Date of Award

8-2017

Degree Type

Creative Project

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department

Economics and Finance

Committee Chair(s)

Tyler Brough

Committee

Tyler Brough

Committee

Benjamin Blau

Committee

Ryan Whitby

Abstract

Do people who gamble carry such preferences into their investments? This study looks at various factors which are used to identify countries with a significant gambling population, and seeks to find a relationship with those gambling tendencies and premiums associated with momentum. From historical market data from financial markets in 45 different countries I found stronger evidence of a momentum premium in those countries which have those identifying factors for gambling, than those that do not. Results of the regression analysis suggest weak evidence that it is possible that the momentum premium could be associated with gambling preferences and culture due to the hot hand fallacy. Meaning, when gamblers see a stock get hot they will double down, believing they exercise an illusion of control that the stock they invest in will continue to have positive returns.

Share

COinS