Linear shrinkage estimation of large covariance matrices using factor models

Abstract

The problem of estimating a large covariance matrix using a factor model is addressed when both the sample size and the dimension of the covariance matrix tend to infinity. We consider a general class of weighted estimators which includes (i) linear combinations of the sample covariance matrix and the model-based estimator under the factor model, and (ii) linear shrinkage estimators without factors as special cases. The optimal weights in the class are derived, and plug-in weighted estimators are proposed, given that the optimal weights depend on unknown parameters. Numerical results show that our method performs well. Finally, we provide an application to portfolio management.