liquidity of asset classes affects asset allocation decisions
- Explain risk budgets set in absolute and in relative terms, and how they guide choosing and carrying out an asset allocation
- Explain how a client's requirements and attitudes toward particular investment risks can be built into an asset allocation
- Explain how investment factors are used both to build an asset allocation and to analyse one
- Assess the features of liabilities that matter for asset allocation
- Set out the main methods for allocating assets relative to liabilities
- Propose and defend an asset allocation designed around a set of liabilities
- Assess heuristic and other rule-based methods of setting an asset allocation
- Explain what determines an appropriate rebalancing policy