Stochastic discount factor

The Stochastic Discount Factor (SDF), also known as the marginal rate of substitution or pricing kernel, is a fundamental concept in financial economics, particularly in asset pricing theory. It is used to represent how the present value of future cash flows is adjusted for risk and time preference. ### Key Features of Stochastic Discount Factor: 1. **Definition**: The SDF is a random variable that can be used to discount future payoffs in a way that incorporates uncertainty or risk.