HKSM

In utility theory, a risk-neutral stakeholder is neither risk averse nor risk seeking; choices are made on expected value alone, without being swayed by how risky one option is compared with another.

Key Points

• Neither risk averse nor risk seeking; indifferent to variability in outcomes.
• Utility function is effectively linear; decisions follow expected monetary value (EMV).
• Chooses among alternatives based on average payoff, not the spread or volatility.
• Contrasts with risk-averse (prefers certainty) and risk-seeking (prefers higher variance) behaviors.

Example

A sponsor must choose between: Option A, a guaranteed $100,000 benefit; and Option B, a 50% chance of $220,000 and a 50% chance of $0 (EMV = $110,000). A risk-neutral decision maker selects Option B because it has the higher expected value, despite greater uncertainty.

PMP Example Question

Which statement best describes a risk-neutral stakeholder in project selection?

1. Prefers lower-variance outcomes even if the expected value is smaller.
2. Chooses based solely on expected value, regardless of outcome uncertainty.
3. Always selects the option with the highest possible payoff.
4. Avoids uncertain options to protect the baseline at all costs.

Correct Answer: B — Chooses based solely on expected value.

Explanation: Risk-neutral behavior evaluates alternatives by their expected value and is indifferent to how risky one scenario is compared with another.