The History and Performance of Concept Stocks

Dice Center Working Paper No. 2001-8

60 Pages Posted: 29 Jul 2001

See all articles by Jim Hsieh

Jim Hsieh

George Mason University

Ralph A. Walkling

Drexel University - Lebow College of Business

Date Written: April 4, 2002

Abstract

We analyze the history and performance of concept stocks, defined as stocks whose current valuation appears out of line with tradition valuation metrics. Although the obvious current example is Internet stocks, concept stocks characterize every period. Popular concept stocks of earlier periods include industries as diverse as oil and gas extraction to industrial, computer, and office equipment. Concept stocks, identified as firms with extreme levels of price to sales, are markedly different from glamour stocks or IPOs. Using a sample of firms extending from 1967 through 1999, we also note that the characteristics and identity of concept stocks has changed markedly. The ratio of price to sales has increased dramatically over time while the percentage of firms with positive earnings has dropped precipitously. In more recent periods, concept stocks, like the firms identified by Fama and French (2001) tend to be smaller, less profitable and with higher level of investments. Over the entire sample, the typical concept stock is insignificantly different in size from the typical CRSP firm. However, the percentage of concept stocks still trading after ten years declines markedly over the sample period. Moreover, analysis of the long run performance of concept stocks, using both buy and hold returns and the Fama-French factors reveals underperformance. The results are robust to extensive sensitivity analysis and are separate from glamour or IPO effects.

JEL Classification: G14, G12, G10, M20

Suggested Citation

Hsieh, Jim and Walkling, Ralph August, The History and Performance of Concept Stocks (April 4, 2002). Dice Center Working Paper No. 2001-8, Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=277951 or http://dx.doi.org/10.2139/ssrn.277951

Jim Hsieh

George Mason University ( email )

4400 University Dr, MSN 5F5
George Mason University
Fairfax, VA 22030
United States

Ralph August Walkling (Contact Author)

Drexel University - Lebow College of Business ( email )

LeBow College of Business
Philadelphia, PA 19104
United States
(215) 895-4920 (Phone)
(215) 895-6119 (Fax)

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