Do Firm Characteristics Influence Mutual Fund Performance? An Empirical Study for European Mutual Funds

Abstract

This study investigates the influence of fund management firm characteristics on mutual fund performance. Using a sample of European domiciled open-end equity funds for the period 1998-2008, this study finds that the funds of private companies have performed better than the funds of public companies. The degree of focus, the volume of assets under management and the number of funds offered by a fund management firm also have a positive impact on fund performance. In addition to these four firm characteristics, we find that non-European and UK fund managers had better performing funds.

Keywords: Mutual funds, Performance, Private ownership