Author:
Publisher: GRIN Verlag
ISBN: 3668963924
Category : Business & Economics
Languages : en
Pages : 22
Book Description
Seminar paper from the year 2018 in the subject Business economics - Investment and Finance, grade: 2,7, University of Cologne, course: Bachelorseminar Corporate Finance, language: English, abstract: This paper seeks to examine different models to forecast revenue of companies. This is being achieved by examining costs of capital, which are a good representative therefor. The models examined in this paper can be divided into two sections. First, there are mechanical models, second there is one characteristic-based model. The models stand in contrast to analysts’ forecasts. This paper sums up different authors who illustrate, that mechanical models outperform analysts’ forecasts in terms of revenue forecasting. First, the HVZ mode is introduced which is due to outperform analysts’ forecasts. Second, the EP and RI model are introduced, next to a random walk model (RW model) as a benchmark. Objective of this paper is to find out which advantages go along with mechanical models, and whether the quality of forecast could be influenced positively. The topic of revenue forecast is highly relevant for different stakeholders in the financial industry. Based on revenue forecasts investment decisions are met by investors. One advantage of mechanical models therefore, is the greater feasibility due to the greater coverage. Mechanical models rely on firm fundamentals and are hence available for much more companies. Analysts’ forecasts are only available for firms of a certain size upwards. Costs of capital are a topic of focus not only for investment decisions but also for internal application. Apart from the use as a financial ratio it is negatively associated with customer satisfaction. The paper finds out, that the HVZ model outperforms analysts’ forecasts in terms of forecast bias and earnings response coefficient. However, the HVZ model does not outperform analysts’ forecasts in terms of accuracy. The EP and RI model both outperform the HVZ model in terms of all three criteria: forecast bias, earnings response coefficient and accuracy. The characteristic-based model sets up a linear function solely by firm fundamentals, that avoids including unobservable future covariances. Besides, it concludes certain key findings about abnormal earnings volatility and economy-wide risk.
Evaluation of Mechanical Earnings Forecast Models
Author:
Publisher: GRIN Verlag
ISBN: 3668963924
Category : Business & Economics
Languages : en
Pages : 22
Book Description
Seminar paper from the year 2018 in the subject Business economics - Investment and Finance, grade: 2,7, University of Cologne, course: Bachelorseminar Corporate Finance, language: English, abstract: This paper seeks to examine different models to forecast revenue of companies. This is being achieved by examining costs of capital, which are a good representative therefor. The models examined in this paper can be divided into two sections. First, there are mechanical models, second there is one characteristic-based model. The models stand in contrast to analysts’ forecasts. This paper sums up different authors who illustrate, that mechanical models outperform analysts’ forecasts in terms of revenue forecasting. First, the HVZ mode is introduced which is due to outperform analysts’ forecasts. Second, the EP and RI model are introduced, next to a random walk model (RW model) as a benchmark. Objective of this paper is to find out which advantages go along with mechanical models, and whether the quality of forecast could be influenced positively. The topic of revenue forecast is highly relevant for different stakeholders in the financial industry. Based on revenue forecasts investment decisions are met by investors. One advantage of mechanical models therefore, is the greater feasibility due to the greater coverage. Mechanical models rely on firm fundamentals and are hence available for much more companies. Analysts’ forecasts are only available for firms of a certain size upwards. Costs of capital are a topic of focus not only for investment decisions but also for internal application. Apart from the use as a financial ratio it is negatively associated with customer satisfaction. The paper finds out, that the HVZ model outperforms analysts’ forecasts in terms of forecast bias and earnings response coefficient. However, the HVZ model does not outperform analysts’ forecasts in terms of accuracy. The EP and RI model both outperform the HVZ model in terms of all three criteria: forecast bias, earnings response coefficient and accuracy. The characteristic-based model sets up a linear function solely by firm fundamentals, that avoids including unobservable future covariances. Besides, it concludes certain key findings about abnormal earnings volatility and economy-wide risk.
Publisher: GRIN Verlag
ISBN: 3668963924
Category : Business & Economics
Languages : en
Pages : 22
Book Description
Seminar paper from the year 2018 in the subject Business economics - Investment and Finance, grade: 2,7, University of Cologne, course: Bachelorseminar Corporate Finance, language: English, abstract: This paper seeks to examine different models to forecast revenue of companies. This is being achieved by examining costs of capital, which are a good representative therefor. The models examined in this paper can be divided into two sections. First, there are mechanical models, second there is one characteristic-based model. The models stand in contrast to analysts’ forecasts. This paper sums up different authors who illustrate, that mechanical models outperform analysts’ forecasts in terms of revenue forecasting. First, the HVZ mode is introduced which is due to outperform analysts’ forecasts. Second, the EP and RI model are introduced, next to a random walk model (RW model) as a benchmark. Objective of this paper is to find out which advantages go along with mechanical models, and whether the quality of forecast could be influenced positively. The topic of revenue forecast is highly relevant for different stakeholders in the financial industry. Based on revenue forecasts investment decisions are met by investors. One advantage of mechanical models therefore, is the greater feasibility due to the greater coverage. Mechanical models rely on firm fundamentals and are hence available for much more companies. Analysts’ forecasts are only available for firms of a certain size upwards. Costs of capital are a topic of focus not only for investment decisions but also for internal application. Apart from the use as a financial ratio it is negatively associated with customer satisfaction. The paper finds out, that the HVZ model outperforms analysts’ forecasts in terms of forecast bias and earnings response coefficient. However, the HVZ model does not outperform analysts’ forecasts in terms of accuracy. The EP and RI model both outperform the HVZ model in terms of all three criteria: forecast bias, earnings response coefficient and accuracy. The characteristic-based model sets up a linear function solely by firm fundamentals, that avoids including unobservable future covariances. Besides, it concludes certain key findings about abnormal earnings volatility and economy-wide risk.
Valuation Approaches and Metrics
Author: Aswath Damodaran
Publisher: Now Publishers Inc
ISBN: 1601980140
Category : Business & Economics
Languages : en
Pages : 102
Book Description
Valuation lies at the heart of much of what we do in finance, whether it is the study of market efficiency and questions about corporate governance or the comparison of different investment decision rules in capital budgeting. In this paper, we consider the theory and evidence on valuation approaches. We begin by surveying the literature on discounted cash flow valuation models, ranging from the first mentions of the dividend discount model to value stocks to the use of excess return models in more recent years. In the second part of the paper, we examine relative valuation models and, in particular, the use of multiples and comparables in valuation and evaluate whether relative valuation models yield more or less precise estimates of value than discounted cash flow models. In the final part of the paper, we set the stage for further research in valuation by noting the estimation challenges we face as companies globalize and become exposed to risk in multiple countries.
Publisher: Now Publishers Inc
ISBN: 1601980140
Category : Business & Economics
Languages : en
Pages : 102
Book Description
Valuation lies at the heart of much of what we do in finance, whether it is the study of market efficiency and questions about corporate governance or the comparison of different investment decision rules in capital budgeting. In this paper, we consider the theory and evidence on valuation approaches. We begin by surveying the literature on discounted cash flow valuation models, ranging from the first mentions of the dividend discount model to value stocks to the use of excess return models in more recent years. In the second part of the paper, we examine relative valuation models and, in particular, the use of multiples and comparables in valuation and evaluate whether relative valuation models yield more or less precise estimates of value than discounted cash flow models. In the final part of the paper, we set the stage for further research in valuation by noting the estimation challenges we face as companies globalize and become exposed to risk in multiple countries.
Introduction to Financial Forecasting in Investment Analysis
Author: John B. Guerard, Jr.
Publisher: Springer Science & Business Media
ISBN: 1461452392
Category : Business & Economics
Languages : en
Pages : 245
Book Description
Forecasting—the art and science of predicting future outcomes—has become a crucial skill in business and economic analysis. This volume introduces the reader to the tools, methods, and techniques of forecasting, specifically as they apply to financial and investing decisions. With an emphasis on "earnings per share" (eps), the author presents a data-oriented text on financial forecasting, understanding financial data, assessing firm financial strategies (such as share buybacks and R&D spending), creating efficient portfolios, and hedging stock portfolios with financial futures. The opening chapters explain how to understand economic fluctuations and how the stock market leads the general economic trend; introduce the concept of portfolio construction and how movements in the economy influence stock price movements; and introduce the reader to the forecasting process, including exponential smoothing and time series model estimations. Subsequent chapters examine the composite index of leading economic indicators (LEI); review financial statement analysis and mean-variance efficient portfolios; and assess the effectiveness of analysts’ earnings forecasts. Using data from such firms as Intel, General Electric, and Hitachi, Guerard demonstrates how forecasting tools can be applied to understand the business cycle, evaluate market risk, and demonstrate the impact of global stock selection modeling and portfolio construction.
Publisher: Springer Science & Business Media
ISBN: 1461452392
Category : Business & Economics
Languages : en
Pages : 245
Book Description
Forecasting—the art and science of predicting future outcomes—has become a crucial skill in business and economic analysis. This volume introduces the reader to the tools, methods, and techniques of forecasting, specifically as they apply to financial and investing decisions. With an emphasis on "earnings per share" (eps), the author presents a data-oriented text on financial forecasting, understanding financial data, assessing firm financial strategies (such as share buybacks and R&D spending), creating efficient portfolios, and hedging stock portfolios with financial futures. The opening chapters explain how to understand economic fluctuations and how the stock market leads the general economic trend; introduce the concept of portfolio construction and how movements in the economy influence stock price movements; and introduce the reader to the forecasting process, including exponential smoothing and time series model estimations. Subsequent chapters examine the composite index of leading economic indicators (LEI); review financial statement analysis and mean-variance efficient portfolios; and assess the effectiveness of analysts’ earnings forecasts. Using data from such firms as Intel, General Electric, and Hitachi, Guerard demonstrates how forecasting tools can be applied to understand the business cycle, evaluate market risk, and demonstrate the impact of global stock selection modeling and portfolio construction.
The Valuation Handbook, (Custom Chapter 14)
Author: Rawley Thomas
Publisher: John Wiley & Sons
ISBN: 0470539976
Category : Business & Economics
Languages : en
Pages : 842
Book Description
The definitive guide to valuation written by a who's who of today's top practitioners The Valuation Handbook differs significantly from other related books on this topic because the contributors are practitioners, academics, and investment firms that explain how they value companies and other assets. It concentrates on specific and innovative valuation techniques, rather than the theoretical approaches more generally accepted and discussed. Given the extreme volatility of the stock market, valuation is a critical issue for analysts, investors, and businesses. Here, various professional contributors explain how their firms approach the valuation process, while academic contributors share their valuation consulting and research experience. Examines how to value assets in today's dynamic market setting Offers a broad spectrum of ideas from some of the top practitioners and academics in this field Highlights state-of-the-art approaches to company valuation Filled with in-depth insights and expert advice, The Valuation Handbook puts this difficult discipline in perspective.
Publisher: John Wiley & Sons
ISBN: 0470539976
Category : Business & Economics
Languages : en
Pages : 842
Book Description
The definitive guide to valuation written by a who's who of today's top practitioners The Valuation Handbook differs significantly from other related books on this topic because the contributors are practitioners, academics, and investment firms that explain how they value companies and other assets. It concentrates on specific and innovative valuation techniques, rather than the theoretical approaches more generally accepted and discussed. Given the extreme volatility of the stock market, valuation is a critical issue for analysts, investors, and businesses. Here, various professional contributors explain how their firms approach the valuation process, while academic contributors share their valuation consulting and research experience. Examines how to value assets in today's dynamic market setting Offers a broad spectrum of ideas from some of the top practitioners and academics in this field Highlights state-of-the-art approaches to company valuation Filled with in-depth insights and expert advice, The Valuation Handbook puts this difficult discipline in perspective.
Estimating the Cost of Capital Implied by Market Prices and Accounting Data
Author: Peter Easton
Publisher: Now Publishers Inc
ISBN: 1601981945
Category : Business & Economics
Languages : en
Pages : 148
Book Description
Estimating the Cost of Capital Implied by Market Prices and Accounting Data focuses on estimating the expected rate of return implied by market prices, summary accounting numbers, and forecasts of earnings and dividends. Estimates of the expected rate of return, often used as proxies for the cost of capital, are obtained by inverting accounting-based valuation models. The author describes accounting-based valuation models and discusses how these models have been used, and how they may be used, to obtain estimates of the cost of capital. The practical appeal of accounting-based valuation models is that they focus on the two variables that are commonly at the heart of valuations carried out by equity analysts -- forecasts of earnings and forecasts of earnings growth. The question at the core of this monograph is -- How can these forecasts be used to obtain an estimate of the cost of capital? The author examines the empirical validity of the estimates based on these forecasts and explores ways to improve these estimates. In addition, this monograph details a method for isolating the effect of any factor of interest (such as cross-listing, fraud, disclosure quality, taxes, analyst following, accounting standards, etc.) on the cost of capital. If you are interested in understanding the academic literature on accounting-based estimates of expected rate of return this monograph is for you. Estimating the Cost of Capital Implied by Market Prices and Accounting Data provides a foundation for a deeper comprehension of this literature and will give a jump start to those who have an interest in these topics. The key ideas are introduced via examples based on actual forecasts, accounting information, and market prices for listed firms, and the numerical examples are based on sound algebraic relations.
Publisher: Now Publishers Inc
ISBN: 1601981945
Category : Business & Economics
Languages : en
Pages : 148
Book Description
Estimating the Cost of Capital Implied by Market Prices and Accounting Data focuses on estimating the expected rate of return implied by market prices, summary accounting numbers, and forecasts of earnings and dividends. Estimates of the expected rate of return, often used as proxies for the cost of capital, are obtained by inverting accounting-based valuation models. The author describes accounting-based valuation models and discusses how these models have been used, and how they may be used, to obtain estimates of the cost of capital. The practical appeal of accounting-based valuation models is that they focus on the two variables that are commonly at the heart of valuations carried out by equity analysts -- forecasts of earnings and forecasts of earnings growth. The question at the core of this monograph is -- How can these forecasts be used to obtain an estimate of the cost of capital? The author examines the empirical validity of the estimates based on these forecasts and explores ways to improve these estimates. In addition, this monograph details a method for isolating the effect of any factor of interest (such as cross-listing, fraud, disclosure quality, taxes, analyst following, accounting standards, etc.) on the cost of capital. If you are interested in understanding the academic literature on accounting-based estimates of expected rate of return this monograph is for you. Estimating the Cost of Capital Implied by Market Prices and Accounting Data provides a foundation for a deeper comprehension of this literature and will give a jump start to those who have an interest in these topics. The key ideas are introduced via examples based on actual forecasts, accounting information, and market prices for listed firms, and the numerical examples are based on sound algebraic relations.
Financial Forecasting, Analysis, and Modelling
Author: Michael Samonas
Publisher: John Wiley & Sons
ISBN: 1118921097
Category : Business & Economics
Languages : en
Pages : 242
Book Description
Risk analysis has become critical to modern financial planning Financial Forecasting, Analysis and Modelling provides a complete framework of long-term financial forecasts in a practical and accessible way, helping finance professionals include uncertainty in their planning and budgeting process. With thorough coverage of financial statement simulation models and clear, concise implementation instruction, this book guides readers step-by-step through the entire projection plan development process. Readers learn the tools, techniques, and special considerations that increase accuracy and smooth the workflow, and develop a more robust analysis process that improves financial strategy. The companion website provides a complete operational model that can be customised to develop financial projections or a range of other key financial measures, giving readers an immediately-applicable tool to facilitate effective decision-making. In the aftermath of the recent financial crisis, the need for experienced financial modelling professionals has steadily increased as organisations rush to adjust to economic volatility and uncertainty. This book provides the deeper level of understanding needed to develop stronger financial planning, with techniques tailored to real-life situations. Develop long-term projection plans using Excel Use appropriate models to develop a more proactive strategy Apply risk and uncertainty projections more accurately Master the Excel Scenario Manager, Sensitivity Analysis, Monte Carlo Simulation, and more Risk plays a larger role in financial planning than ever before, and possible outcomes must be measured before decisions are made. Uncertainty has become a critical component in financial planning, and accuracy demands it be used appropriately. With special focus on uncertainty in modelling and planning, Financial Forecasting, Analysis and Modelling is a comprehensive guide to the mechanics of modern finance.
Publisher: John Wiley & Sons
ISBN: 1118921097
Category : Business & Economics
Languages : en
Pages : 242
Book Description
Risk analysis has become critical to modern financial planning Financial Forecasting, Analysis and Modelling provides a complete framework of long-term financial forecasts in a practical and accessible way, helping finance professionals include uncertainty in their planning and budgeting process. With thorough coverage of financial statement simulation models and clear, concise implementation instruction, this book guides readers step-by-step through the entire projection plan development process. Readers learn the tools, techniques, and special considerations that increase accuracy and smooth the workflow, and develop a more robust analysis process that improves financial strategy. The companion website provides a complete operational model that can be customised to develop financial projections or a range of other key financial measures, giving readers an immediately-applicable tool to facilitate effective decision-making. In the aftermath of the recent financial crisis, the need for experienced financial modelling professionals has steadily increased as organisations rush to adjust to economic volatility and uncertainty. This book provides the deeper level of understanding needed to develop stronger financial planning, with techniques tailored to real-life situations. Develop long-term projection plans using Excel Use appropriate models to develop a more proactive strategy Apply risk and uncertainty projections more accurately Master the Excel Scenario Manager, Sensitivity Analysis, Monte Carlo Simulation, and more Risk plays a larger role in financial planning than ever before, and possible outcomes must be measured before decisions are made. Uncertainty has become a critical component in financial planning, and accuracy demands it be used appropriately. With special focus on uncertainty in modelling and planning, Financial Forecasting, Analysis and Modelling is a comprehensive guide to the mechanics of modern finance.
The Analysis and Use of Financial Statements
Author: Gerald I. White
Publisher: John Wiley & Sons
ISBN: 0471375942
Category : Business & Economics
Languages : en
Pages : 786
Book Description
Accounting Standards (US and International) have been updated to reflect the latest pronouncements. * An increased international focus with more coverage of IASC and non-US GAAPs and more non-US examples.
Publisher: John Wiley & Sons
ISBN: 0471375942
Category : Business & Economics
Languages : en
Pages : 786
Book Description
Accounting Standards (US and International) have been updated to reflect the latest pronouncements. * An increased international focus with more coverage of IASC and non-US GAAPs and more non-US examples.
Financial Statement Analysis and Earnings Forecasting
Author: Steven J. Monahan
Publisher: Foundations and Trends (R) in Accounting
ISBN: 9781680834505
Category :
Languages : en
Pages : 124
Book Description
Financial Statement Analysis and Earnings Forecasting is the process of analyzing historical financial statement data for the purpose of developing forecasts of future earnings. This process is important because it is central to the valuation of companies and the securities they issue. After a short introduction, Section 2 delves into the question "Why earnings"? Focusing on dividend policy irrelevance, the author describes key analytical results that imply that expected earnings are the fundamental determinant of both equity and enterprise value. Section 3 examines the issues involved in selecting the earnings metric to forecast. Once an earnings metric has been chosen, the next question to ask is "How useful are historical accounting numbers for developing forecasts of that metric?" Sections 4 through 8 focus on this question. Section 4 discusses the general role of econometric modeling. Section 5 reviews time-series models. Section 6 examines the choices a researcher makes when using panel-data approaches and the author describes the advantages of these approaches. Section 7 reviews the role of accounting measurement in determining the usefulness of historical accounting numbers for developing forecasts of future earnings. Section 8 examines approaches for forecasting the higher moments of future earnings and section 9 provides a summary.
Publisher: Foundations and Trends (R) in Accounting
ISBN: 9781680834505
Category :
Languages : en
Pages : 124
Book Description
Financial Statement Analysis and Earnings Forecasting is the process of analyzing historical financial statement data for the purpose of developing forecasts of future earnings. This process is important because it is central to the valuation of companies and the securities they issue. After a short introduction, Section 2 delves into the question "Why earnings"? Focusing on dividend policy irrelevance, the author describes key analytical results that imply that expected earnings are the fundamental determinant of both equity and enterprise value. Section 3 examines the issues involved in selecting the earnings metric to forecast. Once an earnings metric has been chosen, the next question to ask is "How useful are historical accounting numbers for developing forecasts of that metric?" Sections 4 through 8 focus on this question. Section 4 discusses the general role of econometric modeling. Section 5 reviews time-series models. Section 6 examines the choices a researcher makes when using panel-data approaches and the author describes the advantages of these approaches. Section 7 reviews the role of accounting measurement in determining the usefulness of historical accounting numbers for developing forecasts of future earnings. Section 8 examines approaches for forecasting the higher moments of future earnings and section 9 provides a summary.
Valuation
Author: McKinsey & Company Inc.
Publisher: John Wiley & Sons
ISBN: 1119611903
Category : Business & Economics
Languages : en
Pages : 949
Book Description
McKinsey & Company's bestselling guide to teaching corporate valuation - the fully updated seventh edition Valuation: Measuring and Managing the Value of Companies, University Edition is filled with the expert guidance from McKinsey & Company that students and professors have come to rely on for over nearly three decades. Now in its seventh edition, this acclaimed volume continues to help financial professionals and students around the world gain a deep understanding of valuation and help their companies create, manage, and maximize economic value for their shareholders. This latest edition has been carefully revised and updated throughout, and includes new insights on topics such as digital, ESG (environmental, social and governance), and long-term investing, as well as fresh case studies. For thirty years, Valuation has remained true to its basic principles and continues to offer a step-by-step approach to teaching valuation fundamentals, including: Analyzing historical performance Forecasting performance Estimating the cost of capital Interpreting the results of a valuation in context Linking a company's valuation multiples to core performance drivers The University Edition contains end-of-chapter review questions to help students master key concepts from the book. Wiley also offers an Online Instructor's Manual with a full suite of learning resources to complement valuation classroom instruction.
Publisher: John Wiley & Sons
ISBN: 1119611903
Category : Business & Economics
Languages : en
Pages : 949
Book Description
McKinsey & Company's bestselling guide to teaching corporate valuation - the fully updated seventh edition Valuation: Measuring and Managing the Value of Companies, University Edition is filled with the expert guidance from McKinsey & Company that students and professors have come to rely on for over nearly three decades. Now in its seventh edition, this acclaimed volume continues to help financial professionals and students around the world gain a deep understanding of valuation and help their companies create, manage, and maximize economic value for their shareholders. This latest edition has been carefully revised and updated throughout, and includes new insights on topics such as digital, ESG (environmental, social and governance), and long-term investing, as well as fresh case studies. For thirty years, Valuation has remained true to its basic principles and continues to offer a step-by-step approach to teaching valuation fundamentals, including: Analyzing historical performance Forecasting performance Estimating the cost of capital Interpreting the results of a valuation in context Linking a company's valuation multiples to core performance drivers The University Edition contains end-of-chapter review questions to help students master key concepts from the book. Wiley also offers an Online Instructor's Manual with a full suite of learning resources to complement valuation classroom instruction.
The Ascent of Market Efficiency
Author: Simone Polillo
Publisher: Cornell University Press
ISBN: 1501750380
Category : Business & Economics
Languages : en
Pages : 139
Book Description
The Ascent of Market Efficiency weaves together historical narrative and quantitative bibliometric data to detail the path financial economists took in order to form one of the central theories of financial economics—the influential efficient-market hypothesis—which states that the behavior of financial markets is unpredictable. As the notorious quip goes, a blindfolded monkey would do better than a group of experts in selecting a portfolio of securities, simply by throwing darts at the financial pages of a newspaper. How did such a hypothesis come to be so influential in the field of financial economics? How did financial economists turn a lack of evidence about systematic patterns in the behavior of financial markets into a foundational approach to the study of finance? Each chapter in Simone Polillo's fascinating meld of economics, science, and sociology focuses on these questions, as well as on collaborative academic networks, and on the values and affects that kept the networks together as they struggled to define what the new field of financial economics should be about. In doing so, he introduces a new dimension—data analysis—to our understanding of the ways knowledge advances. There are patterns in the ways knowledge is produced, and The Ascent of Market Efficiency helps us make sense of these patterns by providing a general framework that can be applied equally to other social and human sciences.
Publisher: Cornell University Press
ISBN: 1501750380
Category : Business & Economics
Languages : en
Pages : 139
Book Description
The Ascent of Market Efficiency weaves together historical narrative and quantitative bibliometric data to detail the path financial economists took in order to form one of the central theories of financial economics—the influential efficient-market hypothesis—which states that the behavior of financial markets is unpredictable. As the notorious quip goes, a blindfolded monkey would do better than a group of experts in selecting a portfolio of securities, simply by throwing darts at the financial pages of a newspaper. How did such a hypothesis come to be so influential in the field of financial economics? How did financial economists turn a lack of evidence about systematic patterns in the behavior of financial markets into a foundational approach to the study of finance? Each chapter in Simone Polillo's fascinating meld of economics, science, and sociology focuses on these questions, as well as on collaborative academic networks, and on the values and affects that kept the networks together as they struggled to define what the new field of financial economics should be about. In doing so, he introduces a new dimension—data analysis—to our understanding of the ways knowledge advances. There are patterns in the ways knowledge is produced, and The Ascent of Market Efficiency helps us make sense of these patterns by providing a general framework that can be applied equally to other social and human sciences.