The overreaction hypothesis: the case of Ukrainian stock market

Abstract

This paper examines the short-term price reactions after one-day abnormal price changes on the Ukrainian stock market. The original method of abnormal returns calculation is examined. We find significant evidence of overreactions using the daily data over the period 2008-2012. Our analysis confirms the hypothesis that after an abnormal price movement the size of contrarian price movement is usually higher then after normal (typical) daily fluctuation. Comparing Ukrainian data with the figures from US stock market it is concluded that the Ukrainian stock market is less efficient which gives rise to opportunities for extra profits obtained from trading based on contrarian strategies. Based on results of the research we also recommend some rules of trading on short-term market overreactions.