This study investigates the performance of 50 global, one star (based on Morningstar rankings), ETFs during the US QE-tapering period starting in October 2014 up to September 2018, using the S&P500 as the market index. The methodology employed is based on the CAPM model. We adopt the Jensen’s Alpha, Beta, a / b, Sharpe and Treynor ratios measures in order to examine whether those ETFs have achieved abnormal returns. We conclude that managers of most ETFs do not exhibit selectivity skills and only six of these ETFs achieve higher returns than the market by showing bullish behavior. At the same time, most ETFs have positive Sharpe and Treynor ratios due to high expected returns during the period under scrutiny.

This study investigates how twelve cryptocurrencies with large capitalization get influenced by the three cryptocurrencies with the largest market capitalization (Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Ripple). Twenty alternative specifications of ARCH, GARCH as well as DCC-GARCH are employed. Daily data covers the period from 1 January 1 2018 to 16 September 2018, representing the intense bearish cryptocurrency market. Empirical outcomes reveal that volatility among digital currencies is not best described by the same specification but varies according to the currency. It is evident that most cryptocurrencies have a positive relationship with Bitcoin, Ethereum and Ripple, therefore, there is no great possibility of hedging for crypto-currency portfolio managers and investors in distressed times.