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Module 1 · Chapter 7

The Ornstein-Uhlenbeck Process

Part of Foundations of Mean Reversion

1
Introduction to the OU Process: A Mean-Reverting Diffusion
Financial time series often revert to a long-term average. This behavior is mean reversion. Traders exploit mean reversion by buying assets below their average and selling assets above their average.
5 min
2
The OU Stochastic Differential Equation Explained
The Ornstein-Uhlenbeck (OU) process models mean reversion. It describes a variable that fluctuates around a central value. The variable constantly pulls back towards this mean. This process has financ
5 min
3
Parameters: Speed of Reversion (θ), Long-Run Mean (μ), Volatility (σ)
The Ornstein-Uhlenbeck (OU) process models mean reversion. Three parameters define its behavior: speed of reversion ($\theta$), long-run mean ($\mu$), and volatility ($\sigma$). Each parameter influen
5 min
4
Simulating OU Paths for Strategy Development
The Ornstein-Uhlenbeck (OU) process models mean reversion. It describes a variable pulling back towards a long-term average. This process has three main parameters. Theta ($\theta$) represents the mea
5 min
5
Maximum Likelihood Estimation of OU Parameters
Traders quantify mean reversion strength. The Ornstein-Uhlenbeck (OU) process models mean-reverting asset prices. It helps identify profitable trading opportunities. Estimating its parameters is essen
5 min
6
Calibrating OU Models to Real Market Data
Calibrating an Ornstein-Uhlenbeck (OU) process estimates its parameters from observed data. This process forms the foundation for applying mean reversion models to financial assets. The OU process des
5 min
7
Optimal Entry and Exit Thresholds Under the OU Model
The Ornstein-Uhlenbeck (OU) process models mean reversion. It describes a variable pulling back to a long-term average. This average is the mean reversion level. The OU process has a drift term. This
5 min
8
The OU Model vs. Random Walk: A Statistical Comparison
Traders often confuse mean reversion with random walk behavior. Understanding the statistical differences matters. A mean-reverting process pulls back to its average. A random walk has no such pull. I
5 min
9
Extensions: Jump-Diffusion OU and Regime-Switching OU
The standard Ornstein-Uhlenbeck (OU) process models continuous price fluctuations. It assumes price changes occur smoothly over time. Financial markets, however, experience sudden, large price movemen
6 min
10
Practical Limitations and When the OU Model Breaks Down
The Ornstein-Uhlenbeck (OU) process models mean reversion. It assumes a constant mean, reversion rate, and volatility. Real-world financial data often violates these assumptions. Traders must understa
5 min