TuringTrader's Dos Equis

Strategy Rules

Strategy Rules

The operation of Dos Equis can be summarized as follows:

• start with a static allocation of 2x leveraged ETFs: 54% U.S. Stocks, 38% U.S. Treasuries, 8% gold
• adjust allocations based on the individual asset's 1-month volatility
• in times of high volatility, allocate up to 15% to VIX futures, based on a VIX model
• allocate the remaining capital to U.S. Treasuries with intermediate maturities
• rebalance weekly

Dos Equis starts with a static asset allocation to provide some inherent portfolio stability and reduce the requirements for active management. This step helps compensate for the amplified volatility of the leveraged ETFs. Market sell-offs most often coincide with elevated volatility. Consequently, Dos Equis manages risk by scaling its positions based on the asset's volatility. Based on a simple VIX forecasting model, Dos Equis takes an additional long position in VIX futures to hedge for market risks.

To learn more about the rationale behind Dos Equis, read our article regarding aggressively leveraged ETF portfolios.

Diversification

Dos Equis diversifies across three major asset classes, plus VIX futures for an additional hedge. This diversification manifests itself in a beta of around 0.3. Even in bullish periods, the portfolio does not invest much more than 60% in the 2x leveraged S&P 500. This scheme keeps the portfolio balanced and well-mannered.

Returns & Volatility

Dos Equis beats the S&P 500 benchmark in most years but shines in times of spiking volatility. The static asset allocation, including treasuries and gold, provides some level of protection against unforeseen events. Volatility-targeting plus the use of VIX futures as a volatility hedge help dampen portfolio volatility and avoid deep drawdowns.

As a result, Dos Equis shows about 25% lower volatility, and about 50% lower downside than the S&P 500 benchmark while, over the full economic cycle, delivering approximately twice the return.

Account & Tax Considerations

Dos Equis trades frequently and regularly triggers taxable events. However, the changes made to the asset allocation are typically small. Outside of significant volatility events, a large percentage of the assets is held for more than 12 months, with capital gains qualifying for long-term treatment. While the overall tax burden is certainly higher than for a passive portfolio, the substantially higher long-term returns should outweigh this disadvantage.

Dos Equis makes use of 2x leveraged ETFs, as well as volatility-linked ETPs, which are considered high-risk instruments. Many brokerages require signing additional disclosures before allowing investors to use these instruments in their accounts. Because we use these products in tandem with inversely correlated assets, we believe our use of these instruments to be responsible.

Dos Equis invests in no more than five ETFs at a time. The strategy should function as intended with as little as $10,000 of capital.