Problems in the application of portfolio selection models

This paper discusses a number of problems which arise in the implementation of portfolio selection models. It is suggested that the effect of errors and biases in expected return forecasts can be reduced by using these forecasts to modify a prior distribution which leads to minimal trading activity. Efficient diversification across industry groups is hampered by the difficulties of predicting covariances. The use of a selection model through time raises the issues of revising forecasts and of the relationships upon which the appropriate investment horizon and portfolio turnover depend. Last, consideration is given to the conflicts which may exist between management objectives and the mean-variance criterion used by most models.     

Future state visioning—A powerful leadership process

The process of conceptualizing and implementing significant change in complex organizations can be aided greatly through ‘future state visioning’, a set of processes for determining what and where you want to be by a future date. After developing ideas about the nature of the future environment facing the organization and the stakeholders who will be significant at that time, executives can articulate the values and principles which should guide actions leading to the future state vision. Examples from three organizations are used to illustrate the steps for successful use of the future state visioning procedure.     

Adoption,personality disorder and parental guilt: Implications of genetic research for social work

Few adoptive parents are aware that serious behavioral and personality problems can occur in adopted children. When such problems are manifested, parents are often guilt-ridden, believing that they are to blame. Recent research suggests that the risks associated with adoption may be genetically linked. Social workers who counsel adoptive parents need to be aware of potential problems, explain possible risks to them, and use these research findings to positive effect.     

Stages In Therapy For Men Whose Partners Do Not Enjoy Sex

‘We live in a society in which we are continually told of our ‘right’ to sexuality; the new understanding which sees enjoyable sex as a right, not a privilege, of human beings (Health, 1982). This paper summarises some of the author's experiences in working with male partners of couples who present with sexual concerns. Patterns of progress are traced through four stages, labelled for convenience: engagement, withdrawal, ‘eureka’ and balance. These stages evolve as the man moves from patriarchal assumptions about performance and entitlement towards a more truly mutual sexual interaction with his partner.     

Nutritional Status from 1 to 15 Years and Adolescent Learning for Boys and Girls in Ethiopia,India, Peru,and Vietnam

Population Research and Policy Review - There has been little examination of: (1) associations of early-life nutrition and adolescent cognitive skills, (2) if they vary by gender, (3) if...     

Child Poverty Measurement in the UK: Assessing Support for the Downgrading of Income-Based Poverty Measures

Social Indicators Research - In 2016 the UK’s Conservative Government radically changed the official approach to child poverty measurement, scrapping targets for income poverty and material...     

Measuring Economic and Social Impacts of Membership in a Community Development Financial Institution

This study uses qualitative and quantitative measures to answer the question: “does a community development financial institution (CDFI) provide a measurable level of social benefit to its members?” Results indicate that a CDFI does change lives in many important ways, from providing members with the ability to get their financial houses in order, to helping members take control of their financial futures, and finally through building a sense of empowerment that reaches beyond the finances of an individual or family. In general, impacts were greater for lower income and less educated households, households with children, households that used more services, and for households that indicated wealth and asset building services were most important.