Fully nonlinear stochastic and rough PDEs: Classical and viscosity solutions

Abstract

We study fully nonlinear second-order (forward) stochastic partial differential equations (SPDEs). They can also be viewed as forward path-dependent PDEs (PPDEs) and will be treated as rough PDEs (RPDEs) under a unified framework. We develop first a local theory of classical solutions and define then viscosity solutions through smooth test functions. Our notion of viscosity solutions is equivalent to the alternative one using semi-jets. Next, we prove basic properties such as consistency, stability, and a partial comparison principle in the general setting. When the diffusion coefficient is semi-linear (but the drift can be fully nonlinear), we establish a complete theory, including global existence and comparison principle. Our methodology relies heavily on the method of characteristics.