Modeling the optimal diversification opportunities: the case of crypto portfolios and equity portfolios

Purpose - This study aims to compare the diversification risk of the crypto portfolio with those of equity portfolios. For this purpose, the hypothetical index was constructed with 20 cryptocurrencies that hold the highest market capitalization in the Coin Market Cap database, named as the Crypto-Index 20. Design/methodology/approach - The portfolio diversification techniques were used to identify risk linked with the six largest European equity indexes and compared with the Crypto-Index 20. Indexes were considered as an independent portfolio while analysis was completed separately for each of them. Data concerning stock prices and their trade volume were collected from the Thomson Reuters Eikon database while crypto prices and their trade volume from the Coin Market Cap database. The diversification risk of the stock indexes was measured separately for each portfolio with the same risk techniques and the same methodological process. Findings - Research results indicate that Crypto-Index 20 on average was 76 times riskier than FTSE 100, 55 times riskier than FTSE MIB, 44 times riskier than IBEX 35, 10 times riskier than CAC 40 and 9 times riskier than DAX and MDAX. Crypto-Index 20 comprises a stronger positive correlation and is exposed to higher volatility than six selected European equity indexes. Originality/value - This research provides practical implications for the investors on the diversification benefits and risks attached to the cryptocurrencies portfolio by comparing it with the traditional equity portfolios. From a policy perspective, regulators might obtain information on the risk properties involved into cryptocurrencies and the possibility of creating an optimal portfolio.