The Black–Litterman model provides a more reasonable platform for portfolio optimization and asset allocation, as compared to the traditional CAPM approach, by presenting an equilibrium state of the markets and only deviating from that equilibrium state with forward-looking strategic views. The Index of Economic Freedom (IEF) can be used as a handy tool for forming such strategic views on global markets. Ex-post performance analysis of portfolios covering both developed and developing equity markets constructed with CAPM, Black–Litterman equilibrium implied return, and Black–Litterman absolute view approaches shows that by smoothing expected return with changes in the IEF, significantly superior portfolio performance can be achieved at a lower risk. The Index of Economic Freedom contains superior information in terms of idiosyncratic country-specific risks, which the market seems to ignore or under price. This study has particular relevance to asset allocation strategy, portfolio optimization, and risk minimization in the context of global equity markets.
