Momentum in Taiwan: seasonality matters!

Previous studies suggest that momentum exists in international stock markets with the exception of Asia. Using a large data set of Taiwanese stocks, we show that momentum does exist, but it is restricted to the months following the deadline for annual statements. During the remaining months, a reverse momentum, or contrarian, strategy produces significant returns. These contrarian returns are particularly high during the national holidays linked to the Lunar New Year and the Lunar Moon Festival.