Returns-Driven Macro Regimes and Characteristic Lead-Lag Behaviour between Asset Classes

Abstract

We define data-driven macroeconomic regimes by clustering the relative performance in time of indices belonging to different asset classes. We then investigate lead-lag relationships within the regimes identified. Our study unravels market features characteristic of different windows in time and leverages on this knowledge to highlight market trends or risks that can be informative with respect to recurrent market developments. The framework developed also lays the foundations for multiple possible extensions.