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Article
Applying regret theory to investment choices: Currency hedging decisions☆
Journal of International Money and Finance (2008)
  • Sébastien Michenaud, Saint Petersburg State University
  • Bruno Solnik, HEC Paris
Abstract
We apply regret theory, an axiomatic behavioral theory, to derive closed-form solutions to optimal currency hedging choices. Investors experience regret of not having chosen the ex post optimal hedging decision. Hence, investors anticipate their future experience of regret and incorporate it in their objective function. We derive a model of financial decision-making with two components of risk: traditional risk (volatility) and regret risk. We find results that are in sharp contrast with traditional expected utility, loss aversion, or disappointment aversion theories. We discuss the empirical implications of our model and its ability to explain observed hedging behavior.
Publication Date
September 1, 2008
DOI
10.1016/j.jimonfin.2008.03.001
Citation Information
Sébastien Michenaud and Bruno Solnik. "Applying regret theory to investment choices: Currency hedging decisions☆" Journal of International Money and Finance Vol. 27 Iss. 5 (2008) p. 677 - 694 ISSN: 0261-5606
Available at: http://works.bepress.com/sbastien-michenaud/8/