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Factor Momentum and the Momentum Factor

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  • SINA EHSANI
  • JUHANI T. LINNAINMAA

Abstract

Momentum in individual stock returns relates to momentum in factor returns. Most factors are positively autocorrelated: the average factor earns a monthly return of six basis points following a year of losses and 51 basis points following a positive year. We find that factor momentum concentrates in factors that explain more of the cross section of returns and that it is not incidental to individual stock momentum: momentum‐neutral factors display more momentum. Momentum found in high‐eigenvalue principal component factors subsumes most forms of individual stock momentum. Our results suggest that momentum is not a distinct risk factor—it times other factors.

Suggested Citation

  • Sina Ehsani & Juhani T. Linnainmaa, 2022. "Factor Momentum and the Momentum Factor," Journal of Finance, American Finance Association, vol. 77(3), pages 1877-1919, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:bla:jfinan:v:77:y:2022:i:3:p:1877-1919
    DOI: 10.1111/jofi.13131
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    11. Beaulieu, Marie-Claude & Dufour, Jean-Marie & Khalaf, Lynda & Melin, Olena, 2023. "Identification-robust beta pricing, spanning, mimicking portfolios, and the benchmark neutrality of catastrophe bonds," Journal of Econometrics, Elsevier, vol. 236(1).
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