Autocorrelation Definition and Quiz

1. Define - Define Autocorrelation for portfolio risk and alpha models.
2. Context - Use Autocorrelation in a sentence.
3. Quiz - Test yourself.

by Paul Alan Davis, CFA

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Autocorrelation definition

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Autocorrelation, or serial correlation, is the correlation of one variable with itself over different time periods. This is important for testing whether stock returns behave like independent variables, which is an assumption of statistical tests of several important theories, including the Efficient Market Hypothesis (EMH).

To calculate autocorrelation for monthly returns with a 1-month lag, use nearly the same return stream except stagger the y-variable dependent variable by 1 month. In a basic 36-month example, the x-variable in the regression could go from Jan 2014-Dec 2016 and the y-variable would then go from Feb 2014-Jan 2017.

Synonym: serial correlation, cross correlation

For context, imagine running an autocorrelation of risk measures. Here, historically, statistically significant autocorrelation has been observed. A likely reason is that volatile periods in financial markets are often followed by other volatile periods. Some refer to this as a 'volatility cluster'.

With respect to correlations of stock returns, some use autocorrelation studies to determine the level of decay in alpha signals and for research on stock momentum.

In a Sentence

Bud:  Hey Guy, nice chart, eh? Solid uptrend, nice doji, MACD, and strong momentum.
Guy:  You are the Technician, but technically, it looks like autocorrelation to me.

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Learn More About The Glossary

Still unclear on Autocorrelation? Check out our 27-video deep-dive in Excel in the Quant 101 Series.

Related Terms

Our trained humans found other terms in the category statistics for finance you may find helpful.

• Demeaned returns
• Kurtosis
• R-squared
• Rolling regression

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