Dynamic Asset Allocation for Pension Funds: A Stochastic Control Approach Using the Heston Model

Desmond Marozva and Ştefan Cristian Gherghina ()
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Desmond Marozva: Department of Finance, Bucharest University of Economic Studies, 010374 Bucharest, Romania
Ştefan Cristian Gherghina: Department of Finance, Bucharest University of Economic Studies, 010374 Bucharest, Romania

JRFM, 2025, vol. 18, issue 11, 1-25

Abstract: This paper develops a dynamic asset allocation strategy for defined contribution pension funds using a stochastic control framework under the Heston stochastic volatility model. By solving the associated Hamilton–Jacobi–Bellman partial differential equation, we derive optimal equity allocations that adapt to changing market volatility and investor risk aversion using a constant relative risk aversion utility function (parameter γ ). The strategy increases equity exposure during stable periods and reduces it during volatile regimes, capturing both myopic and intertemporal hedging demands. We test the model using historical U.S. data from 2006 to 2025 and benchmark its performance against a traditional static 60/40 stock–bond portfolio, as well as rule-based strategies such as volatility targeting and constant proportion portfolio insurance. Our results show that with moderate risk aversion, the dynamic strategy achieves long-term wealth comparable to the 60/40 benchmark while substantially reducing drawdown risk. As risk aversion increases, drawdown risk is further reduced and risk-adjusted returns remain competitive. Although higher aversion yields lower final wealth, certainty-equivalent returns are highest at moderate aversion levels. These results demonstrate that volatility responsive dynamic policies grounded in realistic stochastic volatility modeling can substantially enhance downside protection and risk-adjusted utility, especially for long-horizon, risk-averse pension participants.

Keywords: dynamic asset allocation; define contribution; stochastic volatility; Heston model; volatility hedging (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: C E F2 F3 G (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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