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Unobserved structural shifts and asymmetries in the random walk model for stock returns in African frontier markets

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  • David de Villiers
  • Natalya Apopo
  • Andrew Phiri
  • David McMillan

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to examine the weak-form market efficiency hypothesis (EMH) for 8 African Frontier markets between 2001 and 2017. To achieve this purpose, we employ unit root testing procedures which are robust to both nonlinearities and smooth structural breaks, making this study the first of its kind for African markets. Our empirical findings suggest that, regardless of whether daily or weekly series are employed, most African frontier markets are not market efficient, in the weak sense form, with the exception of the Kenyan stock market and to a very much lesser extent the Botswana and South African stock series. Important policy and investor implications are drawn in our study.

Suggested Citation

  • David de Villiers & Natalya Apopo & Andrew Phiri & David McMillan, 2020. "Unobserved structural shifts and asymmetries in the random walk model for stock returns in African frontier markets," Cogent Economics & Finance, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 8(1), pages 1769348-176, January.
    • Handle: RePEc:taf:oaefxx:v:8:y:2020:i:1:p:1769348
    DOI: 10.1080/23322039.2020.1769348
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    More about this item

    JEL classification:

    • C21 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Single Equation Models; Single Variables - - - Cross-Sectional Models; Spatial Models; Treatment Effect Models
    • C22 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Single Equation Models; Single Variables - - - Time-Series Models; Dynamic Quantile Regressions; Dynamic Treatment Effect Models; Diffusion Processes
    • C51 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Econometric Modeling - - - Model Construction and Estimation
    • G14 - Financial Economics - - General Financial Markets - - - Information and Market Efficiency; Event Studies; Insider Trading

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