The risk tolerance level many investors expect to achieve over the long-term rarely equals the same tolerance investors actually experience over shorter periods. This paper describes this paradox, explores the main reason it might exist, and introduces a risk management strategy that seeks to solve the problem.

As more “low volatility” and portfolio risk management strategies hit the marketplace, it will be imperative that advisors and investors explore each strategy to uncover how risk is actually being addressed. Identifying those techniques that address both diversifiable and systematic risk is likely to provide better overall results for investors.