Dynamic index tracking via multi-objective evolutionary algorithm

Index tracking has been gaining in popularity in recent years, as sustainable and stable yields exceeding market returns proved to be elusive. Leveraging on the search capability of evolutionary algorithm, this paper proposed a multi-objective evolutionary index tracking platform that could simultaneously optimize both tracking performance and transaction costs throughout the investment horizon and address various real-world implementation issues in index tracking. For model evaluation, a realistic instantiation of the index tracking optimization problem that accounted for stochastic capital injections, practical transactional cost structures and other real-world constraints was formulated. Portfolio rebalancing strategies for the alignment of the tracker portfolio to time-varying market conditions were investigated also. Empirical studies based on equity indices from major global markets were conducted and the results validated the tracking capability of the proposed index tracking system in out-of-sample data sets, whilst minimizing transaction costs throughout the investment horizon.

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► This paper proposed a multi-objective evolutionary index tracking platform.
► Optimize tracking performance and transaction costs throughout investment horizon.
► Model evaluation used realistic instantiation of the index tracking problem.
► Investigate portfolio rebalancing strategies for alignment of tracker portfolio.
► Validate the tracking capability on equity indices from major global markets.