An importance and frequency-based approach for sparse online portfolios
Abstract
Portfolio optimization has advanced since Markowitz, yet dynamically adjusting weights remains a challenge. This study applies Online Gradient Descent (OGD) and Empirical Mode Decomposition (EMD) to construct and optimize portfolios in the Brazilian stock market. By decomposing financial time series into fast, medium, and slow modes, we build correlation-based networks and select stocks using centrality measures. Portfolios (5–30 stocks) are optimized via OGD and evaluated against a benchmark. Results show that small RIS portfolios consistently outperform large RIS portfolios in CAGR and VaR. The fast mode performs best, with all fast small RIS portfolios surpassing the benchmark. The mixed mode (γ = 0.2, 0.35) achieves superior results, with the best portfolios exceeding an 18% CAGR. Overall, 36% of mixed mode portfolios outperform the benchmark, with small RIS portfolios dominating the optimal region. These findings demonstrate the effectiveness of EMD-based stock selection and OGD for risk-adjusted returns.
How to cite
Gustavo Ribeiro de Oliveira Roque, Carlos Cristiano Hasenclever Borges, João Daniel Madureira Yamim. An importance and frequency-based approach for sparse online portfolios. Brazilian Review of Finance, v. 23, n. 1, 2025. p. e202505. DOI: 10.12660/rbfin.v23n1.2025.93034.