Question

Which of the following statements are inconsistent with the efficient market hypothesis?a. The average annual return on stocks is greater than zero. b. Stocks that outperform the index in March always underperform it in April. c. Half of fund managers are able to beat their relevant index each year, before fees. d. Stocks that outperform the index in March always outperform it in April.

Answer 1

Answer:

b. Stocks that outperform the index in March always underperform it in April.

d. Stocks that outperform the index in March always outperform it in April.

Explanation:

The Efficient market hypothesis states that in an efficient market, all the available information in the market are reflected in the prices of the stocks being traded. As such, all stock are fairly priced.

Stocks that perform in a certain way in March and then in another way in April are violations of the hypothesis. This is because if indeed the market was efficient, the prices would adjust to reflect the different performances by month such that there would be no more fluctuations.