International Workshop on Time-Optimal Portfolio Selection
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. Professor Thomas Burkardt delivered an insightful and comprehensive presentation on the emerging field of time-optimal portfolio selection. Professor Burkardt began by establishing a foundation in classical portfolio theory, explaining how traditional models primarily focus on value as the main parameter for portfolio selection modelling. He discussed the fundamental principles that have guided investment decision-making for decades, including risk-return optimization and wealth maximization over specified time horizons.
The core of the presentation centered on the paradigm shift to time as the primary parameter in portfolio modeling. Professor Burkardt articulated how this approach fundamentally changes the investment question from “How much wealth can I accumulate?” to “How quickly can I reach my target wealth?”. The professor delved into the mathematical and conceptual frameworks underlying optimal portfolio construction, discussing the trade-offs, constraints, and decision variables that investors must consider.
Following the coffee break, an engaging discussion session was held that 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.
In recognition of his valuable contribution to the departments and his 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. She expressed sincere appreciation to Professor Burkardt for his enlightening presentation and thanked all participants for their active engagement.
