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Learn the measure, estimate the moment: machine-learned drivers in dynamic conditional correlation models

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Abstract

Realized measures are biased for the moments of returns. We propose a two-step approach to forecasting large correlation matrices: machine-learned forecasts of realized measures enter a dynamic conditional correlation model as drivers, and their weights are estimated by quasi-maximum likelihood on returns. The correlation recursion is run in a matrix-logarithm parametrization, so every forecast is a valid correlation matrix. For Dow Jones stocks, a learned volatility driver and this recursion improve on a dynamic conditional correlation model with realized drivers at horizons of one, five and 22 days. For S&P 500 stocks, the model fits monthly returns better than machine-learned projections of realized correlations, has no invalid forecast in any month, and trades less. The criterion that selects the weight on a realized driver matters as much as the model, and practitioners can obtain valid forecasts calibrated to returns with standard software.

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  • Xu, Yongdeng, 2026. "Learn the measure, estimate the moment: machine-learned drivers in dynamic conditional correlation models," Cardiff Economics Working Papers E2026/12, Cardiff University, Cardiff Business School, Economics Section.
    • Handle: RePEc:cdf:wpaper:2026/12
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    1. Victor Chernozhukov & Denis Chetverikov & Mert Demirer & Esther Duflo & Christian Hansen & Whitney Newey & James Robins, 2018. "Double/debiased machine learning for treatment and structural parameters," Econometrics Journal, Royal Economic Society, vol. 21(1), pages 1-68, February.
    2. Peter Reinhard Hansen & Asger Lunde, 2005. "A Realized Variance for the Whole Day Based on Intermittent High-Frequency Data," Journal of Financial Econometrics, Oxford University Press, vol. 3(4), pages 525-554.
    3. Pagan, Adrian, 1984. "Econometric Issues in the Analysis of Regressions with Generated Regressors," International Economic Review, Department of Economics, University of Pennsylvania and Osaka University Institute of Social and Economic Research Association, vol. 25(1), pages 221-247, February.
    4. Fleming, Jeff & Kirby, Chris & Ostdiek, Barbara, 2003. "The economic value of volatility timing using "realized" volatility," Journal of Financial Economics, Elsevier, vol. 67(3), pages 473-509, March.
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    JEL classification:

    • C32 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Multiple or Simultaneous Equation Models; Multiple Variables - - - Time-Series Models; Dynamic Quantile Regressions; Dynamic Treatment Effect Models; Diffusion Processes; State Space Models
    • C53 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Econometric Modeling - - - Forecasting and Prediction Models; Simulation Methods
    • C58 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Econometric Modeling - - - Financial Econometrics
    • G11 - Financial Economics - - General Financial Markets - - - Portfolio Choice; Investment Decisions
    • G17 - Financial Economics - - General Financial Markets - - - Financial Forecasting and Simulation

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