Applied Mathematics and Optimization, Vol.68, No.3, 333-359, 2013
Continuous-Time Mean-Variance Portfolio Selection with Random Horizon
This paper examines the continuous-time mean-variance optimal portfolio selection problem with random market parameters and random time horizon. Treating this problem as a linearly constrained stochastic linear-quadratic optimal control problem, I explicitly derive the efficient portfolios and efficient frontier in closed forms based on the solutions of two backward stochastic differential equations. Some related issues such as a minimum variance portfolio and a mutual fund theorem are also addressed. All the results are markedly different from those in the problem with deterministic exit time. A key part of my analysis involves proving the global solvability of a stochastic Riccati equation, which is interesting in its own right.
Keywords:Backward stochastic differential equation;Mean-variance portfolio selection;Random time horizon;Linear-quadratic control;Continuous time