Correlation Matrix Limitations

Assumption

Correlation matrices rely on the premise that asset returns maintain linear relationships over time, which often collapses during extreme market stress. In cryptocurrency markets, this static view ignores the tendency for correlations to converge toward unity during high-volatility events, rendering traditional diversification models ineffective. Quantitative analysts must recognize that these metrics assume a normal distribution of returns, failing to account for the heavy-tailed risk and regime shifts prevalent in digital asset classes.