Markov-switching stochastic processes in an active trading algorithm in the main Latin-American stock markets

Abstract

In the present paper, we review the use of two-state, Generalized Auto Regressive Conditionally Heteroskedastic Markovian stochastic processes (MS-GARCH). These show the quantitative model of an active stock trading algorithm in the three main Latin-American stock markets (Brazil, Chile, and Mexico). By backtesting the performance of a U.S. dollar based investor, we found that the use of the Gaussian MS-GARCH leads, in the Brazilian market, to a better performance against a buy and hold strategy (BH). In addition, we found that the use of t-Student MS-ARCH models is preferable in the Chilean market. Lastly, in the Mexican case, we found that is better to use Gaussian time-fixed variance MS models. Their use leads to the best overall performance than the BH portfolio. Our results are of use for practitioners by the fact that MS-GARCH models could be part of quantitative and computer algorithms for active trading in these three stock markets.