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Generalized Robustness and Dynamic Pessimism

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  • Vedolin, Andrea
  • Maenhout, Pascal
  • Xing, Hao

Abstract

This paper develops a theory of dynamic pessimism and its impact on asset prices. Notions of time-varying pessimism arise endogenously in our setting as a consequence of agents’ concern for model misspecification. We generalize the robust control approach of Hansen and Sargent (2001) by replacing relative entropy as a measure of discrepancy between models by the more general family of Cressie-Read discrepancies. As a consequence, the decision-maker’s distorted beliefs appear as an endogenous state variable driving risk aversion, portfolio decisions, and equilibrium asset prices. Using survey data, we estimate time-varying pessimism and find that such a proxy features a strong business cycle component. We then show that using our measure of pessimism helps match salient features in equity markets such as excess volatility and high equity premium.

Suggested Citation

  • Vedolin, Andrea & Maenhout, Pascal & Xing, Hao, 2020. "Generalized Robustness and Dynamic Pessimism," CEPR Discussion Papers 14592, C.E.P.R. Discussion Papers.
    • Handle: RePEc:cpr:ceprdp:14592
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    1. Shilin Li & Jinqiang Yang & Siqi Zhao, 2022. "Robust leverage dynamics without commitment," Economic Theory, Springer;Society for the Advancement of Economic Theory (SAET), vol. 74(2), pages 643-679, September.

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Cressie read; Robust control; Subjective beliefs; Pessimism;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • F31 - International Economics - - International Finance - - - Foreign Exchange
    • G15 - Financial Economics - - General Financial Markets - - - International Financial Markets

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