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How to Alleviate Correlation Neglect

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  • Weber, Martin
  • Laudenbach, Christine
  • Ungeheuer, Michael

Abstract

We experimentally study how presentation formats for return distributions affect investors' diversification choices. We find that sampling returns alleviates correlationneglect and constitutes an effective way to improve financial decisions. When participants get a description of probabilities for outcomes of the joint return distribution, we confirm the common finding that investors neglect the correlation between assets in their diversification choices. However, when participants sample from the joint distribution, they incorporate correlation into choices as predicted by normative theory. Results are robust across three experiments with varying expertise and experience of participants (students vs. investors), and varying return distributions (discrete, continuous).

Suggested Citation

  • Weber, Martin & Laudenbach, Christine & Ungeheuer, Michael, 2019. "How to Alleviate Correlation Neglect," CEPR Discussion Papers 13737, C.E.P.R. Discussion Papers.
    • Handle: RePEc:cpr:ceprdp:13737
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    3. Olschewski, Sebastian & Diao, Linan & Rieskamp, Jörg, 2021. "Reinforcement learning about asset variability and correlation in repeated portfolio decisions," Journal of Behavioral and Experimental Finance, Elsevier, vol. 32(C).

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Investment decisions; Diversification; Correlation neglect; Risk taking; Fintech;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • C91 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Design of Experiments - - - Laboratory, Individual Behavior
    • G02 - Financial Economics - - General - - - Behavioral Finance: Underlying Principles
    • G11 - Financial Economics - - General Financial Markets - - - Portfolio Choice; Investment Decisions

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