A Test of Insider Trading within the Defense Industrial Complex
Abstract
This thesis examined the presence of insider trading in the defense industry. The acceptance of the null hypothesis that insider trading abnormal returns are equal to zero prior to the announcement/event date and are positive at the announcement day provides support for the semi-strong form efficient market hypothesis; i.e. no detection of insider trading prior to public announcement. The study also conveyed the significance of trading volume around the day of the event which would support the efficiency of the market as well. Results of the ratio of insider selling is less clear but the overall net volume was to purchase stock which is in line with the above findings. In this thesis, the market operated at the semi-strong form of the efficient market hypothesis. When the major announcement of the contract award hit the public, there was sharp rise in abnormal returns on the date of the announcement with a corresponding increase in the trading volume for that day. The market quickly impounded this 'news item' and reflected this information in the stock price of the firms. The magnitude and superior ability of the SEC to enforce insider trading regulations may be deterring insider trading in this industry. If they are not deterring the inside trader from illegally using information, then it is possible that they have just gone underground by using friends and relatives or they are trading in such a way as to not make a spectacle of themselves which would cause the SEC to investigate. Economic models. Theses.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 22, 1989
- Accession Number
- ADA217502
Entities
People
- Marie C. Czech
Organizations
- Air Force Institute of Technology