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Measuring Skill in the Mutual Fund Industry

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  • Berk, Jonathan B.

    (Stanford University)

  • van Binsbergen, Jules H.

    (Stanford University)

Abstract

Using the dollar-value a mutual fund manager adds as the measure of skill, we find that not only does skill exist (the average mutual fund manager adds about $2 million per year), but this skill is persistent, as far out as 10 years. We further document that investors recognize this skill and reward it by investing more capital with skilled managers. Higher skilled managers are paid more and there is a strong positive correlation between current managerial compensation and future performance.

Suggested Citation

  • Berk, Jonathan B. & van Binsbergen, Jules H., 2014. "Measuring Skill in the Mutual Fund Industry," Research Papers 3131, Stanford University, Graduate School of Business.
    • Handle: RePEc:ecl:stabus:3131
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    More about this item

    JEL classification:

    • G23 - Financial Economics - - Financial Institutions and Services - - - Non-bank Financial Institutions; Financial Instruments; Institutional Investors
    • G20 - Financial Economics - - Financial Institutions and Services - - - General
    • G11 - Financial Economics - - General Financial Markets - - - Portfolio Choice; Investment Decisions
    • J31 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Wages, Compensation, and Labor Costs - - - Wage Level and Structure; Wage Differentials
    • J24 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demand and Supply of Labor - - - Human Capital; Skills; Occupational Choice; Labor Productivity

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