We hypothesize that connections with buy-side analysts provide a sell-side analyst with private information generated by the buy-side that enhances the quality of sell-side research. We proxy for these connections with the number of stocks at the intersection of stocks held in the portfolios of...

We investigate the abilities of buy-side analysts by analyzing nontraditional mutual funds that are exclusively managed by in-house analysts rather than traditional portfolio managers. Analysts exhibit stronger general and job-specific investment abilities than traditional managers from within...

We provide evidence on the valuation of equity positions by hedge fund advisors. Reported valuations deviate from standard valuations based on closing prices from CRSP for roughly seven percent of the positions. These deviations are economically significant for about 25 percent of the hedge fund...

Using detailed options holdings, we examine how mutual funds' use of options affects performance and risk. Using options generates, on average, no performance advantages. In fact, funds that follow certain distinct strategies underperformed. The only salutary impact is lower portfolio risk for a...

US equity mutual funds, on average, prefer realization of capital losses to capital gains. Nevertheless, a substantial fraction exhibits the disposition effect of realizing gains more readily than losses. My analysis suggests that learning effects have reduced the manifestation of the...

We introduce a new measure to assess the valuation skills of investment-grade corporate bond funds. Our measure recognizes funds that ex-ante hold a higher fraction of undervalued bonds as having better valuation skills. The measure predicts future fund performance, is stable over time, and is...

Using detailed holdings of exchange-traded options, we examine how mutual funds use optionsand how options affect portfolio performance and risk. Options users underperform nonusers bytwo to three percent per year. The underperformance is especially pronounced for funds that areheavy users of...

US equity mutual funds, on average, prefer realization of capital losses to capital gains. Nevertheless,a substantial fraction exhibits the disposition effect of realizing gains more readily than losses. Myanalysis suggests that learning effects have reduced the manifestation of the disposition...

Using 13F position valuations, we show that hedge fund advisors intentionallymismark their stock positions. We document manipulation even after eliminatingissues inherent in the pricing of illiquid securities. The documented mismarking isrelated to hedge fund incentives. Mismarking is more...