The Kelly Formula
The Kelly formula is expressed as:
\[ f^* = \frac{bp — q}{b} \]
Where:
- \( f^* \) is the fraction of the total capital to be allocated to the trade or bet.
- \( b \) is the odds received on the trade (i.e., the ratio of the profit to the initial investment).
- \( p \) is the probability of winning (i.e., the probability of making a profit).
- \( q \) is the probability of losing (i.e., \( 1 — p \)).
For example, if a trade has a 60% chance of success (i.e., \( p = 0.6 \)) and the potential profit is equal to the initial investment (i.e., \( b = 1 \)), the Kelly formula suggests that the trader should allocate:
\[ f^* = \frac{(1)(0.6) — (0.4)}{1} = 0.2 \]
This means the trader should invest 20% of their capital in that trade.
Application of the Kelly Criterion in Trading
- Estimating Probabilities and Payoffs:
The first step in applying the Kelly criterion is to estimate the probabilities of winning and losing and the potential payoffs. This can be challenging in trading, as markets are uncertain, and these values are not always clear-cut.
Traders often use historical data, statistical analysis, and models to estimate these probabilities. For example, a trader might analyze past performance and volatility to estimate the likelihood of a trade’s success.
2. Risk Management:
The Kelly criterion helps traders manage risk by preventing them from over-leveraging or under-investing. By allocating a fraction of their capital based on the formula, traders can avoid large losses that could wipe out their account.
However, it’s important to note that the Kelly criterion can be aggressive. To reduce risk further, some traders may choose to use a fractional Kelly strategy, such as investing only half or a quarter of the recommended amount.
3. Compounding Gains:
One of the key benefits of the Kelly criterion is that it allows for compounding gains over time. By consistently applying the formula, traders can potentially grow their capital more efficiently than by using fixed position sizes.
However, consistency is crucial. Deviating from the Kelly formula, such as by increasing position sizes after losses or reducing them after wins, can undermine its effectiveness.
4. Limitations:
The Kelly criterion assumes that the probabilities of winning and losing are known and constant, which is often not the case in real-world trading.
It also assumes that traders have the psychological discipline to follow the strategy, even during periods of losses, which can be challenging.
Additionally, the Kelly criterion doesn’t account for transaction costs, slippage, or other market factors that can affect trade outcomes.
Example in Trading
Let’s assume a trader has identified a setup where they estimate a 70% chance of success (p = 0.7) and a potential profit of $200 for every $100 risked (b = 2). The Kelly formula would suggest:
\[ f^* = \frac{(2)(0.7) — 0.3}{2} = \frac{1.4–0.3}{2} = 0.55 \]
This indicates that the trader should invest 55% of their capital in this trade. However, given the aggressive nature of this suggestion, the trader might choose to apply a fractional Kelly strategy, perhaps investing only 27.5% (half-Kelly) of their capital instead.
The Kelly formula is a powerful tool for determining the optimal position size in trading, balancing the trade-off between risk and reward. However, it requires accurate estimates of probabilities and payoffs, which can be difficult to achieve. It is also essential to recognize its limitations and adjust the strategy according to personal risk tolerance and market conditions. When used correctly, the Kelly criterion can help traders optimize their returns while minimizing the risk of significant losses.