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Seemingly inconsistent analyst revisions

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  • Iselin, Michael
  • Park, Min
  • Van Buskirk, Andrew

Abstract

In about 20%–30% of cases where an analyst revises two outputs (namely, earnings estimates, target prices, or stock recommendations) simultaneously, the two estimates are revised in opposite directions. Existing literature notes that these inconsistent outputs are widespread, and concludes that they are lower-quality, driven by strategic bias, and are viewed as less valid by investors. We find that these characterizations are generally inaccurate. Apparent inconsistency is largely driven by accounting and economic factors, with only limited evidence that investment banking-related conflicts play a role. Moreover, inconsistent outputs are neither less accurate than consistent outputs nor do they resolve less investor uncertainty upon their release. Overall, our results suggest that researchers should be cautious in interpreting the correlation between analyst outputs as a measure of bias or quality, and in using a single analyst output as a proxy for an analyst's overall views.

Suggested Citation

  • Iselin, Michael & Park, Min & Van Buskirk, Andrew, 2021. "Seemingly inconsistent analyst revisions," Journal of Accounting and Economics, Elsevier, vol. 71(1).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:jaecon:v:71:y:2021:i:1:s0165410120300410
    DOI: 10.1016/j.jacceco.2020.101339
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Papadaki, Aphroditi J. & Pavlopoulou-Lelaki, Olga-Chara, 2021. "Sources of Corporate Financing and Operating Performance: The effects of strategic ownership and financial restatements," International Review of Financial Analysis, Elsevier, vol. 76(C).

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