On the return distributions of a basket of cryptocurrencies and subsequent implications

This study evaluates the risk associated with capital allocation in cryptocurrencies (CCs) using a basket of 27 CCs and the CC index EWCI-. We apply basic statistical tests to model the body distribution of CC returns. Consistent with prior research, the stable distribution (SDI) is the most suitable model for the body distribution. However, due to less favorable properties in the tail area for high quantiles, the generalized Pareto distribution is employed. A combination of both distributions is utilized to calculate Value at Risk and Conditional Value at Risk, revealing distinct risk characteristics in two subgroups of CCs.