Enhancing Sparse Index-Tracking Portfolios Using Deep Learning Models
摘要
This paper implements the use of deep learning (DL) techniques to enhance sparse index tracking portfolios for the Nasdaq 100 (NDX) index. Specifically, we use autoencoders (AEs) and variational autoencoders (VAEs) to construct sparse tracking portfolios under cardinality constraints, thereby reducing the number of required stocks while maintaining close performance to the NDX index. By using AEs and VAEs, we extract the complex non-linear relationships between the index and a subset of its constituents. Using historical data from 2019 to 2023, our empirical results show that the proposed DL-based models achieve robust index replication in both in-sample and out-of-sample periods. Furthermore, these models exhibit reduced tracking errors and cumulative returns comparable to the benchmark. The results highlight the potential of deep learning techniques as a powerful tool for efficient index tracking.