Faith-based and sin portfolios: An empirical inquiry into norm-neglect vs norm-conforming investor behavior

Abstract

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to investigate relative portfolio performance between sin stock returns and faith-based returns. Design/methodology/approach – Similar to Hong and Kacperczyk, Jensen's alpha was utilized to conduct tests along with three asset-pricing models and rolling regression technique to reveal that faith-based and sin betas move in opposite directions during most of the sample period. Findings – Norm-neglect was found, in that Jensen's alpha is positive and significant for the sin portfolio. Further, evidence in favor of norm-conforming investor behavior was found, where Jensen's alpha is negative and significant for the faith-based portfolio. These findings provide evidence that the sin portfolio outperforms the faith-based portfolio relative to the market. A rolling regression technique reveals that faith-based and sin betas tend to move in opposite directions during most of the sample period. The evidence suggests that faith-based beta has an average estimated beta of one, mimicking the market. The sin portfolio, however, has an average estimated beta of one-half. Finally, the reward-to-risk measure, Sharpe ratio, is statistically higher for the sin portfolio relative to the faith-based portfolio. Originality/value – This paper contributes to the literature in the following distinct ways. First, three asset-pricing models are estimated to examine Jensen's alpha for sin and faith-based portfolios. Second, a rolling regression procedure is used to examine the dynamic behavior relative to the market of the sin and faith-based portfolios. Third, use is made of the Jobson and Korkie test, which allows for statistical comparisons of Sharpe ratios. Lastly, daily instead of monthly data and a different sample period are used to examine the research questions posed in this study.Asset valuation, Financial management, Investors, Portfolio investment