The graph below combines the efficient frontier with the indifference curves for two different investors, X and Y (represented by U(X) and U(Y)). The letters A, B, C, and D represent four distinct portfolios.
Which of the following statements about the above graph is least accurate?
A) |
Investor X's return will always be less than that of Investor Y. | |
B) |
Investor X would be better off moving to indifference curve U(X)1 and Portfolio C because of the higher return on that portfolio. | |
C) |
Portfolios A and B are both optimal portfolios. | |
Any portfolio on the efficient frontier is superior to one that is not. Thus, Investor X would not be better off with Portfolio C (this portfolio is on a lower indifference curve and has more risk.)
The other choices are correct. The optimal portfolio for each investor is the one on the highest indifference curve that is tangent to the efficient frontier. Thus, portfolios A and B are both optimal portfolios, but for different investors. In addition, Investor X has a steeper indifference curve, indicating that he is risk-averse. Flatter curves, such as those for investor Y, indicate a less risk-averse investor. As a result, X’s return will be less than Y’s.
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