Finance Expert from Germany Leads Academic Session

The Departments of Accounting, and Banking and Finance successfully hosted an International Workshop on Time-Optimal Portfolio Selection on October 30, 2025. The workshop featured Professor Thomas Burkardt, a distinguished Professor of Finance from the University of Koblenz and Landau, Germany, as the main presenter.

The event attracted significant participation from both faculty members and students from both departments, providing a valuable platform for academic exchange and learning.

Presentation Overview: From Classical to Time-Optimal Portfolio Theory

Professor Burkardt delivered an insightful and comprehensive presentation on the emerging field of time-optimal portfolio selection.

Part 1: Foundation in Classical Portfolio Theory

  • Explanation of how traditional models primarily focus on value as the main parameter for portfolio selection modeling

  • Discussion of fundamental principles guiding investment decision-making for decades, including:

    • Risk-return optimization

    • Wealth maximization over specified time horizons

Part 2: The Paradigm Shift to Time as Primary Parameter

  • Articulation of how this approach fundamentally changes the investment question from:

    • “How much wealth can I accumulate?” to

    • “How quickly can I reach my target wealth?”

  • Discussion of the mathematical and conceptual frameworks underlying optimal portfolio construction

  • Examination of trade-offs, constraints, and decision variables investors must consider

Engaging Discussion Session

Following the coffee break, an engaging discussion session fostered meaningful academic dialogue. Staff members from both departments actively engaged with Professor Burkardt, raising thought-provoking questions about:

  • The practical implementation of time-optimal strategies

  • Their applicability to emerging markets

The interactive nature of the session enriched the learning experience and demonstrated the strong academic culture within both departments.

Recognition and Closing Remarks

In recognition of his valuable contribution and exceptional presentation, Dr. Abubakar Karaye, Head of the Department of Accounting, Banking and Finance, presented a certificate of appreciation to Professor Thomas Burkardt. This gesture symbolized the departments’ gratitude for the professor’s willingness to share his expertise and contribute to the intellectual development of faculty and students.

Prof. Dr. Ghousia Khatoon delivered the closing remarks, expressing sincere appreciation to Professor Burkardt for his enlightening presentation and thanking all participants for their active engagement.

Keywords: Time-Optimal Portfolio Selection, Portfolio Theory, Investment Strategies, Finance Workshop, University of Koblenz and Landau, Professor Thomas Burkardt, Accounting Department, Banking and Finance Department, Risk-Return Optimization, Emerging Markets, Dr. Abubakar Karaye, Prof. Dr. Ghousia Khatoon, TIU International Workshop