A better model? Testing of Fama and French six-factor model in Pakistan

Abstract

This study examines the performance of the Fama and French six factor model and the alternative six-factor model in explaining anomalous return patterns using a broad sample of the Pakistani stock market from 2000 to 2017. This study is the first to test the applicability of these models in Pakistan and their performance in explaining anomalous returns. There are 11 anomalies taken, which proved to be significant in the Pakistani market. The GRS test is used with other time-series measures to check the power of the given models in explaining one-way sorted quintile portfolios. The results reveal that both models provide an incomplete description of anomalous returns. However, the six-factor model seems to be dominant with no major exception as it can explain 5 out of 11 anomalous portfolios returns, while the alternative model can explain four anomalies. The findings recommend that investors use the six-factor model because of its dominancy. It further recommends the investors about how they can maximize their returns by taking a long and short position in anomalous portfolios. Lastly, it is suggested to search for a better model to explain Pakistani stocks returns and capture anomalous patterns