RT Journal Article SR Electronic T1 Time Horizon, Risk, and Implications for Equity Selection JF The Journal of Portfolio Management FD Institutional Investor Journals SP 118 OP 130 DO 10.3905/jpm.2020.1.159 VO 46 IS 7 A1 Sunder R. Ramkumar YR 2020 UL https://pm-research.com/content/46/7/118.abstract AB The author examines over 50 years of equity returns and finds distinct risk characteristics across different time horizons. Defensive, lower beta equities have had smaller monthly losses than their beta would suggest, making them attractive for conservative investors with shorter holding periods. In contrast, the volatility of cyclical, higher beta companies has been increasingly favorable over longer holding periods, bolstering risk-adjusted returns for long-horizon growth investors. This suggests that investors who align the mix of defensive and cyclical stocks to their goals and investment horizon can mitigate risks more effectively than those who simply hold the broad market and add bonds.TOPICS: Fundamental equity analysis, accounting and ratio analysis, technical analysisKey Findings• Defensive, lower beta equities have had smaller monthly losses than their beta would suggest, making them attractive for conservative investors with shorter holding periods. • The volatility of cyclical, higher beta companies has been increasingly favorable over longer holding periods, bolstering risk-adjusted returns for long-horizon growth investors.• Investors who align the mix of defensive and cyclical stocks to their goals and investment horizon can mitigate risks more effectively than those who simply hold the broad market and add bonds.