Managing currency risk in an investment portfolio

Abstract

The idea that we can reach out to the future and bring it under control is one of the most audacious advances in the history of humanity. The subjects of risk management, risk measurement and decision theory today command an extraordinary breadth and sophistication. The gods are still so unkind as to deny us knowledge of what the future holds, but we have made two giant strides: first, we now understand a great deal about the likelihood of unpleasant surprises and, to a far greater extent, we are learning how to manage the consequences of unpleasant surprises when they do occur. Risk management should be an integral part of every business and not just an exercise in meeting regulatory requirements. Evaluating and controlling risks effectively will ensure opportunities are not lost, competitive advantage is enhanced and less management time is spent fire-fighting. The likely reduction in surprises and the increased ability to meet objectives will strengthen shareholder confidence in the corporate business process. In time, this should lead to a higher share price and a lower cost of capital.