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Morningstar Star ratings and the performance, risk and flows of European bond mutual funds

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  • Otero-González, Luis
  • Leite, Paulo
  • Durán-Santomil, Pablo
  • Domingues, Renato

Abstract

In this paper we evaluate the relation between Morningstar Star ratings and the performance, risk and flows of European bond funds over the period 2006–2019 based on a comprehensive and survivorship-free dataset comprising 939 mutual funds. Fund performance is evaluated by net and gross returns, as well as alphas based on single and multi-factor models. Our results show that well-rated mutual funds exhibit superior performance even after controlling for differences in fund characteristics although they exhibit high risks both in terms of volatility and value-at-risk. We also find strong evidence of fund performance persistence and rating persistence. Finally, Morningstar Star ratings are also useful for explaining inflows and outflows. Funds with higher ratings attract more flows even if we control for prior performance.

Suggested Citation

  • Otero-González, Luis & Leite, Paulo & Durán-Santomil, Pablo & Domingues, Renato, 2022. "Morningstar Star ratings and the performance, risk and flows of European bond mutual funds," International Review of Economics & Finance, Elsevier, vol. 82(C), pages 479-496.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:reveco:v:82:y:2022:i:c:p:479-496
    DOI: 10.1016/j.iref.2022.07.003
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Bond mutual funds; Performance; Persistence; Ratings; Morningstar;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • G11 - Financial Economics - - General Financial Markets - - - Portfolio Choice; Investment Decisions
    • G14 - Financial Economics - - General Financial Markets - - - Information and Market Efficiency; Event Studies; Insider Trading
    • G23 - Financial Economics - - Financial Institutions and Services - - - Non-bank Financial Institutions; Financial Instruments; Institutional Investors

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