A simple low-computation-intensity model for approximating the distribution function of a sum of non-identical lognormals for financial applications

A. Messica

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

2 Scopus citations

Abstract

The probability distribution function of a weighted sum of non-identical lognormal random variables is required in various fields of science and engineering and specifically in finance for portfolio management as well as exotic options valuation. Unfortunately, it has no known closed form and therefore has to be approximated. Most of the approximations presented to date are complex as well as complicated for implementation. This paper presents a simple, and easy to implement, approximation method via modified moments matching and a polynomial asymptotic series expansion correction for a central limit theorem of a finite sum. The method results in an intuitively-appealing and computation-efficient approximation for a finite sum of lognormals of at least ten summands and naturally improves as the number of summands increases. The accuracy of the method is tested against the results of Monte Carlo simulationsand also compared against the standard central limit theorem andthe commonly practiced Markowitz' portfolio equations.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationApplication of Mathematics in Technical and Natural Sciences
Subtitle of host publication8th International Conference for Promoting the Application of Mathematics in Technical and Natural Sciences, AMiTaNS 2016
EditorsMichail D. Todorov
PublisherAmerican Institute of Physics Inc.
ISBN (Electronic)9780735414310
DOIs
StatePublished - 13 Oct 2016
Externally publishedYes
Event8th International Conference for Promoting the Application of Mathematics in Technical and Natural Sciences, AMiTaNS 2016 - Albena, Bulgaria
Duration: 22 Jun 201627 Jun 2016

Publication series

NameAIP Conference Proceedings
Volume1773
ISSN (Print)0094-243X
ISSN (Electronic)1551-7616

Conference

Conference8th International Conference for Promoting the Application of Mathematics in Technical and Natural Sciences, AMiTaNS 2016
Country/TerritoryBulgaria
CityAlbena
Period22/06/1627/06/16

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Physics and Astronomy

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