Maximum Likelihood Estimation
Maximum Likelihood Estimation is a powerful statistical method used to estimate the parameters of a probability distribution or model by maximizing a likelihood function. In the context of GARCH, it determines the parameters that make the observed crypto price history most probable under the model's assumptions.
The process involves defining the likelihood function, which represents the probability of the data as a function of the unknown parameters, and then finding the peak of this function. This method is the standard for fitting complex financial models because it provides statistically efficient and consistent estimates.
However, it requires a well-specified model and can be computationally intensive, especially when dealing with high-frequency crypto data. Mastery of MLE is essential for quantitative researchers aiming to build reliable predictive models for digital asset markets.