What Downside Deviation measures
Downside Deviation is one of the metrics we use to evaluate aPMS scheme. It helps quantify a specific dimension of performance, risk, consistency, or implementation quality.
**Best for:**Understanding one important dimension of scheme behavior when used alongside other metrics.
Why it matters for PMS scheme evaluation
- Adds context beyond headline returns by highlighting one key dimension of scheme behavior.
- Improves comparability across schemes when used within the same strategy and benchmark context.
- Becomes most useful when combined with other metrics (especially drawdowns and risk-adjusted measures).
How to interpret Downside Deviation
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Compare PMS schemes using this and other metrics
- **Compare like-for-like:**use peer schemes with similar strategy and benchmark.
- **Check multiple horizons:**avoid a single time window (for example 1Y vs 3Y vs 5Y).
- **Use a cluster:**pair withMax DrawdownandVolatilityto understand trade-offs.
Common pitfalls
Read our methodologyfor calculation assumptions and limitations.
- This metric can be misread if compared across different strategies, horizons, or calculation assumptions.
- Short track records can make this metric unstable; prefer longer histories where possible.
- Calculation choices can shift values—compare schemes using consistent assumptions.
Related metrics
FAQs
Downside Deviation is a metric used to evaluate PMS scheme behavior. In simple terms, it helps quantify: volatility of negative or under-target returns only; focuses on harmful variability.
Not always. Higher values can come with trade-offs. Interpret Downside Deviation alongside drawdowns, volatility, and strategy context.
Compare within similar peer groups and across multiple horizons. Use Downside Deviation as part of a metric cluster, not a single-number decision.
What is Downside Deviation in a PMS scheme?
Downside Deviation is a metric used to evaluate PMS scheme behavior. In simple terms, it helps quantify: volatility of negative or under-target returns only; focuses on harmful variability.
Is a higher Downside Deviation always better?
Not always. Higher values can come with trade-offs. Interpret Downside Deviation alongside drawdowns, volatility, and strategy context.
How should I use Downside Deviation to compare schemes?
Compare within similar peer groups and across multiple horizons. Use Downside Deviation as part of a metric cluster, not a single-number decision.
Next:How to compare PMS schemes·How to evaluate a PMS scheme·All metrics