Can Trading Volume Predict Realized Volatility?

Subscribe to newsletter

Realized volatility (RV) is a measure that captures the degree of price fluctuation in a financial instrument over a specific period. This metric is valuable for investors and traders as it reflects the true price action experienced by an asset, aiding in risk assessment and strategy development. Realized volatility contrasts with implied volatility, which is derived from option prices and represents market expectations.

There is a body of research literature that demonstrates a relationship between realized volatility (RV) and trading volume (VOL).  Reference [1] addresses the same research subject but employs different methods, including the Granger causality test, Mean Square Error, and Mean Average Error models. The author pointed out,

The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between RV and VOL, to ascertain or rebuff the sequential information and the mixed distribution theories as well as the findings of prior literature using the most recent data. The results of this study reveals that there is no meaningful relationship between RV and VOL, hence they cannot be used as estimators to predict one another. Based on the findings of this study, sequential information and mixed distribution theories are irrelevant, at least in the current dispensation. The findings of this study also suggests that new information entering financial markets tend to be disseminated faster to active market participants probably due to regional and global integration. Also, financial market contagion which has increased recently may be a propelling factor for new information transmission. Since there is no relationship between RV and VOL, traders may need to rely on other indicators or factors to make trading decisions. They may need to adjust their strategies to incorporate different signals or factors that are more relevant for predicting market movements or identifying trading opportunities.

Subscribe to newsletter https://harbourfrontquant.beehiiv.com/subscribe Newsletter Covering Trading Strategies, Risk Management, Financial Derivatives, Career Perspectives, and More

In short, contrary to the majority of research papers, the author demonstrates that there is no relationship between VOL and RV except for the CAC 40.

This result is surprising. It proves that the market is highly efficient.

Let us know what you think in the comments below or in the discussion forum.

References

[1] Samuel Tabot Enow, Exploring the relation between realised volatility and trading volume: evidence from international stock market, Journal of Management and Entrepreneurship Research 4(2):82-90

Subscribe to newsletter https://harbourfrontquant.beehiiv.com/subscribe Newsletter Covering Trading Strategies, Risk Management, Financial Derivatives, Career Perspectives, and More

Further questions

What's your question? Ask it in the discussion forum

Have an answer to the questions below? Post it here or in the forum

LATEST NEWSWalmart's former U.S. CEO Bill Simon thinks retailer can easily absorb tariff costs, criticizes its 'doom and gloom' commentary
Walmart's former U.S. CEO Bill Simon thinks retailer can easily absorb tariff costs, criticizes its 'doom and gloom' commentary

Bill Simon, who ran Walmart from 2010 to 2014, suggests the company may be overstating challenges tied to tariffs.

Stay up-to-date with the latest news - click here
LATEST NEWSIncome Financial Declares Monthly Distribution
Income Financial Declares Monthly Distribution

TORONTO, May 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Income Financial Trust (“Income Financial”) declares its monthly distribution of $0.06642 per unit. The distribution is payable June 10, 2025 to unit holders on record as at May 30, 2025. Under the distribution policy announced on November 18,…

Stay up-to-date with the latest news - click here
LATEST NEWSTop Aces celebrates 25 years of excellence in fighter pilot training
Top Aces celebrates 25 years of excellence in fighter pilot training

A Canadian legacy of elevating global air combat readiness MONTREAL, May 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Top Aces Inc., the world’s premier provider of live-fly Adversary Air (ADAIR) and Close Air Support (CAS) training, is proudly celebrating its 25th anniversary of service. Founded in Montreal…

Stay up-to-date with the latest news - click here
LATEST NEWSOpus One Gold Obtains 3.79 g/t Gold Over 6.7 m at 57 m From Hole NO-25-03 on its Zone 1 Gold Discovery, Noyell Project
Opus One Gold Obtains 3.79 g/t Gold Over 6.7 m at 57 m From Hole NO-25-03 on its Zone 1 Gold Discovery, Noyell Project

NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO U.S NEWSWIRE SERVICES OR FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES MONTREAL, May 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Opus One Gold Corp (TSX-V: OOR) (the “Company” or “Opus One”) is pleased to announce that drill hole NO-25-03 from the winter drilling program on…

Stay up-to-date with the latest news - click here
LATEST NEWSMS Canada Invites All Canadians to Sign Up For The 2025 MS Walk, Happening This Sunday, May 25
MS Canada Invites All Canadians to Sign Up For The 2025 MS Walk, Happening This Sunday, May 25

Communities across the country will come together for the one-day event to raise awareness and funds for multiple sclerosis (MS) research and support programs that improve the well-being of Canadians living with MS Toronto, ON, May 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — MS Walk is a…

Stay up-to-date with the latest news - click here

Leave a Reply