This study examines the effect of corporate asset growth on stock returns using
data on nine equity markets in Asia. For the period from 1981 to 2007, we find a
pervasive negative relation between asset growth and subsequent stock returns. We
further examine the determinants of this asset growth effect across markets. The negative
relation between asset growth and stock returns is weaker in markets where firms’ assets
growth rates are more homogeneous, and in markets where firms rely more on internal
financing and bank financing for growth. On the other hand, corporate governance,
investor protection, and legal origin do not influence the magnitude of the asset growth
effect in the Asian markets.
展开