Returns from Investing in Equity Mutual Funds 1971-1991

Posted: 10 May 2000

See all articles by Burton G. Malkiel

Burton G. Malkiel

Princeton University - Bendheim Center for Finance; National Bureau of Economic Research (NBER)

Abstract

Several recent studies suggest that equity mutual fund managers achieve superior returns and that considerable persistence in performance exists. This study utilizes a unique data set including returns from all equity mutual funds existing each year. These data enable us more precisely to examine performance and the extent of survivorship bias. In the aggregate, funds have under performed benchmark portfolios both after management expenses and even gross of expenses. Survivorship bias appears to be more important than other studies have estimated. Moreover, while considerable performance persistence existed during the 1970s, there was no consistency in fund returns during the 1980s.

JEL Classification: G23, G12, G14

Suggested Citation

Malkiel, Burton G., Returns from Investing in Equity Mutual Funds 1971-1991. Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=6119

Burton G. Malkiel (Contact Author)

Princeton University - Bendheim Center for Finance ( email )

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Princeton, NJ 08540
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609-258-6445 (Phone)
609-258-0771 (Fax)

National Bureau of Economic Research (NBER)

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