The Faculty of Applied Science and Technology Organises a Research Seminar Series
On Thursday 27th April 2023, the Faculty of Applied Science at Kumasi Technical University organized a research seminar at the JICA Conference Centre. The seminar brought together individuals from different departments to learn and exchange ideas on two topics of great interest to the academic community and industry professionals alike.
The first presentation was delivered by Mr. Kwame Annin, a lecturer in the Department of Statistical Sciences at Kumasi Technical University. Mr. Annin presented on the topic of "Dynamic Risk Spillover in International Real Estate Investment Trusts: Implications for Asset Investors."
Mr. Annin discussed how real estate investment trusts (REITs) have become increasingly popular as an alternative to direct real estate investment due to their ease of liquidity and diversification. He presented empirical evidence on how dynamic risk spill over between global REITs affects asset returns and how investors can use this information to make informed investment decisions.
The second presentation was delivered by Prof. Kofi Agyarko Ababio, Director of the Institute for Distance and Continuing Education (IDCE) at Kumasi Technical University. Prof. Ababio presented on the topic of "Markowitz Mean-Variance Portfolio Selection and Optimization under Behavioral Spectacle: New Empirical Evidence."
Prof. Ababio's presentation focused on how traditional portfolio theory assumes investors to behave rationally and make decisions based on expected returns and risk. However, there is growing evidence that investors exhibit behavioural biases such as overconfidence, loss aversion, and herding. He presented new empirical evidence showing how modifying the traditional Markowitz portfolio theory can account for these behavioural biases to improve portfolio selection and optimization.
Each presentation was followed by a question-and-answer session where attendees had the opportunity to ask the presenters questions and discuss the topics in more detail. The seminar was both live and online via Zoom.
The presentations provided valuable insights into new empirical evidence and practical implications for investors. The question-and-answer sessions also allowed for further discussion and engagement on the topics presented.
Overall, the seminar was a resounding success, and it is hoped that similar events will continue to be organized to foster knowledge exchange and collaboration within the academic community.
