Dynamic Factor Correlation Model

Abstract

We introduce a new dynamic factor correlation model with a novel variation-free parametrization of factor loadings. The model is applicable to high dimensions and can accommodate time-varying correlations, heterogeneous heavy-tailed distributions, and dependent idiosyncratic shocks, such as those observed in returns on stocks in the same subindustry. We apply the model to a "small universe" with 12 asset returns and to a "large universe" with 323 asset returns. The former facilitates a comprehensive empirical analysis and comparisons and the latter demonstrates the flexibility and scalability of the model.