Non-Normal Distribution

Definition

A non-normal distribution represents a statistical state where asset returns fail to adhere to the Gaussian bell curve, frequently exhibiting significant skewness and excess kurtosis. In cryptocurrency markets, these distributions characterize price movements marked by fat tails, indicating a higher probability of extreme events than standard models suggest. Quantitative analysts must recognize that reliance on normal distribution assumptions often leads to severe underestimation of volatility and tail risk in digital asset portfolios.