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The Efficient Market Hypothesis and Its Critics

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  • Burton G. Malkiel

Abstract

Revolutions often spawn counterrevolutions and the efficient market hypothesis in finance is no exception. The intellectual dominance of the efficient-market revolution has more been challenged by economists who stress psychological and behaviorial elements of stock-price determination and by econometricians who argue that stock returns are, to a considerable extent, predictable. This survey examines the attacks on the efficient market hypothesis and the relationship between predictability and efficiency. I conclude that our stock markets are more efficient and less predictable than many recent academic papers would have us believe.

Suggested Citation

  • Burton G. Malkiel, 2003. "The Efficient Market Hypothesis and Its Critics," Journal of Economic Perspectives, American Economic Association, vol. 17(1), pages 59-82, Winter.
    • Handle: RePEc:aea:jecper:v:17:y:2003:i:1:p:59-82
    Note: DOI: 10.1257/089533003321164958
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    File URL: http://www.aeaweb.org/articles.php?doi=10.1257/089533003321164958
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    References listed on IDEAS

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