Asset Allocation

2025 Edition: Capital market forecasts for major asset classes

We have updated our mid- to long-term (5-10 years) return forecasts for major asset classes. We also scrutinize the outlook for corporate earnings growth. The market consensus has optimistic expectations, especially for U.S. companies, but what are realistic expectations from an asset allocation perspective? This article provides a practical, beneficiary-oriented view.

Factor/Style Investing

The hidden value of volatility returns in stock portfolios

Over the long term, stock market returns tend to be either good or bad, and this pattern can be extremely difficult for investors to understand and sustain. However, we believe that this "complexity risk" is a source of risk premium and can lead to above-average risk-adjusted returns.

Machine Learning

Can a machine create a better stock portfolio?

In the second installment of our 2024 Alternative Thinking series, we showed how machine learning can help improve market timing strategies. In this paper, we expand on that finding and consider its application to building stock selection portfolios based on a similar theoretical framework. We show that complex machine learning models can potentially achieve a 5-10% performance improvement compared to simple linear approaches, and machine learning is expected to contribute to the sophistication of quantitative investment strategies.

Alternative Investing

Strategic asset allocation from a broad perspective

This article uses a wealth of input data to explain how alternative investments are being used as a strategic allocation on a certain scale. For investors aiming for long-term asset formation, considering these results in light of their own assumptions and constraints is likely to lead to the construction of a more balanced portfolio.

Machine Learning

Can machines time the market? Complexity matters when it comes to predicting returns

Traditionally, small, simple models have been optimal for market timing and allocation decisions. However, this paper explores how the nonlinear causality and discriminatory power of complex models can actually improve forecasting accuracy and performance. We explore the "value of complexity" through three practical case studies.

Asset Allocation

2024: Capital market outlook for major asset classes

We have updated our medium- to long-term (5-10 year) return expectations for major asset classes. In addition to sector-specific risk/return forecasts, including private credit, we also feature key assumptions that underpin our capital market hypothesis framework for various asset classes.

Key design considerations for long/short equity strategies

In an increasingly selective equity market environment, investors are looking to build new streams of return. In this paper, we focus on long/short and market-neutral strategies and examine the diversification and alpha-generation potential that their design choices can bring to a portfolio. We also discuss the practical decisions that managers face.

Asset Allocation

Has the Fed Reduced the Equity Risk Premium?

How will monetary tightening affect asset allocation? In this paper, we analyze the historical patterns and future expected returns of various asset classes, focusing in particular on the role of "cash-plus" liquid assets. Asset classes that have been considered unlikely to benefit from rising interest rates can also be effective diversifiers if viewed from a different perspective. Particularly in a high interest rate environment, the importance of the shrinking equity risk premium and its diversification effects is being reaffirmed.

Alternative Investing

Key considerations in designing risk-mitigating portfolios

In 2022, the limitations of traditional equity-heavy portfolios became apparent, and many investors began to reevaluate the importance of broader diversification strategies and risk-mitigating assets. In this article, we will focus on the practical benefits of strategies such as "trend following" and explain the key points of portfolio design to stabilize long-term returns while reducing risk.

Asset Allocation

2023 Edition: Capital market outlook for major asset classes

We have updated our mid- to long-term (5-10 year) return forecasts for major asset classes. In addition, we have two feature topics: Outlook for emerging market equities Assessment of the impact of a significant rise in interest rates on various risk premiums These will be important factors in determining asset allocation strategies going forward.