A duration-neutral strategy is an investment strategy that aims to match the duration of the underline benchmark, regardless of changes in interest rates. Duration measures the sensitivity of a fixed-income investment (such as bonds) to changes in interest rates.
In a duration-neutral strategy, the manager aims to mimic the portfolio's duration to match the duration of the underline benchmark or index regardless of interest rate movements. The goal is to minimize the impact of interest rate changes on the value of the portfolio in comparison to its benchmark.
To implement a duration-neutral strategy, an investor might use various techniques, such as:
Dynamic Portfolio Adjustments: The manager continuously monitors the portfolio’s duration and adjusts it periodically to maintain a target duration. If interest rates rise, the manager may decrease the portfolio's duration by selling longer-duration bonds and buying shorter-duration bonds, and vice versa if interest rates fall.
Use of Derivatives: Derivatives such as interest rate swaps or futures can be employed to hedge against interest rate changes. Using these instruments, managers can offset the impact of interest rate fluctuations on the portfolio's duration.
Yield Curve Positioning: The manager may also adjust the portfolio's allocation along the yield curve. For example, if the manager expects interest rates to rise, they may reduce exposure to longer-term bonds and increase exposure to shorter-term bonds to maintain the desired duration.
The primary objective of a duration-neutral strategy is to isolate the portfolio's performance from interest rate movements, focusing instead on other factors such as credit risk or sector allocation. However, it's important to note that while duration neutrality helps mitigate interest rate risk, it does not eliminate it entirely.
It's worth mentioning that appropriate investment strategies can vary for an investor depending on individual goals, risk tolerance, and market conditions. Seek advice from a financial advisor or investment professional to select an appropriate strategy based on specific circumstances.
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