How can a negative beta affect an investor’s portfolio?

A negative beta indicates that an asset moves in the opposite direction to the overall market. Therefore, holding an asset with a negative beta can provide a hedge against market downturns. When the market declines, the value of the asset with a negative beta is likely to rise, thus countering potential losses from other investments in the portfolio.

This characteristic makes negative beta assets particularly appealing during periods of market volatility or downturns, as they can help stabilize overall portfolio returns by offsetting losses. As a result, investors often consider incorporating such assets into their portfolios for risk management purposes.

For context, while a negative beta may contribute to diversification, it does not guarantee returns nor does it inherently increase portfolio risk. Therefore, it is best understood as a strategic tool for hedging against adverse market conditions rather than outright diversification or risk enhancement.